I'm thinking of buying a trench coat since you swear by them, and Burberry seems to be everyones recommendation. But what exactly are the rules regarding a trench coat - am I suppose to wear it only when it rains, because that's the feeling I get from them. And as far as the whole belt debacle...HELP!
A trench coat is always a smart choice that will never go out of style. And the fact that Burberry basically invented the trench, and holds true to their game even today, makes them an obvious investment. I have three trench coats in my closet: a classic modernist Burberry raincoat, with the buttons under the placket; a blue one from Calvin Klein; and my favorite, a green(ish) trench coat, made of raincoat material, from United Colors of Benetton. In my opinion, and my daily use, a trench coat isn't constrained to just rainy days. It also serves as a mild-weather overcoat, thus you can wear it just about any time there is enough chill in the air. The fact that I'm wearing my Benetton trench coat today speaks wonders--no rain. And I'm guessing the 'belt debacle' you speak of is "to tie or not to tie?" That's a question that should be determined by the specific wearer. Sometimes I tie, sometimes I don't. Sometimes I tie in the front, and sometimes I tie in the back. I would, however, suggest that no one be afraid to tie the belt in front--it gives you a waist, which is all part of the charm of the trench coat.
Ive been in an endless battle with my father recently about braided belts. My cousin and I say that they are not stylish, and have tried to get my father to stop wearing them. My father insists that they are. I need an answer, so we can settle this once and for all!
In a timeless phrase, father knows best! I hate to have used such a painstaking way of elaborating, but it only seemed appropriate. Your father is right, braided belts are always in style. And more recently, they have seen a sudden renaissance, with more and more designers putting their spin on them in 2009. I'm not sure what it is, but something about braided belts have always been alluring--especially now. It could be the vintage vibe they give off; the casual stride they evoke; or it could be the fact that they work whether you are fat or not. Seriously, they are great in that they don't require holes. Just poke the tongue through the braid anywhere and your good to go. So stop nagging your dad and take a few lessons. He probably can teach you guys a thing, or two.
I went Christmas shopping over the weekend and saw an ad for a diamond-encrusted watch with colored leather straps. I was enticed by it but my girlfriend said they looked a little feminine--I have to admit, they did border on femininity, but Ive seen Soulja Boy waring one in a video; it begs the questions: are they made for men, and if so, where can I get one?
In the words of Marilyn Monroe, diamonds are a girls best friend. Ironically, they also are acquaintances with pimps, grifters, gangstas, mack daddies, and even certain televangelists. Don't quote me in saying that there have not been any gentlemen who have carried off diamonds in a good context, I just haven't seen any. And while bling bling is a major force in hip-hop fashion, I wouldn't recommend taking style advice from any man who makes a song--and dance--named after themselves. Moreover, wouldn't you rather spend your money on something better--fast cars and old wine? In other words, men should stay away from diamonds and stick to gold, silver, or platinum. As for colored bands, they are cool. Just ask Nixon.

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