That's Right!! 30% Off everything in the store!! Use discount code: SBLChristmasSale

Sale excludes all May Vora Jewelry items

Guest Blog Post From D. Mari: Men’s Guide to Holiday Party Attire

From the holiday parties, family visits, countless cookies and other baked delightful treats and goodies, there is one thing that you will need to prepare for this season: The ever present, often dreaded, HOLIDAY PARTY. Whether it is your employer’s corporate function or just a family get-together with the in-laws, one thing will always remain: Everyone will be watching and waiting to see a well-groomed man with a clean and crisp ensemble that exudes effortless style.

Well, I, D. Mari the stylist, in order to form a more perfect holiday look, have compiled 4 tips to achieve a Haute Holiday Look which include signature items, shopping tips and where to find all the details to complete your fit. 

Tips for Your Perfected Holiday Look:

1. Shopping without the Stores
2. Signature Spirited Shirts and Collections
3. Shop for Classic Claus (without the the reindeer)
4. Being Frugal without the Scrooge Look

TIP 1: Shopping without the Stores:

Online shopping is one of the many ways that can give you the shopper an opportunity to purchase the classic pieces that you’re looking for…Some websites even allow you to virtually try on your clothes based on your measurements. Using the internet will not only help you avoid the long lines, but it will also give you the flexibility to visit many stores to pull together your look.

One of my top favorite websites: Nordstrom.com. This site allows you to search by filtering down to many categories so that you can pick the perfect look.

Here are a few looks that I was able to find from the holiday collections that are showcased on the site. There is a range from casual looks to designer formal tuxedos offered at a range of price points.

TIP 2: Signature Spirited Shirts & Collections that will Spice Up Your Holiday Look

Express Men’s has a holiday collection filled with patterned shirts and other signature pieces that will give life to any dull outfit. They have some of the season’s best textures and pattern mixes for men to choose from.

Below are some of my top looks directly from their holiday collection that may be of interest to any classy gentleman.

EXPRESS          

TIP 3: Classic Claus (without the reindeer) – Putting together holiday cheerful looks that aren’t corny can be a way to bring in the holiday spirit and look good while doing it.

For example, classic Santa Claus boots and red velvet textured garments at a holiday party not only shows that you are stylish, but also festive. Another stylish piece is the “Christmas” sweater. They do not have to have funny paintings or lame sayings on them to be considered for the holidays. Forever 21 Men’s selection features a set of comfortable yet stylish holiday sweaters and even some “Santa” boots that spread cheer for the season!

TIP 4: Being a Frugal without the Scrooge Look –

Many stores that carry men’s clothing charge astronomical prices. However,

H&M is one store that you can get some great pieces and accessories to complete any look, and not break your budget doing so. Below I have found some great details that will complete any holiday ensemble and the prices that you can expect to pay. Looking for other ways to save? Did you know that many websites also offer free shipping and other holiday rewards and discounts that will satisfy any frugal fellow?

There were many more looks and stores that a gentleman can shop for the best holiday look. This gala of garments allows men to choose from many options that will make the life of any event that they attend this season. For a well-dressed man, this holiday season seems to be the perfect time to showcase his more-than-dapper look to the adoring public.

As a stylist, I recommend that you try shopping in a variety of locations; search online and go on shopping trips. In order to achieve your best Holiday look, take the time to cover all the details. Always remember you may not find everything in one store and you can always get by with a little help from your friends (or stylist).

Now get suited up for those holiday style soirees!!!

D.Mari-Personal Stylist, Shopper, Fashion Lover

            For inquiries and appointments email at iamdmari@gmail.com

            Follow me on Twitter and Instagram: @iamdmari

FabEllis' Top Thrift Store Picks

When it comes to shopping, there is one store that is growing in popularity.  Whether you are looking for a chic office wardrobe or sophisticated date night attire, thrift stores are your one stop shop.  They not only provide affordable dapper items for men, but cost effective chic finds for women.

I love shopping at thrift stores not only for the affordability, but the unique, one-of-a-kind finds.  When it comes to shopping, thrift stores are my go to spot for certain items and the first place I recommend for certain pieces.  Want to know my top three pieces women can travel to the thrift store for?

My three favorite thrift store treasurers to find are below:

1. Blazers
• Whenever I’m asked where to find great blazers, my first answer is always the thrift store.  Thrift stores house any kind of blazer you could think of.  From vintage to recent items, they have an assortment of blazers.  Plus, blazers are a must-have for any closet because they can be worn to the office (depending upon the style), worn on date night and dressed down with jeans.  The great thing about purchasing them second hand is that they are affordable so you don’t have to worry about feeling guilty for buying multiple at one time!  J

2. Dresses & Skirts
• Just like blazers, an assortment of dresses and skirts can be found at your local thrift store.  Whether you are looking for a vintage item or current piece, this could be your go to place.  I have seen beautiful vintage dresses adorned with sequins or beautiful beading as well as some of the latest trends, including floral or leather.

3. Accessories
• If you follow my blog, you may already know that I’m sucker for great accessories.  Nothing sets off an outfit like a beautiful statement piece whether it is a necklace, earrings or gorgeous bracelet.  Your local thrift store could house accessories worth far more than the affordable price they sell it to you for.  Plus, accessories can be that one element to take a plain outfit over the top.

Next time you visit your local thrift store, keep these three great items in mind to look for.  Want to keep up with my thrifting adventures?  Find me online through the links below:

Blog:  http://www.fabellis.com

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/missfabellis

Twitter:  http://www.twitter.com/missfabellis

Instagram:  missfabellis

The Gentleman Style Guide: 5 Must Have Holiday Party Looks

With Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties around the corner it seems like everyone will be throwing some kind of holiday party. Many people will pull out the old standby “ugly Christmas sweater”. We want to go ahead and bury those things this holiday season. I am here to give you 5 holiday must have looks in which to party, socialize and look extraordinary.

      VELVET BLAZERS

A few years ago velvet blazers made a comeback on the causal side but this year they are trending in dressy attire. Doing a black, burgundy or even a green velvet blazer paired with a pair of black slacks will look amazing as you are chatting it up with your friends fire side.

MODERN FIT SWEATERS

Ok, since we buried the old “ugly Christmas sweater” we have to replace it.  Modern style sweaters are more appropriate. These will be fitted and could be cardigan style, cowl neck or a v-neck. With sweaters, there are so many options. As long as it’s not oversized or overly thick material, you can have lots of fun with them.

BOOTS

For more causal parties, a great pair of boots is a staple. We are not Timberlands or the old snow boots dad used to wear. We are talking dress boots! They come in many styles but the wingtip style is becoming more and more popular. The dress boot is not only stylish but still functional when there is bad weather.

LAYERS AND DARK DENIM

Layering creates a visual effect of texture and depth. I talked about in my post The Gentlemen’s Styling Guide: Color, Fabrics, and Patterns. When wearing layers and jeans, ALWAYS wear dark denim (that is your correct size and length). Dark denim always looks dresser than light colored denim and it creates contrast when layering with a shirt, sweater or blazer.

OK, MORE VELVET

Let’s look at adding a little more velvet to our look for those holiday parties. Velvet ties and bowties can add huge impact. They are classic in style. Also, slippers are very popular now so why not come stylish in velvet slippers. They are available in so many colors and designs. You can have a simple look and the slippers can be the talk of the party all on their own.

I hope this information helps in making those decisions on what to wear for holiday parties a little easier. Don’t be afraid to step out the box and have fun with your look as you celebrate the holidays with your friends and family. Until next time!

STYLE 101: MAGAZINE: Lawrence Spivey x Sir Byron Laurent

STYLE 101: MAGAZINE: Lawrence Spivey x Sir Byron Laurent: MADE MEN With a penchant for pitching perfectly-poised advice for men (and the women who like to help them), Mr. Lawrence Spivey is ...

Don't Miss The Thanksgiving Sale!!

As a thank you to all my wonderful followers and well-wishers I wanted to share with everyone that I will be having a Thanksgiving Sale starting Thanksgiving night at 8 PM and it will run until Sunday 11/25 and will end at 12 AM. Spoiler Alert: I will have things for the ladies, there will be items just for you to pick up (or have someone else pick something up as an early Christmas gift, wink wink lol). Please click the image below to view the store and also email me at LBSpivey@SirByronLaurent.com if you have any questions!

FEATURED BLOG from CLW Trademark: Classic with a Touch of Color

Check out this blog post from my friend and fellow Southern Gentlemen's Style Council member Caleb Williams!! He really represents "Gentleman's Style" down there in Florida!!

CLW Trademark: Classic with a Touch of Color: Classic with a Touch of Color                The word classic: means something that is a perfect example of a particular style, some...

PRODUCT REVIEW: May Vora Jewelry new men's bracelet collection

I had the pleasure to do a product review for May Vora Jewelry new men's line from their "Cole Collection”. I reviewed one of their bracelets that they refer to as "Jacob" for an entire month and might I say it was pretty awesome. It wore very well while remaining clean and masculine. 

The bracelet came securely packed in a box wrapped in bubble wrap which I appreciated from a customer perspective. Once opened the bracelet was in its own jewelry box resting on a soft felt bedding giving it a neat and professional presentation. It uses a single clasp to secure the bracelet, I do suggest letting May Vora Jewelry know the size of your wrist because I can see the wrong size being a problem for some men when it comes to how comfortable it is on the gentleman wearing it. 

I really enjoyed how the bracelet felt very sturdy giving most men reassurance of not worrying about the bracelet coming off. All in all I really enjoyed wearing the bracelet and I give it B+! My only change would be changing the clasp to an even stronger one from those guys who are a little rougher on jewelry. Otherwise this is an excellent piece that most any stylish gentleman could enjoy wearing!

FEATURED BLOG from FabEllis: Raleigh Fashion Week 2012 - VIP Kick Off

Check out my friend and fashion blogger FabEllis blog post on Raleigh Fashion Week VIP Kick Off at Saks 5th Avenue. This is when I won the drawing for a clothing give away and picked up an awesome black suit for free!!

FabEllis: Raleigh Fashion Week 2012: VIP Kick Off: Hello Beauties! Last week was Raleigh Fashion Week here in my city.  There was a great lineup of events, including the VIP Kick Off even...

Showing love to the Ladies!!

I wanted to share a blog post of women bloggers that I find interesting. Even though at Sir Byron Laurent Style Consulting we focus on men’s fashion, I have had the opportunity to meet many women who have successful fashion, style, beauty and hair blogs. All are special and unique and I wanted to introduce some of them to you.

For the latest on trendsetting styles, check out Catherine Horgan of Closet of Style, Folake Kuye Huntoon of Style Pantry and Dina Fierro of Eye4Style.

Check out these  young ladies who have been making a lot of noise in the natural hair blog world if you have not done so already; Alexandra Smith of The Good Hair Blog, Ashley Ellis of FabEllis, and Elle Alexander of lipstixnaturalchica.com. 

Representing the style and fashion industry for curvy ladies are Kiah Torres with From the Rez to the City, Kimberlee Postell of Naturally Fashionable and Shea P with Curves and Confidence.  Awesome blogs!!!

These next ladies are not afraid to be different and they really do an amazing job! Visit Karla Maria with Shoe Signature, Mattie James of Mattieologie, Prissy with Rush Our Fashion (looking forward to your return!) and Jennifer Malone of My Fashionable Affair.

There are many more ladies with elegant, classy and just plain cool style. Please visit again as I highlight another group of amazing ladies!