KJ Beckett Blog

Fashion Week and Man Bags...

2011-10-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

KJ Beckett's friends at MilanStyle.co.uk - the Men’s style and luxury menswear brands blog - gave us their thoughts on Fashion Week...

With British summer time having officially ended but the weather now hotting up, we are in the bizarre position where summer has finished, the weather is hot - and the best bit - the fashion world is looking ahead at what us stylish gents will want to be wearing next summer. Got that?

Fashion weeks across Europe have just closed and one of our favourite designers, Vivienne Westwood, showed a strong menswear collection for SS12 – inspired by London’s Olympics, set to take the capital by storm next year - and so her men’s fashion show’s dominant theme. There were of course some typically catwalk-only, show-stopping ‘Westwood moments’ which not every one of us will pull off, but what’s great about Vivienne Westwood is her understanding of how the British gent likes to dress: dapper, smart and often a little bit eccentric, daring to be different from the crowd.

Everyone wears Westwood in their own way, which is what makes her designs even more universally appealing and enduring. Those of us in the North like to dress it up with smart 3-button collar shirts (got to be worn with the skull & crossbone cufflinks) and polos and a smart pair of dark rinse jeans (our favourite has to be those jeans by Dior Homme who also just showed a strong collection at Paris Fashion Week) and a pair of brogues by the likes of Paul Smith, but Londoners like a washed out, more relaxed approach to their Westwood, typically choosing the designer’s draped knitwear and the her signature ‘drop crotch’ trousers. It’s about mixing it up and making sure the look is right for you.

Whatever your style though, formal and tailoring-inspired or relaxed and casual looking, one of the strongest themes to emerge across the menswear design shows at all three major cities, London Fashion Week as well as those held in Milan and Paris a few weeks ago, is that the 'man-bag' is now firmly something the major fashion houses believe we should be wearing.

Our advice? Ignore the major fashion houses and the silly term 'man bag' (which would probably put any sane man off from wanting one).... But. BUT. Look, let's be frank there is only so much rubbish we can cram into our pockets, before people start to look away with embarrassment when you walk into the room. So, let's be grown up about it, you're going to need to need a bag at some stage. Which just happens to made for a man.

What the hell. Let's just call it a man-bag.

It's something we talked about on our blog a few months back, when we asked our readers 'are you man enough to wear a man bag?'. Our readers contacted us to tell us a resounding 'yes', and that in many instances they owned bags more expensive than their better halves! Well, it is the 21st century.

Anyway, this brings us back to Fashion Week - Vivienne Westwood showed her menswear collection with her range of new men's bags, two of which KJ Beckett have in stock.

Both are leather, and both are extremely good quality as you'd expect from this brand. The black leather version is sleek and will go well with a sharp suit, and has the logo subtly placed in the bottom corner so will certainly be suitable for the office.

The brown version is a bit more rugged, due to it's distressed leather finish and will look smart with a pair of old jeans and maybe a Belstaff jacket when going for a stroll around the park on Sunday morning.

No, I've never worn a shoulder bag for a trip to the park on a Sunday morning either, but this seems like the perfect opportunity to start, surely?

MilanStyle.co.uk

Become your own style icon

2011-08-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

KJ Beckett's friends at MilanStyle.co.uk - the Men’s style and luxury brands blog - gave us their thoughts on what makes a snappy dresser...

'Style icon', like so many expressions these days, is a phrase which is completely overused in our opinion.

If you are a footballer, you are hailed as a 'style icon'.
If you happen to marry a footballer, you are a 'style icon'.
If you are an actor, you are a 'style icon'.

To be honest, it's a phrase we avoid at MilanStyle.

And while there are certainly a number of footballers, actors and others in the media spotlight who know how to pull a sharp outfit together (or let's be honest, have a stylist do it for them) money is not necessarily the only way to being stylish. And one thing we always try to convey to our readers at MilanStyle.co.uk is that you must in fact become your own style icon.

At MilanStyle.co.uk we celebrated our favourite dressers in one of our most popular articles on 'Timeless Style' for men.

Interestingly, many of the gentlemen we picked for our list had completely different looks and came from different backgrounds, from Motown to Buckingham Palace. Importantly though, all those on our list dressed true to their own personal style, something which they had each developed over the years.

But, so too did they all know the rules to completing an outfit.

While we were recently reviewing the article, we noticed that in all the pictures of the gentlemen we'd picked, they were wearing what we in England call handkerchiefs and what Americans call 'pocket squares'. (And what Europeans call 'pochettes' since you asked). Was this what made them look so smart?

A standard accessory worn with all jackets until the 70s, many men today however often fear the wearing of a handkerchief in the breast pocket of their favourite suit. The man from a working class background fears it will make him look 'too posh'. The successful businessman fears it will make him look out of touch or 'elitist'.

Forget these silly fears and give one a go. Our experience when wearing one is that people will generally really appreciate it, frequently coming up to you and giving you compliments on how smart you look. And who doesn't like to receive a compliment?

A silk handkerchief really does separate the men from the boys in our opinion.

If you're still dressing out of fear of what other people might say about your outfit, you may not be mature enough to pull off a handkerchief anyway!

If you are ready to give handkerchiefs a go though, it may be best to start with something simple and plain. You can't just go wrong with a luxurious white cotton 'kerchief by one of our favourite brands Derek Rose with whatever jacket colour you are wearing.
If you're a little more experienced with handkerchiefs, you can afford to be a little bolder. Ralph Lauren, for example, seems to be the American ambassador for the 'pocket square'. Something we've seen a lot of in the look-books we get sent for his labels like Polo Ralph Lauren and Ralph Lauren Purple Label is a smart navy blazer or rustic tweed jacket (which we British are of course very familiar with wearing) teamed with a beautiful, patterned silk handkerchief to really complete the look.

KJ Beckett are stocking the range of artisan handkerchiefs by the Soho (London) based designers 'Penrose London' in modern paisleys, which will work a treat with a navy or grey suit jacket. (Black jackets in our opinion can not tolerate so much colour, best to stick to a plan white cotton/linen or red silk handkerchief only).

There are many guides and illustrations on how to fold a handkerchief perfectly. We tend to just fold it in half so it forms a triangle and just shove it into the pocket using your middle fingers, so that it generally looks OK, don't worry so much about getting it 'perfect' - it's enough that you're confident enough to wear one. Once it's in, you'll be most stylish man in the room, and, dare we say it, maybe even your office's own Style Icon?

Vivienne Westwood Accessories AW2011

2011-08-23T10:05:00.000-07:00

Vivienne Westwood accessories are hitting our shelves at the moment... the collection includes a fantastic array of women's bags and purses in a myriad of colours. Also new in are some fantastic men's wallets (as well as restock of classic designs) and a range of stunning new cufflinks (including a very bold pair of penis cufflinks)...

To view the collections as they arrive checkout...

Vivienne Westwood men's accessories.

Vivienne Westwood women's jewellery.

Vivienne Westwood women's accessories.

KJ Beckett is an authorised retailer of Vivienne Westwood accessories and jewellery.

Fred Perry Accessories for Men AW2011

2011-08-20T03:27:00.001-07:00

KJ Beckett are pleased to announce that the Fred Perry AW2011 men's accessories collection has started to land. Click here to view Fred Perry accessories.

Fred Perry socks, wallets, bags, caps...

Key trends in Groom Accessories

2011-08-20T01:29:00.000-07:00

KJ Beckett have spoken to denisonboston to get the low-down on groom accessories for a wedding...

Groom’s accessories should all be about making a statement but in an understated yet stylish manner. At the end of the day the last thing any groom wants to do is to out shine the Bride!

However the groom deserves the finer things in life especially on his wedding day and good accessories are the key.

Working on the basis of the having chosen your suit style and colour; accessories should be the finishing touch and accent to the outfit. A combination of the finish to the grooms outfit, but also complimenting and highlighting the bride as well as groomsmen and brides maids. This can be achieved in a number of ways with the key trends being colour, pattern and details.

Colour

Bold blocks colours picking up the wedding theme or bringing the best out in the suit. Blues, greys as standard but dare to wear pink in summer, with purples and ruby reds good statements for autumn tones.

Pattern

Co-ordinated patterns across your accessories. Having a checker, stripe and dot classics in the tie, pocket hank and socks really pulls it all together.

Details

Accessories is all about the details even if you just notice it but other people will for sure.

The tie, no too wide, not too thin. 7cm is a good blade width. Cufflinks... think more modern classic, no bright and blingy. You wan to wear them again and remember your big day. A pocket hank is a must. Pouchette style as preference with a bit more style but even folded pocket square with a dash of colour or pattern.

Other key finishing details that are key right now are the tie pin or tie clips. Not only looks sharp but also means you don’t have to worry about your tie position all day. Black onyx, mother of pearl or plain with subtle pattern always work best.

The combination of strong colour, subtle pattern and sharp detailing is the key. Try mix and matching these factors to look less staid or drab wedding formula. Think style not peacock or dandy!

Good luck on the big day...

denisonboston offer a wide range of fashion accessories suitable for weddings. Ties, cufflinks, shirt studs, collar stiffeners, pocket squares, and much more... Click here to view denisonboston's collections at KJ Beckett.

Many thanks to Jon Boston, Managing Director of denisonboston, a leading UK accessories brand.

Win a Rip Curl Wallet!!!

2011-08-15T22:35:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the launch of our new Rip Curl AW2011 collection, we are giving away a brand new Rip Curl wallet on Facebook...

Simply go to our Facebook page here and like...

For more information about Rip Curl @ KJ Beckett click here.

Win a Luxury Bag by Estime Paris (on Facebook)

2011-08-14T09:17:00.000-07:00

Win a £270 luxury bag by Estime at www.facebook.com/kjbeckett

Simply go to KJ Beckett's Facebook page (click here) and "like and share" to be in with a chance to win a premium quality bag from the exciting Paris based brand.

The winner will be picked on Thursday 25th August 2011 at 11am. The winner will be announced on Facebook.

MilanStyle.co.uk Guest Blogging at KJ Beckett

2011-08-14T08:59:00.001-07:00

KJ Beckett are pleased to welcome men's style and luxury brands blog, MilanStyle.co.uk, as a guest blogger at blog.kjbeckett.com.

MilanStyle.co.uk is the ultimate online destination for designer/luxury clothing, footwear and accessories, for gentleman with the finest taste! MilanStyle works with the world’s leading luxury brands and their interesting articles are a essential read for the discerning gentleman who demands the very best for his wardrobe.

Our readers can look forward to many interesting articles on men’s clothing, footwear and accessories over the coming weeks, months and years...

Stylish accessories for Men: Don’t let your outfit down.

2011-08-14T03:14:00.000-07:00

KJ Beckett have asked men’s style and luxury brands blog, MilanStyle.co.uk to select their favourite accessories to accompany their perfect outfit for the season ahead.

‘It’s all in the details’.

It’s a saying we’ve all heard and we’ve probably even said a few times ourselves, but strangely, most gents often fall down on the little details when it comes down to putting together an outfit for a smart evening out, or even just to smarten up their office attire.

It’s often the case that men will spend a lot of money on a shirt or pair of jeans for an evening out, forgetting that an outfit does not start and end with your top and bottoms. There is absolutely no exception to this rule, so that means your (polished) shoes have got to look just as sharp and just as fresh as your new shirt. And so have your accessories.

Many often scrimp and try to ‘save money’ on their socks, underwear and ties, thinking that because the rest of their outfit looks good, they’ll ‘get away’ with a bobbly old pair of socks and a tie you got for Christmas a few years ago from your Nan. The truth is, the opposite tends to happen. Your tired old socks, or your cheap tie pulls down the rest of your outfit and leaves people with an impression that you’re not sure how to pull together a smart outfit. Whereas if you’d spend a little more to perfect these little details and highlight your own individual sense of style, you’d seriously elevate your look (and what people think of how you dress).

If you’re a fan of Vivienne Westwood menswear for example, there’s just no point wearing a brand new crisp Vivienne Westwood shirt and then letting it down with bog-standard Christmas cracker cufflinks. Invest in some of the designer’s iconic ‘skull’ cufflinks in gunmetal grey (we really love these at MilanStyle.co.uk) – needless to say they complete any Westwood outfit and also are actually very adaptable – adding a real touch of personality to your office shirt too. Wear them with confidence.

Next, socks

We’ve all done it. You think that because you’re wearing some beautiful Gucci loafers, or Oliver Sweeney boots or maybe even some Tricker’s brogues that you’ll be able to get away with some cheap Primark socks that you got as a gift, right? Wrong.

Seriously if you’ve taken the leap to wearing proper men’s shoes, spend the extra tenner you’d normally spend on socks and go for some by the likes of Pantherella, still made in England in fine woollens, and still looking as good with a well-made pair of shoes just as they ever did.

Scarves

Anyone who reads our blog will know how in awe we are of the John Smedley brand after we recently visited their factory.

Again, don't try to cut corners and making sure always you look sharp from head to toe. You just can’t beat a John Smedley jumper and after we tried the scarves in subtle, very ‘English’ designs, we realised it will be hard to beat a John Smedley scarf too. KJ Beckett’s selection is affordable and understated, meaning they will go with just about any outfit in the cooler months, smart or casual.

If you’re feeling a little bolder, then of course, it’s back to Vivienne Westwood and her range of eye-catching scarves for men. These look great with a plain, casual jumper allowing the scarf to really stand out.

Lastly, BlackBerry and Iphone cases

Ok, at MilanStyle.co.uk we’ve got some pretty expensive Iphone and BlackBerry cases by the likes of Zagliani and while the genuine crocodile and ostrich skin versions are amazing, not everyone will be able to afford £1000 on a mobile phone case!

Estime are a French brand making lovely cases and bringing a touch of sheer class (and a hell of a lot of craftsmanship) to the now ubiquitous Iphone and Blackberry. We really rate the ‘mock-crock’ versions for less than a tenth of the price of the £1000 Zagliani version, for around only £90.

The leather is superb as is the workmanship, all made in France, with our particular favourites the crocodile skin print version accessories which just look plain sexy, dare we say it, and give the wearer that touch of sheer class as you take out your mobile phone to gasps of envy.

Remember then gents, when you buy cheap accessories, you’re really only fooling yourself into thinking you can ‘get away with it’. Spend that little bit extra than you perhaps normally would and enjoy the confidence in wearing a complete, quality outfit from head to toe – it’s all in the details after all.

For more style tips and information on luxury brands, visit the MilanStyle blog.

Pocket Squares – How to Fold a Pocket Square

2011-04-08T00:24:00.000-07:00

Before we get started on how to fold a pocket square, perhaps we should just clarify what a pocket square actually is. It is a handkerchief, but not the same as the hanky you stuff in your pocket on your suit. It is a small, sometimes dressy and well folded (more of that in a bit) handkerchief that sits in the top left breast pocket of a jacket. This accessory accompanies a smart suit to add authority to a sharp look by showing attention to detail.

Straight Fold:
If we start with the simplest folds; the straight fold.
1. Simply lay out the pocket square,
2. Bring the left to the right side then bottom to the top not quite the whole way
3. Finally fold the hankerchief in thirds.
This is a good starter look but isn’t the sharpest as it simply shows a straight line of handkerchief peeking out over the top.

One Corner Fold:
A sharper look for pocket squares is the one corner fold, where just a peak of fabric shows;

1. Lay out your pocket square with one corner facing up and one facing down.
2. Form a triangle by bringing the bottom point to the top one.
3. Next, take the left corner to the right corner and the right corner.
4. If you have done this correctly then you should now have a rectangle with a little point on top.
5. Now just fold the bottom to the top, but not all the way (as with the straight fold) and simply place in your suit pocket, adjusting to show the right amount of fabric.

These are just two different ways of pocket square folding but there are many more. Get started with these...

You can buy pocket squares at KJ Beckett from a variety of fantastic designers including: Duchamp London, Penrose, Gant, Robert Charles, Michelsons and more. Shop for yours today.

Frank Sinatra Fashion: Frank Sinatra A Classic Style Icon

2011-04-01T02:26:00.000-07:00

Many a fashion writer has paid homage to Frank Sinatra style, and we here also wish to celebrate ‘Ol’ blue eyes’ flair for fashion. However, we will be taking a slightly different slant on Sinatra the style icon and discussing ways in which a gent can take inspiration from the Frank Sinatra look by taking certain pieces to create a suave way of dressing that is relevant for today’s man you guys!

Always beautifully turned out, Sinatra favoured tuxedos and sharp accessories. Extolling the virtues of being immaculate, Sinatra’s attention to detail is something which most men can learn from. Shoes polished to perfection, a half inch of shirt showing- no more, no less and trousers sitting at the exact length were all are part of the Frank Sinatra look.

Whilst a bespoke suit may be out of the reaches of most of us, accessories are a little easier to come by, which is very handy as Frank Sinatra fashion was all about smart, unfussy accessories. Sinatra often sported a white linen pocket square, which are very easy to come by and if you check out our blog from a couple of weeks back, you will even find an article telling you exactly how you might want to fold your pocket hanky!

For neck attire, Sinatra favoured bow ties or simple narrow silk ties. KJ Beckett’s own skinny silk ties will hit the mark spot on, especially if worn with a slim fit black or dark grey suit. The style king himself was a fan of black, especially after dark but you can go for navy or purple and still channel the dapper Frank Sinatra look.

Gold cufflinks were one accessory that Sinatra was rarely seen without in his suit. A gold cufflink is not often seen these days, with gents often preferring to wear silver or platinum, yet there is a genuine old fashioned class in wearing a gold cufflink. Denisonboston show a few designs in gold which are well worth taking a look at. Again a dark suit, white shirt and understated accessories are a great companion to a standout shirt link.

Of course, Frank Sinatra style comes down to more than a certain accessory or look. What Sinatra had was a self-belief and charisma that can’t be emulated by any suit or accessory. Your own style is up to you to find, but if you a little reminder of this, you could always get the Frank Sinatra cufflinks by Stanislav Reymer and keep the style king with you all day long!

Wedding Style for Men: Wedding Accessories and Wedding Attire – Getting it right!

2011-03-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

Men’s wedding style can be tricky to get right. Even if you are part of the wedding party and have an outfit all ready decided for you, it can still go horribly wrong. Unfortunately though, you don’t really get much say if you are a groomsman! It’s like it (salmon silk tie and matching handkerchief anyone) or errr, pretend to like it – because you’ll be wearing it all day!

For those of you fortunate enough to be picking your outfit, keep reading. We have broken down the different suits, styles and accessories that you might like to consider for your men’s wedding attire.

For a spring or summer wedding, keep it light in colour and in material. A well fitting light grey suit will always look classic and if you add a tailored waistcoat, this will look razor sharp. Soften with a light coloured shirt, spring colours like lilac and powder blue will always look gorgeous. If you are brave, try a linen or cotton suit – just be wary of very pale or white suits; a wedding isn’t the time to channel Miami Vice.

Men’s wedding accessories are also worth considering with your wedding outfit. For the warmer months, lovely soft toned ties and matching handkerchiefs sit well with this type of outfit and will add something of a debonair air. Amanda Christensen have luxury paisley hankerchiefs with matching ties which add a grown up air to an already dapper look.

For a more formal or evening wedding, you may consider a tuxedo. If this is the case, then select a really gorgeous and expensive looking bow tie to stand you apart from the crowd. Robert Charles design woven silk bow ties in either a block shade or if you are feeling brave, with a rose pattern – which can actually look surprisingly modern if worn with a properly fitted suit. The other neck attire that you might consider is a cravat; just be careful not to get confused with the wedding party or you’ll be helping Great Aunty May around all night!

With an autumn or winter wedding, you can go for a darker suit and make the most of the richer colours and textures around at this time of year in both attire and wedding accessories. Go for gold and choose a classic and stylish cufflink; Denisonboston offer a really sophisticated array that will look really elegant against a darker suit.

One rule that should always be followed though; matching with your partner (unless you are the groom of course) is a big no no. Do not let your other half persuade you of this. It is not a good look.

Duchamp Accessories: Review of Duchamp Ties, Cufflinks, Scarves, Socks & More

2011-03-21T06:40:00.000-07:00

Duchamp was founded in 1989 by Mitchell Jacobs whose personal passion for cufflinks became the drive for the start up of the now well established London based luxury accessories company. At the time of Duchamp London’s arrival on the scene, the luxury men’s accessories market was just starting to develop and Duchamp London quickly gained a reputation as the brand to turn to for unique accessories.

Other items were soon included in the Duchamp accessory line up such as ties, socks, pocket squares and scarves, all with the vibrant patterns, colours and gorgeous luxury silk weaves that were beginning to garner a strong loyal customer for the distinct Duchamp London style. A full menswear range has developed over the years including shirts, jackets and trousers – all with the distinctly bold Duchamp London aesthetic.

The Duchamp London design is unique in its use of colours and patterns, taking inspiration from the vividness of the work of their namesake, Marcel Duchamp. The brand’s strengths lie in the loyalty of their designs to the Duchamp manifest of being bright, bold yet sharp and never afraid to push boundaries, all the whilst maintaining luxury and quality.

Click here to shop the new collection.

The Duchamp London Spring Summer collection is superb; with a brilliant use of colour and pattern that is at once both fresh and classic, no mean feat. In particular lilac, pink and white shades have been used to great effect with bold patterns to create sharp lines with cool fresh colours.

In particular this season, Duchamp accessories are absolutely beautiful. The floral patterns used on both the ties and cufflinks really display the Duchamp London design aesthetic at its best. My favourite in the ties has to be ‘The Garden Delight’ tie in amazing purples and silver highlights, but there are so many to pick from that if I could buy them all – I probably would!

This seasons cufflinks raise Duchamp London accessories to a whole new bar, they are simply amazing. Using crystals to gorgeous effect, these are cufflinks like no others on the market. Their ‘Corsage crystal cufflink’ is beautiful, yet with all the use of feminine patterns and colours still retains a masculine edge. Team with one of their gorgeous silk ties (I suggest ‘Elysian fields’, so so lovely) and you will be the picture of sartorial elegance.

Barbour Bags: Review Of Barbour Bags

2011-02-21T02:56:00.000-08:00

Anyone who loves heritage fashion will have heard of Barbour, as will anyone who needs their clothing to protect them from the elements. Such is Barbour’s wide appeal that their customers range from farmers to yummy mummies, Sloane rangers to students.

Barbour bags are the new fashion story for this 4th generation brand, and the companies’ stellar history is telling of why today’s Barbour bag is such a hit. A focus on functionality and quality has remained at the core of Barbour design and is the reason why Barbour remains ever popular.

The Barbour story started over 100 years ago when John Barbour, a travelling draper decided to set up J Barbour & Sons the growing town of South Shields. The popular shop soon became known as ‘Barbour’s’ to locals, however it was the local port industries need for protective elemental clothing that meant Barbour’s branded beacon oilskin protective coats became renowned for their quality and hard working design, and today’s jackets still protect their wearers with this branded beacon skin.

The success of providing the armed forces with waterproof clothing gave the company the confidence to develop a range of motorcycling gear and so the clothing of men’s Barbour started to take off.

The 80’s heralded the creation of some of the most classic of men’s Barbour designs including the lightweight Border jacket which appealed to the general public, and starting the trend for Barbour to be worn not just as a functional brand but as a fashion name in itself.

The modern day Barbour now provides a whole range of clothing accessories and although their jackets still hold a special place in their history, it is the Barbour bag which has caught the attention of the fashion world.
Tough and durable yet chic and always retaining the quality and functionality that Barbour are renowned for. Our favourite bag here has to be the Barbour tarras bag, a classic school satchel designed bag. In particular, the use of a variety of fabrics means that you can choose a specific material and colour styling to suit your particular needs. Black weatherproof leather for travelling to work on rainy days or sandy colored cotton in the summer.

These bags, just like all of Barbour’s creations are well-designed and purposeful with a wonderfully English twist on heritage stylishness. A wonderful addition to any mans wardrobe is the Barbour bag, or anything Barbour actually!

Winter Accessories: How to Stay Warm and Stylish This Winter

2011-02-14T04:36:00.000-08:00

Winter accessories for men are still very much on the male fashion agenda. As much as the fashion world would have us believe it’s time for spring with the unveiling of new spring/summer collections on their catwalks and in the shops. It is in fact still winter and still rather painful to be outside sans decent winter accessories.
Winter accessories are a definite for this time of year, and as we are set for quite a few more weeks of coldness then it’s time to look at how to wear accessories to stay warm and stylish this winter. Celebrities like David Beckham, Robert Pattinson and Jake Gyllenhaal show just how good you can look in on trend and stylish men’s winter accessories. The key to this is to avoid bulking up too much.

Choose a lovely slim line scarf in a neutral wintery shade of plum, grey or navy. Cashmere, merino or fine wool are the warmest and most luxe fabrics. Bear this in mind if you are thinking of buying a scarf that needs to do for both relaxed weekends and work suits. Getting to grips with winter accessories for men means that you can easily move into spring based accessories; as the weather gets warmer, you can change to a cotton based scarf that can be draped casually around the neck for a more fashion forward look. Check out our blog on how to wear scarves for tips on the different ways in which a scarf can be worn.

The other men’s winter accessories you need to consider are a beanie hat and gloves. Gloves are fairly easy if you follow the rules of leather, wool and dark colours. Driving gloves outside of the car are a big no -no, as are those huge gloves you wear in the garden. Hats are a bit trickier and can often spoil a smart look; choose a relaxed but not sloppy beanie in a grey, navy, khaki or black and spend some time getting to grips with how to put it on. Try pulling it further down at the base of the skulk and letting in come up higher on the forehead.

Kanye West Fashion - Get Kanye West Style

2011-02-02T02:46:00.000-08:00

Never one to shy away from controversy, Kanye West is once more on the music radar with his and Jay-Z’s much hyped new album ‘Watch the throne’ set to be released in the next few weeks. Already busy winding up fellow musical celebrities like Britney with insulting tweets, Kanye is never far from a media storm, and he takes this brazenness into his fashion creating a very distinct Kanye West style.

Kanye is a regular front row face at Couture shows, often seen backstage at ready to wear shows and he reflects this love for design through his own artistic creations and Kanye West fashion. Be it his music videos or own fashion line, the lyrics of his songs or his own personal style, Kanye always displays a passion for couture and an interest in pushing the boundaries of fashion through these platforms.

A natural tendency towards an edgy urban look, there are many Kanye West looks, each of which reflect a chasm of Kanye’s personality; confident, strong and statement. His casual look is very urban but with an almost couture edge; heavy baggy jeans sitting atop amazing one-off trainers or boots with a loose but not baggy T shirt. This is often worn with an old school prep style jacket in tweed based fabrics or soft leather and accessorized with an off centre cap and of course, the celebrity essential; big black sunglasses. Not forgetting the necklace bling, expensive and ghetto chic.

Perhaps surprisingly, Kanye actually keeps it very old school for the red carpet and black tie events. Often sticking to a designer black tuxedo, black fitted shirt with matching dark bowtie. Occasionally he tends to the American classic of jeans and jacket, yet always looks the epitome of grown up chic, an integral part of the Kanye West look.

Another favorite Kanye West style is a very clean, fresh suit and shirt look, think classic with a twist. This look almost channels Tommy Hilfiger and Yves Saint Laurent colors and cuts; clean lines in soft blues, grays and whites. Possibly even a touch of light tweed or checks which keeps the style less generic and more Kanye West style.

Whatever he wears, Kanye always ensures he is accessorized to the max; be it geek chic glasses, ghetto fabulous necklaces, retro 80’s caps or designer shades, there is no doubting that Kanye West fashion is fashion fabulous!

Simon Carter Gloves: New at KJ Beckett

2011-01-25T03:24:00.000-08:00

When GQ names one of your items in their annual “100 best things in the world list”, you know you’ve got a great product on your hands, quite literally in this case! It seems Simon Carter have captured the interest of stylish professional men around the world with their new woollen gloves. At the end of last year, Simon Carter launched tweed and leather designed glove to great excitement; with a sumptuous cashmere and wool lining and a really handsome sartorial design, these gloves are a great addition to any mans wardrobe. Click her to view the range.

Started in the mid 1980's Simon Carter has historically been known foremost for their cufflinks, cornering the UK market by the 1990’s. Their iconic ‘Aspirin’ design, which stored tablets within the actual cufflink, concreted their dominance with these shirt accessories. Looking to expand the brand, Simon Carter has spent the last few years branching out into accessories as well as now also designing both casual and formal clothing; however it is their accessories that have truly captured the interests of the man on the street, and both their gloves and new seasonal bags are a real showcase of the quality of the Simon Carter name in 2011.

Simon Carter has some beautiful new bags to offer this season, and as we enter the new year and plan those spring breaks, a fresh new carry case is definitely in order. Carter has delivered some amazingly fresh designs that are both slick and modern as well as performing a function. The ‘St Leonard’s Weekend Holdall’ is one such design which looks both cool and grown up. A soft fabric finish with leather corners, handles and strap – it is both great to look at and seriously useful. Go for purple if you love your high-tops and baggy jeans and choose the black with extra pockets if you’re a suited and booted businessman in need of extra pen storage.

This season Simon Carter are at the top of their game with new design led accessories, delivering quality and functionality in a grown up and modern style. Just watch where you put your gloves and bag down, they might not be there when you return! Shop for Simon Carter Now.

Johnny Cupcakes: Johnny Cupcakes UK Opening

2011-01-13T04:22:00.000-08:00

Johnny Cupcakes may not be a brand that you are familiar with right now but the company is set to make their mark on the UK apparel scene. With a quirky back story, Johnny Cupcakes was founded in 2001 by Johnny Earle who decided, whilst getting some T-shirts printed for the band he was in, to screen print a few T-shirts with the Johnny Cupcakes motif for a laugh. Immediately co-workers and friends clamoured for the T-shirts with their quirky and fresh designs.

Travelling with the band, Johnny decided to take along his T-shirts and sell them at gigs. The Johnny Cupcake designs quickly began to establish a cult following that is now part of the appeal of the brand. From there, the Johnny Cupcakes brand has grown leaps and bounds in the last 10 years to now have three cupcake bakery themed shops in the US with a 4th on its way in London.

The original badge making spirit can still be seen in the current Johnny Cupcakes line up, which now includes the ever popular t-shirts, underwear, hooded tops and accessories. The Johnny Cupcakes branding is brilliantly recognisable, using the iconic skull and crossbones emblem with a cupcake in place of the skull.

It is Earle’s entrepreneurial spirit that had him placed in Business Week’s 2008 ‘Best Entrepreneurs 25 and Under’ list. The award recognized the blue sky thinking of the Johnny Cupcake branding, in particular the amazing popularity of Earle’s lectures at schools and universities that have seen such demand that a whole section of the Johnny Cupcakes website is now dedicated just to this.

With their first international shop set to open on March 12th this year in London, Johnny Cupcakes are going places. Fans of his designs are fast buying up tickets to the store opening which is set to be an amazing. Both Earle and the Johnny Cupcakes brand offer a really fresh approach and outlook to both clothes and business in the wider sense. Keep an idea for this name in 2011.

How to wear Scarves: Scarves for Men

2011-01-07T01:06:00.000-08:00

How to tie scarves for either sex is a bit of a tricky thing to decide but how to wear scarves is particularly difficult for men; attempting to wrap a bit of material around your neck can quite easily end up looking fairly unsexy; too tight and you risk looking like you have no neck, too loose and you might be mistaken for an amateur dramatic about to launch into a flamboyant soliloquy. So here are some tips on how to wear scarves!

1. The Parisian Knot
The loop and knot or as it is officially known, The Parisian knot is the most popular and most classic way to wear a scarf. Celebrities such as David Beckham are often seen tying scarves in this way. Fold the scarf in half, place around the neck and simply pull the ends through to create a large knot on or below the neck. Ends can be tucked in if extra chilly but a better look is to let the ends drape over the coat. A masculine, clean and elegant look.

2. The Once Around Knot
The once around knot is another simple yet stylish way to wear a scarf. Think Jude Law around Notting Hill. If you are just after a little comfort, then simply throw your scarf around your neck with one end slightly longer, tie a knot using the longer side and away your go. Beware of open neck T-shirts with this one or you could end up looking a bit like Ronaldo. Of course if that’s the look that you’re going for, knot away.

3. The Loose Once Around Knot
The Loose once-around knot is the most fashionable way to wear a scarf. Loose knit or thin rather than woollen scarves work best with this one. Simply wrap the scarf around your neck once and let both ends fall loosely either side. For those men who are a bit braver, a long chunky knit can be used but beware of looking like you’re wearing the latest in neck braces. Or in a boyband.

Of course there are many more ways on how to wear scarves men, but if a clean stylish look is what you are after then keep it simple; plain colours or stripes, compliment your shirt or coat and above all think classic.

David Beckham Style: Modern Style Icons

2011-01-04T05:11:00.000-08:00

There is no doubt that David Beckham is one of the most recognisable style icons of modern times. Loved by exclusive fashion circles and commercial brands, by magazines such as GQ and fashion fans the world over. Beckham transcends the hierarchy of the fashion circuit with an amazing ability to have both a commercial and designer appeal that reaches out to men (and women – need I say Armani pants!). If we must use the word, then metrosexual is one way to describe David Beckham style, but his appeal is much more complex and exciting than now overused description of his look.

The David Beckham look is difficult to pin down to just one style; looking just as stylish in his favourite Diesel Zatiny jeans as he is when suited and booted in grey Armani. What Beckham does have are some closet staples and a few style rules that mean he is always effortlessly stylish. Not afraid to try new looks, Beckham knows that mixing it up keeps his look fresh and by doing this, he is always be ahead of the style curve.

David Beckham style definitely means investing in your wardrobe because this is a man who loves his designer accessories. Jeans, great logoed T’s, boots, expensive shades and cardigans form the core of David Beckham fashion. But there are many other looks that Beckham manages to make his own; baggy shorts and simple tees, slim fit jeans and beanie hats, combats and boots and of course, no one rocks a football strip quite like Beckham!

For many though, Beckham is at his most elegant and masculine when in a beautiful suit. Even with this more formal style, he manages to work different looks; sometimes wearing rolled up sleeves and a chic waistcoat, occasionally with a more nipped in suit, emphasising an open shirt and a silk cravat. More often than not he is looking absolutely spot on with a made to measure designer suit, simple shirt, slim tie and amazing accessories. There is no doubt though that Whichever way he wears it; no one wears it quite like Beckham.

denisononboston: A Designer Destined for Big Things!

2010-12-22T03:58:00.000-08:00

Founded in 2003 by British designer Jonathan Boston, luxury accessory brand Denisonboston has steadily built a reputation of originality and high quality design, culminating in winning Best men’s accessories category at the British fashion export Awards in 2008.

Denisonboston’s signature design is a combination of hard enamelling and stainless steel, creating modern and slick designs for the urban and fashionable man. Architectural, modernist and contemporary – Denisonboston accessories tick all the right boxes for today’s modern man.

A forward thinking brand, Denisonboston’s focus on modernist design creates distinctive collections of cufflinks, tie clips and collar stays. More recently Denisonboston have launched an Italian made socks and silks collection in six distinctive designs, all with the recognisable Denisonboston style of contemporary cool.

Having supplied Denisonboston to hundreds of customers for a number of years KJ Beckett is really excited to showcase the new Autumn Winter Denisonboston accessories range. The new collection includes ties and matching handkerchiefs along with beautiful silk scarves and bold new socks in amazing and bold colours.

This season, Denisonboston’s black stripe silk scarf is the perfect accessory for any men needing to look suited and booted this winter. For those of you looking for something a bit more lavish. the Stealth Stripe Gold cufflinks are both retro and modernist and make a real luxury statement.

Exciting times are ahead for Denisonboston and we here at KJ Beckett can’t wait to see the new and amazing accessories that Denisonboston come up with next!

Dress for a Christmas Party - Christmas Party Style for Men

2010-12-22T03:05:00.000-08:00

How to dress for Christmas parties? Hmmm, well unless it’s new years eve definitely avoid a santa hat or a comedy Christmas jumper because it’ll make you look a) deeply unsexy and b) like a creepy uncle no matter how lovely I’m sure you really are. So here are a few tips on how to dress for a Christmas party that will keep you going throughout the festive season – and hopefully get you a few festive kisses from the girls!

What you can do at Christmas is add a bit of a flourish with some key accessories, if there’s any season to embrace a bit of flamboyance, it’s the festive season. For a casual afternoon soiree, just add a bit of va va voom to a classic of jeans and T with wintery boots and a light wool jumper. Add a great woolly hat to keep you warm and a cool scarf that can be worn both outdoors and indoors. We are talking casual here, so the more crumpled the scarf the better. Simply throw it around your neck in a loop and away you go. Try bright clashing colours for a nod towards the Italian cool look.

We can’t talk about men’s Christmas party style without mentioning the biggest party of them all; New year’s eve. If you are attending a black tie event, then a beautiful suit is the way to go. One of the sleekest looks is to wear a slim fitting well cut suit with a crisp white shirt and a matching tie. Colourful suits are totally on trend this year with celebs like Mark Ronson and Robert Pattinson showcasing dapper slick styles.

Be bold and try midnight blue or deep burgundy but be sure to match the tie for an absolutely slick look. Consider some cufflinks that tone in with the suit. Men’s Christmas party style can easily go wrong so remember this is a chic look and every detail must tone in to create a gorgeous silhouette. No comedy reindeer ties. That won’t entice the ladies. Keep it sleek, clean and little bit interesting. That’s a little bit.

Good luck, merry Christmas from everyone at KJ Beckett and enjoy those festive parties!

Energie Accessories: Review and Alternatives

2010-12-14T03:07:00.000-08:00

Initially started in Italy in 1983 by Rome based Wicky Hassan, popular denim brand Energie originally focused just on clothes but more recently have recognised the ever growing trend in men’s fashion for cool urban accessories. Energie really came into their own from 1989 when Renato Rossi was brought on board and the signature Energie style of urban cool really started to show. Energie’s focus on research has meant an emphasis on materials and quality that really shines through in their design and accessories.

Energie accessories include all the men’s classic items of bags, wallets, belts hats and scarves as well as some more unusual pieces such as foulards and braces. The Energie desire to create something which is new and innovative creates a strong denim and urban style that also hints as vintage textures. The Autumn Winter 2010 range of Energie accessories for men focuses on an edgy hip style, taking inspiration from a wide range of sources such as 80’s rock music, the city streets and the army.

Other men’s fashion brands which have also recognised the desire by men for fresh, design led accessories are top-end high street names such as Ted Baker, Fred Perry, French Connection and Diesel. For example, the on-trend lifestyle focus of Diesel accessories has really tapped into the need for cool on trend accessories. Still on trend but taking a more classic retro tinged edge, Fred Perry bring preppy cool to their selection of accessories of satchel bags, belts and wallets.

We are in a really exciting time for men’s accessories, and the chilly weather is the perfect time to check out the best of this season’s hats, scarves, ties and belts to keep you tucked in warm, looking stylish and on trend.

Bow Ties are Cool: Matt Smith Doctor Who's Bow Tie Wearing Hero

2010-12-14T02:10:00.000-08:00

Ever since the 11th Doctor Who landed on our screens with his dapper dress style, bow ties have been catapulted from the dregs of tie wear to the forefront of on-trend shirtdress. Since the 11th series, sales of ‘Doctor Who’ bow ties have driven up dramatically. Mens luxury accessories company KJ Beckett has experienced a surge of interest in their bow tie selection and high street retailer Topman has seen a massive increase of sales by over 300%!

The doctor is seen as having a real love for his bow ties, wearing them alongside slim shirts and braces in reds and blues and always with his world weary tweed and elbow patched jacket. Matt Smith style intertwines closely with that of the doctors; dandy yet masculine dressing with slicked back hair and skinny suits. Smith, the doctor and their bow ties have brought back geek chic.

Many of our heroes both past and present, fictional and non-fictional have also reached for the individualism of wearing a bow tie. At times, the image of the bow tie conjures up an array of fashion savvy heroes such as fearless James bond or classic stars like frank Sinatra.

Historic leaders Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt created positive associations of the bow tie in their old-fashioned gentlemanly ways in the mid 19th Century and Churchill was often photographed in a rather natty polka dot tie.

Of course, when worn by Hollywood pin ups from the past such as Humphrey Bogart or today’s Gossip Girl lothario Chuck Bass, the bow tie takes on a more playful devil may care attitude of a cad about town. Who thought the bow tie could be sexy!

Upping the coolness factor of bow ties is that of TV character Brother Mouzone from The Wire. Always seen in a suit and bow tie, this New York hitman manages to make bow ties appear both dangerous and edgy – no mean feat!

This season ‘Matt Smith’ bow ties are the fashion accessory of the fashion forward gent who isn’t afraid to make a statement and as the doctor likes to say in his first series “bow Ties are cool” and we couldn’t agree more- bow ties are cool!

Top 5 Most Fashionable Men Part 2: Most Fashionable Man

2010-12-07T03:58:00.000-08:00

The time has come to unveil our number 1 man of the fashion moment! In keeping with the ethos that fashion is of the moment, no man is perhaps more ‘of the moment’ in the British music industry than that of super producer and now, super fashionable Mark Ronson.

Steadily becoming a style icon, last year Ronson was chosen by GQ as the most stylish man of 2009. With a crossover appeal that is both urban and genteel, Ronson has a way of dressing that is refreshingly contemporary and manages to maintain an amazing personal style that goes from the debonair to street whilst always looking distinctly current.

Ronson is often seen out and about in a 1960’s inspired slim pencil thin suit, skinny tie worn with white trainers or smart lace up shoes. The suits are bespoke and often worn in deep shades and the entire look is worn with a real energy and a hint of a debonair gentlemen.

Not afraid to take a risk, Ronson happily references hip-hop roots with a bit of bling on occasion. A gold satin Dolce and Gabbana suit worn in a fashion shoot in 2008 introduced us to a side of Ronson that showed he isn’t afraid have some fun with fashion. And this fun is not just with colours but also with patterns and fabrics, Ronson even manages to make a velvet suit seem hip and on trend!

Always immaculate in whatever look he chooses to step out in, the fashion world has started to sit up and take notice. Earlier this year Ronson designed a limited edition exclusive sneaker range for Gucci to great success. The essence of London style, Ronson is hip, on trend, quirky, cool and confident. Our number one most fashionable man of the moment.