President “Barry” on Image and Style

{Images Courtesy of the New York Times.}

Not only has our new President brought youth, hope, and organically farmed produce to the White House, he’s also brought a sense of style that few—if any—other politicians possess. President Obama (along with the buff and beautiful Michelle) has a casual elegance in everything he wears. From sleek, power-tie accessorized suits at the office to shades and board shorts at the beach, Mr. Obama knows how to present himself. Before his days of political power, President Barack Obama—or Barry as he was called—was a self-aware, image conscious freshman at Southern California’s Occidental College.

Lisa Jack, a classmate of Barry’s and a student of photography, was tipped off that handsome freshman Barry would be an ideal subject to shoot. Barry showed up with a bomber jacket, flared jeans, a pack of ciggs, and a Panama hat. He clearly had put careful, purposeful thought into what he chose to wear and how he wanted to be portrayed. At the tender age of eighteen, Barry knew that “clothes function like identity flashcards.” These photos, first featured in Time magazine are currently on display at the M+B Gallery in Los Angeles.

While I am all for rolling out of bed, throwing on what’s comfortable and not stressing over what to wear, this (apparently) won’t make me the next Commander in Chief.  Image is everything and first impressions do last. Though most professionals won’t acknowledge putting much importance on fashion, looking good matters. Putting deliberate thought into how you present yourself goes a long way. While I’m not advocating transforming into a label-slavin’ Gucci Prada Mama, I am advocating putting careful consideration into how you present yourself to the world by starting with your style. Being naturally good looking, charming, and stylish (like young Barry) doesn’t hurt much either.

Next time you consider heading out in shabby sweats and a faded tee, take a moment and think about the journey of young, self-aware Barry and ask yourself, “is this really how I want to present myself to the world?” I know I will.

What’s Your Eccentric Glamour? Urban Style, Part IV

{Photo Courtesy of www.jacindathomas.blogspot.com}

Urban and hip-hop inspired style is influenced by life in the city. As with many other niches in the fashion industry, urban flavor is influenced heavily by the music industry—specifically hip-hop music. Urban chicks love to get dressed up for a night on the town and dressed-down for a day in the city. They are not scared of making a statement. They love glamour, bling, and everything that goes along with it. When it comes to formal events, urban ladies love fitted, sexy, and bold dresses paired with ultra-high stiletto heels. They favor neutral hues and flashy accessories. Urban style has roots in other cultures including Africa, Jamaica, the Caribbean, and Latin America. From Hammer Pants to the House of Dereon, urban style has (and continues to) evolved a lot over time.

{Photo Courtesy of www.pursepage.com}

Get the Look: Chunky Gold Jewelry, Hoodies, Skinny Jeans, Knee-high High-heeled Boots, Beanies, Faux-fur-lined Coats, Fitted T-shirts, Designer Tennis Shoes,

Celeb Inspiration: Kim Kardashian, Tyra Banks, Kimora Lee-Simmons, Beyonce, Rihanna, Vanessa and Angela Simmons

Where to Shop: Urban Outfitters, Baby Phat, Sean John, Adidas, Puma, Lacoste, Ecko, Pastry, Bebe, Dereon, French Connection

As always, no matter what your style is, in the words of Mr. Doonan himself, “SAY NO TO HO! … and yes to ECCENTRIC GLAMOUR.”

{Photo Courtesy of www.mystyle.com}

What’s Your Eccentric Glamour? Rocker Chic

Last week we took inspiration from Simon Doonan and asked, what’s your eccentric glamour? We took a look at Bohemian Chic style, now it’s time to rock out and ask, are you a rocker chic fashionista?

Good style and good music has always been a match made in heaven. From Beatles’ hair, to Madonna’s tulle, to Amy Winehouse’s rocker-mess, musicians have a profound influence on style. The rocker chic look consists of black, dark sunglasses, fringed scarves, chunky jewels, and a lot of attitude. Designers from all over the spectrum—Chanel to Alexander Wang—embrace and create rocker chic masterpieces. It doesn’t matter if you don’t bang the drums or listen to bands with names like “The Bloody Knife,” rocker-style is an infusion of your own personality and original style. Rocker style can be borrowed or incorporated into any ‘fit. Remember to always rock out with your heart out.

Get the Look: Tight Black Pants, Wayfarer Sunglasses, Fitted Jeans, Band T-shirts, Leather, Silver Studs, High Boots, Fedoras, Chunky Silver Jewlery, Skull Accents, High Black Heels, Studded/Big Buckled Belts, Converse, Hippy Hair

Celeb Inspiration: Audrina Patridge, Gwen Stefani, Rihanna, Katy Perry, Kelly Osbourne, Lady Gaga, Pink

Where to Shop: Independent Designers, Vintage/Second Hand Stores, Urban Outfitters, Rock & Republic, Levis, Top Shop, H&M, LAMB, American Apparel

 As always, no matter what your style is, in the words of Mr. Doonan himself, “SAY NO TO HO! … and yes to ECCENTRIC GLAMOUR.”

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