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Written by Administrator
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Fashion for men? Is this a never ending oxy-moron? As I entered into married life, I realized more and more just how difficult men’s fashion is. And that is for me. Most men that I know are fashionably challenged to say the least. It is not like the stores in general offer men many fashion options. Unless, of course they are with their personal shoppers- being the women, or men, in their lives.
No, men have it tough. At least with the ladies, fashion can span the genre. Men are not as lucky. Men, in my very very humble opinion, have only a few options in the style department. GQ preppy, or Carhartt sexy. It seems very difficult to mesh the two, or find a happy medium. A guy who can carry off the Carhartts, can’t necessarily carry of Gucci. A guy who can carry off Giorgio Armani, can’t necessarily carry off Wrangler. Men’s fashion is far more about attitude than it is about what they are wearing.
A prime example of this would be one of my very best friends in the whole entire world Sheldon. Sheldon and I bonded in college over a pair of pants. Mine, not his. The moment he commented on how much he liked my pants, and we proceeded to carry on a 20 minute conversation about them, I was hooked. For many years, Sheldon has been my biggest cheerleader in the style department. When we lived in NYC together, we would go on many a shopping spree. And somehow he could always justify the expense of a Louis Vuitton brief case. Sheldon is a combination of Martha’s Vineyard casual, and New York City sheik. Very few can pull off the style that Sheldon has. No matter where he goes, or what he does, he knows how to pull himself together with such panache that I find myself kneeling to his inner god of style. Sheldon can be wearing a simple pair of Levi’s, Nike running shoes and a Ralph Lauren sweater and look amazing. He is statuesque, which helps. Striking. He is the person that turns heads when he walks into a room. His grace, fortitude and style carry him no matter where he is. Men around the world should take some lessons. He possesses an air of elegance with edge. Sheldon is my fashion icon. He is all about the attitude.
Look at George Clooney. Granted he is very easy on the eyes which helps a lot, but George always looks put together. He is taste without pretension. An icon I believe most men should aspire.
Now, men’s fashion is not always about attitude. Sometimes, men can look downright bad. Matthew McConaughey. He is a great example of great body gone bad. He has the body to wear almost anything he wants. Unfortunately he lacks the style. Someone get him a stylist. Doesn’t he know that sweaty dirty unshowered beach exerciser went away with the 90’s grunge?
I think that men here have it easy. They are not expected, nor required to pull out their inner GQ. Men in the valley are lucky. At least in how they dress. Not necessarily in how they shop. Men’s clothing is so incredibly limited. Fortunately, men have the Edwards locale Brush Creek Dry Goods. They know how to take men’s fashion and make it applicable to the mountain lifestyle. Brush Creek Dry Goods carries a variety of brands and styles so everyone can be satisfied. Including the significant others. The best thing about Brush Creek Dry Goods is that they carry Mountain Khakis. These are my husband’s go-to’s. A blend of Carhartt comfort with Uptown style. Get them for any man in your life. He will thank you!
Ptarmigan Sports is also a great stop. Featuring great brands like Oakley, Ptarmigan Sports in Edwards offers a more dressed down version of men’s style. I say that lightly because Ptarmigan has some really excellent shirts for men. Great looking, great designs and decent prices.
Finally, Tommy Bowers in Vail Village. This store is far out of my reach in price but hand in hand with my style. Prada, Gucci and the like all live at Tommy Bowers. IF you are in the market for something super stylish, head over- but word of caution- Tommy Bowers is not your average local’s stop. You will definitely drop some bank at this store.
So, gents, all is not lost. There are some very acceptable shopping locations for you right here in the Valley. Indulge in a little style every once in a while. Keep it simple- bring your lady with you!
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