Jacques Dutronc: Rooftop Elegance

Jacques Dutronc proves that one doesn't necessarily have to look sloppy on a rainy day. His blue suit and the Parisian skyline team up to deliver an impressive photo.

Photo: Flickr

Warren Beatty & Julie Christie: A Night at the MET

Silk scarves were widely worn during the late 60s and early 70s, and were the perfect finishing touch for any ensemble. Available in different designs and colors they could be worn all year round. As Winter fades away and temperatures start getting warmer one can pair up a suit and a scarf just like Warren Beatty did when he visited the MET with Julie Christie in 1972.


Photo: zap2it

Sinatra, Curtis, & Cole: Three Ways To Wear A Black Suit

Frank Sinatra, Tony Curtis, and Nat King Cole show how to wear a black suit, a wardobe essential, in three different ways on this early 60s photo. Sinatra opted for a more casual and relaxed option by wearing an open collar and fedora, while Tony Curtis who is filming part of this scene wore a dark tie and pocket square. Nat King Cole decided to wear a light colored tie that blends with his shirt.


Photo: Flickr

Maximiliano Villegas: Trendy Dandy

Maximiliano Villegas is a Mexican TV host not only known for his popular lifestyle and fashion show on E! Latin America, “Zona Trendy” (Trendy Zone); but also for his impeccable sense of style which mixes elements from classic dandyism, 60s fashion, and modern/casual styles.

Recently I had the opportunity to interview Max about his thoughts on style, retro inspired fashion, and upcoming trends.

Which are your style principles?

I’m always in search of different looks and trends, but the most incredible thing is being able to play with fashion according to your personality and what suits you best. I enjoy being daring, proposing fashion, and never limit myself to colors, textures or combinations. When following a particular style I can go from preppy to vintage, always keeping my own essence and being myself. You should never create a character or look as if you were dressed up in a costume.

In your opinion, which garments or accessories must everyone have in their wardrobe to dress in a stylish and elegant way?

A black tie should always be in your wardrobe since you can wear it with a suit and look elegant, or pair it up with jeans and feel a bit more casual and laid back. My personal favorite is the 50s skinny tie, I don’t wear any other kind of ties.

What do you think about vintage or retro inspired fashion?
I’m thrilled being able to mix other eras with modern times, playing with different cuts and textures; but the most incredible thing is throwing in together a 60s shirt with a pastel colored 50s inspired Tom Ford jacket, or a pair of Diesel skinny jeans with a Members Only jacket.

Which do you think will be some trends in menswear during 2011?
Menswear is becoming more important in the fashion world. Retro inspired shirts have made a comeback, suits will be more daring in terms of design and colors. We will leave behind the typical grays and blacks. Cuts will become looser, and of course an accessory that is becoming an essential every season is the “man bag” in all of its different colors and styles.

Photos: MV

The Perfect Combination: Nehru Jackets & Medallions

Nehru jackets were a must in the late 60s for any stylish man. Inspired by the traditional Achkan jackets worn by India's Prime Minister Jawarhalal Nehru, these jackets fell somewhere around the hips unlike Achkans which fell beneath the knees. Its Mandarin collar added a touch of elegance.

The growing interest at the time on Oriental cultures was one of the reasons behind the Nehru's success. Medallions shaped liked Medieval crosses or with a bold design were the perfect accessory to be worn with a Nehru jacket, since they contrasted with the jacket's minimalism.

Photo: GQ

Jimi Hendrix: The Electric Guitar King

Jimi Hendrix is the greatest guitarist in Rock history. Influenced by the likes of B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Little Richard, and Curtis Mayfield; Hendrix played the electric guitar like no other, captivating audiences worldwide in the 60s and still nowadays. Who can forget his performances at the Monterrey Pop Festival in 1967 (where he burned a guitar on stage) or Woodstock in 1969.

Hendrix's style was very eclectic and influenced the psychedelic fashions of the late 60s. His ensembles were made up of army jackets, wide brimmed hats, scarves, feathered boas, psychedelic print shirts, velvet bellbottoms, accesories like rings, brooches & medallions, ethnic inspired clothes, and bandanas. Last summer I had the opportunity to view on display some of his clothes at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles, and was very impressed.




Photo: Flickr

Michael Douglas: The Streets of San Francisco

For these last days of Winter there's nothing better like what Michael Douglas wore on "The Streets of San Francisco", a 70s police TV series. From 1972 to 1977, Douglas starred as Inspector Steve Keller alongside Karl Malden who played the role of Detective Mike Stone.

While solving crimes in San Francisco, Michael Douglas wore ensembles that are timeless and an example of 70s elegance. To be worn at the office, leisure, and why not, walking around the streets of San Francisco or Fisherman's Wharf (second photo); both outfits below are almost similar, except for the knit tie and the shirts' design.

Photos: Flickr & Moviestore