Csquared Menswear

Tired of the color blocking and neon brights of the last season?

Well, luckily menswear trends have taken a sartorially stylin’ turn toward clean cut fabrics and graphic sharp tailoring as seen on the 2013 Autumn/Winter Milan & London Fashion Week runways.

Monochromatic color, greys and luxury neutrals were a prominent trend on the runways; with an emphasis on interesting cut and styling for a very modern update.

Yes, yes we know… these trends will only kick in later this year, but we here at CSquared like to be ahead of the pack and get you ready on how to wear these trends.

IS COLOR COMPLETELY OUT? 

Gauche highlighter shades of last season are replaced by slick black, white, slate, chrome & grey ensembles. Colour is not necessarily out but minimalism is seeping through as seen at Kris Van Assche, Gucci & Neil Barrett.

A certain kind of grey was trending across the runways - Classic Grey. Looking at the photos, enough said. Understated, elegant and sleek restraint underpin this cool and masculine trend. The classic grey trend has some of the most wearable looks this season both for work & play.

HOW TO WEAR MONOCHROMATIC WITHOUT LOOKING DRAB?

You might be scratching your head thinking.. really??! It’s so easy to look boring and corporate in simply Grey black and white?

What if I can’t pull off minimalism and look like an 80’s salesman?

There are style tips that will keep those fears at bay. 

As a bold stylin’ guy, you don’t ever want to look and feel like a stiff boardroom backdrop or straight out of a Tim Burton movie. And since most of our wardrobes are still drenched in multi-color items from seasons before, it might be hard for you to let go of those colourful accessories or statement items that you finally plucked up the courage to buy and invest in.

SOCKS

Do ease into the monochromatic trend by wearing only one item of color, in one place. Colourful and wildly patterned socks are the funkiest, easiest and fool-proof way to score statement style points while keeping the rest of the outfit classic & clean.

Image| Art Love Allister

GQ Japan

CSquared at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Joburg 2012 | SDR Photo

ACCESSORIES

Wear classic greys, all white & neutrals with a loud pocket square, unexpected skinny belt, colourful shoe laces, contrast soles or pop of bright brogues for a flash of youthful defiance & mischievousness a la Nick Wooster. For the CSquared guide on how to wear the all white suit (year-round trend for 2013) click here.

Nick Wooster Street Style

Nick Wooster in Paris

Head to Toe Monochromatic with Grey brogues & contrast soles.

Lanvin A/W 2013/14 Milan Fashion Week

CSquared Jacket - R1800, Trousers - R800

CSquared Suede Color Brogues: Csquared Brogues, CLICK TO SEE SALE NOW Was R899 Now R695- Avail CSquared Flagship Store.

Wondering on how to buy and wear colourful shoes? Check out CSquared’s how to guide here.

Click here to read more on CSquared’s style advice, latest cutting edge inspiration .

Stay Stylin’

Subscribe to Csquared Menswear by Email and stay tuned to Csquared’s Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @CsquaredSA for more stylin’ daily updates.

SHOP CSQUARED SALE - ONLY A FEW DAYS LEFT GET TO OUR CSQUARED FLAGSHIP STORE NOW!

Csquared Menswear is stocked at selected boutiques and premier Stuttafords and Markham stores nationwide. 

CSquared Mediterranean Resort Summer Collection 2012 is available at HOM Menswear (CANAL WALK, CAPE TOWN), Stuttafords & Markham stores nationwide. 

Shop CSquared ONLINE at South Africa’s ultimate online shopping and style destination for men, ThirtySixMan, and online retailer of international and local fashion brands Zando.com

So it’s that time of the year where SALES are abound - check out the CSquared Summer Sale - and you might be wondering how to take advantage of the end of season prices without buying items that won’t look good when Fall is in full swing.

Our top tip would be to phase out the bright neon Colors of summer with richer hues like teal, burgundy and mustard and pair them with cool neutrals like grey, navy, camel and white. This way you can keep the summer vibe going with a bit of color yet dressing appropriately for those cooler pre-fall nights.

TODAY’S TOP TRANSITIONAL LOOK

For the upcoming transitional season - find, buy and wear Fall’s trendy burgundy blazer, shirt or pants. The rich oxblood color is perfect when the pants are paired with a grey tee and oxfords for a relaxed but stylin’ day look.

The color also translates well to night time after work drinks or a night out should you choose to rock the burgundy suit for a suave and smart Summer-Winter night look.

What do you think of this look?

Any other questions around what to wear during the transitional season of pre-fall? Hola at us @CSquaredSA.

Dont forget to take advantage of the CSQUARED SUMMER SALE at CANAL WALK On NOW.

Not in Cape Town? Go to our stockists list to find a CSquared Store near you.

Stay Stylin’

CSquared

Yesterday afternoon Csquared Menswear hosted its Original and Live Twitter monthly menswear style discussion #MENSTYLECHAT. This month our panel included:

• Monde Mtsi from The Renaissance Men - http://renaissancemensa.blogspot.com/
• Lawrence Dube from Boy In Pr - http://boyinpr.blogspot.com
• Sandy Nene from On Point With Sandy - http://sandynene.blogspot.com - Unfortunately Sandy couldn’t make it to the discussion.

#MENSTYLECHAT is about giving South African men a platform to discuss fashion, get tips and ask the experts questions about style and grooming in an open, instantaneous and entertaining manner.

For the first #MenStyleChat of 2013, we spent 2 hours discussing all things menswear.

For those who missed it, here’s a recap of what went down yesterday.

#MENSTYLECHAT Main Topic: Top Trends, Looks & Tips on How to Dress for the J&B Met 2013 Made To Fly Theme.

Top Trends that the Fashion-Shy guy can wear to the #MET2013:

Peroni Dons of Style below at the Queens Plate were styled by CSquared

Top Trends that the Braver Statement Dresser Should Rock at the J&B MET 2013

We then went to onto to discuss and present our Top Looks and Outfit Ideas for the #MadeToFly theme - from Accessories to Entire Looks.

More Lapel Pins

Then Style Joburg’s (See when he was on the #menstylechat panel) joins the conversation and critiques the Print on Print Trend:

We then asked for some tips on how to stay fresh in the sun:

We then answered some QnA’s that our CSquared fans sent in during the week for our panel to answer:

Sabelo asked if there were any Style DONTS for the J&B MET:

We then got lots of style kudos and love from new #MenStyleChat Fans

We then had a quick-fire of the Celebs that were out and about locally and internationally in January 2013 and asked the panel whether the looks were HOT or CHOP.

First up was Cosmo’s sexiest man Greg Hammond at #LQP2013

Then Harry Shum Jr at the SAG Awards Wearing Z Zegna

The panel was conflicted on this street style look with Ombre Pants tucked into boots.

Then our #MenStyleChat came to an end, and with the #MET2013 Fashion choices picked apart by our expert panel.. CSquared announced the winner of the R25k VVIP Weekend to the J&B MET competition.

And the winner is….. MR MATETE SELIANE

A massive thank you to Monde Mtsi & Lawrence Dube for being on the panel and giving invaluable style advice. Remember to tune into #MenStyleChat again end of this month!!

If you’ve missed the last couple of live chats, explore our previous main topics and go here for all our #menstylechat recaps.

This summer’s menswear break-out star, CSquared’s white summer suit, is featured in the January issue of GQ Magazine under the Style Advice section. The feature illustrates how this piece can add instant sophistication and cool edge to your summer look.

December will see many of us traveling whether locally or internationally, so we have put together everything you need to know about looking your best whilst on holiday. With all the fashion essentials one holidayer needs, a few basics will ensure you’ve got an impeccable look all holiday long.

Swimshorts

The essential piece of holiday kit – these will get more use than any other clothing in your suitcase. Holidays always guarantee plenty of poolside dips and beach bathing, making a quality pair of swimshorts essential. Needless to say, you get what you pay for, and there are plenty of price ranges to cater to everybody’s budget.

Dolce & Gabana | Swim Shorts S/S 13

Always go for the mid-thigh classic style. You really can’t go wrong. Block stripes and plain colors are the trophies of simplicity, and it’s always far better to select a timeless style over short-lived trends. when it comes to swimwear keep it simple, keep it understated. SA online menswear retails ThirtySixMan has a great selection of swimwear.

ThirtySixMan | Swimwear 

Flip Flops

Simplicity and comfort are the crucial factors when choosing your ideal flip-flop, as there’s nothing worse than blisters in between your toes. Go for something inoffensive that you can wear with ease. The secret to a solid flip-flop choice is to not think about it too much, after all, they are only flip flops.

Havaianas

N.B. Flip flops painful no matter what you do? Try rubbing a little Vaseline onto the part that goes between your toes – works an absolute dream.

Night Shoes

Take at least one other form of footwear. It’s essential. There are plenty of heat-friendly options this season that simultaneously ensure looking and feeling cool, and a certain smartness can be attained without the need for hyperformality. If you’re looking for something a little smarter, try the tasselled loafer or brogues. Going sockless is essential though, so keep that in mind. 

CSquared Menswear Brogues | Avail at Markham & Stuttafords

Navy, camel and browns are the key shades here, and opt for suede or relaxed leather to keep things from going overboard; we want to be the right side of casual, and there’s no room for suit territory in the holiday suitcase.

Sunglasses

Holidays mean you can wear sunglasses all day, every day without any judgement whatsoever. Just refrain from wearing them at night or even worse, in a nightclub. Wayfarers and Clubmasters are solid choices.

CSquared Menswear Wayfarers | Avail at Markham & Stuttafords

If you’re a rather clumsy sunglasses wearer, it’s probably best to buy a few ‘disposable’ pairs, as there’s always the chance they’ll go missing/get broken very quickly. On the flipside, if you’re a little more militant with sunglasses care, take your best shades and relax with the knowledge of greater quality and proper UV protection. Your facial shape ultimately dictates what shades suit you personally, so experiment with a few styles to see what works best for you. 

Hand Luggage

Gucci Men’s Back Packs

You want plenty of room for all the aeroplane essentials if you are flying. The canvas knapsack is pretty much ideal for hand luggage, spacious without being sizeably offensive or preppy holdall if you’ve got the extra luggage.

ThirtySixMan | Chapel Leather Bag

Have a great trip and an even better style survival kit.

Check out CSquared Style Tips & Inspiration here

Stay Stylin’

CSquared

Subscribe to Csquared Menswear by Email and stay tuned to Csquared’s Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @CsquaredSA for more stylin’ daily updates.

CSquared Menswear is stocked at selected boutiques and premier Stuttafords and Markham stores nationwide.

CSquared Mediterranean Resort Summer Collection 2012 will be available at HOM Menswear, Stuttafords & Markham stores, South Africa’s ultimate online shopping and style destination for men, ThirtySixMan and online retailer of international and local fashion brands Zando.com

CSquared Image credit | SDR Photo 

via

“I still find it fascinating that there’s interest in me, because I can, like, dress myself… I don’t think that’s a remarkable skill.”
-Nick Wooster

Nick Wooster, is the sartorialist’s sartorialist. He is considered by many to be a street style demi-god and is usually the most photographed man at any fashion show. And that includes the models. He was previously the Men’s Fashion Director of Neiman Marcus Group Services in New York but has since left to become an all round fashion consultant – splitting his time between Giltman.com, New York’s Park and Bond store and putting together style shows for various companies.

So what is the deal with this guy? Sure, he gets photographed a lot and has an extensive background within plenty of fashion departments but doesn’t that just mean he has the money and experience to dress great? Well, yes and no. Once you’ve spent enough time immersed in menswear you not only know the rules off by heart, but how and when they can be broken too.

Going beyond that, he has had enough time to hone his style to perfection; so that when you do see a photo of him you instantly think ‘that’s so Woost’. Something we all are aiming for, right? Nick has talents and interests outside of the fashion world and understands that, at the end of the day, they are only clothes, allowing him to have a supreme amount of confidence when it comes to what he wears. This is pretty much an essential quality you need if you want to be considered stylish.

Nick Wooster LookBook

Nick Wooster Style Breakdown

When it comes to Nick’s style, it isn’t that difficult to pull off. It is a rugged tailored look, while he describes it as ‘smooth and slow burning’. However, if you want to pull off a similar look, there are a few key things that need to be remembered.

• The first of these is the fit - If you are planning on wearing some of the more outlandish patterns and prints, you have to make sure it fits you properly. Once you nail this, regardless of what you’re wearing it will always look like it was made for you. The best example is when he wears shorts with a suit. The shorts that he wears have the same fit as the jacket and the shirt he wears them with, giving the effect that the shorts were meant to be paired with the rest of the suit. Even when he’s not wearing tailored pieces and is just in a simple t-shirt, it all fits him perfectly.

• Invest in some quality tailored pieces - Here we are talking about suits, shirts and ties. Nick tends to stick to neutral colors like navy, grey and black for his suits so that he can experiment more when it comes to his shirt and tie combinations. Ways in which he experiments with these include making them both the same colour, or the same pattern but with a twist. Nick sometimes takes things a step further and uses statement pieces such as a madras blazer or shark print trousers. Again, the key to him pulling these off is not only the fit but the fact that he lets that piece do all the talking by keeping the rest of his outfit simple.

• When it comes to accessories, think outside of the box - Why not invest in some uniquely colored shoes? Nick keeps his suits simple and monochromatic so that he can have more fun with his accessories – like his shoes and also pocket squares, watches and sunglasses.

But remember to be able to pull of The Woost look, you need to be a well groomed gentleman. Just look at that beard! It is expertly kept, and for good reason too. Having the beard adds to his rugged but refined look, whilst if it was too out of control and ragged he would instead look like a hobo who had robbed Macy’s. Regardless of how cool and arty you think your beard makes you look, chances are it needs a trim. 

Check out CSquared Style Tips & Inspiration here

Stay Stylin’

CSquared

Subscribe to Csquared Menswear by Email and stay tuned to Csquared’s Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @CsquaredSA for more stylin’ daily updates.

CSquared Menswear is stocked at selected boutiques and premier Stuttafords and Markham stores nationwide.

CSquared Mediterranean Resort Summer Collection 2012 will be available at HOM Menswear, Stuttafords & Markham stores, South Africa’s ultimate online shopping and style destination for men, ThirtySixMan and online retailer of international and local fashion brands Zando.com

images | via 

Wedding season is upon us! For the ladies there is always an abundance of choice, but for men it would appear the opposite is true.

Lets just start by saying jeans are not a suitable trouser (even if you wear black jeans) for a wedding. Many men make the mistake of thinking a formal suit means black trousers and jacket, a white shirt and a tie.

StyleForum | Men’s Suits

Now although there is nothing wrong with this look, and it is indeed a very smart option, there are other routes to go down. Adding a spot of colour here and there, or even ditching the jacket in favor of a waistcoat, spices up your outfit and gives you a sophisticated and fashionable look.

CSquared Menswear | Avail At Markham & Stuttafords

If you want to take a side step from the traditional black suit, but not sure which colors will work together. A beige suit feels quite Gatsby-esque in its appearance, which thanks to Baz Luhrmann’s new take on the film is a popular trend at the moment.

StyleForum | Men’s Suits

If you don’t want to step too far out of your comfort zone, then a dark navy suits is more practical. Standout by taking a traditional look and giving it a modern and elegant twist. A patterned pocket square or tie gives a much more fashion conscious look to the outfit without having to stand out too much with colour.

CSquared Menswear | Avail At Markham & Stuttafords

However, if it is a colored suit you are after, pick one that offers a nice injection of colour without being so bold it attracts lots of attention (you do not want to outshine the bride!)

CSquared Menswear | Avail At Markham & Stuttafords

Investing in a new suit jacket is a good way to spice up an outfit without having to shell out for a whole suit. A dinner jacket with contrast lapels and pocket flaps is a sophisticated way of injecting pattern and colour into an outfit.

CSquared Menswear | Avail At Markham & Stuttafords

If you already have the perfect pair of black trousers then a grey jacket is a great accompaniment. The contrast in colours is an ideal way to put a fashionable spin on a traditional look. 

CSquared Menswear | Avail At Markham & Stuttafords

At weddings many men shed their jackets before the food is served, and they warm the backs of chairs for the rest of the night. A way to avoid looking like you’ve just finished a day at the office and keep a smart and dapper look, especially at a hot summer wedding, is to opt for a waistcoat instead.

CSquared Menswear | Avail At Markham & Stuttafords

A white shirt is a common choice for a formal occasion, but a colored or patterned shirt shouldn’t be overlooked. 

CSquared Menswear | Avail At Markham & Stuttafords

Avoid a wide tie or a bow tie unless you are part of the bridal party, skinny ties are a fashionable and popular choice, and a nice alternative should you have to wear a tie daily.

CSquared Menswear Ties | Avail At Markham & Stuttafords

Top all this off with a smart pair of brogues or loafers and you have a very stylish wedding outfit.

CSquared Menswear Brogues | Avail At Markham & Stuttafords

We hope this has opened up some doors to a brighter, summer wedding wardrobe, and has shown that there are just as many options for men as there are for women, you just need to take the plunge and stay away from the black suit/white shirt combo!

Happy wedding season.

Check out CSquared Style Tips & Inspiration here

Stay Stylin’

CSquared

Subscribe to Csquared Menswear by Email and stay tuned to Csquared’s Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @CsquaredSA for more stylin’ daily updates.

CSquared Menswear is stocked at selected boutiques and premier Stuttafords and Markham stores nationwide.

CSquared Mediterranean Resort Summer Collection 2012 will be available at HOM Menswear, Stuttafords & Markham stores, South Africa’s ultimate online shopping and style destination for men, ThirtySixMan and online retailer of international and local fashion brands Zando.com

Image credit | SDR Photo 

via

Have you ever wanted to channel the suave sophistication of Gossip Girl’s resident bad boy, Chuck Bass? Would you like to be the target of men’s scorn, the object of women’s desire? Well, who can blame you? He’s Chuck Bass: conniving, cold… and incredibly chic. Even the virtuous among us can’t help but find this Mother Chucker’s wardrobe truly envy-inspiring. Here are 10 of our favourite Chuck Bass looks…

 Every Day is Designer

Yesterday afternoon Csquared Menswear hosted its Live Twitter monthly menswear style discussion #MENSTYLECHAT. This month our panel included:

• Tshepang Sebulela from Kaizen Lifestyle -  http://www.kaizenlifestylemag.co.za

• Trevor Stuurman Blogger & ELLE Magazine Style Reporter - http://stuurmanstylediary.tumblr.com/

#MENSTYLECHAT is about giving South African men a platform to discuss fashion, get tips and ask the experts questions about style and grooming in an open, instantaneous and entertaining manner.

For an hour we discussed all things menswear. For those who missed it, here’s a recap of what went down yesterday.

#MENSTYLECHAT Main Topic: Summer’s best looks for different style personalities:  

The Fashion-shy guy: this is a gent who is aware of trends but not sure how to fully incorporate them into his looks.

The Hipster: we all know this guy, the trendy hipster but what are his best summer looks?

The straight-lace office guy: this guy is in suits Monday to Friday, how does he mix-it up during summer?

The yacht-cruiser/laid-back Capetonian: this is their season. What are their best looks for summer?

#Menstylechat Summertime Grooming Tips

#MENSTYLECHAT Hot or Chop

Hot or Chop Look 1: Brad Pitt at the ” Killing Them Softly” Premiere in NYC 

Hot or Chop Look 2: Russell Crowe on the sent of “Winter’s Tale”  

Hot or Chop Look 3: Leonardo DiCaprio filming in NYC

Hot or Chop Look 4: Lenny Kravitz running errands

A Massive Thank you to our panel @kaizenlifestyle, @trevorstuurman & @owethumentoor for taking part in this months #menstylechat.

Please note that this is our last #menstylechat for the year but if you are interested in becoming a part of the #menstylechat panel next year please e-mail contact and blog details to pr@socialwoo.co.za

Missed the last couple of live chats, go here for all our #menstylechat recaps.

Stay Stylin’

Csquared

Subscribe to Csquared Menswear by Email and stay tuned to Csquared’s Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @CsquaredSA for more stylin’ daily updates.

CSquared Menswear is stocked at selected boutiques and premier Stuttafords and Markham stores nationwide.

CSquared Mediterranean Resort Summer Collection 2012 will be available at HOM Menswear, Stuttafords & Markham stores, South Africa’s ultimate online shopping and style destination for men, ThirtySixMan and online retailer of international and local fashion brands Zando.com

Mens Fashion Magazine 

Neutral colors can be a constant staple in any mans wardrobe, and not just the usual black, grey and white – there are also various shades of beiges, browns and cream. This is the way to add a bit of variety to what could be quite a dull outfit.

CSquared Menswear Summer Collection | Avail Markham & Stuttafords

If you want to wear these desert tones then mix different shades on top and bottom, try a deep beige shirt with brown linen trousers for a cool summer evening, or pale chino shorts with a burnt orange top.

CSquared Menswear Summer Collection | Avail Markham & Stuttafords

In terms of accessories then go for browns and leather, for example a leather satchel or wooden beaded bracelets and necklaces. Footwear can range from brogues to flip-flops, it depends if you want to look preppy or casual.

Street Etiquette

CSquared Menswear Summer Collection | Avail Markham & Stuttafords

The beauty of wearing neutrals is that they can be worn over and over again in many different ways, one day you can be wearing a pair of shorts, flip-flops and a cream shirt, then the next you could be wearing that same shirt with some fitted neutral tone trousers, colored blazer and brogues.

CSquared Menswear Summer Collection | Avail Markham & Stuttafords

If you have quite pale skin then try not to wear the shades with tones of red and orange, instead go for stone shades and soft browns; whereas if your skin is darker then you can go for stronger/darker browns and oranges.

CSquared Menswear Summer Collection | Avail Markham & Stuttafords

Desert toned neutrals are the perfect way to add a bit of warmth to the not so sunny summer, so give them a try, but remember that neutral tones can be used throughout the year so make sure you keep them in your wardrobe.

CSquared Menswear Summer Collection | Avail Markham & Stuttafords

Check out more CSquared Style Tips & Inspiration here

Stay Stylin’

CSquared

Subscribe to Csquared Menswear by Email and stay tuned to Csquared’s Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @CsquaredSA for more stylin’ daily updates.

CSquared Menswear is stocked at selected boutiques and premier Stuttafords and Markham stores nationwide.

CSquared Mediterranean Resort Summer Collection 2012 will be available at HOM Menswear, Stuttafords & Markham stores, South Africa’s ultimate online shopping and style destination for men, ThirtySixMan and online retailer of international and local fashion brands Zando.com

Image credit |CSquared x 36MAN Midnight Express Show/SDR Photo 

Throughout Skyfall, James Bond runs, jumps, fights, and falls, yet he never fails to look dapper. Anyone who’s worn a suit (even a nicely fitting one) to a wedding knows that it’s difficult enough to dance with the thing on; the prospect of fighting terrorists in one seems damn near impossible. How is Bond able to land on a moving train in a perfectly tailored bespoke suit?

Brooklyn fine suit-maker and Bond fan Peter Frew of Archangelo Sartorial spoke to Vulture.com about it. He studied under a bespoke tailor from Savile Row, the London shopping district famous for its men’s suiting and likely where a real-life Bond would shop. Frew lets us in on what Bond’s tailors would’ve had to do for him to both look kick-ass and kick ass at the same time.

With winter finally behind us a pair of colored trousers is a great way to brighten the mood as well as your look. They sit well alongside almost anything in your existing capsule wardrobe and can create a striking look when combined and contrasted with heavy-duty clothing and materials.

CSquared Menswear Summer Collection | Avail Markham & Stuttafords

Inversely, if you’re yet to get on the bright bandwagon, now would be a great time – not only would you be purchasing trousers that would effortlessly see out the summer, but you are investing in a piece that is set to last for plenty of seasons after. 

Men’s Coloured Trousers Inspiration

CSquared Menswear Summer Collection | Avail Markham & Stuttafords

Pair With: Tailoring

A well-fitted, textured blazer alongside more daring trousers offers a whimsically stylish take on a timeless bit of tailoring. With a pocket square, brogues and tie completing the outfit, it is a look that is both contemporary and almost Dandy-like in appearance.

Mens Fashion Magazine| Summer Fashion:Colored Trousers

Pair With: Off-duty Casual Wear

Pair with a neutral sweatshirt and a jacket of your choice and you’ve got a quick and easy look that requires minimal effort.

Mens Fashion Magazine| SS12 Mens Colored Trousers

As for footwear, throw on a simple pair of sneakers or boots and you’re good to go. If you feel the need to accessorize, a hat of some sort would cement the casual style.

Ali Express | New Trend: Colored Trousers

Check out more CSquared Style Inspiration here

Stay Stylin’

CSquared

Subscribe to Csquared Menswear by Email and stay tuned to Csquared’s Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @CsquaredSA for more stylin’ daily updates.

CSquared Menswear is stocked at selected boutiques and premier Stuttafords and Markham stores nationwide.

CSquared Mediterranean Resort Summer Collection 2012 will be available at HOM Menswear, Stuttafords & Markham stores, South Africa’s ultimate online shopping and style destination for men, ThirtySixMan and online retailer of international and local fashion brands Zando.com

Image credit |CSquared x 36MAN Midnight Express Show/SDR Photo | Durban Fashion Fair / SDR Photo | Women in Mining Lekgotla 2012/SDR Photo

As with most things when it comes to style, there are a few general guidelines that will help pull off the no-sock look without looking like a fool.

Trashness | Tommy Ton at Pitti Uomo

The first of these is to bear in mind your surroundings – i.e. the weather. The Spring/Summer season is the perfect time for going sockless. If it’s blowing a gale and raining outside, its best to wear socks. 

The second is to be aware of where you are heading and is probably the most important of the two. A stylish gentleman always dresses appropriately for his intended arrival. For example, heading out for a few drinks with a couple of friends? Skip the socks. Heading off to a black tie event organised by your boss with a couple of investment banking firms? Might want to stick those good old navy’s mate. Knowing where and when to bust out your ankles is everything these days.

The Premium Life | Street Style Milan

But other than those two points guys, why not go without? You may find, not only is it more comfortable but it could help you feel more at ease, which in turn will make you feel more confident in whatever you are wearing that day.

Regardless of whether it’s a navy pinstripe suit or some beat up blue jeans and t-shirt combo, going sockless adds a nice little relaxed nonchalant twist to any look. Besides, like Tom Browne said “ankle is the new male cleavage”. And seriously, who doesn’t like cleavage?

Formal Sockless Lookbook

Seeing as we are trying to convince you to leave the socks at home more regularly this year, we have compiled some lookbook inspiration for you all. Although most would never consider going sockless as ‘formal’, here are a few outfits that include suiting and an overall smarter aesthetic:

CSquared Menswear | Avail at Markham, Stuttafords & HOM Store

Casual Sockless Lookbook

Now this is where going sockless comes into its own. Take a look at the  looks below and consider how you can go sockless with jeans, chinos, trousers or shorts this summer:

CSquared Menswear | Avail at Markham, Stuttafords & HOM Store

Tips & Tricks

If you are new to this whole sockless game, here are a few tips:

• Wear in your shoes – regardless of what style of shoe you’ve got and the material they are made from. 

• Be Sneaky – If you know that you are going to be wearing a heavy wingtip for a good ten hours straight, then maybe a sock of some kind might be wise? But why not invest in some low-profile loafer socks to keep your ankles free, but your feet blister free. 

• Get Pre-emptive – Although going without socks can be a great feeling, it can do horrible things to your feet. Think about bathing them in hot water regularly and using talcum powder if you have particularly sweaty feet. Actually gents get a pedicure every 4-5 months to make sure they stay their best. 

Check out more CSquared Style Inspiration here

Stay Stylin’

CSquared

Subscribe to Csquared Menswear by Email and stay tuned to Csquared’s Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @CsquaredSA for more stylin’ daily updates.

CSquared Menswear is stocked at selected boutiques and premier Stuttafords and Markham stores nationwide.

CSquared Mediterranean Resort Summer Collection 2012 will be available at HOM Menswear, Stuttafords & Markham stores, South Africa’s ultimate online shopping and style destination for men, ThirtySixMan and online retailer of international and local fashion brands Zando.com

Image credit |CSquared x 36MAN Midnight Express Show/SDR Photo | Durban Fashion Fair / SDR Photo | Women in Mining Lekgotla 2012/SDR Photo

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Yesterday afternoon Csquared Menswear hosted its Live Twitter monthly menswear style discussion #MENSTYLECHAT. This month our panel included:

• Vincent Zondo - Style Joburg

• Lawerence Dube - Boy In PR

#MENSTYLECHAT is about giving South African men a platform to discuss fashion, get tips and ask the experts questions about style and grooming in an open, instantaneous and entertaining manner.

For an hour we discussed all things menswear. For those who missed it, here’s a recap of what went down yesterday.

• The Tall Man

  

• The Heavy-Set Man

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

• The Short Man

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

• The Muscular Man

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

#MENSTYLECHAT Q& A

Q.1 Since its almost Movember I’d like to know a bit more about men’s love for mustaches. I think there’s an element of pride in being able to grow one.

Q.2 Why do some young men wear boxers and briefs? Why both? What is the point you may as well wear briefs.

#MENSTYLECHAT Hot or Chop

Hot or Chop Look 1: Adam Levine

Hot or Chop Look 2: Johnny Depp

Hot or Chop Look 3: Robert Pattinson at Breaking Dawn Premier in Australia

Hot or Chop Look 4: Bear Gryllis at Skyfall Premiere in the UK

A Massive Thank you to our panel Vincent Zondo - @StyleJoburg, Lawerence Dube - @BoyIn_PR, Siya Ngobese - @Chuck_Radebe for taking part in this months #menstylechat.

If you are interested in becoming a part of the #menstylechat panel e-mail contact and blog details to pr@socialwoo.co.za

Missed the last couple of live chats, go here for all our #menstylechat recaps.

Stay Stylin’

Csquared

Subscribe to Csquared Menswear by Email and stay tuned to Csquared’s Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @CsquaredSA for more stylin’ daily updates.

CSquared Menswear is stocked at selected boutiques and premier Stuttafords and Markham stores nationwide.

CSquared Mediterranean Resort Summer Collection 2012 will be available at HOM Menswear, Stuttafords & Markham stores, South Africa’s ultimate online shopping and style destination for men, ThirtySixMan and online retailer of international and local fashion brands Zando.com