Editorial Report | Surveillance


Andrew Stetson appears in this Cheek Magazine editorial under the microscope of a surveillance lens, hence the title Surveillance. Photographer Ivan Otis worked to create these images of a modern urban man with Rohan Sajnan, without whose styling the editorial would fall flat. Sajnan succeeded in eluding modernity in the classic and in the mode canvas of suiting with designer names that include Philip Sparks, Rag & Bone, and Club Monaco. And although the wardrobe is dramatic, with reason, it is done so in a way that is surprisingly wearable and inspirational.





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Collection Report | Burberry Brit Spring 2010


It always amazes me how regardless of the line, season, or year, the Burberry group always comes out swinging with looks that are synonymous with the Burberry name yet aesthetically their own. This remains the case with the contemporary Burberry Brit line. For spring, the look is always the same, but modern and renewed. Slim silhouettes rule supreme with a predictable, yet warranted, light color palette. White pants stand strong alongside primary colors, an unlikely yet appreciated welcome. Iconic outerwear is meshed in between individual, basic pieces such as tees, knits, denim, and sportswear. And while the range may not be all that surprising, its the basic aesthetic that we have come to expect, and want, from Burberry.


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Style Questions | Interview Hair, Man Thongs, and Young Professional

I'm applying to George Washington Medical School and hoping to get an interview sometime within the next few weeks. My hair is well groomed and clean, but shoulder-length. Should I cut it for my interview and get a shave, or is my long hair okay?
Anything that compliments your seriousness should be considered
—that includes wearing a proper suit and tie, and getting a shave and haircut. Earlier this year I landed an internship at the White House (but I spend most of my days in the EEOB) with The Office of Presidential Correspondence after having interviewed with a neat, crisp hair cut but I haven't really cut my hair since. Once your in the door, your in the door. You should, however, steer clear of looking like Brad Pitt (left).
Is it okay for a straight-man to wear a thong, given they are properly made for men? And what type of clothes would it be OK for a man to wear a thong?
Once you put on a thong, you instantly become gay! Just kidding
but seriously guys, my belief is that a man's underwear is his own business and the business of his significant other (or others!). Hence the name underwear, they go under the clothes where no one else can see. Of course, once you hit the locker room, your public domain—as illustrated by last weeks Style Questions. Women wear thongs to eliminate panty lines, a problem men should never have. But if for some reason you find yourself wearing a skintight spandex pastel figure-skating jumpsuit then be my guest, throw on a thong. But in such a case, your definitely gay!
A friend of mine is a high-leveled staffer on Capitol Hill for Senator X. We had a discussion the other day about the appropriate cargo-carrying accessory for a twentysomething professional. According to him, a young professional should tote a soft-sided leather satchel instead of a traditional, hard leather briefcase. I prefer the latter, but his view is that it would make him look like a fossil.
One should have a bag of their own. And that's the way it should be—a matter of personal taste, although both bags have their advantages. The hard, leather briefcase protects laptops and other breakable items. Its a much better shield against attacks and was preferred by the Mafia (its real, right?) three to one over soft leather. Soft briefcases are usually more commuter-friendly, crammable, and perhaps even have a bedside manner (afternoon naps, anyone). I have both, although more soft satchel types than hard. I also have a discreet shoulder bag that is appropriate for the office and most business meetings but is also able to accommodate my necessities: phonebook, notebook, books, and gym gear. What I do find appropriate for a twentysomething professional is the youthfulness and independence to resist office-fashion conformity.

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Accessories Report | All Saints Merino Snood


Burberry isn't the only one doing the snood up for winter. They included multiple variations of the snood for Fall 2009--here--and it appears the trend is catching on. All Saints UK offers this casual grey design that proves just as powerful an accessory as those from Burberry. Finished in merino wool, it also includes a logo on the front that is small and discreet. I would be a fool if I didn't recommend this price friendly alternative those offered by Burberry. Available now via All Saints UK.
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Style Report | Facial Hair to Feel Special?


"Men grow facial hair now with a bit of irony. It's rebellious but playful at the same time. They're saying: 'I'm no corporate slave. I can get away with this in a way my grandfather couldn't.
-Allan Peterkin, author of One Thousand Beards.
*Speaking as a member of the XY chromosome team, I have to say that the notion that men grow facial hair to feel more 'special' is a bit unfair. If anything, we grow facial hair to feel more mature and masculine--at least that's my reason for keeping the minimal facial hair that I do have. Where exactly does the 'specialty' factor come in anway, because Ive seen my fair share of women with enough peach fuzz to rival David Beckham. Is it impossible to think that men grow facial for the sole reason that they like the way it looks? Are we some dumbfounded as a gender that we must rely on facial scrub to get noticed? I think not. David Beckham is a clear example--what more can he do to feel 'special' other than wake up every morning being David Beckham? Nothing. Its a factor of appearance, our manhood, or perhaps even cold weather that causes facial hair, not a need to feel more 'special'. We are men after all!
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Outerwear Report | Mackage Aston Overcoat


Do you know what I would buy if I had $680 laying around? This Mackage Aston Overcoat--and its worth every penny. The single-breasted overcoat is composed of complete wool; can you say quality. Finished with features like a collar with hook closure buttoned back flap, leather trim, belted sleeve cuffs, and grommets at underarms, its made to compliment the wearer and the quality and craftsmanship is obvious all through this piece. And with the trendy asymmetrical button placket balanced out with the conservative silhouette, this is an overcoat made for a stylish Washingtonian, or really anyone. Available now via Ssense. Now, does anyone have $600 to give away?

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Editorial Report | GQ Designers of the Year


+J wool-cashmere topcoat, $150. +J shirt, $40. Wool pants, $50; Uniqlo
Joseph Gordon-Levitt models the Designers of the Year for GQ, those with affordable prices that got us through the recession without so much of a lesser-style abundance. From H&M and Topman to Uniqlo, Gap and much more--they presented us with garbs that revealed our love of country with American classics, nostalgia with UK statesman styles and a new-found love of suiting pieces, and fulfilled out need for menswear basics.

Wool fair isle sweater, $118. Pants, $128; French Connection

Leather jacket, $348. Shirt, $45. Jeans, $88; Gap.

Plaid wool-blend suit, $400. Boots, $130; Topman

Tweed sports jacket, $129. Wool pants, $70; H&M

Gray wool suit, $498. Shirt, $89; Club Monaco

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Footwear Report | Bass Penny Loafers


While the 09/10 runways showed favoritism to boat shoes and slippers, penny loafers were given the stiff arm and it looks like things will remain that way for another season or two. That doesn't mean they have to be on the outskirts of your wardrobe. Their a nice alternative to the boat shoe, a timeless classic, and are reason enough to upgrade you sock options! These Bass loafers are reasonably priced and reminiscent of those my father would wear back-in-the-day. Though their located waaay over the pond, thanks to online shopping they are also just a click away. Available via Edwards of Manchester.


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Style Report | How to Wear a Tux

Thanksgiving is long gone now--although the extra 5lbs you gained is still intact--so that means the Christmas season is officially upon us. In DC that's code for Christmas party after Christmas party. The good thing about that is tons of free food, open bars, eggnog, Christmas bonuses, and perhaps a couple of gifts as well. On the other hand, that means a few black tie events. Don't get me wrong, I love black tie events and the whole pomp of wearing a tuxedo. Unfortunately, most men aren't me; either they just don't know the proper way to wear a tux or they could care less. In any affect, Ive got the low-down on How to Wear a Tux, because after a lifetime of living in DC its become clear that the my gender needs all the help we can get. Here are a few tips to keep at hand:
-If you have yet to make the conclusion that it is smarter to buy a tux than to rent one that expires in the New Year...what the hell are you waiting for!?! But to get the most out of your purchase, buy a timeless tux. You want a peak-lapel jacket with either one or two buttons, they always remain classic. Stay away from anything overly-slim or flared, not only do they become ill-fitting, they usually are trends as well. And if your tuxedo is well-tailored, it should last you for years to come!
-What truly makes a tux is its lapels. While a peak-lapel is the most classic, in modern times a notch-lapel has become the standard. I, however, prefer a shawl-lapel (above). Its still an old-time classic yet sets you apart from the crowd.
-As for collars, steer clear of wings. A wing collar alludes a rental, whereas a conventional one symbols ownership.
-As for a cummerbund, dont even go there. Unless your going to the prom opt for suspenders instead.
-As for accessories, ditch those shiny tux shoes and go for a pair of well-polished black lace-ups instead. For your timepiece and cuff links, size matters! Go with something as slim and classic as your tux.
-In modern days, you can opt for a Little Black Suit instead of a tux. Just make sure its right - head over to Little Black Suit for some help with that.
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Outerwear Report | Marc by Marc Jacobs Parka


Although I have been clear about my opinion of "parkas" as a use of outerwear, I must admit that they are the best for tough weather. The fact that I haven't seen too many designer parkas might have something to do with it, but the honest fact is, I tend to go with a more proper prospective when it comes to outerwear. But this Marc Jacobs (yes, Marc Jacobs!) parka is set apart from the usual mode of the casual outerwear and includes features that make it more "proper" than most. And lets be real, we all need at least one parka in our wardrobe...make it this Marc Jacobs choice. It may not be cheap, but it isn't what I would consider expensive on the outerwear front. At £385, this is a respectable choice. Available now via Matches.
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Video | Patrik Ervell Spring/Summer 2010


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Editorial Report | Fantastic Streets


Style shouldn't be an inconvenience, and I guess photographer Andrea Spotorno sought out to invoke just that in the Fall/Winter issue of Fantastic Man. Playing on the notion that style is a mode of living, Alex Hudson and Jamie Johnson stroll the night time streets without so much as a worry of staining the lightly colored suits. This is menswear in its truest form: "A man should look as if he had bought his clothes with intelligence, put them on with care, and then forgotten all about them."



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Style Report | The Little Black Suit

David Beckham, Will Smith, George Clooney, and Brad Pitt all have one thing in common - they look their best while wearing a black suit, white shirt, and black tie. Its a timeless combo that is the closest relative you have to the incontestable, always in vogue LBDs that your mothers, sisters, and girlfriends have in their closet. Just think about it, would Men in Black had been such a smash hit if Will Smith had worn a navy jacket and khakis? And what about Jake and Elwood Blues, their whole livelihood was dedicated to the Little Black Suit, and their visual impact would fall flat without their uniform.
The glory and blame of the Little Black Suit goes to Quentin Tarantino - who, some 16 years ago, made violence stylish. His many films—Men in Black, The Trans­porter, The Day the Earth Stood Still—all reprised the look, and without surprise a crisp white shirt paired with a well-tailor black suit is still in the moment.
"A black suit gives a man strength and anonymity," says Betsy Heimann, the costume designer who worked with the casts of Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction. "At the same time, it also calls your attention to him, because it's so stark—you're only looking at him, his eyes and his face." And no need to fret over the 'cool characters' who once, and still, find the Little Black Suit their uniform of choice; to pull it off you don't need to be cool, the suit will take care of that for you.

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Outerwear Report | Michael Bastian Quilted Hunting Jacket


My mind has been scrambling, trying to decide what to call this specific piece of outerwear. As a part of Michael Bastian's Autumn/Winter 2009 collection, its entitled a quilted firing jacket, but I'm tempted to call it a puffa. Either way, its a piece worth noting. Its a perfect mix of everything: athletic nylon fabric, a classic quilting style, a flannel rustic feature, and removable sleeves. Its just as versatile, too - it can easily be topped on a suit, paired with trousers, or thrown-on to accompany casual jeans. Available now via Colette.

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Exclusive Report | Treasury Wednesday Pick

For this week's 'Treasury Wednesday Pick', I decided to have a little fun, so I venture out further than Ive ever gone before and stepped back to the late-60s mid 70s era. That's right, I stepped right into the house that occupied the Brady Bunch. I swear that while wearing these vintage 70s garments, I could softly hear the faintest of voice screaming "Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!"
And the magic didn't end there. Somehow while I was visiting the newly formed juvenile sextet, my waist shrunk to the menial size of Greg Brady's and I was able to pull of a pair of his ultra-high waist Navy bell bottoms. Needless to say, I fell in love and Alice had to pry them out of my hands upon my departure. The vest spoke to me in a language all its own: the language of designer vintage. No where else but at Treasury, em...I mean the Brady Bunch, could you find a vintage Lanvin vest for $65. I mean, really! Then there is the striped turtleneck, a filler that added the appropriate splash of color and complexity. And who doesn't love a nice, striped turtleneck?
Imagine my surprise when I ran into these very pieces at Treasury Boutique (you know, the bad ass vintage clothing boutique nestled between Logan Circle and the U-Street Corridor). I guess it goes to prove that Katerina Herodotou and Cathy Chung really do put work-in when it comes to the voyage they go through to fill the walls of Treasury with the old, the unique, the damn right cool. All of the pieces are available at Treasury - Stripped turtleneck, $38; Lanvin vest, $65; Navy pants, $56. More views after the jump...


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Accessories Report | Chronicle of Never Sunglasses


"These shades done in collaboration with Graz Mulcahy (another former Ksubi alum and now with his own label Graz eyewear) are offered in a few select colors of two models, each with limited availablity: Corpus Callosum and the Choroid Plexus. We really love the acetate they used, the colors in the tortoise are extremely rich.
Available via http://www.EyeGoodies.com

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Editorial Report | Flexible Men


This intensely attractive editorial in GQ Italia is appropriately titled Flexible Man, despite a wardrobe that speaks otherwise. A smorgasbord of slim-cut suits, smoking jackets, and topcoats speak volumes on constriction when considering the tight tailoring and sharpened shoulders; they are rendered loose, like liquid, however, thanks to the choice of material and attention to fit. And the models' rousing performance of acrobatic-like jumps help, too.





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Style Questions | Pubic Regions, Socklessness, and Relationships

I recently joined a gym downtown. Like most men's locker rooms, it has one big room for showers. The other day while showering I noticed that more than a fair share of the guys had shaved their pubic region completely bald. I understand that a guy's penis is his own business, but this seems a bit odd. Do you agree, or is this on the rage?
Three options: either these guys have not yet reached puberty; they recently had an accident while lighting a candle naked; or, like I suspect, these guys think their penises are other people's business, too. I'd suggest you mind your own damn business, or else you might be invited to join their club. (FYI: there are some things that you just shouldn't tell me, because I will mock you.) Now what gym is that again, I need to make a mental note never to visit it.
Ive noticed that a lot of magazines are showing men wearing dress shoes without socks. Should I join in with the crowd and go sockless? Does it work in the office?
Here is one instance where my thinking is a bit all over the place and at odds with mainstream thinking in menswear. Ive noticed loads of socklessness among my fellow collegiate men in DC, the Casual Friday crowd on Capitol Hill, and the hoards of tourist descending in front of the White House. While I am a big fan of socklessness during the summer, spring, and with a nice comfy pair of loafers, there is something about seeing a sockless man in a dark business suit that rubs me the wrong way. From my perspective, it looks as if his girlfriend has locked him out and he's stuck sleeping on his buddy's sofa. And don't even get me started about going sockless during the winter. Ill admit, this can be a little shaky, with weather in DC doing a constant spiral, but to me it the equivalent of slapping on a pair of sandals - not a good look at all.
As for 'ankle socks', I cant go there, either. Golf clubs may allow them - even though they don't allow cargo shorts - but that's modern-times for 'ya. I think if you've got the guts to wear those ladies' socks, then you mind as well go all out and wear the pom-pom kind.
My girlfriend says that my style of dress is too "gay." I'm still confused as to whether she means homosexual or lame, but I'm aiming for the earlier. I'd describe my style as bohemian-chic. For instance, today I wore a black Hermes jacket with a long, thin scarf, beat-up jeans, and worn in loafers - worn in so to keep from an argument ensuing. On our last date I wore a great pair of Gucci loafer without socks. Lets just say it didn't go over well, and the night ended without any sex and her telling me to move to "Fire Island." We are compatible when it comes to everything else. Should I end the relationship or change my clothes?
From your summary of the situation, I can only guess that your girlfriend would be happier with someone more conventional. There are loads of nice guys out there with Dockers, polos, and running shoes (ick!), and you depriving yourself of expression through your clothes will only start more arguments, animosity, and hatred. To put it simply, fire her, perhaps first taking her from behind.
Send your own Style Questions to contact@districtcut.com.
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Accessories Report | John De Maya Universum Print Scarves


Its fall season, so you can bet Ive got more neck gear for you. Johm De Maya offers up a great line of stylish and function neck liners that are available in loads of unisex colors - making them something that you and your significant other can both wear (so please take of those women underwear, even if they are only used for kink and turn her on!). And with your neck being a delicate area of the body, you can trust that it will be in the finest of company. Each scarf is made from 100% rayon and hand printed for the best quality. Available now via DC4.
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Collection Report | Brothers Spring 2010


For Spring 2010, Brothers went a relaxed and casual route - predictable and nostalgic, to say the least. Colors remained relatively light, with flashes of bright and vibrant reds, blues, and greens, and the silhouettes stayed tuned to the masculine channel that seems to be taking over the tube. Easy and carefree seemed to be the motto and they conveyed it quite well with nonchalant trousers, light sweaters and button-downs, blazers and jackets, and small accessories. More interesting is the fact that Brothers did what most design houses shy away from now-a-days: they walked realistic and wearable outfits down the runway. A clear case of exposing their 'seemingly bore some' range for all its worth, they succeeded and created an entirely new outlook for which the collection is seen. Furthermore, the have inspired looks that can be easily replicated for what is shaping up to be a stylish summer. More views...






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Buy Report | Corpus Cowichin Cardigan


The cable-knit Cowichin Cardigan by Corpus exudes everything that is perfect and fair about the fall season. Inspired by the European fishing-village, Corpus gave the fishers a little twist with a two-toned color palette and leather buckle detailing. And you thought cardigans were boring...
Available online at Garygyle.

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