Category: Jacket Fashion

Merino wool is not a commonly known wool that is used to produce a high quality piece of clothing. But what is merino wool and how is it sourced, and how is it different from traditional wools?

Merino is an influential breed of sheep that is well known for its quality wool. These sheep are regarded as having the finest and softest wool, when compared to all the different breeds of sheep.

The History
An unknown fact is that more than half of the world’s sheep population are descendants from merino sheep, or from a merino cross breed. This breed originated from Spain. Sheep are mainly traded for their meat and for wool, with the merino being chosen and traded for their wool, specifically. This can also be a result of them having much smaller bodies than other breeds. Australia and New Zealand and many other countries are now considered major exporters of the wool, along with Spain.

Originally the term ‘Merino’ would strictly mean wool that is from Spanish merino sheep. But since other countries are providing high quality wool also, the term has been broadened further.

Applications & Current Uses
Merino wool is often described as springy and tightly crimped, although there are different strains that produce different classifications of wool. The different classifications can be divided into medium, fine medium, fine, superfine and ultra fine.

The wool has many different applications throughout the clothing industry. This ranges from high-end fashion to running clothing. Not forgetting that it is also widely used within skiing, hiking, cycling and mountain climbing clothing. It has become a main choice because of its ability to provide insulation and because of its superiority over other wools and fabrics.

The reason for it being used so widely is because of the properties of the wool, when compared to other fabrics. Here’s a short list of the benefits:

– A high warmth to weight ratio, compared to other wools.
– Contains antibacterial properties.
– One of the softest wool types available.
– It’s ability to maintain warmth when wet.
– Great at regulating body temperature.
– Stretches but maintains its shape.
– A breathable material.

The fashion industry has also not overlooked the additional benefits that the wool can provide their clothing. For example a large number of high quality women and mens merino jumpers that are 100% pure are very popular, for the benefits listed above.

Another reason that is often overlooked is the sensitivity of the wool. Because it is a natural fibre, it is soft on the skin and will reduce the irritation for people who have sensitive skin.

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If youre like most men, you probably dont buy a new jacket or coat very often. But when you do, its worth investing in a good one. A jacket has to be practical and protective from natural elements. But it also needs to be versatile, able to complement any outfit that its thrown over.

So when the time does come to buy a new jacket, its important not to be too won over by the latest trend especially if that trend is nowhere to be seen in two years, when you might still be wearing your coat. Heres a quick guide to prominent jacket styles for 2013 that offer a great blend of contemporary fashion know-how and timeless elegance.

Military and Magical Styles

One of the most enduring jacket styles for 2013 is the military coat. Military coats have been slowly emerging from the shadows over the last few years and their current prominence on the catwalks proves they have come of age. Look for long military-style coats with wide lapels and strong button details. For a military-influenced style that wont date, stick to serious colours like black, grey or navy one of this years on-trend colours and avoid the bright red variations that have occasionally cropped up over the last decade.

One daring trend that will please Harry Potter fans is cape-style jackets. Capes have been a strong feature of womenswear in the 21st century but are only just turning up in mens fashion boutiques. Some men might be deterred by the strong statement created by capes. But if youre looking for a jacket-style thats different and is likely to remain in fashion for another few years, capes are a good bet. Wear a heavy black cape over a suit to a winter wedding, or simply throw it on over smart trousers for stylish daily protection from cold weather.

Inviting Fabrics

Choosing a new jacket isnt just about style its also about colour and fabric. Mens leather jackets are a strong trend for 2013 and, given that they have lingered blissfully in the fashion background for over half a century, they will certainly be a good fashion investment if you dont already own one. For a double-retro vibe, look for a leather aviator jacket with a sheepskin lining. This 1940s style coat still packs a visual punch. Wear over blue jeans, a white jumper and brown boots for a casual but elegant look.

If youre dissatisfied with the jackets on offer on the high street, mens tailored jackets might be the ideal solution and its one thats always in style. Ask for a style thats versatile, so you can wear it over jeans or tailored trousers. This way, youre making the most of your investment, and ensuring it remains a key feature of your wardrobe for years to come.

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There was a time when men shied away from embracing their geeky side, but this fairly recent fashion favourite means they no longer have to. Geek chic, which now has some close links to a few hipster styles, is a well-recognised sub-set of fashion and one well worth dabbling in.

The biggest thing to remember about geek chic is the fact that less is more. This is a style that plays on old preconceptions of the geekiest computer programmers and design workers around, and if you embrace the style too enthusiastically, you might end up looking a little too authentic.

The good news is that its incredibly easy to give yourself a little splash of geek chic. When youre dressing for the office, swap your shirt for a graphic t-shirt, preferably one that references a comic book character, computer-related in-joke or an old gaming system, and youre already half way there. Alternatively, go for a plain or striped polo shirt but instead of pairing it with a suit jacket, wear with a cardigan or V-necked jumper instead.

On your legs, you want a pair of slim fitting trousers with a low rise and a tapered leg. Wear these with trainers such as Converse high-tops or a pair of lace up brogues. When youre doing geek chic, you can also forget about most sock rules and wear a bright or pattered pair even when youve got dark trousers on.

Corduroy trousers are another favourite, theyve been lurking around in geek wardrobes for years and if you make sure they are long enough to gather at the top of your shoes and you pair them with a thin leather belt, they will look great for years to come.

As with many looks, the devil is in the details and one of the most well recognised geek chic accessories is a pair of thick rimmed, slightly oversized glasses. However, only indulge in this trend if you genuinely do need prescription lenses, theres nothing that will lose you more geek cred than faking a need for specs.

Striped ties are another easy step into geekdom, just be sure you buy decent brands that are long and thick enough to shake off any schoolboy overtones. Keep your hair neat too, a tousled style is fine, but if you let it become too unkempt you really will look like youve been up all night playing games.

Other looks that should most definitely be avoided are coloured suspenders (unless you are the kind of confident guy whos looking for a serious style challenge), bum bags and pocket protectors. As a general rule, these are the kind of dorky looks that are best left to the geeks of yesteryear.

Adding a touch of geek chic to your wardrobe is easy and with the help of graphic tees, a few carefully chosen accessories and some slim-fitting trousers, youll be ready to let a little of your inner geek shine through.

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Growing up doesn’t mean you have to start dressing like your more elderly relations, there’s plenty of room in your wardrobe for fun, exciting and interesting outfits no matter what age you are. There are few styles as great for letting your hair down and getting ready to party as the classic rock chick, and you’ll be glad to know that you dont necessarily have to leave it behind as you get older. All you need to do is make some minor adjustments to the basics and you’ll have a rock chick look that will allow you to party all night whatever age you are.

The rock chick look can be very flattering to women of all ages as long as you’re willing to say good-bye to some of the more risqu favourites. With a few simple swaps, you’re already halfway there. Ditch the teeny tiny mini skirts in favour of tight black pencil skirts and swap bright pink leopard print leggings for a pair of muted metallic tights. The rock chick look is all about attitude, so look for ways you can tone down the style without losing any of the intent.

Slim or skinny fit jeans are perfect especially when teamed with a classic, fitted white shirt or a vest top. Good boots are another essential and even if you think your days of thigh highs are past, a small heel and some kick ass pointy toes are just the thing to give your outfit an edge. The key to updating the rock look is to mix grunge with grown up glamour. Think faded band t-shirt combined with a gorgeous gold pendant or a rough and tough jeans and jacket combo softened by a pink slip and a slash of red lipstick.

Leather trousers and skirts are another characteristic rock look that just keeps coming back and if you have the figure to get away with them, go for it. Moderation is the key thing to remember here, while leather trousers and a simple singlet can look great, if you pair leather boots, trousers and jacket, you could end up looking like a washed out star rather than a fashion-savvy woman in her prime.

Of course, the real crowning glory to any rock chick ensemble is a beautiful, tough leather biker jacket. Choose wisely and your leather jacket will see you through thick and thin as it will look great with everything from skinny jeans and plimsolls to covering a floaty white dress and sandals. There are few jackets as versatile as the biker jacket and while it has real rock and roll roots, its now also a firm fashion favourite with trend setters the world over.

Transform yourself into a sophisticated rock chick ready for a wild night on the tiles by slipping on your womens leather biker jacket, using some soft kohl to outline your eyes and accessorising with some oversized silver or gold bangles. You’ll have the grown up rock chick look down to a T, all you’ll need to do to hang on to that glamorous aura is stay away from karaoke bars and the temptation to blast out a few classics.

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Skinny jeans have snuck their way to the heart of more than one fashion trend and can now be counted as an essential for any fashion-forward guy. However, as with many of the most popular trends, skinny jeans aren’t always easy to get right. To look good in these tight-legged trousers, you need to make sure you not only get the right fit, but you also need to make sure to accessorise well. With a few handy hints and tips, you can conquer your fear of figure-hugging bottoms and try out the joys of skinny jeans for yourself.

The most essential part of introducing skinny jeans into your wardrobe is the moment you try them on for the first time. A close fit is essential to carry off the style but you don’t want jeans that are so tight that it’s possible to see the exact shape of your leg through them. Instead, you want skinny jeans that skim over your thighs and calves.

It’s also really important to make sure you get the waist measurement right as there’s nothing worse than skinny jeans with straining buttons. Avoid pipe cleaner legs or sagging bottoms by taking your measurements or trying on lots of different pairs until you find the right fit. You may also want to choose denim jeans that have a small amount of spandex in the mix, as they will have a little more stretch to them than other varieties.

Footwear is perhaps the biggest make or break choice when it comes to getting your skinny jeans right. Skip big, white trainers and choose something a little more flattering such as classic Converse boots or a gym shoes style. Boots can sometimes look good, especially if you’re rocking a cosy, winter look, but avoid wearing any too thick or sturdy, or they can make your feet look out of proportion. A pair of smart leather lace ups can also coordinate nicely. Wear these with a t-shirt and cardigan or to go with a fitted white shirt.

When it comes to your outerwear, you have a few great choices. Skinny jeans look particularly good with tailored coats and military designs. Throw on a pea coat or a structured army-style jacket for an effortlessly stylish look. On the other hand, you can team your jeans with a white t-shirt and a leather biker jacket for a real rock star vibe.

If you prefer a preppy look, wear them with a thin jumper, a simple blazer and a pair of geek chic rimmed glasses. The only thing you really need to watch out for are jackets that finish above the hip, as these can give you an awkward looking shape. Bomber jackets are a particularly bad offender in this regard. When it’s cold outside, you can pile as many layers onto your upper half as you need to without compromising on style as skinny jeans tend to balance the weight out nicely.

Accessorising with skinny jeans is easy once you know how, so stock up on some well-fitting mens skinny jeans and get ready to show off your legs and your well-developed sense of style.

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