Fashion Moves: So You Think You Can Dance Episode 12

"tWitch" sported a pink Ted Baker shirt and Nigel stepped it up in a black Tom Ford shirt but it's Travis who wins most dapper dude in his Moods of Norway suit and Alexander McQueen tie. Paula Abdul was by far the best dressed SYTYCD in a flirty hot pink dress by Michael Costello and matching shoes by YSL. I chatted with Michael at NYFW a couple of years ago and he was as adorable as he is talented. It makes me happy to see this designer evolve and experience so much success. Paula, you look fabulous! That dress is a straight up hit and run...

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From Baseball Caps to Bowler Hats

Dress Like A Gent's Brian Hampton

Dress Like A Gent's Brian Hampton

Knowing that the date for my Official Dress Like A Gent Launch Party and 35th Birthday Event was fast approaching, I knew that it was absolutely imperative to not just pull together the right ensemble for the event, but more importantly, the perfect complementing headgear to top it off! I knew I didn't want your run-of-the-mill hat with no voice, but I needed something distinguished, polished and that was all "me".

After browsing images from several custom-hat makers on Instagram, I finally stumbled across the profile of one gentleman I follow by the name of Percy Hicks who was rockin' some very spiffy, yet contemporary classic hats such as the Pork Pie and Top Hat. After further research, I discovered that he had these headpieces custom-made by a genius, experienced milliner out of New York by the name of Ann Morin. Needless to say, I quickly made contact with Ms. Morin virtually and solicited her mastery to create my first idolized, custom-hat, the Bowler. From start to finish, Ms. Morin paced me through the process of bringing the Bowler to life. She inquired about the vision I was shooting for including the color scheme, the type(s) of fabric, embellishments, grosgrain ribbon, my head measurements, etc. 

Being that all of this was so new to me, Ms. Morin very delicately and elaborately provided options, suggestions and even historical facts about the utility of the Bowler hat to help me make an informed decision about how I wanted this hat personalized. Through supplemental research and a previous article I've written for MrRefined.com entitled Style Statement: Hats, I've learned that the art of custom-hat making is one that dates way back in history and was especially common during the 20th century. In fact, during this period, hats were a symbol of individual social status and served as a marker for a particular group of people distinguishing them from the rest. Also, hats during that era were pretty much everything but an accessory. They were used as a head covering from the elements or even as protection for horse riders while riding underneath trees such as the Bowler hat. 

Fast forward, hats today are one of the more bolder fashion statements being re-introduced into the world of haute couture. There is the Fedora, Top Hat, Bowler, Trilby, Homburg, Pork Pie, Ascot, Panama, Beret, Beanie and of course, the common Baseball Cap, along with many more. The right hat communicates personal style, self-value, class and individuality. Of course, you could always just purchase one at your local hat store or online, but I personally have a newfound respect for good ole-fashion millinery. Reason being, I know that the feeling of exclusivity as well as the detail and time that is invested by the milliner will forever be a timeless souvenir.

by Brian Hampton / Dress Like a Gent

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Atlanta Welcomes The Frye Company to Ponce City Market

They're not only a style feast for your feet, The Frye Company is a feast for the senses. Seriously. Upon entering the impressive 4000 square foot showroom located at the new Atlanta "it" spot, Ponce City Market, close your eyes and take a deep breath. Slowly release and enjoy the next few seconds of leather heaven. The intoxicating smell of rich, hand-crafted leather seduces you instantly. Next, pan the space from wall to wall for a visual feast. Don't forget to look up as well! Saving the best for last, touch everything, try everything. Shop!

Stylish Atlantans, I kid you not, you will be obsessed with Frye as much as I am. Not only is the store very inviting and will make you feel comfortable while browsing and shopping, but The Frye Company's collection of covet-worthy men's and women's footwear will WOW you! And let's not even talk about their handbags, leather backpacks and satchels - won't have to - just look at the pics! 

The Frye Company may observe current trends, but when you're 152 years old, you're setting them. You'll find a variety of classic and modern styles for everyone - from iconic motorbike influences to western motifs to dressy wingtips and even sandals. They draw their inspiration from the materials and artistry involved in the fine craftsmanship of their goods This is something The Frye Company takes much pride in which is evident in their product and reflective in the brand.

I'm a sucker for great detailing so I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the amazing stitching, branding, buckles, rings, fringe, studs and distressing in all of The Frye Company's leather work. Truly amazing. Extremely appealing. Perfection. 

Whether you're a Frye fan or just learning about them, Frye Atlanta is a must-stop for your must-haves!

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Project Runway Season 14 Begins TONIGHT

project runway season 14

Nina Garcia will make you cry warns Heidi Klum to the Project Runway contestants about season 14. Well, I don't know, Heidi can be pretty scary herself! It's all in good fun (and ratings!) And we love it...

Can you believe that Project Runway is entering its fourteenth season? That's amazing. Kudos. I'm sure there will be plenty of drama and one-liners, shockers and stunners, but at the end of the day, it's about the fashion and from the looks of it (watch video) the fashion looks incredible this season!

Project Runway Season 14 begins tonight at 9PM/8c on Lifetime. I'll be watching and tweeting. Join me! 

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Tickets on Sale for the 23rd Annual Jeffrey Fashion Cares - August 31

Jeffrey Fashion Cares

Want to attend the official kick-off of the fall season with the most fashionable, philanthropic Atlantans including celebrities, socialites, fashion industry executives and members of the media? Just $500 gives you access to the JEFFREY FASHION CARES cocktail reception plus silent and live auction, reserved seating for the runway show and admission to the post-show soirée.

PURCHASE TICKETS

Please note that due to popularity, there are a limited number of individual tickets available for sale.

VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS FROM LAST YEAR'S EVENT INCLUDING BACKSTAGE FASHION TALK WITH JEFFREY KALINKSY.

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FASHION MOVES: So You Think You Can Dance

Every week we're dazzled by the dynamic moves on So You Think You Can Dance, but dancing isn't the only dazzling thing happening on the show. Its host, judges and mentors step it up weekly wearing some of the hottest designer labels and styles. [Click on the arrows above] to see what they wore! My fave must have from this week's show, Jason Derulo's Balenciaga shoes!

 Photo credit: FOX/Adam Rose

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Enter the Brother Fashion Sweepstakes to win a trip to NYFW

project runway all stars fashionado

How do you enter? Simply upload a photo of your dream design sketch with the hashtag: #SewYourDreams. Be sure to include a brief description of the project and your dream behind it!

One lucky individual will win a two-night stay in NYC during New York Fashion Week this September and work alongside Project Runway All Stars Anthony Ryan Auld and Joshua McKinley to turn their dream design into a reality! Together, they’ll shop for supplies at the Project Runway source store, Mood, and enjoy a full day of sewing to create the dream design. To celebrate the finished design, the winner will kick back and enjoy a lovely dinner out on the town accompanied by Joshua and Anthony Ryan.

Plus, the winner will receive our Innov-ís NQ1300PRW sewing machine to continue to sew their dreams.

Enter now through August 9, 2015

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

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