Fashion
DRESSING FOR THE OCCASION: JEANS
When I envisioned the creation of the fashion section of my blog, I remembered the days of going to the stores and holding up a pair of jeans to my waist as a method of trying them on. Quite frankly, I really didn’t give a damn about how they fit, looked, felt, where they were made, or what the cut was. This would often leave me with an empty wallet and a pair of jeans that didn’t fit well! When I reached my mid twenties and I really began to learn the value of a dollar, I just wanted to stop wasting so much money on jeans that I took home and didn’t like. I became more aware of what I wore, how others saw me, and most importantly, how I saw myself. In this journey, I have heard this crazy notion that we as men should not care about our clothing and ourselves as much as our female counterparts! There is absolutely no shame in looking nice and feeling good doing it!! When I decided to step it up in the clothing department I learned something else…I really, really love jeans and nice clothes can be expensive! Nevertheless, I have also learned that department stores have outlet centers that offer great discounts on quality items, many which are made here in the United States. I personally like shopping at the outlet centers at “The Rim” in San Antonio and the “Tanger Outlets” in San Marcos. For those of you who are trying to figure this “blue jean” thing out, here is a quick guide with a couple of my favorite types of different jean cuts.
If it is likely that after strolling around all day I will end up in a half decent restaurant, I prefer dark “boot cut” jeans without any tears, holes, or blemishes. These types of jeans allow for a more dressed up feeling and also go well with a button down shirt (The jeans pictured below are from True Religion).
Jeans with color can be a great addition to the closet; however, they require a little more thought when it comes to the color of your shoes and shirt. These jeans here are thin, breathable and “loose fit,” which help with the south Texas heat during the summer (The jeans pictured below are from Citizens of Humanity).
If you are daring or trendy, “straight cut,” and “slim cut” jeans maybe for you. These two particular pairs are edgy with holes, tears, and blemishes. Depending on the quality of the pair of jeans you purchase, they can be extremely comfortable, especially because in many instances the manufacture will process them in the washer and dryer many times over. This practice softens the jeans so that they are not so stiff and rigid. I prefer wearing this type of jean when walking around downtown or going to a live music venue. (The jeans pictured below are from Cult of Individuality).
Do you have a favorite jean brand or cut? Post it in the comments below, I would love to know!
ALA VERB
The excitement that overcomes me when I meet entrepreneurs, visionaries, and dreamers is incredible. So many of these people I’ve come across have only inspired me to keep dreaming in a world where society is telling us to wake up. Inspiration and excitement was the theme when I had the pleasure to meet Bruno Horwath of Ala Verb clothing. His philosophy is to, “encourage peaceful coexistence between cultures and races.” This guy is not just looking to make a few bucks off of you with crappy t-shirts and lackluster designs. He is looking to connect with you, to wow you, and to draw you in to his creations that he has thoughtfully crafted over the last few years. Bruno is an example of a visionary who is quickly moving towards his dream, which he has had since high school; and in case you were wondering if high schools should continue to offer art classes, the answer is HELL YES! Bruno said that it was art class in high school that really ignited his creativity and desire to go forward with his clothing line. Ala Verb clothing is a street urban wear brand which is incredibly tasteful and innovative. Several of my favorite designs showcase sick combinations of nature and art.
So how does one break into this type of business? Bruno began by creating tons of designs and placing them on t-shirts, which he sold to his class mates in high school. He knew he was on to something when these t-shirts sold out! Ala Verb offers high quality t-shirts, hats, scarves, cardigans, and polos. My personal favorite t-shirt is “the floral bird tee” which features a dove outlined in roses. This shirt goes for $22.00. On top of the modern design and comfortable fit, this shirt is made in the USA. Do yourself a favor and do not sleep on Ala Verb clothing. This is a fast growing company which will change the face of street in San Antonio for the better. Don’t worry, although these items are already hitting the streets in Italy, France, Russia, and Canada, there’s still plenty of room for you to join this army of dreamers!
Check them out at www.alaverb.com.
