Warm Weather Accessories for Men and Women

This morning I took my girls to the beach and it got me thinking about summer must have accessories.  Whether you’re running around town doing errands, going to a BBQ with friends, or carting your kids to the pool, here are a few items you’ll definitely want to have.  While not exactly comprehensive, here’s a partial spring/summer checklist for you:

For Men:

men accessories

Shades. Check. Tifosi Optics Torrent Midnight Blue/Smoke Blue.

Bag. Check. Hex Laptop Duffel. (Obviously filled with sunscreen, a bottle of water, a snack, lip balm, baby care stuff (if applicable), and other necessities).

Comfy flip flops. Check. Reef Marbea. Up to size 15.

Hat. Check. The North Face Horizon Hat.

For Women:

women's accessories

Shades: Calvin Klein Ultra Sheer Infinity Scarf.

Lightweight scarf: Steve Madden Round Sunglasses.

Comfy flip flops: Crocs Retro Flip Flop. Up to size 15.

Tote: Mossimo Straw Tote – Black/Cream

Hat: San Diego Hat  Company Paper Braid Wide Brim Fedora.

Tiffany-Signature (2)

 

Must Have Accessories for Men Part II

I mentioned in Part I that I had five more awesome accessories to put on your “must have” list.  I lied- I have six.  You’re welcome 😉  So now that you’ve ordered your new (or updated your old) hat, shades, tie, tie bar, and watch, here are a few more items to acquire:

(and in case you didn’t see Part I, I’ve included my inspiration image again)
accessories for tall men
Fun SocksPolo Ralph Lauren Men’s Argyle Socks– So they aren’t quite as “fun” as the guy in my inspirational image but seriously this guy is having a bit too much fun!  I thought I’d choose something a bit more classic but still interesting.  Plus I have too many pairs of argyle socks to count.  I can’t get enough.
Leather BeltMen’s Tumbled Dark Brown Leather Belt– There is something about a leather belt…They just get better with age. This one is casual but could be appropriate for ‘business casual’ as well.  Even though it’s pretty classic something about it seems trendy.
Pocket SquaresClub Room Pocket Square, Silk Plaid Pocket Square– I’m not gonna lie; the thought of handkerchiefs kind of grosses me out.  BUT I followed ‘fun guy’s lead and decided to go with it. I am in the baby/toddler phase with my kids and always have a burp cloth on hand.  This is just a grown up’s burp cloth.  Now that I think of it, it sounds super convenient.
BagOLD LEATHER COLLECTION – MESSENGER BAG – I am salivating at this bag.  I’ve said before that I have no idea how men don’t carry purses.  I’m sure you guys think it’s silly but sometimes I look at my husband with his keys and wallet bulging out of his pockets and think, “just get a man’s purse,will ya?!”  This bag is so classy and the leather just oozes more character the longer you have it.
Grenson ShoesRockport Almartin Oxfords or Rockport – Proper Place Almartin (Chili Leather) – Don’t be afraid of the name. It’s just a fancy name for oxfords.  The first pair is most similar to fun guy’s but of course they only come in sizes up to 13. But this “chili” pair is a close 2nd and comes in sizes up to 16.  That’s more like it right?
So did I miss any must have accessories? Feel free to share those you can’t live without in the comment section below.

Must Have Accessories for Men (Part I of II)

I’m always talking about how fashion for tall men and women isn’t exactly cutting edge.  Most retailers only choose the ‘safest’ items to manufacture/sell in tall sizes. We are such a niche market that it can be tough to find current trends and styles in our size.  If we don’t put forth effort it becomes very easy to look plain and drab.  One solution to the issue is to use accessories to differentiate ourselves and show a sense of personal style.  I preach this to women all the time but when it comes to men, I think I’ve dropped the ball!  When I think of accessorizing I don’t think of men.  My husband went through a bracelet (really, a leather cuff) and necklace phase a while ago but I’m pretty sure he’s ashamed of himself now (don’t tell him I told you).  So what accessories can men wear without feeling foolish or looking like they’re trying a little too hard?  I came across this image at GQ:

image courtesy of {here}
The article was about accessories for men.  Now upon first glance you probably think he looks a bit silly.  So do I!  BUT I think there is some validity to point: guys can accessorize too!  I’m no fashion editor at GQ but I am going to go out on a limb and say my picks are a bit more wearable and affordable for the average man.  And if you missed my point earlier, I’ll say it clearly: use caution when accessorizing.  I have no idea where this guy is going but I’d recommend not wearing all of these accessories together!
1. HatStraw Fedora Hat. I chose a fedora because it’s one of those items that both old and young alike can get away with.  I liked the open weave as well.  I would have chosen a baseball cap.  But I kind of assumed you already own one of those. 😉
2. ShadesLacoste Shield Aviator Sunglasses.  Aviators are cool.  But this pair isn’t as I-wish-I-was-Tom-Cruise-in-Top-Gun-ish.
3. TieNordstrom Woven Silk Tie.  This tie comes in extra long–perfect for your long torso.  I love the classic colors of blue and green but a few shades lighter.  Perfect for Summer.
4. Tie BarCufflinks New England Patriots Tie Bar.  OK so I was kind of having fun with this one. I’d actually recommend if you have only one tie bar, it not be a sports themed one.  But I live in New Hampshire and couldn’t resist!
5. WatchToy Watch Mens Me15pw Silver Steel Strap Watch. Not much to say about this one besides I LOVE it.  It’s sort of patina and can go with black or brown.  It’s classy, sporty, and stylish all at the same time.  And can a watch be sexy?  If so, add that adjective to the list.
What accessories can’t you live without?  Stay tuned for 5 more must have accessories in Part II.