Italy 2013: Travel/Fashion Essentials

Italy 2013: Travel/Fashion Essentials!

As many of my twitter/Instagram followers & friends may have seen me ranting on about how I was about to visit Italy for the first time ever! I’m just going to rant a lot more in a positive way! I explored so much fashion and culture in Italy, I’d be stupid not to let you all know what it was like. This blog post is about travel essentials, but for a fashion conscious man.

1) A great pair of walking shoes!

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– I am not a fan of wearing for comfort, which was a BIG mistake as I did not realise how much walking I would have to do! So guys (& girls) please if you’re the type who likes to walk a lot, a good, solid pair of trainers (sneakers), pumps or plimsolls. If you prefer sandals, make sure you wear them beforehand to see if you can cope a day in them. Above is the pair of plimsolls I wore a majority of the time. They were soo comfy and durable. They also fit perfectly and were light and great to walk loads in.

2) Protect those eyes with some Shades!

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– being from the UK, I don’t think I would have been able to survive my holiday without my sunglasses. I literally slept with them because I was so used to wearing them a majority of the time. I like a variety of different shapes and colour sunglasses, but I knew Italy was a very sophisticated place and I wanted to make a good impression. As much as I LOVE aviators (which look good on anybody), I wanted a quirkier pair which was also fun & sophisticated. I went with a pair of brown wayfarers. Above is the pair which I wore all the time, ultimately leaving me with a tan line over my eyes! Oops!

3) Straw hats ain’t for those in the Deep South anymore…

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– if you’re travelling to a beach resort or a hike up a mountain this summer, a hat of any type is necessary. Although caps are perfectly fine, a more fashion forward statement is the straw hat which is very light and stylish all at the same time! I visited seriously hot places and I would not be able to have survived without it! I wore the hat in Rome, Pompeii, Naples and Capri. Above is how I wore it. Yet there are many ways you can wear it. I personally do not like looking like a tourist, there’s something so not appealing to how a majority dress, everyday you should try to dress good, especially when abroad!

These three essentials are a must-have for any guy/girl who are travelling this summer to any hot destination.

Other essentials include:

-Sun-Tan Lotion: be safe, and you don’t want to burn. This helped me a lot!

-Deodorant: you need to smell good as often as possible!

-Fragrance: You need to smell amazing on the outside also.

-Moisturiser: nobody wants dry skin on a summer holiday.

-Beard Trimmer: unless you want to keep a beard, it’s best to keep it short, keep this with you in your toiletries bag.

-Simple Accessories: a watch, bracelet, ring or necklace. Just to jazz things up.

-Invisible Socks: no, not stockings for men, they are socks which you can’t see when wearing with pumps to give an illusion that you’re not wearing any, when you are!

Where to purchase: –

Good shoes – ‘Next’ for £10 or any high street store you like.

Shades – ‘Urban Outfitters’ – £15. Cheap and long lasting!

Straw Hat – ‘Zara Man’ – £18, stylish and helpful!

Good quality deodorant and moisturiser from ‘Kiehls’

I wore ‘D&G: Light Blue’ fragrance – a classic.

Invisible Socks available at Mr Porter or Urban Outfitters.

Hope you’ve enjoyed a helpful guide for those of you travelling! – let me know where you’re heading for the holidays? Any more interest? Thanks!

Movie Fashion Icon: Henry Cavill

Movie Fashion Icon: Henry Cavill

So, it’s been a while, but here is a new fashion icon who has influenced my style for the summer season.

As you know, the updated ‘Man of Steel’ is releasing in June this year and the role of Superman has been taken by fellow Brit, Henry Cavill. Those of you may have heard he was dubbed ‘Most Unluckiest Man in Hollywood’ because he missed out roles such as Edward Cullen in ‘Twilight’. Though his luck has just got good!

Henry recently shot new images for the June issue of British GQ Magazine! (The Gentleman’s Bible) and I thought I could show you those images and explore Henry’s personal style of casual.

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(Above) – Superman Cavill takes his role seriously whilst filming ‘Man of Steel’

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(Above) – Henry is wearing an outfit from Tom Ford. This suit is very well tailored and the check texture is very subtle yet creates a statement.

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(Above) – this outfit is something very casual, yet made more sophisticated by adding a navy trench. This outfit could be worn out in the park, at a meal in the evening or a party.

Henry is seen usually wearing comfortable clothing. He is seen often wearing white shirts and blue jeans.
If you’re looking for comfort, he’s a fashion icon to look up to. Especially when the weather is hot! Don’t be afraid to make a statement with simple white shirts. (Below)

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So what do you think about this generation’s Superman? I love his classic style and this style can suit all ages. Sometimes it’s nice to wear just a simple white shirt and jeans but still making a statement! Let me know what you think?

These images are not mine but; GQ Magazine.

Outfit of the Day: Fashion Conscious Gentleman

Outfit of the Day: Fashion Conscious Gentleman

Woah, it’s truly been a long time since I last blogged. But this new style of mine has really impacted on others (positively), as I type this I’m currently dressed in this outfit, for a night out with family.

Here it is…!!!!

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This look is really cool! Especially because it was affordable, worth it and classic! A majority of this outfit was from H&M’s conscious collection. I normally think H&M is too basic for my personal taste, but their special collections always find a way into my weak fashion obsessed heart! The items from the collection included, the blazer (£30) which is a beautiful bright olive green colour. Everything in this collection is organic and real material. The green blazer is a must-have for spring time, it kept me warm and comfy!

Another item from the collection is the blue textures scarf (£9), which compliments the olive tone. You may not be able to see the shirt in the image above, but I’m wearing a shirt also from H&M’s collection (£10). This is also very flattering and comfortable! So worth the money! The skinny jeans and grey stone shoes are from Topman and Aldo! My accessories include an exclusive personalised bracelet from H&M’s Dragon Tattoo Collection, which I personalised with studs and a real gold Versace ring with the logo. You need a little bling to jazz up an outfit!

This image (below) allows you to see closer and in more detail of the shirt and how well they contrast with the blazer!

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This image (above) shows a close up of then shirt cuff at the arm and my accessories in detail. I love bracelets and rings, creating my own personal style. These accessories made my outfit more smart casual. Perfect for an evening out or a day trip in town!

Would love some feedback and comments on what you think about this style?!

Also follow me on Instagram: @suitandtied or my personal account: @umariqbal_ !!!!! Thanks!

Spring Must-Have: Straw Hat

Spring Must-Have: Straw Hat

Spring is nearly here (21st March to be exact), and I have seen a spring of trends, but the one that has caught my eye recently is the Straw Hat.

I’m not the one who usually wears hats, but the Straw Hat looks good. I actually tried these on and they actually flatter my large head.

My current trip to London (my favourite city), my walk around Knightsbridge high street where I spotted the trend. I walked into one of my go-to shops, Reiss, where I spotted an amazing hat. (Below – Reiss hat for £49.99, a gorgeous blue)

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This hat also comes in a yellow colour (below).

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If the Reiss hat is not your style, there’s an alternative hat from Zara Man. For an affordable £19.99, here’s this option.

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And this option from Zara Man.
Also (£19.99)

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Like this cool trend? Let me know and what would you pair this with? What other trends are hot this spring?

Oz: The Great & Powerful Style

As Wizard of Oz prequel, ‘Oz: The Great & Powerful’ releases this week, I have noticed Oz inspired fashion online and a trend which is sure to be popular in the next coming months!

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James Franco stars as the eponymous Oz, but I have spotted the suits and clothing inspired by Oz.

Let us enter the Emerald City…

Famous fashion blogger Adam Gallagher is my fashion icon! He has created the perfect outfit pairing an emerald blazer and trousers with wooden brogues and a tweed/brown waistcoat!

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The Yellow laces give an homage to the yellow brick road and keep the outfit interesting and thought about carefully through the details.

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You can find a majority of these styles on the current high street such as Topman and River Island. Check your local stores for a whimsical wardrobe change!

Movie Fashion Icon of the Week: Matthew Goode – Stoker

Stoker, a new movie releases this week has generated a lot of buzz. I begin Movie Fashion Icon of the week, so I could show you inspirations from the movie and premiere outfits.

This week sees British actor and star of the creepy Stoker, Matthew Goode. He plays a slick serial killer type named ‘Uncle Charlie’. Here are a few styles which are very classic and always trendy.

This still from the movie (below).
This style pairs a contrast of a rust coloured sweater with a pair of cream coloured chinos and a cream shirt. This very retro look is emphasised by the amazing brown sunglasses, which is a very big trend this spring.

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A very casual, yet preppy look which always looks good. A pair of dark blue jeans is the best look with the black sweater. Wearing smart shoes or brogues will also create a sophisticated look.

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Here (below) is Matthew at the premiere in London for Stoker. Where he slicks back his hair and dons a dark grey/navy suit. The use of the maroon stained tie looks really interesting, giving it a special flair.

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Like this Slick Stoker Style by Matthew Goode? Let me know 🙂

Oscar Night: The Best Fashions

OSCAR NIGHT IS HERE!

Not only is the prestigious movie awards in a few hours, so I thought we could look at some of the best dressed actors and actresses of the past few years!

Jennifer Lawrence: A nominee tonight and a favourite to win at her first Oscars in 2011, where she dressed sexy and simplistic, looking effortlessly beautiful. Looking forward to what she will wear today?

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Hugh Jackman: The always smartly-dressed Hugh hosted the Oscars in 2009. Hugh never fails to impress on the style stakes. He is a first-time Oscar nominee for best actor, so let us see what he wears this special day!

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Jessica Chastain: Another female who is also battling favourite Jennifer Lawrence for best actress. She was nominated for the first time last year for best supporting actress in The Help. This actress never fails to stun fans and critics alike with her beautiful dresses and her trademark red locks.

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Tom Ford: He is a well-known designer, yet he was nominated for best director for his directorial debut ‘A Single Man’. He has brilliant suits which many celebrities wear, and he always dresses perfectly.

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Rooney Mara: She earned herself a nomination for her portrayal as androgynous ‘Lisbeth Salander’ in ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’. Her first Oscars allowed her to dress angelic, yet her editorial figure and look create an egdy style and a unique take on a simple white dress.

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Many More Oscar styles to come soon, especially after tonight’s red carpet!!!

Burberry Ambassadors: Eddie Redmayne & Cara Delevigne

Burberry Ambassadors: Eddie Redmayne & Cara Delevigne – Style Icons!

Eddie Redmayne is currently popular on my blog due to high demands of his style, so here I will show you his campaign shots for Burberry. These shots also include rising supermodel, Cara Delevigne, who has been very popular within the industry recently. Have a look at the stylish Burberry looks.

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This coat, Eddie wears (above) is stunning and very cool! Carla’s outfit is very reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes and an interesting take on it. Beautiful olive and tan brown tones suit the autumn image

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This image (above), is a very cool image as the two display great style and an even greater chemistry. The tweed suit of Eddie is still on trend and the blushes colour coat of Cara is very unique.

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The coat (above) Eddie is wearing is a comfortable and statement coat in the colour of a tan/olive contrast. Whilst Cara is wearing a multidirectional striped coat which allows it to be
flattering to her slim frame and figure.

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This image (above) shows Gorgeous shades of the colour of brown. The Brown is also in the tortoiseshell effect which can be seen on Eddie. Whilst Cara’s glasses are much more experimental and high-fashion. This could be worn on a true fashionista or a daring character!

I hope you loved the Burberry style of these two fashion icons. Want more posts on Eddie & Cara? Let me know your favourite style.

iPhone Frenzy Covers

iPhone Frenzy Covers

iPhone’s are the current craze. Actually Apple is everywhere, nearly everybody of the younger (and older) generation owns something Apple related. I’m going to show a few different styles of covers which you may like.

1) The Colourful Creative Cover – iPhone 5

This is my current cover. I love it! It’s a designer called Nikki Pinder, sold for £30 at Harvey Nichols. I love the creative design called ‘Sparks’, which is very reminiscent of Kanye West & Jay-Z’s Watch The Throne era. I love blue, purple and gold colour contrast. This design is also unisex, so anyone and any age can rock this style!

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2) A Siri-ous Gentlemanly Style – iPhone 5

This leather iPhone 5 cover is very beautiful and luxurious. This is perfect for the working man, I imagine an older man 30+ having this, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have it. Women may like the leather print and the texture. This can also come in other colours. It comes at a high price of £95 from http://www.smythson.com from the Mara collection.

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3) Breakfast at Tiffanys – iPhone 5

This is for the ladies, it is a very cool style replica of a Tiffanys box. Very classy and unique. Zazzle.co.uk sell many phone covers and a recommended site. This comes at £32.45 which is a fair price and special. Maybe even a gift for a lady in mind?

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4) Hip and Happening Iconic Cover – iPhone 5

Another cool phone cover from Zazzle for the hipster in you. Very cool image of a vintage camera lens. Sprucing up your phone. The price is at £32.20 and is very on trend with teenagers.

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As you know iPhone 5’s are the most popular phone on the street, globally! So hope you liked these phone covers! Let me know what you think!

Eddie Redmayne: Young Fashion Icon

Eddie Redmayne: Young Fashion Icon

Eddie Redmayne: Star of Hit Musical adaptation, Les Miserables, has shown the world what awesome style he has. This guy has worn the best suits I have ever seen, which are always impeccably fitted and tailored to perfection. If I was to wear a smart suit, I’d look at Eddie for fashion inspiration. He loves to take a risk on the red carpet by changing the colours and materials of his suits. Always daring and statement suits are in order whenever Eddie Redmayne is there. Let’s look at his best suits!

1) Teal Velvet Suit

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This suit is AMAZING! When I saw this beautiful Burberry Velvet suit worn at the Les Miserables UK premiere, I seriously could not believe my eyes. I have always been interested in velvet suits and I see them being this years biggest trend. The colour of this suit looks amazing and is very unique when photographed and it is perfectly tailored . Burberry is ideally the perfect designer for suits at the moment. This was custom made for Burberry spokesperson and model, Eddie. The brown brogues are a perfect when accompanying the suit and is cooler than the generic black.

2) Midnight Blue BAFTA suit

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This suit was worn at the 2013 EE BAFTAs. This suit is not velvet but another daring statement suit as Eddie was the only one in a midnight blue suit. The blue bow tie looks good against the white shirt and black shoes suit the winter evening event. Similar cheap versions of this Burberry suit could be found at Reiss or Topman.

3) Royal Blue Redmayne

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This Royal blue suit was worn by Eddie at the New York premiere is really slick. The check designed brown tie creates a casual style and the red pocket square creates a cool contrast. The charcoal black shoes are casual and could also be worn with a dark pair of jeans. But it creates a comfortable look.

4) SAG Awards Brown suit

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This brown suit is great for a daytime event. I love the change with this suit and brown is a great colour against pale skin. This velvet Hugo Boss suit looks suave with the glossy black shoes. The sun makes the suit shimmer and stand out.

I love all 4 suits and cant decide which one I love the most. Which one of these suits is your favourite? Is he a fashion icon for the younger generation. Are velvet suits on trend? Let me know