let me know what you think...

we all know that accesories are crucial to an overall execution of a look. today's post is about just that. and no, i'm not going to talk about EVERY accesory, that's doing too much,.....but just one in particular. any guesses??...

watches?.....jewelery?.......no

cuff links?.......nice, but no

neck-ties?....ascots?.....bow ties?.....no

shoes?.....naw, too easy.....

--wait--

did i hear bags? You in the back!!....You're absolutely right! i will tackle the sticky subject of the........MAN-BAG!!! (duhn-duhn-duuuuuuhn *dramatic music*)

we have all seen them, the guys walking down the street (or even in pictures) with that thing we so affectionately call a murse [man-purse]. these sometimes questionable receptacles are becoming increasingly popular in the world of men's fashion. we use them for travel, for sustinance shopping, for making a statement, and any and every other reason we can possibly think of.

some of you out there might think that bags for men are a bit *clears throat*..............you know, but i am a firm believer that if executed properly and with appropriate use, that a man wear a bag with no qualms.

:::my disclaimer:::

• to those of you who are in school, the carrying around of books is essential (i hope) and a bag is necessary, so i am sorry this post is not for you.
• to those of you who carry a brief case to work and/or meetings, sorry once again, this post is not directed at you either.
• and before i go any further, let me make something very clear. i in NO WAY, SHAPE, OR FORM, condone women's purses on men. handbags are for WOMEN, and there are options for men. if you see hilary duff, paris hilton, jada pinkett-smith, or anyone else with your exact bag on--and you have a penis--then it's time to let that go.
  

now let's take a look at these two bags for a minute......

can anyone tell me which one is the purse?
you guessed it, the one below this caption is the culprit.

thought there are similarities, i believe the differences are also plain to see. the construction, or shape of the women's bag is much more soft, rounded, and simply more feminine looking. the men's duffle is more rigid and masculine in its design. i advise the guys to stay away from the latter of the two. and this is spoken with your best interest at heart. now granted, it will not always be this easy to discern one from the other, but when i doubt, ask. a friend, a significant other, or easier still, the person that is employed where you are making the purchase. for the most part, these people will not lead you in the wrong direction.


still skeptical?
think of it this way....you are on the way to a very important meeting with a client. this meeting could make or brake your up and coming PR career. you are carrying on your person, your PDA phone, your laptop, your notepad, some contracts, a portfolio, car keys, sunglasses, your mp3 player, and anything else you can think of. when you walk up to you lunch date with this client, you are fumbling over yourself because you think that bags are not acceptable on men.....
why not carry and expertly crafted messenger or duffle? as in my previous post, perception is...what?......LIFE..........right? you may very well have the best clothes money can buy, a fresh cut, and everything else, but if you look like you do not know what you are doing or unprofessional, then your once in a lifetime chance is gone with the wind. so please help me to understand why one would not go the one extra step that can make a world of difference and present yourself to the client in the best light possible; organized, a forward-thinker, innovative, creative, well-put together, and punctual (i thought i'd throw that one in there).


and if you are still leary, a bag with handles is not the only answer. there are an array of bags that are just as effective and just as cool, if you will. messengers; one long strap that cuts across the chest, duffles and totes; usually two smaller handles carried by hand, and back-packs, briefcases, laptop carriers; no explanation needed, are all suitable for your particular needs.

nor does one need to carry a bag around with you at all times, just don't be afraid to use one if you need it. i know MANY men who carry some sort of bag for their everyday supplies.

AND you never know what opportunity will present itself. you may need to get someone's contact information or quickly write down information (technology does seem to have a knack for malfunction at the perfect times), a new idea or inspiration might come to you and you CERTAINLY do not want to forget that, one might ask to see your resume, your portfolio, or ask for a demo CD. you can't possibly carry all of those things in a pocket, so be prepared...you never know.



here are some other examples of bags and these bags' practical yet fashionable uses for men.....

how's this for a client meeting?...


a weekend out; traveling, sight-seeing, or even with a lady

and notice the use of the word "lady," for this is not attire to be worn with some random schmandom breezy.....

shopping?.....

or how about a day at the boardwalk or on the beach.....




some qualities of the purse do still remain, but the usefulness of today's man-bag is vast, but the statement that one makes with one is classic......or even better, timeless.

as i sign off, just this one last plea for you all. do not be afraid to step outside of the box.
spoken from experience.....the outside feels better than you can imagine.


stay up

deuces.........britt.tish.MAN(ny)

Put Something Really Cool Here.....

Chello.Kids,

In my recent spurt of annoyance, I have decided to turn the somewhat cloudy outlook into a ray of hope. The prospect for change has been on my mind A LOT as of late, And due to this state-of-mind, I contemplated and decided to bring you...

REVAMP 2007:

A potpourri of clothing items, thoughts, & attitudes we should ALL let go of in order to assist in our strides towards self-improvement in all areas.

Now before I venture into the exciting stuff, I must offer a disclaimer. These are opinions. Nothing more, nothing less. ((Humble.Request. Please don't shoot the messenger!))

With that, let us commence!

YIKES.

Suspect #1:Airbrushed tees w/ images of Tupac, Biggie, James Brown, ________(place an deceased, retired, incarcerated or otherwise lost celebrity here).

• NOT a fitting tribute (sorry, guys). Save your $ for a Greatest Hits album or something. Let them rest in peace!!
• Airbrush art period is tired. As of ummmm 2003.

Suspect #2: Bop flops/Chinese slippers

• @ one time, these were acceptable. I regret to inform you that that time has passed.



• DO NOT pass them on to your little sister or cousin



• DO NOT go to the gas statioon in them



• DO NOT retire them to the public and then save them as house shoes
  

Suspect #3: Coogi Sweaters.

• So what, they revamped the line. It's STILL Coogi...& it STILL looks like an array of random rainbow-colored throw up.

Suspect#4: Colored suits & suits w/ more than three buttons (click the link..)

http://us.movies1.yimg.com/movies.yahoo.com/images/hv/photo/movie_pix/universal_pictures/friday_night_lights/_group_photos/michael_irvin30.jpg

• Unacceptable & tasteless in most cases.
  


• Men: your suit jacket should not reach your knees, this is not a flattering silhouette for ANY man.
  


• Full out flamboyant "pimp" suits with matching derby hats and Schmaters (aka. fake Gators) send a horrific image through my mind.
  

EXTRA: Because I am sooooooooooo disheartened by the number of men who still find this acceptable attire to weddings, graduation, church, concerts & otherwise dress-to-impress affairs, I feel it's imperative that you know what colors DO work for a suit. Take heed: Navy blue, black, neutral brown, and neutral gray are all completely acceptable (& professional, *DING*!) You can even get away a white (or other neutral colored) linen, seersucker or pinstriped suit if it is worn and executed properly.

So now you've got 4 things to spot and destroy compliments of a friend/confidante here at Britt.Tish.Man....do what you wish with this list but as always, we welcome your comments & suggestions. Sound off @ britt.tish@yahoo.com & i'll post the bests!

Happy.Hunting(Pun intended!)

BRITT.tish.man

The Bellz r Ringin.

Finally....a Line for the Ladies.

Hellz Bellz, a strictly female t-shirt line from Misslawn and her man Bam Barcena, Hellz Bellz allows any young lady to become the "Belle of the Brawl" with cute but strong catchphrases, Hellz Bellz delivers exactly what i need.....

Soif you didnt know, i often wear a bow in my hair, and have eaerned the name "Minnie", therefore this shirt is a perfect match for my personality, im no advocate for violence but i am certainly one for strength, and the i love the fact that Minnie Mouse is ready to get past anything(or anyone) that gets in her way..great shemagh Minnie. Definitely a tee to cop ladies.






So i'll always be a fan of the kaffiyah scarf, especially embedded on a tee shirt, if this Hellz Bellz choice isnt a particular favorite for you, check out Urban Outfitters, or Karmaloop for some of their Kazbah brands for guys (Subscript), or girls , there's always Palis and Jeepney which is somewhat of a variation of Palis shirts. ((still dont know how i feel about that))



I love the color of this Bellz shirt, and the fact that the subject looks like a character out of Les Miserables but once again, she's ready to cut a sucka if they look her sneakers with envious eyes.((i feel it too)) The graffiti titles recognizes and older version of Hellz Bellz, either way, the drip effect is dope in this sense.







Now i bet you're thinking that normal people don't wear Hellz Bellz, it's only for Uptown chicks from New York with unlimited limits on their credit cards. Try again. HB can be found in ((limited)) quantities at your typical Urban Boutique, just ask Noyah. My bestest bud is a fashionista in her own right, and rocks the bellz on the regular. Check out the Scissors n Knives throw on, the shirt background catches you a bit off guard seeing that its a light blue instead of the expected white. Nice job Nono, big ups to the Nu Gamma Chi Girls by the way.

In concluse...do what you want. These are just my pics, doesnt mean that they're cool to everybody but i love em, what do you like eh?
stay up.
stay true.


britt.TISHALICIOUS. man

Okay, Okay...

Okay i know a double blog is a bit much but im pumped. Back in April i posted a picture with Spike Lee and his sample Spiz'ikes(Release date Fall '07) but i just received this via Hypebeast, the Spiz'ikes Lee were wearing were scrapped for an updated version with less yellow and a darker blue,(which i personally like better) but either way, both are an exclusive collectors item and even if i go broke on 'em, i will be coppin them. Hey..they'll be my first pair of J's:) Here's the finished product..hope you enjoy today's eye candy. stay true.

tishalish.

I <3 Hip Hop

When talking about Urban culture and the streetwear that goes along with it, it's imperative to talk about the impact and after effect of the culture of hip hop, whether it be 80s Run-DMC, 90s N.W.A., or even today's music. While im not the biggest fan of this kind of music, i do appreciate (some of) the effects it had on earlier generations of streetwear.

Let's start of with the early, 80s, it's 1984 and the movie "Beat Street" has just been released. This film was groundbreaking for fashion and breakdancing in this period of time. If you've seen it, you know exactly what im talking about, if not let's delve a little deeper. The entire movie focuses around the '84 Christmas season of 2 brothers, one a D.J., the younger is a Breaker. Forget the plot though, lets talk about the wardrobe, the movie clearly shows the fact that there is nothing new under the sun and what goes around comes right back around, the most striking of these would have to be the club scene, the main character(Lee) walks in with a Shemagh tied around his neck, later on you see girls in leggings under skirts, bandanas tied around necks, bomb sneakers, and to top it off, dress vests over t-shirts.

Beat Street was monumental in bringing Graffiti as art to the public eye, and also broke the laws of gravity in what was once considering dancing and is now an art that only the elite can perform well...

Moving on, Run-DMC is undeniably one of the most influential music groups of all time, whether it fashion, music, or even ways of thinking. Take for example the classic Run-DMC shirt, a must have for all Urban Fashionists

The tee is plain and simple yet makes a statement, just like the trio did in the 80s. Going against the grain on what rap was becoming, Run-DMC didn't do the gangster rap that was emerging from the West Coast, or the hard core dance music coming from the South, but they said what they had to say, and well at that, and went on to become one of the biggest groups of all time. Kudos to Rev. Run, Darryl McDaniels, and of course, R.I.P. Jam Master Jay

While I'd hate to admit it just because im not a fan of gangster rap, N.W.A did come on the scene with a full force, putting a microscope on the happenings of California and all the trials that went on beneath the surface. I honestly cant rattle off of any of their stats, I've honestly(and clearly) never been a fan of gangsta rap and probably never will be but lets focus on the wardrobe eh? It's not uncommon now for me to see guys in fitted sweatshirts with the dookie gold chains, track jackets, and most of all Regional hats (D.C., N.Y., L.A. etc) and while this picture might not be the best example of the fashion at this point in time, it does show that people from the LA/Bay area carry a different sense of style and also, a different swagger about themselves, one that could easily go from confident, to downright cocky, something i still see today in the men of California. sheesh.

I could easily go on and on about Urban Clothing but i wont, just know that it didnt just start in the 80s with Beat Street, it had been culminating in the 70s with ideas from Blacksploitation films, and also films like The Warriors and Krush Groove. Nor did it end with N.W.A, today's influences include (my favorites) Kanye West, Pharrell Williams, Jay-Z, and others. But this fashion isnt just limited to men, people like Gwen Stefani and Misslawn, founder of Hellz Bellz, an exlcusive Street clothing line for women. (Thank goodness for that) Either way it all boils down to influences,(as previously stated in my and Emmanuel's posts) what your personal forte is and what you like to do..but until you figure it out, here's some suggestions of films/shows to check out for some pretty grand fashionists(not just urban), some you know and some you dont...until next time...Stay True.

The List

-The Great Gastby -Sex & The City

-Oceans 11(Old and New) -The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

-Beat Street -School Daze

-The Warriors -What Not to Wear

-Do The Right Thing -Juice

-The Natural -V For Vendetta

-Krush Groove -House Party

-Cooley High -The Wood

can you think of any? Let me know. britt.tish@yahoo.com

g'day.

-britt.TISHALICIOUS man.

my parents always told me....there is nothing new under the sun

it is amazing how in tune we are tish....i was on my way to discuss the same topic, influence.

but you did however touch on some things that i was not going to speak of. great job, thats why i let you run with me and my team.

as my cohort imparted to you all, we are all inspired by someone, something, or even some-time. for example, everything that you see females wearing at the mall (gack), on television, in movies, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera.......(name that movie) was worn by my, by your, and by everyone else's mother!

also as tish so eloquently stated, stop trying to be "different," or "push the envelope." don't get me wrong, now. i am all for self-expression through one's clothing. let's face it...perception is reality! or better yet, it's LIFE! when you see that girl down the way, you are not attracted to her by her shining personality. it's her looks. not speaking in a shallow or lustful manner, just speaking in a realistic voice. think about it...

or better still, when you go to an interview of any sort, you dress up (to some extent i would hope) becaue if your potential employer forms a bad opinion of you before you open your mouth, then you can kiss that job goodbye. it's not always right, but that's how the world works (or the USA at least).

in keeping with the subject of interviews, tish brought up a good point. we ARE getting older, and it is time to enter the "real world" if you will. now i understand that you have a killer kicks kombination, great graphic g-shirts, and beastin bright bling, if you will, but its time to buzz the braids and join the team. time to start phasing more sophistaced items into the collection that is your style and become an adult (as horrible as it sounds, it's true).

i do grow a bit weary of the "vintage" or "retro" look, but one thing i will say is this. what happened to the days when people, young and old, got dressed up? the movies, the opera, CHURCH, dates, parties, picnics, cocktails, and everything else required your best. i have even thought about enforcing a dress-code at every event i am a part of. half-naked girls at prom, Coogi sweaters at formals, and i have even seen jeans at a wedding.

i look at old movies like "Casablanca," "It's a Wonderful Life," and "The Great Gatsby" (one of my favorites) and wonder where we are headed.

it seems as though this generation (not everyone though) does not care how to properly get "dressed for the occasion" (especially te men). i am almost disgusted by it (as you can see). no one started to try to look tailored or "suited and booted" [gack-gack] until jay-z and kanye did it. cam'ron wore pink and it suddenly became the new black...pitts. i was even told because i had a pink shirt that i was trying to be like him, even tought i wore it long before he "made" it popular. pink has always been a classic color choice for men when worn properly and tastefully.

while jay-z, kanye, and others have great style, i encourage you all to follow your own trends and set the standard among your peers. this goes without saying that a trip to the grocery store does not warrant a three-piece Purple Label suit, a new Prorsum trench, Ted Baker loafers, an McQ shopper, and an Hermes umberella. just be mindful a where you are going and who will be there. and maybe that is a future topic to discuss.....dressing for success....

on a lighter note, i am going to challenge all of you who have taken the time out of your busy schedule to read this here entry. i am going to post some of mny top fashion influences for all to see. some of you might not know who they are, and that's ok...you'll have that. but you will not be able to say that we never tried to educate you.

here goes nothing....

pharrell williams executes, in my eyes, one of the most perfect blends of gentelmen's attire and hip-hop couture. he knows when it is appropriate to up the anty and when its ok to let the guard down. one should have this type of mix and diversity in a wardrobe. you never know who is watching....

as tish said, IMPECCABLE style. not the best in other areas, but we are not talking about that here. in today's media, he is probably my favorite in terms of individuality in fashion. he's not afraid to do what he wants. much like mr. williams, he exueds the perfect diversification in wardrobe. modernism and nostalgia. beast.

these two men are two of the best designers this world has ever seen. all i can say is research who these two are. i am not going to tell you who they design for, but if and when you find the answer, you will be pleasantly surprised. investigate...delve...study...research... it's key.

beauty and influence are in the eye of the beholder, and this is what's in this beholder's eye.

once again, my challenge to you is, what's in your eye? let us know and we will post it.

and here is a second challenge while i'm at it....

be your best - present to the world the person you want the world to see - your individuality will thank you.

and for the record, i agree with tish---no originals, just individuals.

are you yourself or are you someone else?---let us know

deuces---britt.tish.man

1 peter 5:6-7

Original Fakes

((somebody said it was time 2 update..no names..KICKS.))

Everybody is insipired by someone.

Whether you're dope, and your musical (and fashionable) muse is someone like Andre 3000,

or more wack than a pair of fake Js and admire the stylings of Camron and his favorited collection of pink.

Personally, i follow my own heart, but also with the help of a few friends...

Whether people want to admit it or not, the days of originality died in the early 90s, when the new millenium hit, peopel decided to go back in time, or "vintage" as we like too call it. The days of making your own clothes are done, so what it there left to do?

BE AN INDIVIDUAL OF COURSE!

Some say that they conceive there own style. They'll gladly tell you how admirable they are for "doing their own thing" and will make fun of others for "following the crowd". Sorry to bust your bubble "fadlackers" but you are all quite similar to me. People who say that they do there own thing are lying. Inspiration has to come from somewhere, clearly, they were inspired by someone else whom they saw being and individual and decided to be one too. Guys who are 80s babies and tell you that they have their own style...are buggin. 80s Babies are getting overdone and the individuality is getting lost in neon colors and ALIEN hats. Girls who wear colors that dont match but dont flow arent going against the grain..they're just being silly. Sometimes, too much is too much, Simplicity is KEY.

Take for example the stylings of Mr. Kanye West

While West certainly isnt on the top of my favorites list, the man has impeccable style and swagger to boot. West has been noted for his never ending supply of skinny/fitted denims, stylish Cardigans, and most importantly, love of Louis Vuitton bags. West goes a bit retro with his fitted jeans and designed haircuts, but however, he never overdoses on nastalgia. Fashionists appreciate his willingness to wear a tailored double-breasted suit, as long as exclusive sneakers come along for the ride. Guys we're getting older, it might be time to tone down the neon spraypainted color jackets a bit and start for a more classic pulled together look. Somebody told me that i couldnt wear sneakers forever, and as much as i didnt want to believe him, he was right.

While i do believe it's time for me to mature a bit, that certainly doesnt mean i have to grow up.That's where one of my role models comes into play. Enter Betsey Johnson.

Betsey Johnson, or B.J. as she prefers to be called, is quite an interesting character. She's been designing dresses since my mom was in college, and continues to do cartwheels and have models dance down, instead of the typical walk, down her runways. B.J. continues to play with colorful prints and young styles and plays a major role in women's fashion today. while we all knwo that im not the typical, dress and heels kinds of girl, B.J. makes me want to change my mind. Every now and then dresses are totally appropriate, even on a regular basis, and there's nothing wrong with that, It's absolutely Lovely to be a Lady. B.J. is getting on in her years but hasnt lost her flair which i love, she lives young and that's important when you have to be old for so long.

What i'm trying to say is..i dont really believe in originals anymore, but more of individuals, i loves 80s retro but with your own twist on it. why Urban 80s? what happened to bright tees, white blazers, and soxless loafers? Why do you have to be ultra-feminine t throw on a dress? why not pair it with chucks or simple sneakers to have it your own way...Where are all the Individuals?

So what im asking is..what inspires you? i really want to know..drop me a line britt.tish@yahoo.com, i definitely want to publish YOU and your ideas in tis Blog...Ciao.

I bid you the best of days.

britt.TISH man