When it comes to their game, Tom Brady, Eli Manning, Jason Taylor, LaDainian Tomlinson, and Terrell Owens are forces with which to be reckoned. However, these five NFL players also know how to score major points when it comes to fashion. Once they hang up their jerseys, these guys opt for some seriously cool suits and separates when they hit the town. Here, we take an item from each of five players' off-field ensembles to show you how to use their style secrets to score a, ahem, touchdown of your own.
Tom Brady Movado Series 800 watch
In 2007, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady helped his team make football history with a jaw-dropping undefeated season. This year also saw him score the most touchdowns in an NFL season. Off-field, Brady’s style has been just as flawless as his game. Swipe Brady’s modern-but-classic style with this luxurious Movado Series 800 watch that is perfect day or night and looks just as good dressed up with a classic black suit or dressed down with jeans. With its stainless-steel face, minimal embellishments and gadgets, and a soft, black thermoresin strap, this watch is the very definition of understated, practical elegance.
You might have to do some serious searching to get your hands on one of the Series 800 watches Tom Brady promotes, since they are limited-edition pieces. If you love the look of the watch, but can’t find one or you don’t like the price tag it comes with, try a timepiece from Hamilton, a company that also makes automatic chronographs with Swiss movements.
Eli Manning Zegna dress shirt
Take a tip from New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning and pair neutrals together for an instantly chic look that can be worn during any season. To cop Eli’s relaxed, but polished ensemble, the key pieces you’ll need are a blazer and a striped dress shirt in a pale hue. Every man needs a dress shirt that goes beyond the classic white shirt in his wardrobe, and this azure, black-and-white, striped dress shirt from Zegna echoes Manning's fashionable choice.
Made from lightweight cotton that will keep you cool even in the summer, this perfectly fitted, one-pocket shirt will pair beautifully with almost any blazer, and it will be especially stunning with either a camel-colored jacket or a basic black number. Worn alone or with a blazer, team this shirt with dress pants or jeans for an outfit that translates perfectly from the office to the dinner table and beyond.
LaDainian Tomlinson Kris Van Assche vest
In 2003, as a starting running back for the San Diego Chargers, LaDainian Tomlinson became the first player ever to rush for over 1,000 yards and nab 100 receptions in the same season. Off the field, Tomlinson might just hold the record for trendiest NFL star. Be a style leader like Tomlinson and team classic items with one seriously “now” piece, like a waistcoat. All the rage on the runways for the past few seasons, the tuxedo vest is not in danger of falling off the fashion radar just yet, but be sure you get one that’s not too conspicuous so you’ll be able to wear it when it comes back in fashion the next time around.
This wool, pinstripe vest from Kris Van Assche comes in gray -- one of the season’s hottest colors -- is fully lined and is well cut. To dress it up, follow Tomlinson’s lead and choose a sharp dress shirt with French cuffs. For more casual events, forgo the tie, slip on some designer jeans and leave a couple of buttons undone on your dress shirt for nouveau-grunge appeal.
Terrell OwensRay-Ban Highstreet RB3293 sunglasses
When it comes to his game, whether as a player for the San Francisco 49ers, the Philadelphia Eagles or the Dallas Cowboys, Terrell Owens has never shied away from sparking controversy. His personal style, however, has just the right amount of flair, and there’s certainly no controversy over whether or not the man knows how to dress. To swipe Owens' style, all you need to do is don a pair of uber-cool, dark sunglasses and wear them religiously with everything you own.
Ray-Ban’s Highstreet RB3293 sunglasses are a great place to start if you’re searching for a new pair of shades, since these cleanly designed aviators will compliment pretty much anything in your wardrobe. Built to last and reasonably priced, this pair has smooth written all over them and will get you the attention you crave without looking like you tried too hard.
Jason Taylor Theory “Sharp.Stock” two-button blazer
A defensive end for the Miami Dolphins for 10 years, Jason Taylor holds the record for defensive touchdowns scored by a defensive lineman. And with his classic sense of style, Taylor is well on his way to ensuring his place in fashion’s hall of fame as well. Proof that you don’t need the latest, trendiest clothes to look your best, Taylor works a timeless black blazer like a pro and demonstrates the art of simple sophistication. If you don’t already own one, go to the mall right now or start pointing and clicking your way to a contemporary fit, two-button blazer like this one from Theory. It’s a wardrobe staple you’ll wear for years and it will never go out of style.
Theory’s model is made from a lightweight stretch wool blend, meaning it will retain its shape even after you’ve worn it a hundred times, and a high polyester count means it won’t show dirt easily. If you want something a little punchier than Taylor’s black-and-white combination, try a brightly hued dress shirt, but avoid veering into neon colors.
scoring styleThese players may be best known for their moves on the football field, but once the game is over, they prove they know a thing or two when it comes to style. True, they may have seven-figure signing bonuses with which to pad their shopping budgets, but they also demonstrate that a few well-chosen pieces can inject loads of style into any wardrobe. Follow their lead and you’ll never be caught in a fashion fumble again.
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A scarf tied with aplomb adds style and warmth to your winter wardrobe. A scarf, in its basic sense, works because it surrounds and protects your neck and keeps cold drafts of air from spiraling down your collar, leaving you susceptible to catching a chill.
Once you know how to tie a scarf around your neck in different knots, you can leave that parka you shuffle around in at home and actually begin wearing the stylish coats and jackets you’ve been reading about.
So, here’s our guide on how to tie a scarf, as well as our picks for the best jackets to rock each new stylish knot. Parisian Knot 
The most sought-after knot is also one of the most universal. Here’s how to tie a scarf in a Parisian knot: Take the scarf in both hands and fold it over lengthwise; drape it around your neck; insert the loose ends through the loop hanging in front of you and pull them through. You can play with the tautness of the knot and the thickness of the scarf by doubling the scarf lengthwise, if you wish. This knot almost always looks best on a short leather jacket with a notch collar left down, such as this jacket from John Varvatos. On a very cold day, you can tuck the scarf into the jacket and pull the zipper up.
Once-around knot 
The once-around knot is your entry-level knot for all those brisk days when you need a little extra comfort but don’t want to go with complete arctic readiness. Most men will use this knot for a quick commute to work or an evening out with a striking blazer, like this one from Kenneth Cole. The point of this knot is casual warmth. To learn how to tie a scarf in a once-around knot, drape the scarf around your neck allowing one end to be longer than the other. Take the long end and bring it around your neck and let it fall over your chest. If you have a long neck, overlap the scarf in back just a bit so that most of your neck between the jacket and the base of your skull is covered.
Loose once-around knot 
The loose once-around knot is more about fashion and having the scarf with you “just in case.” Pair the scarf with a duffle coat or any hooded snorkel coat for a rakish look of adventurism. When it comes to knowing how to tie a scarf in a loose once-around knot, the same rules apply as the regular once-around knot: Drape it loosely as though you haven’t the time to finish the job right.
Twice-around knot 
The twice-around knot challenges the Parisian as your go-to knot on those cold days. In fact, if you like the Parisian knot, you might change up your look with the twice-around just for fun without sacrificing warmth. Unlike the Parisian, however, you’ll require less of a collar on your jacket because this knot takes up a lot of room. Here’s how to tie a scarf in a twice-around knot: Begin as you would with the once-around with both ends hanging in front of you, but make sure one is significantly longer than the other. Take the much longer end and circle it around your neck twice; do this without making the knot too tight. Getting the lengths of the ends to match up or come out relatively close will take a bit of practice, but a knot like this will make all the difference on a cold day. This one is perfect for a banded or Mandarin-style collars on a short leather jacket and is easily tucked into the jacket for extra warmth.
bundle upEvery man has that moment in the morning when he must decide how he will face the elements. Do you wear what you really want and suffer or do you go with the urban version of a survival suit -- the ski parka? With a scarf, however, your wardrobe expands and becomes adaptable to the changing weather, all while helping you face the frigid elements in style.
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When packing for a trip, we usually focus on getting clothes into the suitcase. We worry about filling our bag with the perfect combination of shirts, ties, socks, and underwear, and give little thought to packing those ancillary items -- aka travel bag essentials -- needed to sustain our wardrobe while we’re out on the road. That’s why, when packing for a trip, we need to stop and consider what we need in addition to our clothes to ensure we have a dapper, well-maintained appearance when we arrive at our destination.
So, next time you’re prepping for a weekend getaway or business trip, make sure you don’t leave home without any of these travel bag essentials.
Travel clothes steamer Wrinkles are an inevitable by-product of packing, which leaves us with garments that are marred with tiny wrinkles and major creases while traveling -- and nothing says unkempt, unprofessional and unsightly like crumpled clothes. To look your best, you need a sharp wardrobe that appears freshly pressed, making a portable clothes steamer a top choice when packing your travel bag essentials. Having a clothes steamer is especially important when you’re traveling on business. Travel steamers fit conveniently in your carry-on and pay big dividends on traveling in style; you’ll have the necessary tool to maintain a refined, meticulous image that’s not only devoid of wrinkles, but also replete with style.
Item benefit: Besides being affordable and portable, clothes steamers allow you to travel with clothes that are both professionally polished and handsomely preserved.
Stain stick One small stain can ruin an entire trip for savvy travelers who pack versatile, multipurpose garments. There’s also the problem of acquiring a blemish on your shirt before the big meeting -- how humiliating. When these situations arise far from home, guys must be armed to go to battle. That’s why traveling with a stain stick will always prove to be the best weapon. This little marker-like device ranks high on our list of travel bag essentials because it contains a stain-removing solution that makes spots magically disappear. With one little swoosh, you’ll have the might to eradicate unattractive mishaps and save the day. Erasing simple mistakes elsewhere in life should so easy.
Item benefit: A stain stick is a tiny, easy-to-pack tool that has the power to undo problematic stains and the potential to save your travel wardrobe, if not your entire trip.
High-gloss shoe wipes Along with his crisp wardrobe, the consummate professional sustains polished footwear as well. Unfortunately, the wear-and-tear of travel often leaves shoes scuffed, dull and dingy, which isn’t always ideal when making important business calls or attending first-time meetings with new clients. Thankfully, an easy solution exists to this traveling annoyance; high-gloss shoe wipes are a required item for your travel bag essentials. Formulated and packaged for convenience, these wipes make shoe maintenance simple and easy for today’s travelers. Shoe wipes have a simple, universal application for all smooth leather shoes, come in easy-to-pack pouches, and give you the necessary means to keep your shoes impeccably shined while traveling.
Item benefit: High-gloss shoe wipes combine convenience, class and quality in one neat little package; their invention has redefined shoe-care maintenance and style for today’s traveler.
Shoe trees Packing shoes is always tricky business given their unwieldy space consumption. Thus, most guys go out on a limb when traveling and knowingly neglect the rules of shoe maintenance; they willingly opt to leave their shoe trees at home so that their shoes can collapse into the packing. This is a cardinal sin, gentlemen. Nowhere are shoe trees more effective than in shoes that are packed in a suitcase. Shoe trees are among our favorite travel bag essentials because they not only prevent your shoes from being crushed, which can lead to permanent damage, but they also help absorb the disgusting odors that radiate from your freshly worn kicks. Sure, shoe trees may add some additional bulk and weight to your luggage, but the benefits far exceed the cost.
Item benefit: Shoe trees not only protect your shoes from the adverse effects of a crammed suitcase, but they also protect your clothes from the unpleasant odor of your smelly shoes.
Travel grooming kit Collecting your travel toiletries at one fell swoop in the bathroom isn’t an effective packing strategy. While you’ll remember the big-ticket items, you’ll undoubtedly forget the smaller travel bag essentials. That’s why owning a handy travel grooming kit solves the problem for you. Complete with a razor, nail clippers and tweezers, a travel grooming kit takes all the hassle out of packing your toiletry bag; you’ll have all the important grooming tools you need, conveniently packaged in one simple location. It’s a beautiful thing to be able to pack expediently and to be equipped and fully prepared to tackle any outstanding grooming needs in your hotel bathroom.
Item benefit: Travel grooming kits augment your traditional toiletry bag by bringing along overlooked grooming tools that will help you stay in top form while you’re out on the road.
wherever i may roamPacking for a trip, even a short trip, can be a pain. Besides, with so many aspects to tend to before you ever get off the ground, who among us has time to adopt a “how am I gonna look when I get there” mentality? The answer is “not many.” But you can be among the esteemed few if you always include these five travel bag essentials with you when you go.
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It’s time for a revolution; guys must shed their lackadaisical attitude toward sleepwear. For far too long, most guys have gone to bed wearing raggedy T-shirts and day-old boxers. During college and into our early 20s, this style of nighttime loungewear was adequate, but we’re big boys now, and we should dress as such. The truth is that our loungewear speaks as much to our sophistication as it does to our comfort -- and ladies find a man more irresistible when he’s relaxing in mature, complementary sleepwear instead of pit-stained shirts and baggy briefs. And that’s why the time has come for boys to become men and invest in grown-up, stylish (yet always comfortable) 2008 loungewear.
Ralph Lauren Velour Kimono Robe If you invest in only one piece of loungewear in 2008, make it a robe. At night, a robe acts like a piece of outerwear, cleverly camouflaging anything you may have underneath. What’s more, a high-quality robe is satisfying and comforting while you’re winding down from a long day. That’s why your robe should be luxurious and soft, and Ralph Lauren set the standard. RL’s Velour Kimono Robe is handsomely constructed from velvety soft cotton and sports a high-class design, thanks to its attractive drape and form. Go ahead; put the finishing (or beginning) touch on a sophisticated 2008 loungewear wardrobe with this deluxe, good-looking robe.
Dolce & Gabbana Sicilia V-neck T Seldom do you have an excuse to relax in stretched-out, soil-stained undershirts; seldom is there ever any pride in doing so either. When relaxing in an undershirt, you should do so in one that is not only comfy, but also complementary. You should wear T-shirts that make you look and feel good, like Dolce & Gabbana’s Sicilia V-Neck T. Label recognition aside, this undershirt contains a small fraction of spandex in its composition, giving it the ability to give you a nice tailored fit, plus the banded cuffs and V-neck are perfect for showcasing all those hours at the gym. You’ll like the fit, feel and final outcome this T-shirt brings to your 2008 loungewear wardrobe.
American Apparel Henley Shirt For a cold day indoors, laidback can be both relaxed and chic. Sure, tattered shirts are broken-in and familiar, but they don’t do much in the way of injecting a sense of style or sophistication into your 2008 loungewear collection. That’s why opting for a long-sleeve thermal shirt, much like the Henley version from American Apparel, can be a simple, stylish solution. Note: AskMen.com doesn’t advocate most of American Apparel’s too-tight, ‘70s-inspired garments, but this shirt does make the grade. Its four-button design, modern cut and plush fabric make it an ideal component for your around-the-house wardrobe. This is a casually cool garment that lends a smooth, utilitarian touch to any weekend wear.
Juicy Couture Pajama Pants A loungewear mainstay that we’re all familiar with is pajama pants. And best of all, they can be very cool and very appropriate lounging attire. Pajama pants are most comfortable and flattering when they have a loose fit and relaxed style, so you should look for styles that fit this bill, which means elastic waistbands and tapered legs should be avoided. So, if you’re in the market, turn to Juicy Couture’s hip entry for a prime example of superb 2008 loungewear. They make a bold, complementary statement with their screen-print detailing, drawstring waistband and wider leg opening. These pleasing PJ pants supply a stylish, soothing option for kicking back.
Burberry Pajamas Pajamas aren’t just for kids; men should have a pair too. Let’s say that you want to relax in a classic, comfy and coordinated style, then why not have an easy go-to option? Or what if you’re going on a couples’ weekend with your friends? In instances such as these, pajamas are the perfect edition to your 2008 loungewear wardrobe, making it easy to relax in style and in comfort. And while you can create your own combinations, top designers like Burberry have done all the work for you, taking their classic look and parlaying it into tasteful nighttime attire. In the end, they have given you a relaxing, handsome set of pajamas to mirror your sophisticated grown-up style.
Hanes ComfortSoft Jersey Shorts When it comes to loungewear, shorts are a saving grace; they offer the comfort of boxers with the sophistication of outerwear. More to the point, you can’t always stumble around the house in your underwear, especially if you’re on a sleepover or out-of-town trip with a lady or colleague. In this area, it’s all about fundamentals, and Hanes offers some stylishly basic shorts that more than do the trick; their ComfortSoft Jersey Shorts make a classic edition to your 2008 loungewear collection. These handsome shorts are 100% cotton and showcase a waistband in a darker color, a fashionable drawstring and a button-fly front. You can rest assured that these shorts are long on both style and comfort.
Cole Haan's Zermatt Slippers Nobody likes cold feet at night; so trade in your socks for a pair of well-constructed and great-looking slippers. Nothing is more sophisticated, comfortable or mature than knocking around the house in slippers that are warm, soft and stylish. But since all slippers aren’t created equal, avoid old-man backless slip-ons and slide into a pair that looks more like a driving shoe, such as Cole Haan’s Zermatt Slipper. This laid-back, foppish pair of nighttime scoots has a classic construction of hand-burnished English calfskin, suede trim and shearling lining. At the end of a long day your feet will love these slippers for their warmth, and you’ll love them for their style.
lights outWe want to look our best in the boardroom, so why not have that same attitude in the bedroom? In fact, in its own special way, what we wear at night has an impact on our happiness and comfort as much as what we wear during the day. That’s why we should approach five-to-nine in the same thoughtful manner as we do nine-to-five. So, if you’re not doing so already, make 2008 a revolution and invest in comfortable, casual and mature loungewear that will improve your comfort and your lifestyle.
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this week’s onscreen styleThe film: Directed by David Cronenberg, Eastern Promises features Viggo Mortensen as Nikolai Luzhin, a member of London’s Russian mafia, in a role that earned him a nomination for Best Actor at the 2008 Academy Awards. When mob boss Semyon’s (Armin Mueller-Stahl) son Kirill (Vincent Cassel) finds himself in a serious jam, Semyon devises a plan to save his son. Nikolai agrees to help out and hatches a plan of his own.
The scene: Nikolai’s intricate plot continues to unfold as he works his way up in London’s underground crime world.
The style: Somber and business-like, Mortensen’s suit-and-trench look is as no-nonsense as his character’s personality in Eastern Promises. It’s the perfect look for when you’re off to an executive board meeting or any occasion in which you need to present your most polished self.
look like a russian cleaner
Prada windowpane check wool suit
Emulate Mortensen’s steely, suave Russian-gangster look in Eastern Promises with an Italian suit that fits like a glove. This lightweight, navy wool suit from Prada has a contemporary cut with sleek lines and is understatedly elegant. Don’t be put off by shelling out a bit of cash for a suit like this one, because a every well-dressed man should own a navy-colored suit. In fact, as mentioned in our style guide, it’s a good idea to stock up on midnight and navy blue suits since they’re more versatile than black suits, which should be reserved for more formal events. When you find a navy suit that you like, buy two. Slim-cut trousers and a two-button blazer are what make this suit a classic that can be worn in any season, and whether you wear the pieces together or separately, you’ll get years of wear out of it. Wear it with a confident attitude for a look that will kill.
Cole Haan three-quarter jacketTo cover up, Mortensen opts for an overcoat that oozes sophistication while remaining deceptively simple, just like this gorgeous black lightweight, wool-blend Cole Haan number. With a shell made from a mix of virgin wool and silk, this button front, three-quarter length coat is the kind of high quality item no closet should be without. If your suit is very fitted and you have a slim build, make like Mortensen and choose an overcoat that’s a half size larger than you would usually buy to visually bulk up a bit. Lots of pocket space means that toting around your bottle of Moskovskaya won’t be a problem, and a specialized pocket that’s made just for cell phones makes those all-important calls super easy to dial. No matter what you wear with this coat, it’s fabulous, but when worn with a suit, the combination is downright explosive, so prepare to be bombarded with compliments.
 Revo 2037 Flex Sunglasses
There’s no doubt that what really makes Mortensen’s ensemble stand out are his unusual ‘80s-inspired sunglasses. These tinted shades will protect your eyes, disguise late nights and help you stealthily scope out leggy lovelies. These ones from Revo have a square shape that’s reminiscent of the ones Mortensen sports in the film. Plus, especially if you have a rounder face, the sharp angles of these sunglasses will improve the appearance of your bone structure, making you look like you have a more defined and masculine jaw. 
Express Men Premium ShirtTo copy Mortensen’s cool and calculating look, you’ll need a shirt like this one from Express Men. It’s slim-fitting so it will hug your shape and lie flat underneath your blazer. This shirt is also easy to mix and match, which means that when you’re not in gangster mode, it’ll look stellar with a simple pair of high-end jeans. Additionally, gray has been somewhat of an "it" color lately, so you’ll really get a lot of use out of this piece, especially given its rather affordable price tag. Be warned, however, that this shirt has French cuffs, meaning you’ll need to buy some cuff links if you don’t already have some. Of course, having them customized to include a tiny microphone or a deadly laser is optional.
Forzieri Solid Pure Silk Satin TiePull your whole outfit together with a knockout tie like Mortensen’s. Made from 100% silk, this gray tie from Forzieri has a slight sheen to it that works well with the muted hues in the rest of the outfit -- it’ll also prevent your outfit from appearing too stuffy. On days when you don’t need to knock ‘em dead, forgo the suit and just pair this tie with a pale gray dress shirt and some jeans for a contemporary look that’s relaxed and shows that you’ve got great taste.
pockets full of shellsBoth Mortensen’s wardrobe and his character in Eastern Promises are quite powerful. Whether you can afford the actor’s whole look or just a few of the pieces from this list, rest assured that everything here is guaranteed to transform you into a dangerously good-looking man and will greatly facilitate your next pickup mission.
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If you value the sharp crease of trousers or the gentle drape of a well-made jacket (and you must if you're reading one of our fashion tips), you will understand the infatuation every well-dressed man has for clothes valets. Before closets were outfitted with rotating tie racks, shoe warmers and watchgentleman’s wardrobe consisted of one well-made suit, there were clothes valets. This simple tool allowed men to keep their clothes in neat order as they slept. Today, however, it allows the hurried man to prepare his wardrobe for the following day without fumbling through the closet in the dark. And while it may have become a status symbol so far removed from its humble origins as a utilitarian accoutrement, the clothes valet actually increases the longevity of your wardrobe by properly holding your clothes at the ready.
winders, before bedrooms were little more than four walls and a 
Charging Valet and Clothes OrganizerThe Charging Valet and Clothes Organizer may look modest and unassuming to the casual visitor to your abode, but within its simple construction rests modern sensibility. Tucked away beneath sliding tray panels, you’ll find storage channels for electrical cords and surge protectors that allow you to charge a cell phone, an iPod and the rest of your portable electronics without making your bedroom look like a cable guy’s nightmare.
Corby 4400 Automatic Pants PressForget trying to steam your trousers and banish the thought of taking an iron to them. If you wear slacks on a daily basis, you’ll appreciate this English clothes valet with a built-in press that automatically presses your trousers in 15 minutes. When the Corby 4400 is finished pressing your pants, it will automatically switch itself off, leaving you little to worry about except which pair of freshly pressed pants you’ll wear first. This clothes valet is handcrafted and made of walnut, and it comes complete with a jacket hanger and a coin tray.
The Valet StandMark Wilkinson has, without question, created a stylish alternative for the modern sartorial in us all with low-tech aplomb in The Valet Stand. While the drawer provides a neat and tidy place for storing all those accessories we like to carry, the best part of The Valet Stand is the post for keeping your fedora nice and crisp. Whether you opt for cherry, maple or walnut, you will be assured of The Valet Stand’s quality with the knowledge that each one is handmade. Each valet is also accented with nickel-plated fittings and the drawer is marked with a faux ivory handle.
Executive Valet with ChargerIf you want your clothes valet to blend with the room in which it resides, but you still want to have all the modern extras at the ready, the Executive Valet with Charger is the one for you. The economical design allows this valet to occupy space next to a dresser with little notice; however, the classic look, mahogany wood and leather-lined compartments might draw some attention. In addition to the modern accoutrements, such as room for electrical wiring, a surge protector and a charging station, there are also the standard features of a classic clothes valet: trouser bar, coat hanger, shoe shelf, accessory drawer, and pull-out bar for belts and ties.
Valet ChairA clothes valet that charges your electronic devices is nice, and one that presses your pants is super convenient, but sometimes a simple pleasing design that offers traditional function is all you want or need. Enter the Valet Chair; it won’t ramp up your electric bill, but it will store your watch, sunglasses, shoehorn, and many of your other fashion accessories under its seat. As a clothes valet should, the Valet Chair will also gently hold your suit over the back and, best of all, it gives you a place to put on your shoes like a man.
valet tipsThe perfect valet is a matter of choice and financial means, but one rule of thumb in all things fashionable is to never overlap the function one item has with another. For example, if you already have a desktop valet to store your personal items, you don’t need a clothes valet with a storage tray. The second rule is to match your valet with its surroundings and with the clothes you wear. It should look just as good with your clothes on it as it does in the nude
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If you’re a busy man on the go, you can minimize prep time in the morning and gain valuable minutes by creating a closet that’s as organized as your timetable. Putting the clothes in your closet together in a way that makes intuitive sense means that it’ll be easier to create outfits that look good and you won't have to agonize over what to wear. Plus, if you learn how to organize your closet, you’ll never again have to rush around frantically searching for your favorite shirt or belt while worrying about whether you’ll be late for a meeting or social event.
To find out how you can sneak in some extra time to read the last few pages of a company report or even just give yourself time for a more leisurely breakfast, read our top tips on how to organize your closet.
Don’t keep what you don’t needOne of the biggest problems facing overstuffed closets is that they’re full of clothes the closet owner doesn’t need. Some people are simply lazy and haven’t cleaned out their closets in ages, while others are attached to certain garments or feel wasteful throwing out items that are not full of holes.
The fastest way to organize your closet is to own fewer clothes because visually it will be easier to find what you’re looking for. To organize your closet, take everything out and dump it on your bed; go through each piece of clothing one item at a time and assess when you wore it last. Apart from formal wear, if you haven’t worn something in one year and it’s in good repair, donate it to charity. Most charities will come to your door to pick up your castaways, so don’t think giving away your clothes is going to become an arduous chore you don’t have time for. Every year, repeat this process to make sure your closet stays organized.
Another way to organize your closet clutter is to store seasonal apparel. In the winter, take all your summer clothes and store them in a suitcase, then do the same in the summer with your winter apparel.
Lastly, every time you go shopping and buy something new, get rid of another garment from your closet that’s looking a little old or is no longer trendy to ensure you maintain approximately the same volume of clothing.
Hang like garments togetherStop wasting time rummaging around in your closet by using two simple systems that will help you retrieve individual garments. First, hang all garments that belong in the same category together -- i.e., sweaters next to sweaters and dress shirts next to dress shirts. At all costs, avoid hanging clothes by color family. This system will simply make a big mess of your closet because people tend to think “I want to wear a sweater,” rather than “I want to wear something brown,” so use the more intuitive grouping system of clustering similar items together; this is the correct approach when figuring out how to organize your closet.
Within a category of garment, however, do maintain a color system. For example, hang all your dress shirts from darkest to lightest, and do the same with your pants, sweaters and T-shirts. Abiding by this rule makes it a snap to find specific items.
In addition to these systems, organize your closet by arranging classes of garments on a continuum from most formal to least formal so that all your suits are together (in color order of course) at one end, while your most casual T-shirts hang together at the opposite end of your closet.
Use closet organizersIf, after purging your closet, you still have a lot of clothes but not enough space to fit them in, consider using closet organizers. There are a lot of great models out there that are inexpensive, straightforward to install and likely available at your local hardware store. For heavy sweaters that will stretch out if placed on a hanger or for cashmere and other delicate fabrics, you’ll definitely want a shelf, so get one immediately if your closet doesn’t have one built in.
If you have two or more pairs of black pants or multiples of any other color of pants, use multitiered hangers to save space. When it comes to shoes, use a shoe rack so you can see all your footwear laid out instead of jumbled up. Make sure to buy a floor shoe rack, however, because the ones that hang over closet doors don’t provide proper support for men’s shoes. Squeeze as many shoes as possible onto your shoe rack by placing shoes in opposite facing directions.
Make small accessories visibleWhile it may seem like a good idea to place smaller accessories like ties, belts and the like in a drawer, the truth is that you might end up wearing them less often because when you can’t see them, you’ll forget you own them. Get the most out of your wardrobe by purchasing a set of hooks or even a small rack to throw over your door and hang your accessories. These sets can be extremely cheap, so don’t be reluctant to look for one even if you’re on a tight budget, and the ones that go over your door require absolutely no time or effort to install.
You can even inspire yourself to dress up a little more often by placing cufflinks that don’t cost a fortune in small sealable plastic bags on a hook attached to your closet door. Just don’t forget to group similar items together in this space as well because you don’t want to have to sift through all your ties to find your favorite belt.
Use the bottom of your closet wiselyThe bottom half of most people’s closets is a sorely neglected area that can actually double the amount of functional hanging space available to you, particularly if you have a small closet. To organize your closet, take note of where the bottom edge of your longest garments hang and install a rod a couple of inches below if your closet could use some extra space for hanging clothes. For those with more minimal wardrobes and not much to hang, you could install your shoe rack in this space instead. For sweaters that cannot be hung or underwear and socks, consider buying a small set of two or three drawers that could fit under your hanging clothes. You can also put your laundry hamper here so that your dirty clothes stay out of sight.
cleaning out your closetRearranging your closet is a task that may take a few hours, particularly if you have a lot of clothes. If you can find the time to do it, however, you’ll reap the rewards for a long time to come -- if you maintain your new closet’s organization, of course. A closet that looks nice also makes getting dressed more of a pleasure, especially in the morning, so try a few of these simple suggestions as soon as you can to make your routine more relaxed and stress-free.
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When you’re on a business trip, dressing for success is essential. You might be meeting a lot of people for the first time and need to make a good impression. In this scenario, let yourself be guided by the notion that clothes make the man. We’ll show you what the must-pack pieces are for a two- to three-day business trip. These essentials will let you create a multitude of ensembles that will get you through formal daytime events and meetings as well as evening dinner or cocktail meet and greets.
To help you pack for a business trip and learn the secrets for folding everything properly so that your clothes stay wrinkle-free while in transit, keep reading.
 Ted Baker Emptied suit
For a short business trip, there’s absolutely no need to pack more than one suit. Since you’ll literally need to wear it day and night, the suit you pack for a business trip should have a classic cut and be a neutral color like navy blue or gray because these hues are easy to match with different dress shirts and ties.
Ted Baker’s two-button, wool charcoal pinstripe suit is simple but refined and suggests the wearer is a self-possessed and ambitious man. When worn to a business meeting, it’ll definitely help you seal any impending deals you may have on the horizon. Modern fit, flat-front trousers with a tapered leg also mean that in the evening, all you have to do to make your ensemble appropriate for more casual get-togethers is remove the blazer and tie.
 Land’s End dress shirt
Bring no more than three dress shirts with you when you pack for a business trip, and try to cut it down to two if you can. Aside from a white dress shirt, pack a colored one for a bit of variety and to increase the number of looks you can get out of your travel wardrobe. Land’s End offer easy-to-iron fine cotton shirts that don’t cost a fortune. In addition to being easy on your bank account, straightforward, no-nonsense design means this shirt will pair nicely with a variety of suits and ties.
This one in light French blue with a straight collar will look smart but sufficiently relaxed when worn with Ted Baker’s pinstripe dress pants. For dressy evening events, put your blazer back on and add a tie with a subtle sheen that complements your suit and your shirt.
 Barba dress shirt
A plain white dress shirt is an unavoidable must when it comes to any trip you take, and it’s particularly useful on a business trip because it’s all-purpose and always looks stylish and tasteful. This one from Barba is a great example of a shirt you should pack for a business trip. Made from high-quality, woven grosgrain cotton, it has pearlescent buttons and a contemporary fit, and it will show others that you pay attention to details.
Of course, no one will be impressed when you show up wearing a shirt that looks like it’s been sitting scrunched up at the bottom of your closet for days. A particularly effective way for getting rid of shirt wrinkles without ironing is to hang your dress shirts from the shower railing as soon as you get to your hotel, then blast the hot water in the shower without wetting your shirt and close the door. It may seem wasteful, but five minutes of this steaming treatment will give you a perfect, wrinkle-free shirt.
 Thomas Pink silk tie
For the ultimate daytime dress-to-impress look, mix your suit with a crisp white dress shirt and a luxurious-looking tie in a rich hue, like this one from Thomas Pink. Over two yards of fine silk were folded seven times in the production of this tie, and although it has a traditional design dating back to the 1800s, it still manages to be incredibly posh in a modern way. Plus, a gray suit with a maroon-colored tie exudes power, and this time-tested combination will make you appear confident and capable.
Generally, when you pack for a business trip that’s only a few days long, you should include two ties: one for business occasions and another that can be worn on a night out if necessary.
 Forzieri silk satin tie
To add an interesting element to your work wardrobe that shows your unique style, try playing around with the second tie you bring on your trip. A metallic tie, particularly one with a slight shine that’s not overly bright, is a good choice to pack for a business trip.
Forzieri’s elegant solid silk satin tie will look amazing whether you wear it with a white or blue dress shirt. If you’re in a hurry while transitioning from daytime to formal evening events, simply put your tie in your bag in the morning and swap ties en route from one function to another. To pack ties so that they don’t get scrunched up, roll them and place them vertically in your suitcase.
 Aldo Plegmund loafers
A basic black loafer is your best bet when considering which shoes to pack for a business trip. Aldo’s black leather loafers have a slight heel, are extremely affordable and are easy to slip in and out of. With a gray suit, black shoes are pretty much the only ones you should be wearing, and once you’re back home, you’ll also be able to pair them with some dark denim and a blazer for a night out.
taking care of businessThe list of what to pack for a business trip may not seem very long and you might be concerned that you won’t have enough clothes to wear, but these items are truly all you need for a short stay elsewhere.
Make sure to bring a hanger for your suit and pack it properly. Get a small suit bag if you don’t already have one. Many airlines will allow you to bring your suit on the plane and hang it in the closet onboard, but call ahead to avoid any nasty surprises. If you need to fold your suit, invest in a suitcase designed to carry suits properly.
Preparing for a work-related trip is easy when you follow our tips and pack right. Even if it’s your first professional trip, you’ll seem like you’ve been taking care of business all your life.
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With ever-climbing real estate costs, the desire to live a more urban lifestyle and a decrease in family size, renting or owning apartments and condos is a reality for many people. Obviously, the square footage of these dwellings is significantly smaller than that of your parents’ five-bedroom house, so when you’re contemplating how to fill up your pad, you have to spend a lot of time considering how much space is available to you. What you don’t want to do, however, is sacrifice style for furniture you don’t really love simply because it fits in your place. That’s why we’ve decided to help apartment- and condo-dwellers by searching far and wide for fabulous furniture for small spaces.
To find out how to use your furniture to make the most of a small room without neglecting aesthetics, read on.
 Ikea Karlstad Sofa Bed
Chances are if you live in an apartment or condo, you may only have one bedroom. To increase the comfort of those who plan to crash at your place, a sofa bed is the most compact solution and the perfect type of furniture for small spaces. Ikea’s Karlstad model will add a touch of funky cool to your living room when you purchase it in a bright color like red or blue.
In addition to giving your home a style boost, this super-versatile sofa bed is a functional piece. Apart from being able to use it both as a sofa and a bed for two, it comes with a washable mattress pad and a removable cover you can dry clean so it should remain in good condition even if you have a parade of visitors coming through your place.
Underneath the sofa you’ll find space for keeping pillows and quilts, so this piece can double as a storage area for your linens if your home is short on closet space. Lastly, Ikea offers a variety of covers for this item, so when you get bored of one color, just buy another set of covers to completely and instantly change the look and feel of your small space.
 Puck nesting tables
Shelving that attaches to the walls along with tables that can be tucked away are your best friends when it comes to keeping stuff off your floor in a small space. This set of accent tables, available at CB2, can be used separately wherever you need an extra side table or two. The smaller table can be easily nested underneath the larger one when you need to clear out some space and make the room appear less cluttered.
Made and finished by hand, these simple but striking tables are useful and will infuse a modern minimalist style into any room they’re in. Plus, no matter what the current look of your abode, these tables are guaranteed to complement your existing furniture and any interior decorating you may have already done.
 Artelano Studio Eoos Collection Kitchen Table
With their Eoos collection, Artelano specializes in convertible designs, making this label one to take note of when shopping for furniture for small spaces. This sleek dining table with a white lacquered glass top is deceptively simple. Push one side up to evoke the feeling of a trendy café and save a good foot of space when you’re dining solo or when you’re throwing together an impromptu casual dinner for a visitor.
When you need to take things up a notch and do some entertaining or impress a girl with a romantic meal, fold the table down and voila -- you instantly have a proper dining table. Alternately, expand this table when you’re hosting a party because it will easily accommodate stacks of glasses and plates in addition to all the nibbles you lay out, along with several bottles of liquor if you don’t have enough space to install a separate bar.
 Broadway Condo-Sized Dresser
A dresser is a must if you live in a small space because less space overall usually means you don’t have many closets. Make more room for your clothes and avoid the problem of being unable to find anything in your closet by investing in a small dresser. This one from Broadway is specifically designed for condo-living. Style-wise, the smooth, polished, black finish on this wooden dresser will give your bedroom a subtly sleek lift.
Functionally speaking, with six drawers you’ll be able to store all your socks and underwear in this piece as well as garments that are best stored flat, like cashmere sweaters. Use the top of the dresser to stack items you don’t have space for elsewhere in your room. When you have an overnight visitor, simply slip these items into one of the drawers and display accessories like a large candle on the dresser’s top to give a relaxed ambiance to your room.
 Liberty Small Ottoman
An ottoman is more than a large cushion to put your feet up after a long day. It also makes your pad seem more like a home by imbuing your living room with cozy warmth, and it doubles as an extra seat when you’ve got a lot of guests. This pick from Liberty offers one extra advantage: You can lift the top to reveal a sizable storage space. Make use of this cleverly designed piece to store knick-knacks and tidy your place in a hurry or keep magazines, DVDs or video games here. While the exterior is designed to look like supple brown leather, it’s actually made from vinyl, so this ottoman is a snap to clean with a damp cloth, while having the look of a more luxurious piece.
tiny decorLess cleaning and proximity to the city center are just a few of the benefits of living in a smaller space. The challenge if you’re an apartment or condo resident is to find furniture that doesn’t crowd your place but is also easy on the eyes. As you can see from our finds, stylish options of furniture for small spaces exist and you can even find pieces that do double duty as additional storage spaces. If space is an issue for you, hopefully now you’re inspired to seek out selections like these to create a more organized and roomy look for your place.
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