louis polo, Author at THE LIFESTYLE MAN

Festival Wear – Coachella Edition (WKND 2)

Posted on by louis polo

For this second weekend of Coachella, I was only able to attend its last day - and it was more than enough for me. Differing from my previous blog post, I won't give any more tips for attending the festival. Rather, I would love for you guys to expand you expectations of Coachella itself. The desert is a place completed with a very different atmosphere than what most of us are used to. We would think the only time of the year to visit would be during festival season because there's nothing else to see or do. Well, that is a completely wrong statement. Besides the festivals, this side of the desert is full of history, national parks, and emblematic horizons - I will elaborate on a future post about things to do while in Palm Springs.

I've certainly experience all the fun and intensity of Coachella, and I have to admit, is an amazing experience. But lets not all drawn into the ads and general presentation of the festival, let's appreciate the place and city where is held, the art, and the dedication an involvement of everyone.

As every year, this would be your chance to let your inner fashion monster out and kill the style game!

Until next time,

Festival Wear- Coachella Edition

Posted on by louis polo

We all know Coachella fest is not only famous for the outstanding music performances and for hosting one of the largest interactive art displays in the world, year after year. Coachella has slowly, but strongly, developed its own fashion sense and "rules," which add excitement to the festivities.

This was my first year attending the festival, but since I moved to Palm Springs last summer, I've been living the desert life thousands of people look forward to enjoy at least once a year - I'm very lucky! The festival style presented at Coachella by all attendees - mainly bloggers- is strongly influenced by the desert as a scenario, its climate, and the amazing native american history that characterizes the territory. Considering my living experience, I consider myself to be almost an expert on the subject 🙂

When attending any music festival, I recommend you make comfort a priority. Is very likely that you'll be standing for long periods of time, sitting on the floor, and walking the whole day - so think comfort! Thats why I chose to wear active (or sport) tights with a breathable long-line shirt and very comfortable sneakers. Because I understand desert climate, where temperatures drop drastically at night, I added a retro inspired bumber jacket to my look. In terms of accessories, regardless of your gender, I highly recommend that you bring a small bag (cross-body, hand, or what you prefer) to keep all you personals in one place. It will be very hard for you to find any lost items among so many people in such huge space. Now.. be ready to dance, scream, and have a great time. If going by yourself, don't hold back - get loose, meet new people, and be safe!

Until next time,

A Winter Day in New York

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Hey mates! I know, a winter day in New York City doesn't sound like life goals - or least activity wise- but when it comes to fashion and layering, is the perfect time, place, and excuse. Right after the Bodegas, getting my looks together is my second favorite thing about visiting New York. From a more realistic perspective, I probably sound so overhyped, but the notion of knowing I'll be back to sunny California makes it even more exciting - Ha!

I always get terrified about summer, not only because #SummerBodyNotReady, but because that entails having to let go of black clothing, for the most part. That's why, this time, I went all out and became the men in black, streetwear style. Layering a white athletic turtleneck under a high-neck sweater, adding dimension and more interesting aspects to the look - while keeping me warm. Paired with all black street wear essentials (sneakers, jeans, hat, coat, etc.). Black pieces are my favorite to wear because of the sense of security and seriousness they project.

I know summer and spring are completely associated with bright colors, but I'm on a full-time experimenting process of transitioning black clothing pieces into other seasons besides winter. I'm definitely not letting these so call "fashion rules" determinate my comfort and preference of clothes. I'm certainly not one of those people who need to do a "closet change" every season. I wear what I like, what's weather appropriate -sometimes, and what I feel comfortable in. Believe me, is a rather simple process. And while I begin to unveil my summer body -kind of lol- I hope you don't let outside sources dictate your dressing preference. Keep rocking black, or any color you like! #IDGAF (Don't even know is anyone uses this hashtag anymore).

Until next time,

NYFW’18 DAY II & III – Diary

Posted on by louis polo

Hello mates! If you read my previous post (NYFW DAY I) I think it should be expected for the second and third day of NYFW to also be adventurous and somewhat fashionably chaotic. I began my day with the runway shows at the Cipriani in 42nd street, followed by the one and only Sherri Hill at the Gotham Hall. I began my day in collaboration with Lexus, who was responsible for my transposition between shows and what a better way to fully do it in style. Not having to take the subway through the intense cold weather was definitely huge plus - Thanks Lexus!

Between day two and three, I attended a total of 7 shows, but I'll only be highlighting my favorites here. Starting with a more casual fashion approach by Puertorican designer Adrian Alicea. Introducing long-line and open-minded pieces for the more fashion adventurous men. I loved the presentation and styling of the men skirts, and the great cultural inclusion within his runway show.

To finalize this three days of NYFW, I was invited to Sherri Hills' runway show. Where do I begin, as a designer, Sherri Hills always offers the best and more creative pieces for her market's demographics. As previous years, this collection reflected elegance, youth, and power, in are very delicate sense of fashion. Her runway show was co-protagonized by numerous former Miss Universes and international models from Demi Leigh to Pia Alonzo (Remember her?) - Now is time to see it for yourself!

In between shows, during the day, I decided to take a talk around the legendary streets of SoHo and unintentionally ended up in China Town and Little Italy. After the first day of NYFW, I learned my lesson, and this time I wore comfortable shoes and layered up a few pieces to keep myself warm. It was very interesting to see how the steers of New York have so much character and how our immigrant cultures create their own little paradise to feel closer to home. Well, without further adieu here's my very comfy attire- Ha!

Until next time,

NYFW’18 DAY I

Posted on by louis polo

Hey guys! This post makes me so excited; I'm so happy to share with all of you my experience during NYFW for the very first time. It wasn't just hoping on a plane and landing in some of the most popular fashion shows, it actually took a lot of planning and so many decisions had to be taken. I was very fortunate to partner with Style Magazine and cover all of their fashion presentations and runway shows, from Malan Breton to Sherri Hill. Growing up admiring fashion and contemplating trends, New York fashion week was something very distant and somewhat unreachable. But enough with that, I'm not going to sit here and bore you with the "this was my dream" type of post.

Fashion week was beyond partying, it was a great opportunity to network and gain experience within the fashion industry. It was extremely fun to play dress-up and be a tourist in the big apple. I truly admire the creativity and work that goes behind creating/presenting a collection. But I have to be honest, by the 5th day, I was extremely exhausted. Fashion week seems very glamorous and fun, but only for the first two days. You have to spend time and money traveling from shows to shows (when they're not in the same venue), you need different attire/looks for every day, and often spend long hours without eating. Maybe because I was a first timer I didn't planed myself as I should've, but it was a little tiring at times.

Fast forward to the big day, NYFW day 1, most of the shows I attended where at the Cipriani in 42st. Gorgeous venue with extremely amazing architectural design and great space. First up was Malan Breton presenting his couture collection, introducing very classic and spontaneous pieces with much attention to details and tailoring. Dominated by semi-casual pieces and lots of red! Second show, was a presentation entitled "Manhattan Knights," which took place in another nearby venue. This presentation was much more casual, highlighting pieces more suitable for everyday wear with a big splash of street style. The my last show was back at the Cirpiani for a runway show presented by KAWAII.

Finishing up the day with great company, music and drinks, was definitely a plus. Keep scrolling down for a section of my favorite pieces from every collection and to check out what I wore. I would love to know what you guys think about these collections and if you would like to attend fashion week for any upcoming season. Thanks again for sticking with me through another post 🙂

Until next time,

Leather Jacket + Ripped Jeans

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My definition of a comfortable attire definitely doesn't include sweatpants or hoodies. There's something about ripped jeans that makes me feel extremely comfortable and free. Since I'm very particular about wholes on my jeans, I usually buy a cheap pair of the most comfortable jeans at H&M, Forever 21, or a similar store, and strategically ripped them - Well, it takes more than just ripping them, but that's a whole other blog post.

My jeans style of preference are skinny, and to prevent the wholes or distressed areas from breaking or expanding, I tend to buy them a size bigger. I know a lot of fashion oriented people (or so call Gurus) consider this style/trend of jeans to be something of the past, but I refuse to let it go! When playing tourist while in Hollywood last week, these pair of jeans and leather jacket were my best ally.

In addition to the comfort and style of the jeans combined with the leather jacket, I decided to add a pop of color with my red velvet boots from Asos. I was so lucky and excited to find these on sale (almost 60% off); immediately when I saw them there was no second thought about getting them - Love at first sight! Again, they turned out to be very comfortable and definitely delivered it purpose after a long day full off walking and running around town.

I would love to know what are your to-go comfy style pieces and what you like about them. Don't forget to share your thoughts on the comments section below 🙂

Until next time,

Shades for the Win

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When the idea for this post first emerged, I thought of it as irrelevant, considering that we're currently experiencing winter. Then I stepped back, and decided to do a little experiment to prove the relevance (or otherwise) of this topic. For a week, I marked down all the time in which a pair of sunglasses where part of an #OOTD. Considering that I usually shoot in advance and do multiple looks daily, my final result was 7 times.

At that point, things got a little dipper, I decided to ask myself or understand, why do we mostly associate shades with summer. Ohhhh wait, let me guess... SUNglasses -duh! So considering that I live in a place with endless summer sunshine, and taking into consideration that because is winter doesn't mean there's no sun; I decided to put together a list of the favorite shades I own.

I like adding a sprinkle of style to my looks with a pair of sunglasses even if i'm wearing a coat -I know I'm not the only one. After analyzing what works for each of us, in terms of what shape the frame should be, what color works best with our skin complexion, and even how comfortable they fit, we can construct a broad understanding of what and where to buy our eyewear. If you're on the opposite side of the spectrum and simply purchase what captivates your attention, I don't blame you - I'm just as guilty.

Since I'm always reminding you that in order be trendy or to achieve a particular sense of style, you don't have to break the bank, this won't be the exception. The following sunglasses are all from a wide variety of brands, from luxury fashion houses to the trendiest and casual brands there's always something for every pocket 🙂 Don't forget to check out the shopping suggestion at the end of the post!

Until next time,

Are Berets a Returning Trend?

Posted on by louis polo

First of all, allow me to accept my ignorant and stereotypical idea that berets are exclusively part of a feminine trend. While doing my almost mandatory online black Friday shopping, I came across numerous male berets, which instantly increased my interest. Considering that berets are a head accessory piece and accentuates your face more than normal hats or other similar accessories, I was a very skeptical of the outcome.

My extreme lack of knowledge of such piece indicated that a beret s is a French piece, which designated for winter season and may come in very distinct fabrics. While doing a little research, I also learned that berets once represented authority, excellence, and power. They were first adopted by the French Chasseurs and after it’s slow commercialization, were associated with the working class of France and Spain. I don’t mean to bore you with these maybe not-so-fun facts, but it will be disgraceful not to mention the beret’s revolutionary affiliation with the legendary Che Guevara and the Chicano Revolution.

Back to fashion – I remember spotting berets in magazines and prestigious fashion shows, such as Channel’s cruise show in Cuba, but I never thought it was going to become so accessible and trendy. After showering myself with historical knowledge about this fashion piece, I was fully convinced to try them out. I figured that with the right combination I could maybe successfully rock it! Well, you be the judge : ) Let me know how what you guys think; will you give them a try?

Until next time,

Best Cocktails for NYE

Posted on by louis polo

The Holiday/Christmas season is certain my favorite – How predictable - I love the spirit of giving and the sense of family that most of us opt to embrace. I feel very fortunate for being able to spend this special season with my family and dear friends for the past years. Now that things have shifted a little and I’m currently living in Palm Springs, a few thousand miles from my family, I’ve opted to do things a little different.

I don’t know if you can relate, but it seems like all the Christmas/Holiday parties, gathering, or celebrations usually don’t involve any creative cocktails. Wines, some kind of liquor, or eggnog, mostly surround these gatherings. As a host, when I thought of “Cocktails” I immediately associated it with expensive and elaborated drinking, but I’ve come to understand that is really not.

I decided to share a list of my five favorite cocktails for this celebratory season (or any occasion) that require minimum ingredients and easy making process. I tried to include very different drinks, to potentially fulfill your guest’s cocktail preferences.

1. The Hurricane

Ingredients:

1.5 Oz Dark rum
2 Oz Lemon juice
2 Oz orange and passion fruit
Club soda
Crushed ice cubes
Lemon wedges and fresh
cranberries, to decorate

Directions:

Fill an 8 Oz glass with crushed ice.
Shake the rum, lemon juice, and orange and passion fruite juice until well combined and pour into the glass.
Top off with a splash of club soda and garnish with lemon wedges and cranberries

2. La Bodeguita

Ingredients:

1 tsp simple sugar syrup
1.5 Oz Jamaican rum
2 Oz of lemon juice
Club Soda
Crushed ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves to taste, plus extra to decorate
Lemon wedges as garnish

Directions

Put the simple sugar syrup, mint leaves, and lime juice in a small jar and mash the mint leaves with a muddler or spoon.
Add crushed ice cubes and the Jamaican rum,
Top off with a splash of club soda
Dress with mint leaves and lemon wedges

3. Cordless Screwdriver

Ingredients

Juicy orange wedges
Granulated sugar
1.5 Oz chilled vodka

Directions:

Based on the pictures, I would think the making process of this drink is very self-explanatory, but let me breakdown the few steps.

Rub the rim of the shot glasses with an orange wedge, then dip in a saucer of sugar to frost
Pour the chilled vodka into the shot glass
Dip an orange wedge into the sugar
Down the vodka in one gulp and suck on the orange : )

4. Palm Beach Martini

Ingredients:

1.5 Oz white rum
1 Oz of gin
2 Oz Pineapple Juice
Fresh cranberries and lemon wedges to decorate

Directions:

Shake the rum, gin, and pineapple juice vigorously over ice until well frosted
Strain into a chilled martini glass
Complement with cranberries and lemon wedge on the side of the glass

5. Bellini

Ingredients:

Lemon wedge
Granulated sugar
2 Oz peach juice
2.5 Oz Chilled champagne

Directions:

Rub the rim of a chilled champagne flute with the lemon wedge, then dip in a saucer of sugar to frost.
Pour peach juice into the prepared glass
Add the chilled champagne

Now is time to partyyyyyy..!! Remember, DON’T drink and drive. Happy New Year : )

Until next time,

Is All About The Rings

Posted on by louis polo

When it comes to accessories, I feel that rings are often underestimated or not taken under consideration, especially when it comes to men’s fashion. When shopping, I mostly thought of sunglasses, watches, and shoes regarding accessories. I finally decided to step out of comfort zone and try other things besides the two simple rings I owned. I clearly didn’t want to spend a ton of money on rings; I wasn’t looking for anything fancy our expensive, especially because I’m one of those who lose everything!

After browsing online for a few hours I came to the conclusion that asos.com and topman.com are the two popular brands that carry the biggest selection of affordable and stylish rings for men. I was looking for a few statement pieces to complement my accessory squat, and thanks to these two brands, I found it! Of course, if looking for more precious choices, Gucci, Prada, Pandora, and similar brands, carry great selections. After adding a few rings to my cart, I decided to separate my shopping selection into two categories; Statement rings and base rings. I figured this form of categorizing was going to be an effective way of organizing my “shopping list.” I wanted to make sure I was purchasing what I was most likely to wear.

Statement rings are those that have a more artistic approach. Beautiful stones, carving, dry brushing effect, engraved design, etc.

Base rings refer to those finger accessories that are complemented by a simple design. A plain/solid metal band with limited or no design that may come in different sizes, shapes, or dimensions.

Combining these two “types” of rings will help you create a more balance style and will add great character to your looks. When attempting to wear a formal attire, I suggest wearing no more than two rings. You still want to keep the harmony and formality to your clothing pieces. Always think of what kind of event you’ll be attending and be creative! I would love to know how do you style your rings and what are you favorite places to shop. Let’s go! Share your tips 🙂

Until next time,