GuyFinds: Bluefly Appeases Your Male Label Snob

What: Bluefly Launches The Tailor

Why: I’m a total label snob—from shoes and suits to eyewear and underwear. Even my black Lab, Larkin, has a Louis Vuitton dog collar. So when I heard that Bluefly launched The Tailor, an online boutique within their site for men interested in only designer labels, I was hooked. The selection is well curated and only includes dress attire from head to toe, and, like Bluefly, availability of sizes and colors can be limited. There are many terrific deals up to 40 percent off retail prices on current styles. To get you started, here’s a great deal on a versatile, casual blazer by John Varvatos .

Get Yours: Bluefly.com  

Would You Want Your Man Sporting Shapewear?

Generally, we love shapewear. But every shapewear devotee knows that there’s always the risk of that awkward moment when you disrobe to reveal to that special someone that your fantastic cleavage was in fact the work of floppy silicone bra inserts. Still, much as a torso trimmer may make you look like you’re stuffed into a tiny tube sans clothing, the other eighty people who saw you that day will be none the wiser – and probably think that shapely silhouette is the result of a strict kale and pilates regimen.

So, in the name of gender equality, I should not have a problem with this One-Piece Side Trimmer or Padded Butt Boxer Brief.

But I do.

The website claims these products will give you a “sleek, lean silhouette under tight-fitting fashions.” Personally, I’m not too enthusiastic about the idea of my man slinking around in a silk jersey dress that clings to everything. But maybe I shouldn’t be so judgmental. If a guy wants to wear a one-piece tank top and brief combo with a tummy-flattening panel, I suppose he should have that choice. Unless he’s my boyfriend.

What's your take? Would you buy your guy a slimming tank to match your Spanx cami?

For some shapewear options for you, check out our ladies-only Shapewear Guide.

Perfect For Your Guy: An Umbrella That’ll Last A Lifetime (And Not Whack Everyone On The Sidewalk)

Though I'm happy that Spring is here (please, please no more snow!), the season is marked by it's own brand of crappy weather. Namely, pouring rain. I hate rainy days; not just because my hair gets frizzy and I get wet no matter what I do, but because walking down the street means dodging people (usually guys) with huge golf umbrellas that take up the whole sidewalk. When the umbrella extends four feet in every direction, you're taking up too much space!

Still, I completely understand the impulse. As a friend of mine once put it, I do not have the Umbrella Gene that allows me to put a regular-size umbrella over my head and stay dry in any way. I'm content with the snow globe-looking Nubrella, but I don't imagine too many guys being caught dead with that thing. The solution: Davek's Duet.

This amazing device is only 14" long when collapsed, but unfolds to 55" in diameter--a respectable size, though not humongous. There's even enough room for your guy to be chivalrous and share with you as long as you get cozy. When closed, it's small enough to fit in a bag or umbrella pouch, which is almost unheard of for larger umbrellas. It keeps me dry, is easy to keep track of, yet isn't big enough to elicit dirty looks from other people.

Other features include push-button open and close, one-button correction if it ever inverts, and a lifetime guarantee against distortion or breakage. Davek prides themselves on making a nearly indestructible product, perfect for those windy days when all of the elements are against you. If you ever lose it, you're entitled to one replacement at 50% of the retail price.  

If you do happen to have the umbrella gene, check out Davek's Solo model. Just shy of a foot long when closed, it opens up to a comfortable 43" canopy. The handle features a clip for attaching it to your belt or bag.

Find the Davek Duet ($149) and Solo ($100) at Saks.com and buy one for you or your man today. Because inevitably it will rain tomorrow, and the next day.

Guy Friday: Pocket Squares Add Panache

What: Ermenegildo Zegna Geometric Silk Pocket Square, $36

Why: New York Fashion Week recently ended and we noticed a number of designers showing pocket square accents on the models. But this isn’t your grandfather’s boring, dubiously clean snot rag. From mild to wild, the traditional handkerchief has been upgraded—and updated—to the pocket square. It’s another example of the trend back to a more sophisticated look with an emphasis on individual style. We love Ermenegildo Zegna’s pocket square because its geometric pattern is modern, understated, and versatile for several suit colors and tie styles.

Here are a few tips for pairing pocket squares with ties and suits:

•    If wearing an abstract patterned tie with many colors, keep the square simple with two colors (one of which is in the tie) and a subdued, repetitive pattern.
•    With patterned suits, like houndstooth or windowpane, stick with a solid square in a bright color.
•    For patterns, keep the square fresh with stripes, geometric shapes, and tight floral prints (no paisley, please!).
•    And absolutely no tie/pocket square sets—it does not communicate confidence.

Get Yours: saks.com

HeFinds Pick: Revolutionize Your Man With The iPod Nike Sport Kit

GuyFriday: Simple, Versatile “Little Black” Men’s Shirt

What: Solid Black Shirt by Theory, $265

Why: There was a fantastic article in The New York Times, Sunday Styles on February 3rd discussing the trend for men to dress in an understated, more refined style. This sexy, masculine look communicates confidence and cool with little effort. And we couldn’t agree more. To achieve this look, we think every guy should add a straightforward, well-cut black button-down shirt in his wardrobe. The Theory Black Shirt is one my favorites because it’s made with luxurious cotton and a little nylon for stretch, has a slim (not fitted) silhouette, and uses quality stitching and buttons. Dress it up with a suit and tie, or pair it with dark denim and sneakers. Guys will get a lot of use out of this fashion essential. For the casual ensemble, leave the shirt untucked and keep an extra top button undone for a relaxed, cool look.   

Get Yours: barneys.com

News Updates: Hathaway Pairs Up With Lancome, Natalie Portman Gets Shoe Happy, And More

Footwear News Names Tory Burch and Miuccia Prada Fashion Winners

Footwear News recently named Tory Burch its 2007 Brand of the Year for taking her "modest retail concept" to the uber-trendy brand it is today. And why wouldn't they? Tory Burch's signature cross has practically become the symbol of chic – worn proudly by the fashion-elite and celebrities alike. If you've been contemplating buying a pair of Tory Burch flats but are worried about dolling out nearly $200 dollars for a "trend," now is your time to invest—this designer isn't going anywhere.

Neiman Marcus, Shopbop, and Saks Fifth Avenue all have a great selection of Tory Burch shoes, but the popular sizes tend to disappear as quickly as they're stocked, so buy quickly if you'd like a pair before Christmas. We're still in love with the popular Reva flat (especially the metallic version, $195), but we also adore the Uma Embossed boots ($595).

Meanwhile, Miuccia Prada was the recipient of FN's Designer of the Year award. Prada was honored for "push[ing] the footwear envelope" with funky styles that resulted in two blockbuster collections. You can pick up a pair of her fabulous shoes at Saks Fifth Avenue (FN's Retailer of the Year for 2007).

Additionally, Timberland was granted FN's first-ever Green Award for their efforts in the environment including posting a “nutritional label” on all their shoe boxes and their “Reboot” program which allows customers to turn in their worn-out boots to stores. You can purchase a pair, such as these Wodehouse Wing Tip Oxfords ($225) for the fella in your life at Nordstrom.com.