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For the Boys: How Do You Wear Your Khakis?

by Nana at March 16, 2009, 5:30 PM

We asked six bloggers around the globe to tell us how their countrymen wear their khakis, and we were totally surprised by the inventive visuals we got. In the Philippines, for example, even in the sweltering heat, Filipinos rock a button down shirt and cardigan -- though they are conscious of breathable fabrics, style blogger, Gian Cruz tells us. In Nigeria, on the other hand, bankers double as sartorial 007s, dressing up their khakis for Friday business with a blazer, designer 'murse', Gucci loafers and luxe shades. "[It's] a look that is relaxed but also says 'I'm a professional and can be trusted with your money,'" self-proclaimed "men's fashion & lifestyle afficicionado," Terence Sambo explains. And then there are the Aussies, the Irishmen and the Yanks.

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"Ireland hasn't ever held a reputation as the most fashion-forward nation, but with the significant international influence and a growing national confidence regarding personal style, the situation is most definitely changing. It's so difficult, however, to pin down the epitome of this new Ireland, so I've chosen to refrain from the Aran sweater and check-cap aesthetic, and to reflect the combination of daring eclecticism and respect for tradition that so many Irish men now keep in mind when dressing to impress. Green, our unarguably representative colour is manifest in the this Elie Tahari moleskin blazer and cashmere Ted Baker sweater -- which also serves an example of the Irish race's love of knitwear. The brown colour and aged texture of the John Varvatos tote and double zip boots, and Hermés wallet are representative of the aforementioned respect for tradition. And just to allude to the ol' tri-colour flag, I included the rust-coloured Gucci scarf to add an orange complement to the green and shades of white."
-- Cillian O'Connor | Male-Mode.com

"The best of men's style in Nigeria is on display in central Lagos, which serves as the Wall Street of Nigeria. The guys who work here don't joke with any part of their outfits, as image is everything. It's sunny all year so sunglasses are a must. Most trendy and stylish guys are seeing more ways of exuding their flair through a 'manbag' as opposed to a briefcase, which seem a bit quaint. Although banks have strict dress codes, Friday is casual clothing day and more like a fashion parade as men sheepishly flaunt their latest acquisitions to both friend and foe. Men opt for v-neck tees paired over a sports coat or blazer, and loafers to give a look that is relaxed but also says 'I'm a professional and can be trusted with your money.'"
-- Terence Sambo | http://terencesambowrites.blogspot.com

"Living in a city like Manila that's situated near the equator -- known for humidity and an abundance of sunlight (almost all year round), a rigid sense of basic minimalism is imperative, fondly referred to as "tee shirt and jeans" weather. So, if you're a Filipino fashionisto, to spruce up your laid-back basics it's about having an eye for refined detail as well as opting for pieces that create an impact without being ostentatious. Because of the weather, there also must be a certain consciousness about the materials. Cotton is the most versatile and practical material for dressing up in the tropics, so, in addition to the winning psychedelic and geometric vibe of this purple shirt by Paul Smith, I woud add this cotton argyle cardigan from Marc by Marc Jacobs. For that extra air of refinement, I would wear a classic pair of wing-tips from Dolce & Gabbana. (It would be a good idea to wear these sockless with your chinos cuffed a bit above the ankle.) Finally, a nice vintage-looking portfolio bag from Prada."
- Gian Cruz | http://giancinephile.numeriblog.fr/

New York-based blogger, William Yan says he keeps his look utilitarian and "comfortable," adding, "a nice simple blue tee shirt paired with a single button black blazer over a pair of chinos with a nice stripe belt, a pair of grey sneakers, and a black leather tote to carry around a laptop, magazine and camera."

- William Yan | http://williamyan.com

For Danny Daily, who is from Asia, lives in Europe, and currently attends school in the States, khaki pants are his "secret tool" for balancing function and fashion, and what he often wears when he visits his younger brother who's currently attending Yale. "I start with a sleeveless crewneck t-shirt and boxer brief set from ADAM. (The designer, Adam Lippes is a friend of mine.) Then, a cream butterfly graphic 'Festival' t-shirt from What Comes Around Goes Around and a Michael Kors brown leather topstitched detail logo engraved belt. Both of these pieces have a vintage-edge, but a distinctly modern and architectural presentation. Instead of flip-flops, I go with the mature alternative -- John Varvatos' brown leather 'Perry' sandals. A red canvas 'Sailor' duffel bag from Marc by Marc Jacobs is the perfect weekend bag, large enough for that extra sweater and perfectly compact to toss on the overhead rack of the train."
- Danny Daily | http://deconstructedgarments.com

"With Australia being a warm country with a laid-back attitude, the average Sydney bloke keeps it casual with a relaxed urban feel. To get this look, hold up your chinos with this casual canvas belt by Cole Haan, and put on this purple striped Marc by Marc Jacobs cotton jersey polo for a contemporary look. Throw on a pair of sandals (or 'thongs' as we say in Oz), we like the tan leather John Varvatos sandals because of their slightly sophisticated style. Bring all necessary gear in a matching canvas messenger bag. Last, but not least, at any time of the year, never leave the house without bringing a pair of 'sunnies' with you. We love a sleek pair of metal trim aviator sunglasses which give the whole look an extra edge and help enhance the purple polo among the neutral colours. Cheers, mate!"

www.mecho.com.au | the style black book

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