Nicole: Swagger 360

Showing posts with label Swagger 360. Show all posts

There is nothing sexier than when I see a well dresses man and even more sexy when I can tell he didn't try too hard. Pretty dapper himself, Guerre of Swagger 360, has been able to spot, photograph and share portraits of everyday gents and ladies with refined style. Guerre will be kicking off W New York - Times Square's 2011 Street Style Photography series on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011 (7-9 PM). You must RSVP to attend.

This January, W New York - Times Square Will Feature:
“Gentlemen of Nonchalant Elegance & Effortless Style”
By Guerre of Swagger 360

W Happenings presents the January installment of our street style photography series with the work of photographer, Guerre. Sponsored by Kannon Vodka and debuting with a launch party on Tuesday, January 11, 2011, the series’ fifth exhibit, “Gentlemen of Nonchalant Elegance & Effortless Style” displays the lively yet refined style and sartorial elegance of the modern dandy, as featured on Guerre’s site Swagger 360. Known for his stunning portraits of characters with unique and arresting style, Guerre’s exhibit at W New York – Times Square will feature the bold colors, perfect tailoring, and scrupulous style of stylish men from around the world.

WHERE:

W New York – Times Square
The Living Room – 7th Floor
1567 Broadway at 47th Street

WHEN:

RSVP Only Cocktail Party & Kick-Off Event: Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011 (7-9 PM)
Exhibit Open to the Public: Jan. 12, 2011 through Jan. 31, 2011

TO RSVP:

W New York - Times Square

This is the last installment for now. I'm anxiously awaiting Guerre's next list.

7 Deadly Sins.

... well o.k. they may not be deadly sins, but when it comes to style... they should be considered sins.

1. Wearing a suit with no pocket square.
Now, while many may consider this a minor infraction, I think that not wearing a pocket square is an insult to a suit. Take time out and notice how that little addition works wonders, and how the lack of one leaves a suit screaming for more. I firmly believe every man should sport a pocket square (with suit), and the safest bet is a plain white one. Folding a pocket square (link courtesy of Sam Hober Custom Made Neckties)

2. Ill fitting anything.
This includes suits, jeans, shirts, and tees. One thing I have come to understand is that regardless to the cost, if the fit is not right - the look won't be right. It's better to wear something inexpensive that fits correctly, than something expensive that fits wrong. Wrong fit trumps bad quality.

3. Bad hygiene.
Putting a dress on a pig, wont make it a princess. Clean up before you 'dress up'. Now you may think this doesn't need to be stated, however ride the New York Subway or Paris Metro on a hot day, and you'll understand the importance of stressing this point.

4. Worn out shoes.
This may seem minor, but when it comes to style, nothing is minor (including this). A sharp dressed man, makes sure his shoes are well kept, and polished. Investing in a good pair of shoes is key, when the sole wears down, all you need to do is have them resoled. Add taps if they tend to wear quickly.

5. The look killers.
- A Tie that's too long - it draws the attention downward.
- Head phones wires - Gives off a messy look.
- Stuffed pockets - breaks the smooth lines in the clothing.
- Baseball cap / do rag and a suit - defeats the point of a suit.
- Cell phone on belt clip - unless you're working in the fields it looks too High School cool.

6. Ring tones.
I never understood the point of Ring tones (for anyone over 28). Hopefully someone can explain to me it's point, while letting me know why the vibrate function doesn't suffice.

7. Not knowing what works for you.
This is a hard one, but it's about being honest with yourself. Style is about expression of self, thus it should reflect your personality. The key is to know what works for you, and compliments your body - not what makes it reveal your short comings. Certain colors work best with certain people, and certain styles fit certain body types more so than others. If you like it, but it doesn't work for you -leave it alone, and like it on someone else. Once you've truly found your style, it will reveal itself in your Swagger.

Courtesy of Guerre

This list has to be one of my favorites.

The making of a gentleman.
How could I not help start your week with another list. Thus far I posted 36 Things every man should do before dying, and , 10 +1 Things to do/have (for the ladies) well today, it's about "The making of a gentleman".

Before we begin, let me say that the term gentleman has been overly used, misrepresented, misunderstood - I will not go to in depth on the subject at this time (that's a whole other book), however, I will state that if he/you are unable to check off most of the things on this list...hmmm...

1. On giving up the seat. Gentleman give up their seat to the elder and young children... not to the good looking lady, just because she's good looking (otherwise, you might as well never sit. Giving up the seat every time and for everyone doesn't make you a gentleman, it just makes you the guy with sore feet.)

2. On looking at women. A real gentleman doesn't look back after she passes. Look and learn to work your peripheral... but once she's out of your peripheral, let thoughts of her be out your mind.

3. On gossip. End it where it begins... if someone starts going down that path, interrupt and ask if what they are going to say will benefit either themselves, the person they are talking about, or yourself... if they say no, ask them what's the point.

4. On the quality of life. Gentlemen do not impose themselves on others, this means their music remains moderate, their boxers stay hidden, their hygiene unoffensive, and language appropriate

5. On greeting women. Now this is a tough one that I've been trying to master myself. Gentlemen should not be the first to approach a woman or even greet them. A woman should say hello first then he proceeds. On approaching a woman, the chap should only do so if she gives him an opening (i.e. a smile, eye contact).

6. On the shoes. Shoes must always be polished. Make sure those slanted heels are replaced and taps are added to them. Nothing kills a look more than a sharp dressed man with dirty or worn shoes.

7. On living life. A gentleman has an appreciation for life, he lives it fully understanding that everyday he has the opportunity to improve the world around him. He lives life with passion without caring to be a role model, but living consciously by example.

8. On penmanship. Learn to write and I don't mean just print.

9. On too much. Never be excessive - it's vulgar.

10. Understand elegance. Elegance is an attitude, It's about how you live both in the public eye and in the privacy of your home. Money doesn't buy elegance, it can only purchase items.

11. On making a person smile. This is one of the hidden gems of a gentleman. this is where the gent need not say a word, but simply senses the right time and acts on it without any motives other than simply nurturing or creating a smile. When that lady walks by and looks - smile and simply acknowledge her glance without a word or skipping a step... watch her light up. Even that chap you see who you know took time to present himself to the world...Acknowledge it with a simple nod of the head without skipping a beat. The 'little' things are never little.

12. On SMS. For starters, let's understand one thing - SMS stands for short message service. So, no conversations via text messages! Conversations should be had in person, CAPS somehow just don't express emotions as they should be expressed.

Courtesy of Guerre

The No No List. I agree with every single point on this list!

Many of you may have made your New Years resolutions months ago, and may have no intentions on adding another list to your already hectic day. So, instead of things to do, get, have, I decided to simplify things... A list of No No's.

1. The cheap stuff. The economy is supposedly still bad, and it may be obscene to over indulge (over spend), but this is certainly no excuse for the cheap stuff. Look to invest in quality, and look at it as a long term investment. During those summer months, remember that the cheap linen only looks good up until you pass your front door. Poor quality in general shows after minimal wear, in the case of shoes, quality shoes can be resoled and last a lifetime. Discover the art of thrift shopping and even ebay (you'll find great quality at astonishing prices).

2. Flip Flops in the big city. Although they may look 'cute', the city dirt on your heels isn't. The other problem with flip flops is that you run the risk of having someone step on the back of them... crowded space don't make for leisurely walks. (ladies - clogs are great for summer and work with a summer dress. Gents - no socks and the right shoes/ athletic footwear can work. Just make sure you let your shoes air out afterwards).

3. UGGS. For those who know me, UGGS are UGLY. Unless you're under 21, I firmly believe that UGGS are a NO NO (especially in summer). I have yet to catch an person in UGGS that I would photograph.

4. Sunglasses after dark. Do I really need to elaborate?! If you're not performing on stage (as a singer) think twice about it... Actually don't think about it - just don't do it!

5. iPods and a suit (or elegantly dressed). Without realizing it, those white wires kill the look. The point of being well dressed is to maintain a level of neatness, the wires only give a messy effect.

6. Overstuffed pockets. This is an eye sore. When it fits just right and there's a bulge (in the wrong places) it no longer fits well. (Gents - an everyday bag solves that simple dilemma. Ladies, no excuses, you should know better than put anything in the pockets of those tight jeans).

7. Tube socks and a suit. I shouldn't have to say this but... I have to! There is absolutely no way you should wear tube socks with anything other than sneakers/tennis shoes.

8. Baseball cap and a suit. Unless you go to an Ivy league university, don't do it... and if you do go to an Ivy league university, only do it on their campus.

9. Overdose on Make-up. Ladies, with the weather changing, consider going a little easy on the make up. The point is no longer to look "made up", but instead, as natural as possible (with a little help).

10. Clip on bow ties. This is a Gentleman's faux pas... actually, real gentlemen don't even do clip ons. Part of the beauty of a bow tie is the imperfection of tying one, the time and effort invested and satisfaction afterwards.

11. E-books. Now I'd like to consider myself a man in the know and also a gadget kind of guy... however, E-books just don't cut it. Yes, it saves space (as opposed to a hard cover), but nothing compares to the smell of an old book... and books make for a better looking library filler than 1 e-book with a hundred titles.

12. Eating on public transportation. Make the world a better place, keep your crumbs to yourself.

13. Your child being your best friend. Your child should not be your best friend....ever. You may be theirs at some point, but it should not be the other way around. There's something wrong with parents who dress like their children, act like their children, live like their children. Although there is a closeness, their is also the separation. Let a child be a child, and let them act like children be mindful that childhood is precious, and let them enjoy it as long as possible.

Courtesy of Guerre

I like this list a lot. #2, #4, #7, #9 and #11 are my favs.

My last list was the list of 36 Things every Man should do before dying.

Well, today the list is much shorter, and since the previous list covered plenty for both sexes, I didn't want to be redundant. I however still wanted to create a short list for the ladies who sent me e-mails on the subject.

11 Must haves and things to do +1

1. The black dress. Own a black dress, not a scandalous or extra tight dress, but the perfect black dress that compliments your features and assets without being too revealing. Part of the charm in the black dress is its perfection in simplicity

2. The Heels. Now I've seen some outrages priced heels, and I'm certainly not one who believes in spending beyond your means, but ladies... investing in at least one pair of BEAUTIFUL heels is a must. This is not something to be worn everyday, but when you put them on it will have a magical effect on (you and) those in the know.

3. Sunglasses. For those who do sunglasses (which should be everyone), METAL FRAMES are not for the winter. Metal will attract the cold and no matter how cool your wire (aviator) Ray Bans look, they're not worth the cold against your face. Plastic frames are best for the winter... plastic (if you do Cartier, wood) frames are the only option for winter.

4. The Walk. Do not believe that walking consist of simply putting one foot in front of the other. Learn to infuse personality into your walk (that doesn't mean hopping and skipping everywhere) it simply means be conscious that you are more than simply bones and muscle, walk with attitude. (Good posture is a must. Stand tall, breath in deep, be proud at all times)

5. The Coat. A well fitting coat is KEY. A coat is not just something you throw on to keep warm, it's an extra layer of expression.

6. Read 'Confessions of the Greatest Lover' yes, it's my work... no, I wont overly promote it... I'll let you be the judge.

7. The Summer dress. This is the true test of style, when less says more. Less as in less bells and whistles - a summer dress, open toe sandals and simple details. Give the tight jeans and tights/leggings a well deserved break.

8. A good book. Take time out to read a great book this summer that inspires you.

9. A get-together with your male friends. Enjoy being the only woman there, sit back and enjoy the study group.

10. A Photo Shoot. Grab an outfit or two that you really enjoy and set up a photo shoot. Be it alone or with a few friends, make it a point to capture the moment.

11. The Function. Make it a point to try to go to 1 function a month where you have to dress up. Mind you when I say dress up and function, I'm not talking about the club. Try an opera, a play, a charity event, the point is to live what most only fantasize about.

12. The List. Take a look at the list of 36 Things every man should do before dying then make up your own list.

Courtesy of Guerre

There are a few blogs that I visit daily and Guerre's (Gear) Swagger 360 is one of them. His street style blog gives me hope that there are still people with STYLE out there.

Over the next couple of days I'm going to share some of his posts from his Commentary and Notes section of his blog where he shares his opinions, dos and don'ts and tips with his readers. I'm sharing with you because I find his perspective interesting and sometimes funny.

Food for thought, take what you like; and like he said "start your own list."

Who is he?
Hopefully a product and the sum of all my work. I've always said the message is more important than the messenger, and that my work should speak for itself. I will say that I am a chap who works daily on being a gentleman and a modern day renaissance man. I have been labeled by my peers as a Writer, Poet, Photographer, and Film Director.

Swagger 360's List of 36 THINGS EVERY MAN SHOULD DO.

You have become accustomed to seeing the images on the site, but should also expect to read some gems from time to time. Recently I came across an Australian Magazine (Men's Style) and their list of 69 must do things... So out of inspiration I wrote my list before reading theirs ... only to find that great minds think alike on many things)

I present to you 36 things every gentleman should do before dying. Of course this is not etched in stone (or in any particular order) and you may decide some don't apply... the point is to create your list at some point and do your best to live it.

Because Street Style should never be just about street photos... Live with Swagger.

1. Travel to Paris, and New York.
These cities have a certain mystic about them... it's well deserved. Plan to visit one (preferably both) and be sure to experience what makes those cities unique. Side note - Real gentlemen don't do tour buses.

2. Master the omelet.
This is one of those things every man should learn. know how to create an omelet and know how to find those hidden and forgotten items in your refrigerator. Nothing goes better with that good morning kiss than that good morning breakfast.

3. Travel to a third world country.
Nothing will ground and humble you more than this experience. walk down a third world street and take a moment to reflect on what's important in your life.

4. Get a manicure.
A real manicure and afterwards, might as well cater to your shoes - get an old fashion shoe shine outside while people watching.

5. Throw a real party.
I mean prepare every detail. from rolling the sliced turkey, to mixing the olives, to slicing the french bread, to lighting the candles. Select the right music,, chill the white and let breath the red wine. Throw a white table cloth on the table and invite the big boys.

6. Write a love letter.
A high school note doesn't count. Take time to write a real love letter to someone deservant. No e-mail, no text, a hand written love letter that speaks from the soul. (keep a copy for yourself, you'll be glad that you did in the future)

7. Establish a reputation
A gentleman, a scoundrel, a dandy, a lazy bum. People will perceive you a certain way and there is power in perception. Hopefully you'll choose to present yourself in a favorable way.

8. Give something away just because.
One day when someone tells you they like something you have, just give it to them as a gift. it may be a book you're reading, your watch, your pen, the point is to simply give away something simply because the person complimented you on it or because they noticed it.

9. Fast for 3 days.
Not a juice fast where you fill your belly with sweet stuff, go 3 days only consuming water. Take time to reflect on yourself, your life, and literally let the inner you relax.

10. Give up something you enjoy.
Practice self control and decide to simply give up something you enjoy. be it soda, a certain type of meat, candy, a tv show. The point is to practice self control, you'll be fine... even a bit stronger.

11. Buy an Antique.
Take a day and search through an antique shop. Find a piece that you enjoy and add it to your home. Find a piece that adds character to your home and you'll find it may become one of your favorite things at home.

12. Repair a piece of furniture.
Now I don't mean go build you an elaborate cabinet with hidden compartments, or putting together an piece from Ikea. Take the time to strip down a table, buff it, refinish it. No need to make it a habit, but at least experience it once.

13. Play chess.
If you don't know how, learn... if you already know how, play it more often. Chess is for the big boys, gentlemen don't play checkers.

14. Have a suit tailor made.
Pick out the material, discuss the process with your tailor, enjoy he measuring process. While everyone can't afford a bespoke suit, this is one of life's guilty pleasures you should make a point on experiencing.

15. Give away a keep sake.
Find an item, hold on to it for a while (maybe a coin, a token, a lucky pebble, a money clip) then give it to a friend after you've had it for a while.

16. Write a book.
Now everyone may not be able to do this, but everyone should at least try. Take time to document something worth documenting.

17. Have a hobby.
Every gentleman should have at least 1 hobby. be it card collecting, stamp collecting, pens, or watches. Nothing gives you as much peace of mind as sitting home relaxing looking over what you've taken time to gather.

18. Spend a quiet evening ALONE.
Cheese, wine and candlelight or a cold beer and pizza - learn to enjoy your own company.

19. Vacation alone.
This one needs no explanation... ALONE.

20. Have a wall full of photos.
Select a section on your wall and frame photos of close friends, family and loved ones in general. A picture paints a thousand words... a wall full of photos speaks volumes of love.

21. Stay up all night working.
I'm not talking about working the graveyard shift. Spend all night working on something you enjoy, something you're passionate about. Then, look out the window at day break before you go to bed.

22. Bid at an auction.
Don't just bid, WIN. it may be an item you may not cherish forever, the point is the thrill of the win.

23. Strike up a conversation with someone you're not attracted to.
Take the time to strike up a conversation with a woman on the merits of simply making her smile. Not because you think she's beautiful, but simply because making a stranger smile is a beautiful thing.

24. Celebrate your birthday.
Celebrate your birthday by giving something back to the world. It has allowed you to see another year, why not give back... write a book, a poem, make it about what you give, not what you get.

25. Buy a painting.
No litho, no generic painting, save up some money and buy an original.

26. Prepare a picnic.
Plan it, surprise her, and enjoy it.

27. Custom make a piece of jewelry.
Although you may think it may be too expensive, you'd be surprised. Design a piece and bring it to a jeweler. It'll have a special meaning and will be one of a kind ... like you.

28. Write yourself a note.
Write about the temperature, how you feel that day, your thoughts on love, life and in general. Date it and tuck it away Come back to it a few years later (if you remember where you hid it) and reread it.

29. Dance the Waltz.
At least (try it) once. You'll be surprised.... and the electric slide!

30. Write a thank you note.
Write a note to a close friend, a family member simply because. Let them know what role they played in your life.

31. A Kodak moment.
Capture a special event on film. Time surely flies, but memories have a way of lingering when captured.

32. Buy an Item with the intentions of giving it away.
Save it for someone much younger and give it to them when they can appreciate it.

33. Volunteer for a good cause.
Invest one day in something you always wanted to support. giving back is golden.

34. Buy an elderly person lunch.
One day while you're buying yourself lunch, just turn around and offer... no, insist on paying for the elderly person's lunch behind you.

35. See an opera, and/or play.
Dress the part.

36. Live with Swagger.

Courtesy of Guerre

Nicole

The making of a gentleman.

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