David Chu - Tumi

David Chu has managed to cleverly infuse a new level of sophistication into Tumi's once utilitarian look. Since entering as Executive Creative Director in 2007, he has turned Tumi into something quite, well, elegant. He combines 1920's and 1930's inspired looks with simplistic modern details, totally changing everything that was Tumi. "I wanted to make Tumi more glamorous and have more styles to it" said David Chu. While continuing in this stylish creative direction, Tumi has become a brand to give a second thought to when shopping for luxury luggage. While revamping Tumi, David Chu has also been busy with a new clothing line that mirrors his lifestyle. "I just turned 50", he says. "I travel a lot, I work out, my mind is active-it's a young mind and attitude, an aspirational lifestyle". Both Lincs DC and Bespoke are very different looks from Mr. Chu, but never the less the change is welcome.

At this point in David Chu's career he has little to prove. He has shown that his fashion designs can and will appeal to millions. He now adds Tumi to his list of success. -CK

C.S.K.

TMagazine Online

For those of you who were unable to get your hands on the essential Men's Fall Fashion Issue of T Magazine courtesy of the NY Times, they have fortunately published the whole issue online. Be sure to check out their featured Must Haves for this fall, I have a feeling we will all be wonderfully suited up this season...

- Dapper Kid

Men's Spring 09 Review

HOMME Couture

Men's Spotlight Designer: Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen captures the essence of combining his theatric understanding with his undoubted genious skills in tailing to the world of fashion. In the fashion industry, to be known for your ability to tailor a garment with sharp precision, speaks volumes. Now we all know the fit of a garment is highly important. By far, it's the factor that determines if the garment is correct for you.

With skills learned and a vivid creative direction, Alexander McQueen pushes the limits in fashion. "I get blocked all the time, but I work best under pressure. I can design a collection in a day and I always do" he said. When it comes to the unveiling of his collection, it's safe to expect the unexpected. His provocative yet innovative creations are sure to cause one to think or look outside the box, tastefully.


Mr. McQueen has definitly left his mark on the runway. He has been named British Designer of the year four times. He also was head designer for Givenchy up until 2001. Since his departure from Givenchy, he has now joined the Gucci Group.


www.alexandermcqueen.com

Men's Skin Care

Men skin care has taken a haute turn from the simple shaving cream and aftershave days. Beauty experts expose simple approaches to male grooming and men have come to realize the importance of taking care of their skin. With men becoming more conscious of there appearance, this is a welcome change. Men skin care is necessary just like it is for women. Many similar problems such as rosacea, acne and oil all happen to men. The difference between healthy and unhealthy skin is totally obvious. So men it is imperative that you take care of your skin. How?

Determine skin type:

• Normal
• Oily
• Dry
• Combination
  

After determining skin type products needed are:

• Cleanser
• Toner
• Exfoliate
• Moisturizer

Men don't be afraid to mix different products until you find a combination that keeps your skin feeling clean and clear.

Short for Men, The New Look

Shorts have been around for many years, but this season designers have introducing a tailored short. The tailored short is very different than the normal board short. This 3/4 Mediterranean look screams sophisticated man. On runways around the world, designers are pairing this look with knits and light t-shirts.
The tailored short is a must have for this summer. Remember to keep the color of the shorts simple and the texture light. Paired with a low canvas sneaker or loafer and you can't go wrong. That's haute!

Cologne, A Man's Essential

Cologne is an essential element to all men and should be used in conjunction with your daily hygienic regimen. I'm sure every man, before going out on the town, has applied cologne not knowing that he just sprayed his worst nightmare for everyone to remember. Finding the right cologne can be very simple. It is the scent that's sexy, not cheap, manly, not Brut, and powerful but not pungent. Keep in mind that cologne can be viewed at as an accessory, making the look complete.

Here are some helpful tips to guide your search for the right cologne:

• -Never buy cologne just because it smells good on someone else. Cologne interacts with skin differently depending on the texture. Oily skin tends to interact with cologne causing the scent to because stronger and longer lasting. Dry skin absorbs cologne causing re-application often. Melanin in the skin has an effect on scent. Darker skin tends to make fragrances smell a bit sweeter.




• When smelling cologne for the first time, remember the three scent levels. High is the level of the cologne when first applied, which is the first impression. Waiting 10 to 15 minutes and smell again, the cologne has reached mid level. Low is the most important level in smelling cologne. After one hour, smell the area again, now the scent has absorbed and mixed with your skin. This is when you determine if this cologne is right for you.




• Buy more than one brand of cologne. Just like shoes...you need more then one scent! It’s good to have at the very least, three different types.

Here are some brilliant colognes to help in your search:

Cartier

Dior

Giorgio Armani

Prada

Issey Miyake
Dolce & Gabbana

-Chavo Killingsworth