Ask Spry… Evening Wear For Men???

Hey Spry,

I wanted your advice on what to wear to a fundraiser/fashion show, being held by my church.  It specifies “evening wear”, and as a 30 year old man, I want to look elegant, but with some edge.  I guess it’s apparent that I have no idea what would work to give this effect.  Any suggestions?

-Elegant Edge

Dear Elegant,

First of all, because evening wear is specified, I hope you already know that a (dark) suit is required; and as a 30 year old gentleman, you should already own one!  There was once a time where only black suits were acceptable for evening attire. However, we now have an opportunity to play with different colors (brown, gray, navy, etc.).  Depending on how far outside of the box you want to step, you have a few options.

My first suggestion is for the man that is somewhat conservative.  I encourage  you to try a basic black suit, a black shirt, and skinny black tie. Add a pop of color with a jazzy pocket square.  The bigger your personality, the brighter the square should be. Avoid trying to match, by choosing one with “black” in the pattern(s).  This look will say “I’m classic, yet stylish!”

The second look would be for the guy that wants to express that he understands fashion, and isn’t afraid to show it! Compliment your favorite suit with a colorful tie and pocket square.  However, stay away from matching sets!  Try mixing prints with similar colors.  If you’re baffled, try a solid tie with a print pocket square, or vice versa. 

The last look is for the dude that is up on all the latest trends, and will set the pace for seasons to come! Your dark suit will come in colors like purple or burgundy.  Keep in mind that although you want to stand out, the shades should be very dark. Accent it with a complimenting print or solid button down (depending on your taste).   No pocket square required here, because the suit speaks for itself.

Whatever direction you choose to go, the most important tip to remember is to make sure the suit is tailored to your physique.  This simple step can make an average guy look like he just stepped off of the runway.  Have fun at your gala!

Hello/Good-bye: Fashion Week At Bryant Park… No More!

From A-list celebrities and Industry VIP’s, to volunteers and fashion wanna-bees, NYC Fashion Week was swarming with a variety of the most stylish (and not-so-stylish) dwellers of the “concrete jungle”.  I, of course, was caught up in the middle of it all.  The lines can be infinite, the shows never start on time, the gift bags continue to shrink, and after the first few shows (with some exceptions), fashion literally begins to repeat itself.  Yet, we crave this predictable mayhem like another season of The Real Housewives!  What will stick with me the longest, is a bitter-sweet farewell to over a decade of bi-annual visits to the tents at Bryant Park.

As the runway lights took their final stroll down the catwalk, I felt a bit nostalgic while viewing Tommy Hilfiger’s Fall 2010 collection; for it was this American designer that served me my first taste of 7th on Sixth as a runway model.  Now, when the designers retreat to their workshops to create masterpieces for the next season, workers will begin to deconstruct the temporary establishment at Bryant Park for the last time.  However, closing the doors of the tents opens up new opportunities of joining yet another elite group.  I can now share exclusive stories of how things “used to be”. I also look forward to being a part of the initiation of the new venue.  LINCOLN CENTER, HERE WE COME!!!

Check out highlights from New York Fall 2010 Fashion Week below.

Ask Spry… Bridesmaid’s Dress Stress!

Hey Spry,

I’ve been arguing with my friend about my upcoming wedding next year (it’s not official yet). Anyway, she thinks the bridesmaids have to all wear the same dresses, and I don’t think they should.  Also, I’m thinking sapphire blue and lime apple are okay colors for my wedding.  I need an expert’s opinion, so I’m calling on Spry!

-Can’t Decide

Dear Can’t Decide,

First let me say congratulations on your upcoming marriage.  I’m sure you have lots of decisions to make, including the one about the dresses.  One of the first things that you need to remember is that your wedding is just that…  YOURS!  I’m not encouraging a “Bridezilla” moment, yet it is important that everything from the table settings to the wedding party’s attire, is catered to your liking.  Although I’m sure your friend wants to help, it sounds like her dress selection is more about what she wants, and less about your desires.  She needs to understand that her position is to offer constructive criticism, while supporting your wishes.

Although I’ve never heard of the color “lime apple”, I think I know what you mean (smile).  That, paired with sapphire, sounds really beautiful.  Just be careful with the accessories; that can get tricky. As for the actual design of the dresses, I agree with you.  Matching gowns is a long time marital tradition that needs to be thrown out the window!  Just like “one-size”, one style does NOT fit all!  Having different styles will give your bridesmaids an opportunity to wear one that is most flattering to their body types (and personalities).  Keep in mind, however, that there should be some form of consistency throughout the bridal party.  Whether it’s the length of the dresses or matching sashes, something should tie (pun intended) the ladies together.  Otherwise, it will look like you emailed everyone a color swatch and said “go for it!”; which could only end in disaster!

Whatever you choose, remember that just like a marriage, it’s good to have both similarities and differences.  I’ve realized that those are the ones that work best!  Good luck!

Here are some dos and don’ts  for inspiration.

Spry Gets “Selfish” With Tha Heights!

New comers, Tha Heights, recently tapped into celebrity fashion stylist, Spry Lee Scott, to offer his styling skills for their debut video, “Selfish”.  The singing sensations, made up of four friends from the Washington Heights area, were more than excited to present the finished product to a room full of industry VIP’s/insiders.  Check out the video here, featuring female lyricist, Madison, and a guest appearance by Brooke Jasmyn.  Their music (dubbed Latin Pop & B) is available for purchase on iTunes now.

Check out Spry Lee Scott’s facebook page to check out more photos from the video premiere party.