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ICE STYLE.....2017 NHK Trophy Grand Prix of Japan FIGURE SKATING COSTUMES: MEN

Sequined Swan Boy: Adam Rippon of USA during his Free Skate at 2017 NHK Trophy Grand Prix of Japan, Osaka Japan

Top Three: (L to R) Adam Rippon of USA (Silver medalist), Russia's Sergei Voronov (Gold), and Israel's Alexei Bychenko (Bronze)--2017 NHK Trophy, Osaka Japan

In my last 2017 NHK Trophy ICE STYLE post HERE, I discussed the LADIES COSTUMES highlights (and Mirai Nagasu's costume change!), so now, it's time to talk about the MEN and their costumes and how much I LOVED Adam Rippon's new Free Skate look...But, let's start with Israel's boy, Alexei Bychenko:

Alexei Bychenko of Israel: To his Short Program for this Olympic Season, Alexei went full-on "Israeli Proud" with Hava Nagila (Jewish Folk Song). His costume for this staple song at Jewish weddings and bar/bat mitzvah celebrations involved black pants, a loose/un-tucked white shirt and a beige unbuttoned vest. It's a look that works for the music but I wish it was just a teeny bit more interesting.

Free Skate to Pagliacci by Ruggero Leoncavallo--For his Free Skate, Alexei continued the black/white/beige color theme he started with his Short Program. This costume for "Pagliacci" looked more appropriate for "Hava Nagila" and I wish he would have worn this! (it was a more "fancier" look). Well, at least he didn't go full-on Pagliacci clown:

Deniss Vasiljevs of Latvia: For his Short Program to Recondita Armonia by Giacomo Puccini, Deniss went Period costume, staying slightly to the "Tosca" costume script, which takes place in the early 1800s, during the "Regency Fashion Era". He wore black pants, black brocade vest with gray back, and a ruffled-and-lace men's blouse with fluffy necktie. I liked this look and especially, keeping the interest up top with the blouson sleeves and that nice jeweled pin.

Free Skate to Put the Blame On Mame by Doctor 3, Anyone to Love and Sway by Michael Buble--For his Free Skate, Deniss went for a "Lead Singer of a Band"-look with his shimmering costume. The look had tuxedo-like pants, dark open neck shirt and a bi-colored jacket featuring one gold side as well as a blue one. This was a "costume" that I could totally see Michael Buble wear in one of his concerts so it seems appropriate that this was Deniss' choice.

Dmitry Aliev of Russia: Short Program to Masquerade Waltz by Aram Khatchaturian. I loved this costume worn by Russia's Dmitry Aliev of Russia for his Short Program. The "Admiral"-like costume featured a red/maroon colored double-breasted snug-fitting stretch jacket, gorgeous collar and cuffs with sequined appliques and those great frilly epaulets. With the accompaniment of the sweeping music and this costume, I was almost transported to a fabulous ball in Imperialist Russia.

Hiroaki Sato of Japan: For his Short Program to Terre-Merre (from "Totem" - Cirque du Soleil) by Guy Dubuc and Marc Lessard, Japan's Hiroaki Sato wore this above. If I hadn't known that the music was from "cirque du Soleil", I would have probably commented and said that his costume looked VERY "Cirque du Soleil" so....I guess, he was perfect! The striking turquoise and violet colors juxtaposed with the peacock feather-like details gave an air of a flora and fauna creature sliding through the ice as if it were a magical lake.

Sergei Voronov of Russia: Sergei skated his Short Program to Adios Nonino by Astor Piazzolla. This is a Tango and therefore, I assume Sergei was going for a "Modern Tango" look with his red and black costume. The top was a bit odd with the different panels and I was especially confused about the nude-like ones. Was this supposed to be skin-colored illusion? And if so, why the odd placements in the midriff and neck area? he looked a little more "Tron" than Tango.

Free Skate to Sarabande Suite--This all-black look was a little better than his Short program costume--only because it looked sleeker and less like a just-out-of-fashion-school student designed it. I wished those "straps" on the shirt might have been studded in black Swarovski crystals and I'm not a fan of the gloves but...at least he DID NOT wear that tacky "Ross Dress For Less" 90s belt a lot of these male figure skaters cannot let go of! So, I am happy for the small things.

Jason Brown: I discussed Jason Brown in my 2017 Skate Canada International costumes blog HERE but if I am not mistaken, I think Jason (kind of) changed his costume...kind of! For his Free Skate to Inner Love by Maxime Rodriguez at 2017 NHK Trophy, he wore this beautiful stretch velvet blue dégradé top with silver sequined accents. For the pants, he donned dark indigo-colored stretch velvet pants. So...what was different? ....

Above was what he wore at his previous Grand Prix this season--at 2017 Skate Canada International--notice the pants; they MATCH the royal blue of his top. But in the new look, they're not matching so...I guess it's kind of a costume change. Which one do you guys like better? Darker or Matching Pants?

Adam Rippon of USA: Adam wore this "Rock & Roll" Flashy look above for his Short Program to Let Me Think About It (Eddie Thoneick Remix) performed by Ida Carr feat. Fedde Le Grand. I LOVED IT! Adam has been on a costume roll wearing SUPER TIGHT sexy tops with plunging necklines and see-through fabrications, and I am a big fan! A) Adam is like FAT FREE and lean as a toothpick so...he can do it! And B) It's refreshing to see something that is fun, flashy and NOT an all black boring look straight out of a department store. I really like the faux leather panels and the rhinestones accenting the top. Throw in that center front zipper and sheer stretch chiffon and Adam is ready to hit the dance floor! All that's missing is a FAB disco ball.

Free Skate to Arrival of the Birds ("Crimson Wing" soundtrack) by The Cinematic Orchestra

O by Coldplay--This is the same program music from last season but Thank Goodness, it was a different costume. Not that I didn't like last season's costume but THIS WAS GORGEOUS! The look--designed by Veretto Sport and designer Braden Overett--included blue skin tight pants and a second-skin sequined top. That top was OUTSTANDING--like Figure Skating Haute Couture! There were hints of the sky and bird's wings (to go along with the music) but not so overtly like last season's feathered costume.

In case you are wondering, this is what he wore last season to the same program/music:

**UP NEXT: The PAIRS & ICE DANCE COSTUMES highlights from 2017 NHK Trophy!

And don't forget about my PAGEANT COLORING BOOK!! Enjoy making your very own Pageant Evening Gown Contest via my coloring book! Click the photo to purchase on Amazon.com NOW!

RECAP - MELBOURNE FASHION WEEK

Melbourne Fashion Week took over the footpath of Swanston Street for its annual week long offering that launches the beginning of Spring and Summer and the social season in which Melbourne comes alive.

Suit: Jack London

Shirt: Department 5

Socks: Gucci

Shoes: Ben Sherman

Bag: No Name

Sunglasses: Arockonalens

The fashion obsessed flowed into the Melbourne Town Hall to view the latest offerings from both designers and retailers with their glasses of champers in hand. It is always a great environment to catch up with your fellow stylish friends, see familiar faces behind a camera and meet new and exciting people that your normally only communicate with through your instagram feed. The MFW Bar meant serious business inside with its set up and exhibition space, which unfortunately did not flow outside to the claustrophobic outdoor area on the footpath either side of the entrance.

Courtesy: Mamamia

For dedicated fashion addicts there were a handful of people on the street that peaked my interest. Hoards of bloggers, influencers and wannabes presented their best offerings for the camera's as they circled the block. As you know the louder and more individual you are in your clothes, the more likely you are to peak the interest of the papz and be snapped. In this case I felt like I was stuck inside a photo shoot for a menswear suit catalog. After a week of viewing the street styles I was left with the impression that Australian menswear fashion is still relatively conservative, with not much evolution between seasons or even years. Thankfully there were standouts from the ladies who bought their A game to the footpath injecting understated chicness and colourful combinations whilst braving the chilly nights.

Shirt & Blazer: James Harper

Pants: Department 5

Shoes: Lacoste

Bag: Doucals

Sunglasses: Gucci

Trends that dominated the footpath outside the shows:

Street Luxe - The number one dominating trend was the mixing of streetwear with high fashion. Of course all black ensembles were everywhere, and the opposite. All white was also present like a flock of seagulls searching for a potato chip.

Florals - As Miranda Priestly so eloquently put it, florals for Spring. Groundbreaking. Let's move on.

Belts - Belts were everywhere. Some good, some bad and some that I will be happy to never see again. If I see one more GG gold belt I think I will scream as it has replaced the tiresome YSL tassel bag that every woman has been renting for the last year.

Men in Suts - When it comes to men's suits there were some stylish accessories to set off the slim tailored fits that were on display. Plenty of pocket squares and lapel pins which showed individuality of the wearer. There were minimal pleated trousers which have been huge in Europe for the last two years and plenty of loafers with no socks. Special shout out to the gents who took the stuffiness out of menswear and wore something a little different and didn't play it safe. Bravo.

Pretty Ugly Shoes - Delighted to see so many wonderful shoes with different hardware and embellishments in a variety of styles both on men and women. Thigh high leather tan boots on women with chunky heels were a regular staple. The elaborate shoes would not normally be considered pretty but the vulgarity and opulence was beautiful and refreshing to see in Melbourne. ADORE!

Fur - Fur accessories adorned everything from earrings to bags and shoes. Poor little critters will live on for seasons to come after being dyed in fabulous colours providing a lux

vibe to ensembles.

Men's street style Melbourne Fashion Week

Blazer & Coat: Oxford

Shirt, Tie, Pocket Squares & Shorts: James Harper

Sweater: Ted Baker

Socks: Gucci

Most of the shows were exactly as I feared, producing safe visions of well groomed and pruned ensembles ready for the horse racing season in a few months. The flare for dramatics or igniting a point of difference was eliminated by many big designers that played it safe and delivering much of what they have for the previous seasons. However there were a few examples of inspiration and creativity that will be burned in my mind for a while. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram for updates

Garage Runway - As much as I enjoy a good summer dress, there was a lot of black and muted tones or uninspiring patterns that were constantly reused. I understand ethical fashion and the need to be wise with materials, but without variety comes boredom. I have seen so many dresses inspired by Queen B's baseball bat twirling dress to last me a lifetime.

Menswear Garage - Alike the aforementioned it was held in the basement of the Melbourne Town Hall, the likes of Amxander, Jack London, Autonomy, Chris Ran Lin and Dom Bagnato sent styles down the runway that unfortunately did not peak my interest. Following European trends with oversized bumbags across the chest and numerous patterned materials that were reused for different pieces, there were a few nice pieces but nothing that made me gasp. The overall vibe of the show was trying to be edgy with the model selection, music, skateboards and styling, that it all felt the same. I left a little deflated after this showing.

David Jones - The creative styling team behind the show should be commended for creating safe ensembles that would peak the interest of suburban housewives and gents who require a suit for the races. A huge retailer like David Jones do know their target audience very well and this showcased their knowledge of their consumer, right down to the YSL heels or The Kingsman inspired gentlemen that will soon appear on movie screens.

Premium Runway Four - Finally an injection of what fashion means to me. There were opulent embellishments, tassels, fabric choices, voluminous sleeves and dramatics in the styling including a little homage to good old Formation film clip. The line up of deisgners meshed well together although once again there was a little too much black on the catwalk for my liking, but it is Melbourne after all and black sells.

Premium Runway - Closing - The saying "Leave the best to last" was true of closing night of the festival with some inspirational displays sent down the ice melting runway. In a week that started off rather underwhelming it was good to wrap the festival up on a positive note with some of Australia’s most popular labels such as Romance Was Born, solid stand out for me.

After a few seasons not attending what was Melbourne Spring Fashion Week and rebranded MFW, it was pleasant to see new ideas influence the program and inject some much needed innovation into the festival. Melbourne has serious pride in it's events and the team behind Melbourne Fashion Week should be commended for staying current and on trend whilst producing a solid program. A huge shout out to the volunteers who spent 12 hour days holding the festival together. Round of applause.

I believe that some of the designers need to lift their game if they wish to retain current supporters of their brands, or attract new customers. By the end of the week photographers were not on the streets, media pit at the end of the runway appeared a little thin and there were many empty seats in the town hall creating an underwhelming atmosphere. With Melbourne Fashion Festival receiving an injection of funding from the State Government recently it will be interesting to see if the fashion capital is big enough for both Fashion Week and Fashion Festival. Let the catwalk battles begin.

How To Wear Sneakers Fashionably - Tips For Men & Women

Every morning when you wake up and get ready for the day, that looming decision of what to wear hits you. What you decide on can make the difference in how you feel when you finally step out for the day. However, there are some sneakers that can work with anything from sweats, to denim, to leather -

Your sneakers are meant for more than just the gym. Though they got their start as flimsy “plimsolls” meant for working-class holidaymakers and purpose-built footwear designed for athletes, sneakers have become a staple in a every man’s (and woman’s, for that matter) wardrobe. Now your sneakers can be a fashion statement as well as workout gear – maybe even both at the same time.

Basics Sneaker Rules

No matter what kind of sneakers you settle on, there are a few basic principles for how to wear sneakers you should abide by. Always:

    Buy sneakers that suit your current wardrobe: What good does it do to buy the latest style if it doesn’t suit your style? Don’t hop on the trend train just because it’s passing through. Choose shoes that complement what you already have, not shoes that require you to repurchase your entire wardrobe.
    Wear them to the right occasions (don’t go too casual): Sneakers are incredibly versatile, but they’re no substitute for dress shoes. You can get away with sneakers with any off-duty outfit – and perhaps even some casual, unstructured suits – but they’re not meant for every occasion. Err on the side of overdressed rather than underdressed.
    Keep them clean: It doesn’t matter how cool your sneakers are, the effect will be lost if they’re not spick-and-span. Proper sneaker maintenance includes washing the laces, eliminating odours, brushing the outsoles, and using shoe trees and sneaker shields.

Knowing Your Sneakers / Trainer Types

Sneakers come in many shapes and sizes these days. From the very basic to the brightest leather, from the minimal to the metal fastenings, there are few rules when it comes to your trainers. With so many options available, it can be hard knowing exactly what’s what and even harder to know what’s most likely to suit your wardrobe and taste.

    Basic Sneakers – These are your Converse, Vans, etc., types. Sometimes they come in leather, but they’re typically found in canvas and in basic colours. On the whole they’re generally affordable and easy to wear / clean.
    Refined Luxury Sneakers – They might bear a resemblance to the basic sneakers, but they’re more expensive and often made from suede or leather by brands like Tom Ford, Lanvin & Saint Laurent. These are not something you take to a music festival.
    Classic Sports Sneakers – Think Nike Air Max 90, Reebok Pump, Asics, Tiger and other forms of old school sport greatness. What was once ready for the track and field is now kept safely in a shoe collection at home.
    Current Sport Sneakers – Again, these are your Nike, Adidas and Puma brands, but with modern styling and shapes.
    High-fashion Sneakers – These are the work of brands like Givenchy, Christian Louboutin, Maison Martin Margiela, Diemme and even Giuseppe Zanotti. They’re loud and designed to be noticed.
    High Tech – This special group may not be universally recognised yet, but I hear by dub it “High Tech.” This is the category for the likes of Rick Owens and other designers who are really pushing the limits of sneaker design.

What You Need To Know To Get The Best Look

The Basic ClassicsCons, Chucks, canvas kicks… whatever you call them, the basic sneaker is the most versatile casual sneaker you can buy. They work well with denim, chinos and shorts of pretty much any colour and shade. Where I find guys sometimes get a little unstuck with these types of sneakers is when they wear them to smart casual events or to work when a dress shoe is required. The basic sneaker DOES NOT work for every occasion and should be kept solely for casual situations. Your best bet on top is to run with print t-shirts, gingham shirts or even a blazer for the college professor look.

    Mix with relaxed, slim & skinny denim and chinos
    Keep for casual/street occasions only
    Maintain to ensure they stay clean and respectable
    Best suited to younger men

Refined Luxury Sneakers
My personal favourite is the luxury take on the basic sneaker. These beautiful specimens have allowed sneakers to jump from street casual to smart casual without looking like they belong on a teenage boy. They can be worn with tailored trousers, slim denim, chinos and in some cases even casual unstructured suiting. I tend to avoid wearing them with shorts, as these sneakers are quite often bulky in comparison to the basic canvas sneakers. Keep it refined on top to match the shoe. Basic t-shirts, smart shirts and polos are all great options. For a more distinct look, opt for a shirt with a slim or knit tie, a blazer and some slim denim.

    Dress up, not down
    Start with black, then purchase other colours
    Take extra care with suede and don’t wear it too often
    Try brighter pairs for summer / European holidays

Classic Sports Sneakers

Sneakerheads, unite! These babies started the sneaker revolution that we have today. Jordans, Pumps, 90s – these are your street-going, hip-hop kicks that are just popping with colour. The idea with classic sports sneakers is to find a couple that complement your style and purchase a few pairs in different colours. Slim- and tapered-fit denim, loose t-shirts (with or without prints) and casual outerwear are your essential staples when it comes to dressing these sneakers. Pair them with chino shorts for an easy win in summer. The key is to find the balance between hip-hop artist and everyday citizen. Some guys like to rock a snap back – that’s up to you. Personally, I like to colour match my sneakers with what I’m wearing on top, to give the look a sense of purpose and cohesiveness.

    Find a few styles you like and stick to them
    Colour match if you can
    Pin roll, or rock with khaki chinos when it’s warm
    Sell them on eBay if you don’t like them

High-Fashion Designer Sneakers

Expensive and not for the faint of heart, these top end sneakers are getting louder and more in-your-face every season. For an example of someone who wears them well consistently, look to Kanye West. A common approach to wearing these sneakers matches them with slim denim that’s often gathered at the bottom and t-shirts with open plaid shirts. There’s also the parisian style, which includes long and drapey blazers and singlets that add even more edge to the look. Black denim is a must-own item as well as longer, looser fit t-shirts.

    Stick with blacks, whites and mute colours
    Let the sneakers to the talking
    Denim is your best friend

Spring Fashion Trend: Bright and Bold Stripes

RAINBOW STRIPES

Although stripes have been a fashion staple season after season, the Spring/ Summer 2016 trend takes stripes on a wild new journey- and not necessarily in straight lines or equal widths, and when it comes to colours... the more the merrier!

Stripes are one of the most wearable and universally loved patterns around and this season the classic go-to style got a colour update. Classic stripes get an update this season in a spectrum of colours. Whether you reach for a statement coat or stock up on knit tanks to pair with your favourite denim, brighten up your wardrobe with wide and bold stripes this season.

Don't stop at prints! Stripes were created with stitching, lace, ruffles, beading, raffia and faux fur for spirited yet sophisticated clothing. Multi-coloured stripe style lessons, courtesy of Gucci, Chanel, Giorgio Armani, MSGM, and Salvatore Ferrragamo.

High contrast – make your rainbow stripes pop by having them against a really dark colour like navy or black. This high contrast will make for an interesting look that you can wear any time of the year, be it in the warmer days of spring and summer or during the colder months of fall and winter.

Another really great way to wear the rainbow stripes trend is to wear it bright and bold. With so many colours to see in a rainbow striped ensemble, it’s easy to make a statement and if that’s what you’re going for, make sure to wear your stripes in bright, bold and vibrant hues.

If you are a little bit intimidated by the rainbow stripes trend and you’re afraid of ending up with an outfit that has too much going on, you can always simply pair up your rainbow striped piece with white. This makes for a clean look that’s super chic and sophisticated. Or if you’re feeling a little adventurous and you want to take some fashion risks, you can also try going all out and wearing your rainbow stripes from head to toe. This is rather tricky to pull off but with the right pieces and with the right balance of colours throughout your look, you can do it.

If you really don’t feel like you can pull off rainbow stripes start small by wearing it as a subtle accent or a pop of colour, if you may, to add a lively vibe to your outfit.

Another way to wear rainbow stripes with a more toned down vibe is to wear it mixed up with classic black and white stripes for a fun look that’s neither too plain nor too bold.

SHOP MY PICKS BELOW

1. Topshop PETITE Stripe Lace Up Dress R379.18

2. Mr Price Stripe Bodycon Skirt R89.99

3. REVENGE - Zando stripe maxi dress yellow/white/black R 499

4. Mr Price Longer Length Stripe Shirt R129.99
5. Thula Sindi - Spree Sleeveless Striped Full Skirted Dress Multi-colour R3,999

6. SISSY BOY - Spree Zoya Stripped Cami Multi-colour R499

STREET STYLE INSPIRATION

Still feeling unsure how to incorporate rainbow stripes to your wardrobe, check out the street style fashion below for inspiration.