June 2012 - Style and Fashion Blog

White Suits for Men – A Summer Staple

Jun 272012

When it comes to white suits for men, many men don’t understand how to wear them, when to wear them, or why to wear them. Here at Sivani, we’re enormous fans of this summer staple, and definite proponents of men adorned in them looking just about as suave as can be imagined. Keep reading to discover our secrets to success in white suit-wearing.

Brad Pitt in White Suit, Credit: WENN.com

Why to wear them.
Have you ever found yourself at a summer event like a wedding or outdoor concert only to experience the uncomfortable sensation of sweating through your shirt and into your suit jacket? You’re definitely not alone. To avoid this mistake this summer, step out in a white men’s suit. Unlike darks that leave you hot and irritable, white won’t soak up the sun. For maximum airflow, it’s important to find a suit in either linen or seersucker. Both of these are breathable fabrics that will keep you cool and collected. We recommend Brooks Brothers’ Seersucker Cambridge Fit Suit or Calvin Klein’s Slim Fit White Linen 2-Piece Suit.

When to wear them.
White suits are wonderful attire for summer weddings, graduations, religious ceremonies, golf tournaments, gallery openings – really, most any special occasion from May to September. It’s good etiquette to wear them only then the weather is over 72 degrees. Remember, you’re trying to channel Rhett Butler in Atlanta, here, not Puff Daddy at LAX.

How to wear them.
To keep these looks fresh and classy, stick with light pastel shirts. Pinstripes and small checks look fantastic with seersucker in particular. Since the white in and of itself is bound to look somewhat more formal, you are more than welcome to forgo the tie. If you do wear a tie, we suggest one in a different gradient of your shirt’s hue. As for shoes: light brown or gray leather are debonair, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a boat shoe. Don’t forget to top your look with one of Sivani’s men’s leather necklaces and a great cap. And be aware that the fashion police will come to find you if you try to wear socks (of any color or kind) with a white suit.

Most Romantic Wedding Spots in the USA

Travel + Adventure No Responses »

Jun 222012

Dreaming of tying the knot or planning to tie it soon? Here are Sivani’s choices for the most romantic wedding spots to say “I do.”

Kendelle Scott Wedding in Napa Valley; Image source: ruffledblog.com

1. Napa, California. If a sophisticated wedding with a natural element is your ideal, look no further than Napa. California’s celebrated wine country, Located just Northeast of San Francisco, boasts soft, rolling hills and luscious fields of grapevines. Other than the natural beauty that will surround you on your most magical day, there is the advantage of being able to make great wine and food a central element of your wedding celebration. Your guests will surely appreciate it, and so will you.

2. Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida. These two Gulf-side islands off Florida’s coast are laidback, classic Floridian locales in which to say your vows. Sanibel features tons of white-sand beach locations for your ceremony and reception, as well as an old lighthouse that will serve as a wonderful backdrop for your wedding photos. Captiva’s South Seas Island Resort offers full resort services and incredible wedding night accommodations. Both islands are home to upscale restaurants with fantastic seafood dishes and ocean views that make for beautiful receptions.

3. Acadia National Park, Maine. Adventurous couples who appreciate the outdoors are well suited to be married in this breathtaking swath of land on Maine’s Northeastern coast. A unique early morning ceremony on Cadillac mountain, one of the first places on the North American continent to see the sun each day, is very romantic and a symbol for new beginnings. Travel here for an autumn wedding full of vibrant and rich foliage.

4. New York, NY. Energetic, flashy, urban, and urbane, New York is lovely in its way. Endless options are available to couples seeking a romantic setting, from intimate ceremonies in historic buildings to family affairs in hotel ballrooms and even Central park itself. Not to mention the opportunity to fly directly from just outside the city to almost anywhere in the world you’ve planned your honeymoon.

Rebel Style – For the Man Who Knows the Rules But Chooses to Break Them

Style + Advice + Trends No Responses »

Jun 202012

Rebel Style For the Man Who Knows the Rules But Chooses to Break Them

Rebel Style for Men; SivaniDesigns.com

Thanks in large part to the new emphasis on men’s style in magazines and in culture at large, guys have been able to gain a level of freedom in fashion, a sense of rebel style, that hasn’t been seen in decades. As regular readers will know, we at Sivani are dedicated to helping all men look the part of whatever part it is they want to play. But we do have a soft spot for the fashion rebels – Sivani men who know all the fashion rules, but choose to break them. Think you have what it takes to be one of them? Read on.

Stylish rebel men know that fashion is sometimes in the details. In women’s fashion, we call these details ‘accessories.’ But you can think of them as tools for style success. It’s not just the flashy leather jacket, for instance - it’s the braided leather bracelet that goes with it that makes a real statement. These guys shun the notion that men don’t wear jewelry, proudly wearing their sleek, masculine pieces with pride. Whether out on the surf, dominating the boardroom, or in their favorite bar, these men know that what’s overt isn’t always the sexiest.

Speaking of details: why not let the rebel in you come through with a new haircut? If you’re been rocking the same ’do since high school, schedule an appointment now at the best place in town. A stylist can help you determine which look matches your personality and plays to your face’s strengths. Real rebels might even consider a streak of color somewhere in their locks – whether silver gray or bright red, you’ll definitely stand out from the rest.

We encourage men to break out of style norms and to truly express themselves through their style choices. So do it: wear pink and purple, and blue and brown together. Mix patterns and materials all you want. And remember: your style is your own – make it that way.

Luxury Snacks Imported from Europe

Food + Drink No Responses »

Jun 122012

Next time you’ve had a challenging professional or personal day, don’t lament. The (short-term) solution to your angst is likely only as far away as the nearest deli or the specialty food aisle of your local grocery store. Why not treat yourself to a luxury snack imported from Europe – a snack, sourced straight from the place on the globe that makes it best? Because as much as we hate to break the news, the mozzarella you just peeled out of a plastic wrapper probably isn’t the best you can do. And we won’t let you stand for it!

Why not whip up a nice spinach salad, for instance, with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil from Italy? There are slight regional variances in the taste and production of both products, but fear not: it’s hard to go wrong if it was made in Italy. Our favorites, however, are Tuscany’s Gemini extra virgin olive oil and Emilio-Romagnia’s Mussini balsamic. The employees at your specialty shop should be able to direct you to the best they offer, and, surprisingly, you can even order both from Amazon.com.

French Cheese; Image source: hesomagazine.com

French cheese is also a savory and restorative luxury snack choice. While Camembert, Roquefort, and Munster are all delicious (especially when paired with the right wine or fruit), it’s always good to try some lesser-known, but no less extraordinary, tastes. Hailing from the French Alps, Reblochon is an excellent creamy cheese with a nutty aftertaste. Enjoy it with a fruity red wine and spread over bread or crackers. Époisses, from the Côte d’Or, is a strong, salty cheese with a pungent smell. Pair Époisses with raisin bread for an extra luxurious breakfast treat.

Spain’s jamón ibérico, a cured ham, is made specifically from black Iberian pigs found in the south and southwest of the country. The best finished products come from Jabugo and Guijuelo – but since authentic jamón ibérico is difficult to procure in the US (ham pun intended), it’s not necessary to purchase from sources here alone. If there’s such a thing as prestigious ham, this is it.

Happy snacking!

Best Fishing Spots in USA

Travel + Adventure No Responses »

Jun 082012

Our picks for the best fishing spots in USA:

1. Miami, Florida. Miami offers ample opportunities for deep sea fishing, and there are a variety of options for getting yourself out there – from renting your own boat to seeking assistance from a professional. One of the fantastic things about coming to fish in Miami is the chance to head out for some exciting fresh water angling in the Everglades. With its beaches, nightlife, and seafood scene, Miami makes for an unforgettable trip.

Fishing in Miami, FL; Image source: awolfishingguide.com

2. Seattle, Washington. With superior fishing options available a very short distance from the city, you can have the best of both worlds: a relaxing, grungy day on the water and luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants to come home to at night. You can also have the best of both salt and fresh water fishing. Try Puget Sound for the former, and Lake Washington for the latter. For the salmon lovers among you, mark your calendars for August and September!

3. New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s no secret that the fishing tourism industry here has taken a bit of a slam in the last few years. But the truth of the matter is, New Orleans and the waters that surround it still support some of the most vibrant fishing grounds in the United States. So plan a trip and see for yourself. You’ll be pleased with the large variety of fish ready for the catching, (and eating) including bass and snapper.

Good luck out there. We hope you catch the big one.

Timepiece Trends 2012 – Retro to Future

Style + Advice + Trends No Responses »

Jun 062012

The timepiece trends for 2012 are at a crossroads. Both retro styles and futuristic materials are sharing the limelight, often on the same watch. That’s just fine by us at Sivani, since leather bracelets are a very of-the-moment pairing with timepieces.

Timepiece; Image source: dandygadget.com

Wondering what the current fashions in time-tellers are? You’ve come to the right place.

Rose gold for women. Of all the materials on the market, this is perhaps the hottest for modern women in Spring/Summer 2012. Michael Kors’ line has made excellent use of this metal, which is both feminine and visually commanding. It looks stunning when paired with a variety of other metals and precious stones, from yellow gold and platinum to mother of pearl and diamond.

Pairing a great watch with bracelets. Wrap leather bracelets are particularly useful in drawing attention to your favorite timepiece. Add another dimension to what’s going on on your wrist by selecting a brightly-colored braided bracelet while you’re wearing a clean-lined mod watch. Or load up on thick leather banded bracelets if you’ve chosen a watch with a tortoise band (which looks great with a safari-themed outfit).

Large-faced watches for men and women. Simple, grandpa-inspired watches with large faces and leather straps are at once retro and contemporary. These unisex looks can be found at department stores as well as at high-end fashion retail outposts like JCrew, which is currently showcasing a small but superb selection of these styles in their men’s section. Ladies, don’t be afraid to purchase a man’s watch – it looks sexy on your smaller wrist, we promise.

Have fun keeping time as you keep up with the times, style-wise!

Top 3 Drinking Snacks

Food + Drink No Responses »

Jun 042012

Here are our top 3 drinking snacks to reach for while you enjoy your adult beverage of choice.

Olives; Image source: beechwoodinn.ws

1. Nuts. A ubiquitous bar and informal gathering staple, nuts are a great partner for beers. Whether with a dark ale or a light summer shandy, this is a simple match made in some sort of laidback heaven. Salted peanuts are at their best with a citrusy beer like Blue Moon. For a sweet treat, try a trail mix with chocolate pieces and a raspberry beer – Liefman’s Framboise is the absolute god among them.

2. Olives. Every drinking establishment from the local dive to Bar Hemingway at the Paris Ritz is sure to have these on hand. When it comes to olives, the variety in taste and quality is absolutely dizzying (in the best possible way). Next time you’re planning on martinis, select some fresh green olives from your deli and drop two into the drink. You’ll be delighted with the subtle change in taste and texture of an olive stuffed with garlic, bleu cheese, or onion as you’re sipping the cocktail. Greek Kalamata olives stuffed with feta cheese go wonderfully with Pinot Noir. I personally find it difficult not to cook without a glass of wine and a little bowl of olives handy, and I recommend Whole Food’s olive bars if you’re looking for something fresh.

3. Cheese. When paired with the right wine, it seems to be a scientific fact that cheese can actually make your taste buds sing. Check out Sivani’s style blog article on the subject. Spirits can be a great complement to cheese, too. Try out a Talisker 18 year old with a Mull cheddar. You won’t regret it, we promise.

Our Top Three Most Romantic Spots in the World

Travel + Adventure No Responses »

Jun 012012

It is, perhaps, easier than we think to become jaded after a bad relationship, or complacent in a good one. Whatever your personal situation is, it’s likely that you could use a little romance in your modern life. So, whether you’re single, married, living together, going on a honeymoon, planning a 3 month anniversary or just a spur-of-the-moment trip for yourself, read on to discover our top 3 most romantic spots in the world to wine, dine, dance, and romance.

Our Top Three Most Romantic Spots in the World

Paris, France, Image source: hiren.info

1. Paris, France. It might seem like a cliché, but the city has absolutely earned its reputation as the world center of l’amour. There are few pleasures in life as exhilarating as a stroll around Paris in any weather and in any season: rain, snow, sun, fall, winter, spring–it’s all magical. For the perfect romantic day, start with some hand-holding and people-watching as you saunter along the Champs Élysées. Eat lunch (glass of champagne required) at an outdoor cafe before heading to see Chanel and Van Cleef’s windows near the Ritz. Following dinner in a fine restaurant, stroll along the Seine (spontaneous kisses encouraged) and up to the Louvre, which is striking and softly lit by night. End your evening with a bottle of wine under the Eiffel Tower, which glitters on the hour, every hour. C’est la vie en rose, non?

2. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. While a safari might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of romance, you’ll be surprised at how enthralling the experience can be. And there is no better place for a first-time safari than Kenya, often heralded as the most breathtaking country on the wildly diverse African continent. If it’s difficult for you to conceive of a holiday sans the luxuries of a four-star hotel, never fear: there are several providers of accommodation that will see to your complete comfort–from gourmet dining to soft beds to steamy, hot showers in the middle of the bush. You and your loved one are sure to bond beneath the stars as you watch the moon rise and hear the cries of wildlife in the distance. Enjoy. It won’t be hard.

Kyoto, Japan; Image source: tourist-destinations.com

3. Kyoto, Japan. Kyoto is one of the major Japanese cities that survived WWII relatively unscathed. This means ample opportunities for meandering together (or with yourself and a camera or sketchbook) around its lovely, atmospheric, and ancient neighborhoods and attractions. Kyoto’s 17 World Heritage sites include gardens, imperial palaces, and religious shrines, but it is a decidedly sleek and modern city as well. If aesthetic (or religious) transcendence makes your heart sing, we recommend the Temple of the Golden Pavilion on a clear, blue-sky day. Once the sun goes down, head to Pontocho and Kiyamachi streets for a taste of Kyoto’s nightlife before ending your evening with a lazy walk along the glimmering Kamo River.

We hope we’ve convinced you to put on the rose-colored glasses for a few days, a week, or the entire summer in one of these swoon-worthy locations.