Short sleeves or rolled up sleeves?

In a couple of weeks I'm going to visit my family in Israel and as a gift I'm making my brother a couple of Boaz shirts that he loves so much. But when I told him he asked if this time i can make him a shirt or two with short sleeves? which lead to a discussion on the matter of short sleeves vs rolled sleeves???
Me: No, I don't want to make you short sleeves"
"Why not?  its way to hot hear to wear long sleeves..."
"I'll make the shirts in light fabrics and you can just roll up the sleeves... it looks much better anyway..."
"Boaz common, do it for me..."
"Danny, I'm not and here is why: ...." 
Fit and Style - For short sleeves to look flattering and stylish they should be fitted and not longer than the center of your biceps....which are both details that are hard to find, unless you have your shirt custom made or have your tailor alter the sleeves for you.... even than they don't look good on everyone and you really need to have the body and arms to make them look good, where rolled up sleeves work everyone and will add a masculine touch. When wearing a suit or a jacket although it fine to wear shirt sleeves under the detail of having your shirt sleeves longer than the jacket sleeves (about 1/2") is a detail that balances the total look and colors in your outfit (especially when wearing a dark suit and a light colored shirt).
Seasonal - realistically you'll wear a Short sleeve shirt for about 2 months out of a year...is it really

What is Egyptian cotton?

Are you facing the same above question every time you are buying a cotton product like shirts, bed sheets or towels? Do you find yourself wondering WHY are the Egyptian cotton products more expensive? is it worth the investment? These are all valid questions and hopefully the information below will clarify and help you make the right decision.
Why the name?
Egyptian cotton comes from where its name suggests - Egypt. The humid conditions and rich soil in Egypt along the Nile River Valley create the perfect conditions to grow long cotton fibers (also known as staples) which are used in Egyptian cotton fabrics.
What is Egyptian Cotton?
Egyptian cotton is extra long staple mostly made from a cotton plant called Gossypium barbadense or from Gossypium hirsutum, both native to America. It was believed to be derived from sea island cotton or by hybridization with Peruvian cotton. These plants were introduced to Egypt in the nineteenth century by Egypt’s ruler, Mohammed Ali Pasha, who developed them as a cash crop to support his army. The plant is tropical and grows as a small, bushy tree requiring high humidity and rainfall. It contains the chemical gossypol, reducing its susceptibility to insect and fungal damage.
Egyptian cotton has longer fibers then regular cotton (about twice the size) and can range from 1 1/2 inches to 2 1/4 inches. Their long length  allows them to be spun into very fine yarns. These yarns are soft and lustrous yet are very strong and durable.

What are the qualities of Egyptian cotton?

Do you miss getting noticed?

When was the last time someone stared at the details on your shirt collar?…. or complimented the fit of your shirt while you’re standing in line for your morning coffee? Do you miss this feeling?….than get our European shirts, get noticed and show off your personal style!

Now throughout the Labor Day weekend get 10% discount on all our European style shirts by simply entering the code ‘showoff’ at checkout.

Did we mentioned free shipping already???

Have a great Labor Day weekend everyone!

Spring 2011 Must have - Military shirt

BOAZ small gingham military shirt

The military inspired shirt (or as GQ called it the Epaulette shirt), is the dominating spring/summer style in stores this  season....almost as if it is the new classic shirt that every guy should have in his wardrobe.
In its behalf i will say that it's a very masculine style and a great complimentary for a man's body type! The militant details like the epaulets or the front flap pockets are ones that always look good and add to it the fact that the runway shows have strongly adapted the militant inspiration, and you got yourself a winner for these up and coming hot days!
As always for me the most important part to look for in a shirt is the fit! if the shirt is big and loose than all these above masculine details will make you look like a potato bag rather than A man of style! and we obviously dont want that to happen...Go for a slim fit style or just get a smaller size, let the body of the shirt snug and hug your body and look for a higher armhole so the sleeves will not be too baggy....the fitted shoulders will enhance the impact of the epaulets adding power to your style, so when you roll up your sleeves all this hard work at the gym will pay off...check out our BOAZ shirts for a great fit!

Todd Snyder

As far as colors and fabric choices i would stay with solid colors or subtle smaller stripes and gingham/plaids patterns, it will keep your style sophisticated  which can work for both work and pleasure...stay away  from big load prints and other logos and embroideries......unless its your beach shirt.
Unless you have a fitted athletic body no need to to tack the shirt it, especially if what you'd like to put out there is a younger, cooler feel. At times a tie can be a fun addition which in that case go for a solid color shirt and a casual, cotton, fun tie.....nothing too serious and no silk please!
A military shirt will go great with jeans, or chino and depends on the style could pair with trousers as well.
One last tip - i would stay away from short sleeves and much rather roll up the sleeves...unless young and stylish is not your thing!

Gucci

Burberry

BOAZ - MY MEN'S SHIRT COLLECTION STORE OPENING!

As you may know, over the past couple of months I have been working on an online store for my men’s button down shirt line. 

I’m excited to announce the launch of the store where I offer my ready to wear shirts that combine great FIT, distinctive STYLE and high QUALITY! The shirts are handcrafted, and made to order one at a time right here in New York City, accompanied by free shipping and my personal attention.

The line offers in one distinct FIT and four available shirt styles: Classic, Contemporary, European and Military. offered in a variety of colors and patterns to match any mood, occasion, or life-style while easily transitioning from day to night and work to play. Whether you are looking to add an edge to a business meeting or a night out on the town, the BOAZ shirt will take care of that!  

The store also offers a fully custom made shirt. 

To celebrate my grand opening, I've included in this email a store coupon that offers 20% discount on all orders through June 12^th. Just use the code WELCOME at the store checkout!

Please feel free to forward this to anyone who may be interested, to help me share the news.

To visit my store log on to www.boazny.com

P.S I will continue to write this blog and will continue to inspire you to be your own MAN OF STYLE!!

Spring 2011 Must have - Chambray shirt

American eagle

Spring is almost here (i can almost feel it...) and one of my highly recommended must haves for the season is a chambray shirt. The lightens of the chambray and its content (100% cotton) makes it a perfect material for spring/summer and with the recent revival of American style it became a fabric of chioce in almost every men's collections out there, mostly in the form of a chambray shirt but often also as a light blazer or shorts..
The Chambray material was invented in the French city Cambrai during the 16th century and is a plain weave, light cotton fabric with a slight sheen that combines colored warp with white filling yarns. Although the fabric is mainly known in it's indigo blue color (which is also why it's often being mistaken for denim), it is actually available in a variety of other colors such as grays and khaki shades and even in patterns of stripes and checks.
The classic chambray shirt was originally made for the workmen (hence the term "blue collar") and prisoners and is usually detailed with utility details such as front pockets and  top-stitching (usually in white).
Casual - Chambray shirt goes well with just about anything casual and easy, with white linen pants, khaki chinos and even jeans as long as its not the same denim color. Rolled up sleeves and converse sneakers or even some other fun shoes like these Viktor & Rolf  will complete your look.

BOAZ military shirt

Business/dressed - casual is not the only way to sport a chambray shirt. With the right style and fit you can make it work for your business casual as well. The main point to look for is the fit - look for a well fitted shirt (read here for tips on finding a fitted shirt) like this BOAZ chambray military style shirt in the left picture from my new shirts line and you already completed half of the battle, pair it with a fitted flat front chinos or dark fitted jeans and to complete the look tuck in the shirt, add a belt and maybe even a fun tie (cotton in polka dot or gingham will add a sophisticated flair, stay away from silky shiny ties). A casual blazer can be a nice addition and with brogue or oxford shoes you will indeed be A man of style!

Findings - All saints leather shirt

Emery leather shirt from All Saints

WHY: Nothing screams rock and roll like leather, never the less if its fitted and washed hugging your body like a second skin! And what else can a rocker ask for other than a BIG discount! Well all of the above combined in this cool fitted shirt from All Saints. This is about the only season you can feel comfortable wearing a leather shirt, so what a perfect way to end the year on with a rockish tune! So,  pull out your skin tight fitted jeans, your coolest leather boots, wrap your waist in this vintage wide leather belt you bought in a garage sell last weekend, grab a linen plaid scarf wrap it nonchalant around your neck but don't hide the antique silver pendant you girlfriend got you on your birthday, a worn soft white T under so the shirt wont get stuck to your body and your long military army coat on top and jump on stage cause the band is already rocking and the crowd is warmed up for your SHOW.....
INFO: 100% Leather. Slim fitting, unlined leather shirt with press stud front fastening and wire edges - garment washed with heavily burnished edges and seams and a crushed finish.
Color: Bitter Chocolate
PRICE: ON SALE NOW for $220 instead of $440
WHERE: All Saints

Findings - Armory cuff-links by David Yurman

Armory Cuff-links by David Yurman at Saks

WHY: I found these cuff-links while browsing for holiday gifts and was very tempted because they have such a class to them, they look luxurious and expensive but cool and contemporary in the same time and lets face it nothing shows manhood like armory! I love the blue/silver color and the royalty touch of the shape. These cuff-links will look great on just a plain white dress shirt, and will make them stand out and highlight your style.
INFO: Crafted in pure sterling silver, from the Armory Collection , T-backing , About ½" wide, Imported. 
PRICE: $350.00
WHERE: Saks Fifth Avenue

My style journal - week thirteen - Sunday Brunch

This fall season is my kind of fall....nice weekend with temperature in the mid 50's and the sun is out! Perfect weather for layering which is what i was going for in here, i was on my way to brunch and just piled up few pieces together not knowing how cold or warm will it be outside and i think it all came together pretty well regardless of the mishmash of colors and textures and despite the strong bright color shoes....
Do you think so too???

 

This week I'm wearing:

Down blazer - John Barritt

Pinstripes vest - BOAZ

Cotton button down shirt - NSF

Gauze scarf - H&M 

Black skinny jeans - BOAZ

Shoes - Florshiem by Duckie brown (which you can buy by clicking the link below)

Findings - Wool jacket by Gaspard Yurkievich

Grey jacket from Gaspard Yurkievich

WHY: This jacket is for the fashion forward guys who don't mind (or i should better say- like to) stand out. The details and cut of this jacket are quite edgy, the short length is current although you really need to have the body for it, and l love the contrast of the black trim around the packets, so yes to be honest this is not your long lasting jacket style, but if you are looking for one jacket this fall to help you ease into the heavier wool coats in style this would be it. This jacket will sport your 60's rock star style, think sophisticated Beatles of 2011 with slim fitted pants, fitted button down shirt with a small collar (like this one in the photo) and a slim tie will put you on stage in no time....
INFO: 100% wool, Made in Thailand, Button front closure, Front pockets, Contrast back.
PRICE: $938.00
WHERE: forwardforward.com

Findings - Classic 45 shirt by YMC

Plaid and gingham shirt from YMC

WHY: As you may know by now i LOVE button down shirts whether they are dress shirts or casual, they are still my favorite item in my wardrobe and i cant get enough of them...especially if they are a bit more interesting than just a plain one which is the case in this gingham shirt. The bigger gingham adds fun to the shirt and together with the front pocket details makes it sophisticated adding an edge to a classic shirt, a great way to show individuality. Looks great with dark jeans and either fun sneakers like converse or maybe boots (these fun ones will definitely add a punch), and for this time a year add a cardigan or a leather jacket to complete the look. I actually do not like the pants that they chose for this shoot and i will also not wear the shirt buttoned all the way up unless i have a fun bow tie and a jacket to really push the envelope.... Over all this is a fun casual shirt in a reasonable price.
INFO: Navy mini check button up shirt features a front pocket with ivory button detail and is contrasted with large check pattern down center and collar.100% cotton.
PRICE: $133.00
WHERE: Gargyle

My style journal - week eleven - NY Fashion week

Fashion week is here and I attended some  fashion shows this week and here is one of the looks i chose to wear. I must say i liked this look a lot, i felt it had casual mixed in with a bit of dressed and a lot of fun! The white jacket (which is by the way a $69.95 jacket from H&M) is a stand out piece that i struggled to make it look natural and not too uptight or forced,  i first tried it over some plaid and gingham  pants and than a dressier navy pants but it was all way to serious for the occasion, so i finally went for the dark skinny jeans (511) from Levi's (which i got for $44 on sale and which fit really great.... much better than other more expensive jeans in the market) and the shiny pointy shoes that added flair and fun to the party...
The shirt is a BOAZ shirt (the classic style) that as i mentioned last week soon will be available for purchasing online.

Findings - Gingham blazer from ASOS Tailoring

Gingham blazer from ASOS Tailoring

WHY: I like blazers in general (although unfortunately i don't have too many occasions to wear them), but I LOVE blazers when they carry more of a young and fun  feel especially for summer.  The small gingham cotton fabric on this blazer is young and hip and it breaks the seriousness of it, allowing for it to pair nicely with a T or a button down shirt and either shorts or jeans and snickers. I love the contrast trim detail  and narrow lapel, and as always fit is essential so this snag tailored fit just seals the deal for me......not to mentioned the reasonable price!

INFO: 100% cotton gingham with contrast trim, fully lined with 100% cotton body lining and 95% polyester 5% viscose sleeve lining, one button style and tailored design.

PRICE: $126.82

WHERE: ASOS.com

 

Findings - Memorial weekend shopping

This Memorial day weekend did not just bring in the summer but also some great sales (well at list for my wife and i....) We had some of the greatest finds that we had in a long time and in prices that were about quarter of the original retail prices.... Sale Sale Sale....LOVE IT! So off course i want to share findings with you...these will be great to include in my style journal posts over the summer....The first stop was Bloomingdale's, actually i was there last week and over heard that there is a sale coming up over the weekend so i took my time to prepare for it, walked around trying things on and planing my future purchases, and let me tell you that plan worked perfectly...

As usual and (as i mentioned million times before) I just CAN NOT resist shoes...  these beauties in shocking blue are from Florsheim by Duckie Brown, and to be honest i am not so crazy about their shape because i usually like my shoes thinner and less bulky but the color...oh man the color! .....talking about a summer statement!... and for $70.56... my  blue suede shoes!

My style journal - week nine - The gingham world.....

 

As you know from my previous post, on my list for this spring i had a craving for gingham shirt, since i love making shirts, and after i didn't  find the right combo of style, fit and color shirt that i had in mind...i decided to make my own gingham shirt... i wanted a sharp military inspired shirt with a comfortable fit and a smart sophisticated look, a shirt that i can dress up or down for everyday look. Therefore i went with purple (one of my favorite colors) in a gingham Egyptian cotton fabric, a military inspired details of the  front button-flap patch pockets and epaulet tabs on the shoulders, and to seal the deal i added my signature - the extra long buttoned sleeve tabs......the result is a well fitted button down shirt with a classic feel and a contemporary twist.For this week's look i simply paired the shirt with my dark raw jeans and a black pointy boots.

This week I'm wearing:

Purple gingham shirt - Boaz
Raw denim pant - Boaz

Boots - Juno New york

Gingham shirt - A must have for spring

After the spring decided to take a break from us last week, it's back and I can now get into SPRING MODE once again!..... next to check on my spring wardrobe's list is....a GINGHAM shirt! Gingham is a classic pattern that looks like plaid and universally recognizable, although.... not always in clothing. You all saw it before as the table cloth in your favorite little Italian restaurant or used it as the romantic mode setter cloth in a picnic.... like the one you planed for you and your sweetheart on your second date....I always liked the look of gingham  and actually today while browsing at Mood for some fabric findings i found this navy and cream canvas fabric that soon enough will form into a nice summer pants....I'll post it up once its done.....In the meantime i made this purple gingham shirt on top to cover my spring cravings.....
Generally gingham associated with a masculine, casual look such as in western shirts, or as the shirts Mods (British teenagers in the 1960s) wore (like the Ben Sherman shirt below), but if used right gingham can also add depth and sophistication to your wardrobe. The gingham shirting fabric is very comfortable to wear and due to the way its weaved is generally easy to clean (also because of the pattern being busy little spots are not as noticeable). 

Above: Paul Smith, Ben Sherman

Gingham shirts are fun...whatever your personal style is, you can find a gingham shirt to match it! The variety of colors and pattern sizes are wide and you can be as adventures or conservative as your heart desires.  As always keep in mind that

Findings - G-Star white shirt

 White MOON clean dress shirt from G-Star.

WHY: It's funny that I'm posting this because I'm not so crazy about this white shirt from G-Star (mostly because of the back hem, don't like it being straight) but the asymmetric front placket closure is cool and very inspiring. I can see a whole group of shirts designed around this great detail.....especially in two color tones like grey and white for example....
 INFO: Long sleeve button down shirt in white. spread color, tonal logo embroidery at shoulder, layered detail and metallic logo plaque at curved placket, single button french cuffs, uneven hem, tone on tone stitching, 100% cotton.
PRICE: $84.00 (down from $120)

WHERE: SSENSE

Findings - Diesel plaid shirt

Today I'm starting a new section called FINDINGS! In this section i will take you shopping with me and share items that i find, buy or just inspired by....Enjoy!
Launching this section is this sempol Shirt from Diesel that i found on SSENSE.

WHY: I love the asymmetric mix of  the fabric (plaids) directions - very sophisticated twist a nice slim fit and a great price!
INFO: Long Sleeve button down shirt in pale Grey and aqua plaid. Bias cut panel construction. Buttoned spread collar. shirttail hem, tone on tone stitching. 100% cotton, machine wash cold.
PRICE: $100.00
WHERE: SSENSE

The DENIM SHIRT - A Must have for spring!

Spring is finally here, which i LOVE! And it is a great opportunity to refresh and update your wardrobe. So in the next few weeks i will share with you some of the items that i have on my "must have" list for the season (a list that btw is increasing as fast as the temperature out there....).
The first item on the list is the Denim shirt! .....generally, an unusual item for me to want since my personal style (and if you followed my blog before you would notice it by now) is inspired by a dressier look rather than casual, therefore the urge for a casual staple such as a washed, vintage looking denim shirt in my spring wardrobe caught me by surprise ..... but since dressing and styling is all about fun and reinventing i followed my heart and went for some online shopping... and here is what i found....

What to look for when buying a button down shirt?

When thinking of men’s clothing there is one item that defines men’s style more than anything else - the BUTTON DOWN (UP) SHIRT!
I personally LOVE Button down shirts and most of my closet is dedicated to them. My favorite is what I call the SMART SHIRT (thank you Natalie). This is a contemporary version of what known as the traditional dress shirt that our fathers and grandfathers use to wear… with more flair, more flattering fit and a larger variety of fabrics, colors and details. What I love so much about this shirt is the fact that it’s very versatile for today's life style. It can be dressed up or dressed down depends on one’s mood, needs and the occasion. The modern man is constantly on the move and needs items that with small tweaks can be made suitable for few situations. I for example don’t wear suits in my every day life so the traditional dress shirt is not an item I have much of, (if you are
looking for tips on the classic dress shirt check out