Five Favorites of Italy

1. Unique Italian Boutiques
Forget any well known stores, wander into the tiny places that you have never heard of before, they have the best one of kind treasures!

2. Gelato
It's so delicious, and its everywhere! My favorite flavor so far, Nutella!

3. Scenery
The most special experience of Rome is walking to the grocery store, post office, or to a restaurant and passing by beautiful & historic monuments on your way. You literally live amongst some of the most beautiful and important pieces of history.

4. Ceilings
I think I may have a new obsession with ceilings! Why aren't all ceilings painted with such detail and thought today? My neck may ache but my eyes are captivated. 

5. The History of Art
If you have ever taken an art history class, you will experience the images in your textbook coming to life before you eyes- its amazing! Everything is much more grand and breathe taking in person!

One Week Away

One week until the new series "ROMEing begins."

Men Madness: Jake

The final look of men madness, for now at least, features a really stylish guy who I am blessed to have as a strong presence in my life, it's my brother! He's a pretty fashionable guy (maybe it runs in the family) and I am always pleasantly surprised by the outfits that he puts together. He's really great at making the most of what he has and then taking from the wardrobe of my uncles and grandpa. Thrifty and trendy, I'd say that's pretty on point, wouldn't you?

Men Madness: Erick Part III

Look closely. Did you notice the detail in the sweatshirt above? As I said in a previous post, Erick notices details. By infusing special pieces like this, it elevates a casual look into a statement. If you break down this look, it is simply khaki's, a button down shirt, and sweatshirt. Every guy has these three pieces, if not multiples of each piece! If these pieces were chosen wisely, then they are a great fit, favorable color, and have interesting details. Any man can easily replicate this outfit, but can also make it their own with pieces that speak to them.

Men Madness: Erick Part II

It probably is not the first thing a guy thinks about when dressing himself, shopping, or going through his wardrobe. But the fact is, every guy should own cardigan. Cardigans can we worn over just about everything- tee shirts, button downs, a pull over sweater. And they can add some interest to your outfit. Take for example at Erick's cardigan pictured above, it has interesting contrasting buttons and the elbow patches are a chic detail.

Still unsure of a cardigan? Pair it with rugged shoes and a pair of dark wash straight legged jeans, plus a confident attitude, and you'll nail it for sure.

Men Madness: Erick Part I

Erick, 22

Meet my friend Erick, he's truly a sophisticated and smart guy. And how do we know that? Through his character and personality, but also by how he dresses. Through little details and his use of accessories, anyone can tell that he puts thought into his outfits. But not too much thought of course, because his style is very laid back, cool, and effortless. The best thing about this stylish guy's wardrobe- everything mixes and matches! By collecting many neutral pieces over time, he has collected a wardrobe that is timeless but also ensures versatility. Plus he's doesn't shy away from pieces somewhat outside the box. You'll see what I mean in these next few posts.

The key lesson to learn from this stylish guy- that if you are a warm, intelligent and respectable guy, you really should have a wardrobe that matches that. Not only is Erick admired for his character, but also for how he presents himself to the world. Be charming in every way- that's what we can learn from him.

Men Madness: Steve Part III

An open button down with basic khakis and shoes is a look that will never go out of style. This look is classic and can be worn just about anywhere. It's also gives the impression of being put together but doesn't look like one's trying to hard.