Posts Tagged: Edmonton Style Consultant

02/27/12

Accessories for the Modern Groom

Lazina Mckenzie from L2 Style joins us for the final post on our modern groom style series. Thank you, Lazina, for providing such valuable (and stylish) information for our sometimes overlooked grooms.

If you need help putting together your wedding day attire (or simply revamping your everyday wardrobe), you must contact Lazina! And if you missed the first two posts be sure to check them out: Part 1 – Suits for the Modern Groom, Part 2 – Shoes for the Modern Groom.

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For part 3 of our series, we’re going to look at accessory ideas for the modern groom. You may not even realize that there are accessory choices out there for men, or you may be the type of guy who doesn’t know how to pare down the many options available. Here are some of my top picks that are sure to open your eyes…or perplex you. Either way, I hope these options help make your wedding ensemble totally you.

Formal

1) Herringbone Cufflinks

Why I like it: I really like the etched silver inside of the polished silver border. After your special day, these little babies will do wonders to spruce up a more casual outfit.

Modern Accessories for Groom

2) Burberry London Foulard Tie

Why I like it: Though your look is formal, you can still have some fun with your accessories. This is a great, non-black, non-neutral alternative that is bold and dynamic.

Modern Accessories for Groom

Dressy Casual

3) Chrome Cubes

Why I like it: These are simple yet very sophisticated. After the big day, they will transition well into your daily life and would look great for other special occasions.

Modern Accessories for Groom

4) Lanvin Calf Leather Belt

Why I like it: I love the interesting, pebbled buckle and the smooth feel of the leather. This belt would look amazing on a bright, navy blue suit.

Modern Accessories for Groom

Fun Alternatives

5) Geometric Green Silk Pocket Square

Why I like it: This is perfect for a spring, summer or destination wedding. It adds a bold pop of colour to a neutral suit.

Modern Accessories for Groom

6) Robert Geller Andreas Glasses

Why I like it: If you’re going for more of a funky, hipster-esque look, these will surely hit the mark. They would look great with a tapered suit and funky oxford shoes.

Modern Mens Glasses

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About the Contributor:

Lazina Mckenzie is the founder of L2 Style, a style consulting firm based in Alberta, Canada. Lazina believes that the style (or image) you share with others communicates a lot about who you are. She regularly has her clients articulate the answer to the question: what do you want your style to say about you? More recently, Lazina has opened her service offering to work with brides-to-be and their bridal parties. She is happy to provide her advice and support to brides on their very special day.

 

02/20/12

Shoes for the Modern Groom

Moving on to part 2 of our modern groom style series with L2 Style – today, it’s all about the shoe! If you missed last week’s post check it out here: Suits for the Modern Groom.

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When grooms-to-be think about footwear for their wedding, they often default to the basic black dress shoe. In reality, there are many options out there and I’d encourage you to find a shoe that really plays up your personality and style preferences. Your bride, after all, is spending a ton of time and effort on every last detail. It’s ok for you to spend even a quarter of that time making sure you look and feel great as well. Take a look at these great shoe options for your walk down the aisle.

Formal

1) To Boot New York “Torino” Lace-Up Oxfords

Why I like it: This is a classic, chic shoe that will finish a very formal wedding style. The thin sole gives the shoe a very streamlined and polished look.

Shoes for the modern groom

2) BOSS Black Cetto Black Wing Tip

Why I like it: I love this brogue shoe because of the subtlety of the stitch. This is a great shoe that won’t just look good for your wedding but for other formal or dressy casual events.

Shoes for the modern groom

Dressy Casual

3) Hugo Boss “Coloson”

Why I like it:  Although this shoe is a classic shape, the colour and matte leather gives it a casual appeal, making this pair a more versatile choice than a black dressy shoe.

Shoes for the modern groom

4) Fratelli Footwear 2336

Why I like it: The textured, brown leather looks almost brushed – an interesting detail for the unconventional groom.

Shoes for the modern groom

Funky

5) Cole Haan Nike AIR Colton Saddle Dress Shoes

Why I like it: Perfect for a fashion-forward groom who is looking for some edgy details to liven up a classic suit. This 60’s inspired shoe would look great with a grey or navy blue three-piece suit (see part 1 of the modern groom style series).

Shoes for the modern groom

6) Aldo Stathas

Why I like it: I love this tone-on-tone brown shoe with its retro feel. Added to a suit, they’ll look as though you’ve thought about every last detail.

Shoes for the modern groom

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L Squared Style EdmontonAbout the Contributor:

Lazina Mckenzie is the founder of L2 Style, a style consulting firm based in Alberta, Canada. Lazina believes that the style (or image) you share with others communicates a lot about who you are. She regularly has her clients articulate the answer to the question: what do you want your style to say about you? More recently, Lazina has opened her service offering to work with brides-to-be and their bridal parties. She is happy to provide her advice and support to brides on their very special day.

 

02/13/12

Suits for the Modern Groom

Last summer we did a series of posts with founder of L2 Style, Lazina Mckenzie: What to Wear to Your Bridal Shower, What to Wear to Your Stagette, What to Wear to Your Rehearsal Dinner. Lucky for us, Lazina is back! This time around she’s giving wedding style advice to the modern groom. Read on for part 1 of 3 posts in this series.

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Grooms to be, you can admit it. The fashion for your wedding will mostly revolve around your lovely bride-to-be and her search for “the perfect dress!” Thinking about fashion for you on your special day probably won’t rank as high on the priority list…that is, until she’s found her dress and it’s absolutely necessary to think about you! But at the end of the day, I know that you, along with your soon-to-be wife, will want to make sure that you both look and feel confident and amazing on your wedding day.

When it comes to formalwear for grooms, there’s absolutely no need to venture off into the world of tux rentals. First off, that’s old news and secondly, no one looks their best in an ill-fitted and dated tuxedo. Owning a properly fitted tuxedo or formal suit will make you look and feel your absolute best and should last you for years to come (you won’t have the issue of investing a lot in a garment that will only be worn once). Here are my picks for you – the modern groom. We’ll look at shoes and accessories later on but for now, let’s just look at options for THE foundational piece – a great quality formal tuxedo or suit.

Tuxedo

1) Indochino: The Essential Dinner Jacket Tuxedo

Why I like it: This company makes custom tuxedos; this is a great option, especially if you have other formal events to go to during the year. With custom garments, you can pay attention to details such as cut of the jacket, size of lapels, size of buttons, etc.

Modern Wedding Tuxedo

2) Armani Collezioni: ‘Giorgio’ Wool TuxedoWhy I like it: This is a modern tuxedo that doesn’t have the full look and feel of a tuxedo, which can make it a more versatile garment. I really like the one-button closure and slim fit through the jacket.

Modern Wedding Tuxedo

Formal Suit

3) Indochino: The Essential Gray 3 Piece Suit

Why I like it: This is a great option for a formal day wedding. A three piece suit can be almost as formal as a tuxedo but in gray, the level of formality is brought down just a notch. For future usage, you can choose to either wear the vest or not. This will change up your overall look without having to invest in another suit.

Modern Wedding Suit

4) Canali: Wool Suit

Why I like it: This suit is a classic formal gray and is more of a charcoal gray (rather than black). This will allow you to have more variety in choosing shirts, ties, shoes, and accessories.

Modern Wedding Suit

Dressy Casual Suit

5) DSquared: Navy Woven Suit 

Why I like it: This suit is great for an outdoor spring/summer wedding or for the hipster groom. It is a funky, edgy suit – from the colour to the slim fit to the tapered pant leg.

Modern Wedding Suit

6) BOSS Black: “The Sweet”  Taupe Wool Suit

Why I like it: Again, this is a great option for an outdoor or destination wedding. While the suit is a great cut with interesting details (I like that extra pocket on the right side of the jacket), the colour tones down the level of formality.

Here are some questions that you should ask yourself while shopping for the perfect suit:

  • What’s the theme or style for my wedding? Does the suit or tux I like fit with the overall theme?
  • Do I complement my bride-to-be or am I more/less dressy than she is?
  • Will I be able to wear this suit/tux in the future? 
  • What’s my budget for a new suit/tux? 
  • What shirt, shoes, and accessories will complement my suiting choice?

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L Squared Style EdmontonAbout the Contributor:

Lazina Mckenzie is the founder of L2 Style, a style consulting firm based in Alberta, Canada. Lazina believes that the style (or image) you share with others communicates a lot about who you are. She regularly has her clients articulate the answer to the question: what do you want your style to say about you? More recently, Lazina has opened her service offering to work with brides-to-be and their bridal parties. She is happy to provide her advice and support to brides on their very special day.

 

08/8/11

What to Wear to Your Rehearsal Dinner

We’ve made it to part three of our style-infused blog series courtesy of Edmonton’s L2 Style. Over the last couple of weeks, founder Lazina Mckenzie has shared her advice on what to wear to your bridal shower and to your stagette. Today’s post will help you look fab for the all-important rehearsal dinner!

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Your wedding day is nearly here and you’re nervous yet excited as can be! The last thing you need right now is to spend hours trying to figure out what to wear to your rehearsal. Take a look at the stunning items below. These are definitely worthy of your rehearsal dinner. After all, YOU are the guest of honour (and that partner of yours, I guess…kidding)!

Restaurant / Bar: Tahari Tilda Sheath Dress

What to wear to your rehearsal dinner

This dress has sex appeal yet it’s very classy for an evening event at a restaurant or bar. The colour-blocking effect at the bottom creates a lot of interest and sass while the elegant waistline will draw the eye to the tiniest part of your waist.

Lazina’s Style Tips: I’d go with a soft updo and add deep red chandelier earrings. Complement with a red lip and very light makeup elsewhere. Add a chunky bracelet that is textured with black and dark silver. Opt for a classic black peep-toe heel to finish off the outfit with stunning impact.

Backyard BBQ: Tory Burch Hildy Dress

What to wear to your rehearsal dinner

The pleating around the waist of this dress is quite funky while the linen and silk combination give it an effortlessly elegant look. It is versatile enough to let you sit and look fabulous or run around overseeing last minute wedding items. (Editor’s note: if you’ve hired a wedding planner you won’t have to worry about the latter!)

Lazina’s Style Tips: Keep your makeup light and opt for a tussled ‘do (as seen in the picture). It’s your party so be bold and add some eye-catching wedge heels, perhaps in bright red or deep blue. For a more neutral look, opt for a tan coloured wedge heel (wedges will be best for a backyard soirée). Accessorize with a chunky wooden ring and matte brass earrings (something a little larger would really complement those messy locks).

Cocktail Party: ASOS Pleated One Shoulder Dress

What to wear to your rehearsal dinner

This one shoulder dress is striking in cobalt blue. It is a classy yet sassy little number that will allow you to feel like the life of the party – just as you should!

Lazina’s Style Tips: I’m leaning towards gold tones to accessorize this dress. I’d suggest rose gold peep-toe pumps, a delicate gold cuff (maybe even something with a fine leaf print) and citrine jewelled earrings. Add a faux-snakeskin inspired clutch with brown and gold tones to pull it all together.

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Edmonton Style ConsultantAbout the Contributor:

Lazina Mckenzie is the founder of L2 Style, a style consulting firm based in Alberta, Canada. Lazina believes that the style (or image) you share with others communicates a lot about who you are. She regularly has her clients articulate the answer to the question: what do you want your style to say about you? More recently, Lazina has opened her service offering to work with brides-to-be and their bridal parties. She is happy to provide her advice and support to brides on their very special day.

 

08/1/11

What to Wear to Your Stagette

Last week L2 Style, shared three gorgeous looks for your bridal shower…today, it’s all about the stagette!

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Your closest lady friends are about to whisk you away to a fabulous party celebrating your final weeks as a ‘Miss’. After finding out what type of fete will be held in your honour (gosh, who wants to be caught wearing the wrong outfit to her own party?!) take a look at the options below and get ready to drool over these stagette-worthy looks!

Dinner and Drinks: Revolve Draped Back Dress

What to wear to your stagette

This dress is perfect for a sophisticated dinner and après-dinner drinks with your closest gal pals. It’s feminine, sexy yet very chic. The back of this dress is daring without showing off too much.

Lazina’s Style Tips: Add a chunky, strappy black sandal (the higher the heel the better), a matte charcoal arm cuff (adds a bit of edge to this dress), and gun-metal tear-shaped earrings (a long tear-shape would look awesome). Opt for a dramatic smoky eye and a nude lip. Go for a big, full mane!

Day Cruise: Tory Striped Minidress

What to wear to your stagette

This fun, nautical-inspired print with bold navy accents will surely make you the center of attention.

Lazina’s Style Tips: I’d suggest adding bold accessories (don’t go “overboard” now) to bring the whole look together. Flat gold sandals, oversized sunglasses, a chunky gold ring and a big sunhat would work perfectly with this look. Use an oversized tan handbag to carry essentials like sunscreen and water.

Bar/Lounge Crawl: Catherine Malandrino Stretch Silk-Satin Playsuit

This sexy, playful onesie is perfect for a night on the town. It’s versatile enough to take you from the hottest nightclub to a funky lounge.

Lazina’s Style Tips: Since there’s a sophisticated yet funky feel to this playsuit, I’d suggest really having some fun with the accessories: dark metallic gold platform heels, several chunky bracelets and bangles (stacked on one arm), a deep metallic burgundy clutch and jewelled chandelier earrings. Go with a deep plum or red lipstick for some added drama.

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Edmonton Style ConsultantAbout the Contributor:

Lazina Mckenzie is the founder of L2 Style, a style consulting firm based in Alberta, Canada. Lazina believes that the style (or image) you share with others communicates a lot about who you are. She regularly has her clients articulate the answer to the question: what do you want your style to say about you? More recently, Lazina has opened her service offering to work with brides-to-be and their bridal parties. She is happy to provide her advice and support to brides on their very special day.

07/25/11

What to Wear to Your Bridal Shower

As your big day is fast approaching so are the pre-wedding festivities and parties (bridal showers, stagettes, rehearsal dinners, oh my!). There is going to be a lot of attention on you and that can be overwhelming for any blushing bride-to-be.

I’m excited to introduce a special guest blogger to help relieve you of some of that pressure! Lazina Mckenzie is the founder of L2 Style – an Edmonton-based style consulting firm devoted to helping people look and feel their best. Lazina has put together three great looks for your bridal shower. Stay tuned to the blog in the coming weeks for more bridal style advice from Lazina.

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Your dear family and friends have been planning the most amazing wedding shower for you. You’re excited but awfully nervous because you have no idea what’s in store for you…but more importantly, you have no idea what to wear! Here are some great suggestions that will surely help with the ol’ I don’t know what to wear dilemma.

Garden Party Glam: Maggie London Print Stretch Cotton Sheath Dress

This dress is perfect for an outdoor summer event. It’s feminine yet very chic. Since you will likely spend a lot of time sitting and opening gifts, this dress is a good length to show off your beautiful legs without giving away too much! I’d suggest adding a pop of colour to this little number. The name of the game here is simplicity!

Lazina’s Style Tips: To complete this look add a cherry red shoe, a nude clutch in a shade or two lighter than the beige in the dress and deep emerald-green earrings (nothing too big).

What to wear to your bridal shower

Country Club Chic: Vivienne Westwood Pink Fold Sleeveless Dress

You want to stand out at this Country Club affair without your ensemble screaming “look at me.”  This dress is a fun, tasteful way to say “I’m the bride” (yes, that effortlessly fabulous bride who whipped this look together in no time)! The key to highlighting the beauty of this dress is through accessories. You don’t want to overdo it here so choose wisely.

Lazina’s Style Tips: Sport a peep-toe nude heel, a matted light turquoise clutch, a skinny nude snakeskin belt and the ever-classic diamond stud earrings. A soft up-do will complete the look.

What to wear to your bridal shower

 

Casual and Comfy at Home: SAM&LAVI Libby Tie Waist Dress

Your soon-to-be mother-in-law is hosting a shower for you at her house and you want to look fabulous without being overdressed for a casual celebration at home. With this dress you will look put-together but not overdone. Opt for simple accessories to compliment this playful, flowy dress.

Lazina’s Style Tips: Accessorize with long, thin gold or brass earrings and 2-3 delicate gold bangles in a rose, white and yellow gold combo. I’d go with a cork wedge heel that isn’t too chunky (you want the attention on you, not your feet).

What to wear to your bridal shower

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Edmonton Style ConsultantAbout the Contributor:

Lazina Mckenzie is the founder of L2 Style, a style consulting firm based in Alberta, Canada. Lazina believes that the style (or image) you share with others communicates a lot about who you are. She regularly has her clients articulate the answer to the question: what do you want your style to say about you? More recently, Lazina has opened her service offering to work with brides-to-be and their bridal parties. She is happy to provide her advice and support to brides on their very special day.