Throwdown: Outlets v. Stores.

A tough economy means even tougher shopping as many shoppers do not have the funds to go to their favorite designer and pick out something to wear for a party or job interview. I went undercover, around the United States, to see if outlet malls are a better bargain than the normal stores.

Castle Rock, CO: I decided I would venture into my favorite leather ware store, being Coach. The guys section was small, but had some of the latest styles for 30% off. Score: Outlet 1, Store 0.

Next on the list, was a trip to clothing stores like Polo and Banana Republic. If you’re looking for the classic Polo Pony, than you are better going to the store, because the colors to choose from are horrendous, and, being a smaller individual, the sizing seems to be in favor of L-XXL crowd. Score: Outlet 1, Store 1.

The Banana Republic outlet, was very barren and most of the clothes available looked to be of “Old Navy” quality.
Score: Outlet 1, Store 2

El Paso, TX: If you’re looking for designers, keep on looking. This outlet mall only has a few stores worth going into. Coach, Brooks Brothers, and Hurley. Score: Outlet 1, Store 3

Orlando, FL: As many of my readers know, I like to travel, and what better way to write this article than explore the East Coast outlet malls? Orlando Premium Outlets in Lake Buena Vista, Florida are almost like a shopper's dream. Located minutes from Disney World, this outlet mall blows any regular or outlet mall out of the water. 150 of the top designers in the world are located here. If you're looking for a designer bargain, than this is the place to be. Stores like 7 For All Mankind, A/X, Roberto Cavalli, Barney’s, Gucci, Burberry, and Hugo Boss are just a few of the massive selection. First stop on the tour was one of my favorites, Burberry. Many of the classic print polos were only $40.00! Ties and dress shirts were anywhere from 40%-75% off. Score: Outlet 2, Store 3

Down the way was Lacoste. Their popular alligator polo’s were between $40 and $60. The Perry Ellis store had buttons ups for $20! This outlet store is a must stop shop for anybody that’s going to be in the Orlando area. Score: Outlet 3, Store 3.

Now, we seem to have a tie! But here's the dealbreaker; while many outlets have the appeal for cheaper prices and high-end designers, most of the time colors and sizes won’t be in your favor, and discounts are usually between $10-$15 dollars off.

Final Score: Outlet 3, Store 4.

My recommendation is to stick with stores that make you comfortable and look for sales. Sometimes the sales are better than outlet prices! Hold off on the outlet shopping for emergencies. Happy Shopping!

-Joey
joey@themensfashionblog.com

City Spotlight: Cheyenne, WY

When you think about the state of Wyoming, you think barren, cold, and Yellowstone National Park. During the summer, however, Cheyenne becomes an active city, with visitors from all over the U.S.

Today, Cheyenne’s economic base is supported mostly by government, wholesale, retail trade, and tourism. Cheyenne still serves as a major crossroad in the Western U.S.

Gone are the numerous saloons and vigilante days, but the spirit of the old times still comes to life each year during Cheyenne Frontier Days. The Daddy of 'em All, has been around since 1897 with the world's largest outdoor rodeo and western party. This week-long event takes over the town and is chock-full of things to do, such as the free downtown pancake breakfast.

This year, I had the privilege, to go to Frontier Days to watch Country music superstar Kenny Chesney. When walking into Frontier Park, you are taken back to the old west days, with actual camp sites, old wooden buildings, and straight-from-a-John-Wayne-movie cowboys. The park has many attractions to keep you entertained all week. With carnival rides, good old-fashioned western food, and authentic cowboy hats and boots, if it's Western you're lookin' for, you'll be in the right place.

When the sun goes down, the party gets started with live concerts featuring many country super stars. A few of the artists at this year’s Frontier Days were George Strait, Kenny Chesney, and Taylor Swift. If you're not in to country music, fret not because Frontier Days also attracts bands like 3 Doors Down and Theory of a Deadman. So dust off your cowboy hat and get in touch with the old Wild West at Frontier Days next year!

Visit Cheyenne, WY's homepage HERE

-Joey

joey@themensfashionblog.com

Hello Readers.

I'm very happy to announce that we now have another fantastic writer working with us. Please join me in welcoming our Fashionable Foodie, Matt Gelabert. Matt will be enticing your tastebuds with posts about food trends, restaurant reviews and such. Remember, we strongly encourage comments! We want to know what you think. To contact Matt, email him at matt@themensfashionblog.com

You can reach the rest of our writers at:

Music - dalit@themensfashionblog.com

Special Features - joey@themensfashionblog.com

Contributor- Jess - icingblog@gmail.com, therestisjusticing.com

Thanks!

-Farzad

farzad@themensfashionblog.com

City Spotlight: San Francisco

Fisherman's Wharf

I recently travelled to San Francisco and, as I had never been there before, I really didn't know what to expect. I've heard lots of stories about the great Sourdough Bread, the Golden Gate Bridge, Trolleys, and, of course, the interesting people. Upon landing at SFO, we boarded the BART (Bay Area Regional Transportation) to our hotel downtown. When we emerged from the underground transportation system, it was like stepping into a movie, completely surrounded by tall buildings. One thing that caught me off-guard was the large homeless population but, then again, I'd never considered how big the city actually was. I'd recommend taking a couple of hours to get used to your surroundings before you start your sightseeing. But don't take too long!....you'll miss out on the good stuff.

I read an online review about San Francisco and the article warned readers of Fisherman’s Wharf because it reminded the writer of a "third world country and carnival combined". This didn't bother me at all, mainly because one of the reasons I wanted to go to SF was specifically to visit Fisherman’s Wharf.

The second day, we took a trolley to the Wharf [only $1.50/roundtrip I might add!]. That's amazing for public transportation in my mind, since it usually costs around $6-$8 in Denver to go half the distance roundtrip. When we'd arrived at the Wharf, I was stunned. It looked nothing like how that critic described it as. The Wharf had lots of families, beautiful scenery and a smorgasbord of small shops. The view was unbelievable; the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Bay Bridge were all in sight.

The best place I found to grub is Bistro Boudin, serving world-famous San Francisco sourdough bread. Try a bread bowl with New England clam chowder and you'll be blown away! For you thrill-seekers, take the Rocket Boat Tour for an adrenaline rush to get you fired up. This high speed journey takes you on an accelerated tour under the Bay Bridge and around downtown San Francisco.

If you're planning a little summer getaway, San Francisco makes for a perfect destination! Happy Travels!

Click HERE to visit San Francisco's official visitor's site

-Joey

joey@themensfashionblog.com

Womanizer, Drunk and Douchebag: The Stories of a Man Named Tucker Max.

I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell is a book that will keep you laughing through a routine flight or mundane family road trip. Just don’t let the girlfriend [or parents] find it or you might be told to go to hell.

The book was written by Tucker Max, a self proclaimed ladies man, who claims to have been with a lot of women. In the book, he details some of his experiences, from hookups to break-ups to throw-ups, there is no boundary he wont cross.

Where do I begin to describe Tucker Max to you? In just a few words; repulsive, douchebag, asshole, and awesomely hilarious. This book might make you vomit, but you'll be laughing the whole time too. Max takes you on a journey of his sexual experiences and binge drinking. Most of the events talk about him being excessively drunk, getting into some hard to believe situations and basically being what some would call a "typical guy". Some stories include Tucker getting, shall we say, a "service" while using the toilet to some of his bedroom experiments with some [not-so-great] surprise endings and finally, my favorite, Tucker being drunk at a hockey game and getting into a fight with the mascot on the ice. For all of you current Tucker Max fans, a movie adaptation to the book is slated to be released in September of this year. For the rest of you, trust me, this book is a must read!

Click HERE to visit Tucker Max's site

Click HERE to purchase the book on Amazon.com

-Joey

joey@themensfashionblog.com

**Disclaimer: If you are a prude or easily grossed out, this book is not for you. Have a nice day.

Summer Fragrances: Editor's Picks

A man's cologne tells a story. The scent has the ability to attract or repel people from your social circle. You only have one chance to make a good first impression, so you might as well smell good in the process.

First of all, don’t bathe in your cologne. A spritz here and a spritz there is good enough. You don’t want to make people pass out from the fumes when you pass by. We have all made that mistake before, you know who you are. Lets go with one spray in the upper chest/neck area and one spray on either arm. You can do a spray on each arm, if you please, but limit yourself to 3 sprays!! When you put cologne in places that sweat forms, its smell reacts with your body chemicals to produce your own unique scent; if the cologne is right for you, this truly is a "scent" and not an "odor". If the cologne is not right for you, then that's a different story.

Before I start the top 3, I just wanted to let you guys out there know Acqua Di Gio will not be on this list for one major reason...do you know anyone who doesn't own a bottle of this cologne? Trust me, this product has run its course. It's over and done with and now makes people want to vomit. It is time to branch out and smell different people!

My Picks:
Number 1 for this summer is Tiffany for Men. I know what you're thinking, "Did he just mention the expensive, famous-for-mostly-women jewelry brand? That's right, and you wont break the bank in order to smell classy. After you purchase this cologne, you really can afford to have breakfast at Tiffany's. At $75, this cologne is subtle and smells great. The scent isn’t overpowering and will make a lasting impression on the people you meet. Made with citrus oils and rich woody aroma, this scent is great for outdoor gatherings.

Number 2 is Lacoste Esstentials for $65. This cologne is sure to get the ladies' attention. The scent is infused with spices, for a fresh, heart pounding smell. Splash it on and head out to the bar. Also check out Lacoste Red and Silver.

Number 3 is Dirty English by Juicy Couture, for $52. This scent is brings out the passion. Mixed with pepper and mandarin, this scent is for the evening and will help you live fast and in the moment.

Farzad's Picks [written by Farzad]:

1- Marc Jacobs Men by Marc Jacobs - This is the perfect cologne for any occasion. Its subtle enough for a quiet dinner with your girlfriend and it definitely comes out to play when you do. Remember what Joey said about the cologne reacting with your body's chemicals as you sweat? Well, this cologne is a perfect example.

2- Prada Man by Prada - So fresh and so clean, clean! Seriously, if you are having a stank day, try this. It smells clean and soapy, but not like you just stepped out of the shower. I'm talking clean like "fresh" clean. Give it a spray and you'll see what I mean.

Dalit's Pick [written by Farzad]:

Le Male by Jean-Paul Gaultier- When I [Farzad] asked Dalit what her favorite fragrance on a guy was, she immediately responded with this pick. I totally agree with her that it smells really good but it is a bit strong so you might want to go easy with this one. I mean it, maybe just one spray. Before you get dressed. One day early......ok, so maybe it's not THAT strong, but you really do wanna go light on this one.

*Click the cologne name to be linked to their site for purchase or inquiries.

-Joey

joey@themensfashionblog.com

**Remember to spray accordingly. Friends don't let friends over-saturate**

Spotlight Series. 06.09.09

This week’s spotlight focuses on a Boutique that makes other stores look like second hand charity stores. The Republic of Couture, currently located in 6 states, is a boutique that is a great place to find something miles away from the ordinary. ROC offers men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing. They also offer clothing that is original and stylish. Even though this boutique is only available in six states (New York, Texas, Colorado, Illinois, Florida, and Virginia), their online store is truly worth something to check out. Currently they have a promotion for 20% off and free ground shipping. A unique and stylish find at the Denver location at Cherry Creek Mall is the V Angel tee by Artine with pink print for $52. This shirt is not only comfortable and unique; it boots very cool art work that will surely make you stand out in a crowd. The attention to detail on this shirt is worth checking out. If you are looking for some well known brands, ROC carries Hugo Boss, True Religion, Ed Hardy, and English Laundry. Now, if your looking for a gift, say for a nephew or niece, the kids section is completely awesome. The kids store offers brands such as Diesel kids and True Religion, and will surely get high praise. So for a unique shopping experience, head out to a ROC location or visit www.rocintheweb.com.

 To save 20% on any order at The Republic of Couture online store enter promo code:"JUN2009SALE”

-Joey DePierro, Special Features Editor

joey@themensfashionblog.com

Summer of Flip Flops

Flip-flops are something that should be part of every guys wardrobe. The right flip-flop can be worn to a variety casual occasions. First, a few ground rules before we get started on my recommendations for summer. Do not wear socks with sandals, and make sure your feet look some what in good condition. [SCROLL UP for a how-to guide to get your feet into flip-flop shape.] Sometimes, you just need to be comfortable with who you are and man up to get a pedicure. I've found a few flip-flops for every price range.

With an MSRP of $128.00, the most expensive flip flop that I tested out was the Coach Murph Flip-Flop. This flip-flop is perfect to be worn to special casual events like a roof top BBQ or a casual dinner outside. The colors available are green, blue, and red, so make sure it matches your attire. With the steep price of $128.00, it is an investment, and in my opinion worth it. The flip flop is comfortable and would look great with a pair of khaki or plaid shorts.

Next up is a great flip-flop from Diesel. This flip-flop is not only fashionable, but will go with almost anything you have. The Seaside Denim Flip-Flop (MSRP $60), is the choice for guys who wear jeans in summertime. The cotton denim actually makes the flip-flop breathable for your feet and easy to care for. Toss them in the wash with your jeans!

Next on my list is a pair of Lacoste Tirage Flip-Flops (MSRP $ 58.95). This flip-flop is perfect for an outdoor BBQ, going to a local fair, or going to a downtown pub. Again, the price is steep for a flip flop, but I promise not to steer you wrong direction. The quality of stitching and fabric on Lacoste products is well worth the money. This sandal might not be appropriate for pool/beach side parties. Again, this flip flop can be worn with Plaid or Khaki shorts, and even a pair of jeans.

Lastly, if you’re saying to yourself, I’m still not going to spend $54 on a pair of F*ing flip flops, go to Old Navy and buy a pair of classic flip flops. Price ranges from $3.50-$15. These flip-flop are actually pretty durable, and if you lose them? Who cares, with the prices at $3.50, you might as well stock up!

There you go guys, the top 4 flip-flopping picks for summer. Enjoy!

-Joey DePierro, Special Features Editor

joey@themensfashionblog.com

Skin care that actually works!

So here I am, helping out a friend with his blog, and hopefully he puts my contribution up. Skin care is a very important subject that goes hand and hand with fashion. If your face doesn't look good, then you don't feel good.

Many of the brands that you can find at your local store usually do not do the trick. Facewashes like Neutrogena and Clearasil usually cause more breakouts and tend to dry out your skin, instead of providing the necessary nutrients your skin needs daily.

I found this special skin care line online and also found counters at various high end department stores like Nordstroms. Mario Badescu is the line that carries it all. Treatments that cover acne, acne scarring, and even back and chest problems. The line also includes numerous serums and lotions to help fight wrinkles and keep skin hydrated. Mario Badescu is known for their Drying lotion. This magic lotion dries up pimples over night. I didn't believe it at first and for the price of $17.00 for a 1oz bottle, I was skeptical. Luckily for me, I had a pimple!! I wanted it to go away fast so I finally decided to give it a try . I applied to lotion to the troubled area and overnight, the pimple reduced in size and the redness was gone. They even have a special section just for guys.

I highly recommend the peppermint shaving cream that mosturizes and hydrates your skin, rather than causing red bumps and dryness. Mario Badescu is your one stop shop for all your skin care needs. Thanks Mario!

Peppermint Shaving Cream

Drying Lotion

To purchase these products, and to see their full line,

visit www.mariobadescu.com or nordstrom.com

-Joey DePierro, Special Features Editor

joey@themensfashionblog.com