A casual look mixing high and low brands

Sometimes it’s nice to lose the suit and go a little casual. Every day does not call for a suit and tie. It’s good to mix it up. That even holds true for the brands I wear. I like the idea of mixing high and low brands in creating a fantastic style.

Most days especially during the week you’ll find me in a suit. Why? There are a few reasons why I do it.

1. It hides my flaws. Let’s face it. I haven’t been as diligent as I should be when it comes to my exercise routine. However, I have promised myself that that’s about to change.
2. I feel comfortable in a tailored look and it’s easy for me to put together a look. I mean my pants and jacket match so I’ll I have to do is coordinate a shirt and tie and I’m ready
3. As a “Man About DC”, I hit a lot of events. Often the attire is business or cocktail attire and if the women are bringing their A game. I definitely want to be in the mix!

However sometimes the occasion calls for something less formal. I’ve been a long proponent of elevated casual looks. Something that would look great for an evening out or just a look that would put an extra spring in my step.

On my latest trip to New York for New York Fashion Week, I opted for a fun casual look. Mixing high and low brands (the shirt was from Burberry and my coat, Zara), I came up with a great look that was perfect for the rainy New York Day and perfect to watch the runway fashions.

Details

So how did I come up with this look? Sometimes when I put together my look, I base it on a particular article of clothing. It could be the shoes, the top or maybe even my jacket. In this case, I think it was all three.  That’s how I ended up mixing high and low brands. You don’t always have to wear one specific brand from head to toe. Create your own style.

I nabbed my raincoat a couple years ago at a Zara sale for $19. (When they have a sale, you can get some ridiculous deals!) The coat is really well-made and I just loved the color. Next came the shoes, I recently had the opportunity to work with Taft, the shoe company that creates some really fantastic shoes for men. I fell in love with their Russell loafer. The shimmering floral spoke to me and I knew I needed to feature this statement shoe. (In addition, this shoe also works as a fun formal shoe!)

Next came the shirt. I had been hoarding some Neiman Marcus gift cards so I wanted a splurge. Burberry to the rescue. This shirt is one of those over the top pieces that just needed the right pieces to go with it to make a great look.  Adding in some quirky pants from Scotch and Soda and I was ready to hit the town. What do you think of this look and are you like me and base it on an article of clothing? Do you like mixing high and low brands? Let me know in the comments below.

Rain Trench – Zara |White casual shirt – Burberry |Plaid Pants – Scotch and Soda (my pants are sold out but Scotch and Soda has a great selection of alternatives). Floral Loafer – Taft