Elle Lavon | Men's Personal Stylist

5 Simple steps to organising your wardrobe

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 22:19:58 -0700

Is your wardrobe working for you?

Do you love your wardrobe?
Is it a functional space where things are easy to see and reach?
Do you enjoy opening it up and selecting your outfit for the day?

If you've answered "NO" to any of these, well, you're not alone.

Many of us feel uninspired and frustrated with our wardrobes. Sometimes opening those doors (or walking in to your walk-in) can feel like hard work, and you find yourself digging through piles of stuff you can't even identify to try and find what you need, right?

You know you need to sort through things and rearrange your space to make it work better but it seems like an impossible task. WHERE DO YOU EVEN START???

To be honest with you - wardrobe organising is very individual, because the way you see, arrange and use your clothes and space would be different from one person to the next.

However, there are a few things that anyone can do to create a wardrobe that you love using.

Step 1 - Get rid of what no longer serves you.

Easier said than done, right?

Actually... It's simple.

To help you make logical decisions about what you keep and what needs to go, ask these questions about each item:

Do you still like it?
Does it fit well?
Is it in good condition?
Does it suit your personal style?
Is it flattering?
Does it go with other items in your wardrobe?
Have you worn it in the past year? If not - why? (Note, some items such as formal wear may not get used often. As long as it's current and you will use it once or twice a year you can keep it. As a rule of thumb 5 years is the longest you can keep a suit before it starts looking dated. Sorry, sad but true.)

If you've answered "NO", it must go.

Does it need repairing or tailoring?

If the answer is yes, set it aside to take to...Read More

KNITS - 5 Things You Need to Know

Wed, 31 May 2023 23:19:59 -0700

Hello lovers!
It’s getting chilly! And what better way to stay snug and stylish than with some cosy knits? BUT…I don’t want you going out into the cold world unarmed!
I want you to have good quality knits that bring you warmth and joy, pass the test of time and are well cared for.
Let’s get down to the KNITTY GRITTY.
Here are five things you need to know about knits for this winter.
1. Fabric Choice
Avoid synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon and acrylic as much as possible.
Acrylic is everywhere right now and it is THE ENEMY. The price at the check out will be low but the cost to you will be high, because this knit will not last. It’s made from synthetic fibres (petroleum, actually) that don't breathe well. This means that acrylic knits can trap moisture and sweat, leading to an uncomfortable and itchy feeling. They will also pill and lose their shape over time. You will probably only get a season or two out of them which is a real waste of your money.
Instead, opt for natural fibres like wool, cashmere, or cotton. You might even find bamboo in the mix, which is fabulous. It may cost a bit more but it will last for years and years.
Not only are natural fibres better for the environment, but they also offer superior warmth and breathability. Wool is naturally moisture-wicking, so you don't have to worry about feeling damp or clammy. Cotton and bamboo are not only soft and comfortable, but they're also hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for those with sensitive skin. So, when you're shopping for your winter wardrobe, make sure to look for pieces made from natural fibres for a sustainable and comfortable choice!
Where do you find this information? ON THE TAG. The tag on most garments will be inside on the left seam or at the back of the collar. The tag will tell you the exact percentage of each...Read More

The Best Jeans For Men And Women in 2023

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 19:35:09 -0800

No lies, girls and boys. You're not alone.
The struggle to find the ultimate jeans is universal.
Which is pretty ironic considering they are such a fundamental staple in every wardrobe.
Over the past 20 years I have had a lot of experience finding the perfect jeans for every type of body and lifestyle and it would be pretty mean of me to keep this secret to myself, so I’ve decided it’s time to share my top picks, my go-to, favourite jeans brands and styles for men and women that really do fit EVERY BODY.
Now, let me start by saying this - there are LOTS of styles of jeans out right now, from ultra skinny to boyfriend/girlfriend/mum (what’s next? Grandma jeans??), slouch, wide leg, cropped and bell bottoms. To be honest, the majority of them aren't actually flattering (which is why so many of you are feeling stuck!). For sure, they are trendy, and if you want to keep up with trends and be “fashionable” then absolutely - go for it!
But - HOT TIP: Get the fundamental styles first and then add the trend/seasonal pieces.
There are SO many denim brands and designers out there...
If you want versatile jeans that fit well, look good and are comfortable -
let me save you a whole lot of time, headache and frustration.
Oh! You're still here!
One of the most common questions I get asked is
"how much money do I need to update my wardrobe?"
The short answer is - "How long is a piece of string?"
But...I know better than to answer a question with a question.
The truth is, it's really up to your budget and needs.
I will give some estimates with real figures, but here's how we get to them:
There are some general guidelines to answer your question.
Let me explain.
A good stylist should know how to be resourceful with their client's budget.
I've worked with clients who have had bottomless budgets (imagine never having to look at a price tag...), clients who had $2500 for an entire wardrobe including multiple suits, shoes and everything in between, and I've had clients who had a $500 budget for their full top to toe wedding attire. Including the suit. (to put that in perspective, the average suit starts at $1500 and goes up to $3500, with high-end suits anywhere from $7,000 to $30,000 and sometimes more. yes. You heard me right. This is not a typo. So you can imagine a $500 budget required some seriously creative planning on my behalf).
So, it is possible to work with most budgets.
However...
1. "Poor Man Pays Twice". Quality is key.
I cannot stress this enough.
One thing I don't like to compromise on is quality.
There are brands I refuse to shop with for quality and ethical reasons. I won't name and shame but you get what you pay for.
On the other hand, I ain't no brand hoe and I honestly don't care what name the label has on it as long as it's good quality and suits your style, so I don't shop in expensive boutiques just because of the brand. Just to be clear.
I...Read More

The first time I kissed a boy

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 19:15:01 -0800

THE 90s ARE BACK
(OK…I know…they’ve been “on trend” for a while now, but because I’m allergic to trends, I have been avoiding talking about it)
Bum bags, high waisted thick denim jeans that make everyone look like they have camel toes (pass on that one, thanks) and a whole bunch of other stuff.
It’s like a trip down memory lane! To me it all seems like yesterday and at the same time a lifetime ago. And now I’m one of “those” older people who get to say “I remember when those were fashionable when I was a kid”.
And, as much as I avoid trends, I have to admit, the 90s do hold a special place in my heart because that was when I experienced so many of my “firsts”.
Ah… I get so sentimental when I think about those years.
Remember your teenage years? So many adventures, discovery, confusion and reckless abandon!!
First loves
The first time I kissed a boy - I was 15. his name was Guy (I found him on FB recently and I still think he's hot), he was my crush for ages and he came to pick me up one night on his quad bike and we hung out and it was super awkward and I think I have gotten much better at kissing since then haha.
My first heartbreak - Not Guy, I broke up with him not long after the weird awkward kiss.
My first CD - Pretty sure it was U2 Achtung Baby
My first pair of Levi’s 501s.
My first pair of Doc Martens - Classic 8 hole in Black. At one point I painted the soles in Green, Yellow and Red because #Reggae. I still miss them.
My First cigarette - 1994 in an underground clubhouse where my friends and I hung out and made out on old, mouldy couches listening to Nirvana and Metallica and watching movies on VCR… and no, I don’t smoke anymore
My first (and only) alcohol poisoning - 1996 a small dingy pub in Greece, listening to The Presidents of The United States of America and getting wasted with 3 boys from Essex.
My...Read More

The Statement Piece

Wed, 02 Jan 2019 20:51:24 -0800

The Statement Piece
"LOOK at me" vs "SEE me"
Well, actually….What IS a statement piece?
I talk a lot about authenticity and having a wardrobe that expresses who we truly are. I talk about our wardrobes being an extension of our personality, values and internal language and I am deeply passionate about helping others translate their “inside” into a look, a style that expresses that on the “Outside”.
When I talk about what I do, one of the things that people raise with me is the fear of being seen as a show off, a “try-hard” or a “peacock” because they are well styled or appear to be well groomed and polished.
I have dug deep to find the source of this fear and here’s what I have uncovered –
People mistake STYLE for FASHION.
Fashion (the peacock, the try hard, the show off) says “LOOK at me”, and while it might get attention, it’s like a mask or a costume to hide behind and it causes a disconnect.
Style (the authentic expression of the self) says “SEE me”, it is vulnerable, raw and open. It breaks down barriers and allows others to see who we are and invites a genuine connection.
I don’t “dress” my clients so they are LOOKED at. In fact, I don't dress anyone at all. I help others define their own style so they are SEEN for who they are.
And one of the tools we use in this process is what we call a
“STATEMENT PIECE”
A statement piece is an item (Clothing, footwear, jewellery or an accessory – basically anything you’d wear) that says “THIS is who I am. This is ME in a nutshell”.
It is a visual representation of YOU. When you wear it you feel content and comfortable in your own skin...Read More

Let's talk about SEX!

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 21:50:28 -0800

Let's talk about my sex life!
Just kidding...
But I got your attention, right?
(Who knows? Maybe I will tell you about my sex life... keep reading my blogs to find out)

I bet you don't appreciate being fed bullshit...
And that's exactly what this blog is about.
I want to talk about something that's often on my mind.
"Time".
Our personal relationship with time. Or more to the point, our priorities.
Specifically - The bullshit excuses that we make and the lies we tell ourselves (and others) about how much time we have and don't have and how we can free ourselves by consciously changing our narrative and being honest with ourselves and others.
Have you ever found yourself saying "I don't have time for XYZ" or "There just aren't enough hours in the day..."?
I don't know about you (I'm guessing yes), but I definitely have!
But if I'm to be completely honest... that's total bullshit.
The things I "don't have time for" are actually things I don't really want to do. Or rather, things I don't see as a priority.
Not only things but people, too.
For example, if I have a jam-packed week and someone I'm not particularly interested in spending time with wants to catch up with me, I would just say I can't fit them in, right?
Bullshit.
It's not that I can't, it's that I won't. Because let's face it, had it been someone I wanted to see, no matter how much I had on, not only would I make time for them, I'd actually move things around or sleep less or work later, just so I could hang out with them. Because they are a priority.
Ya know what I'm saying, right?
You know how you "forget to reply to a text message"?
It is basic and not put together. It's a mish mash of bits and pieces.
Can never find anything I really want to wear but don't have the time to fix it.
Meh - would be great to have some pieces I love that are more versatile.
I never feel like I have enough!
Lost, no direction, I don’t know what i should keep/throw out, no style.
It doesn't quite fully express who I am
My wardrobe makes me feel average
It could use some umph.
Terrible. Old, dated, I need a total overhaul.
It’s filled with too many clothes from my younger years
Do any of these feel familiar?
It makes me so sad that so many people feel so "MEH" about their wardrobes. I want you to LOVE your wardrobe and be excited when it's time to put on your outfit for the day.
I know that one thing my clients often say once we have finished building their wardrobes is that they have so much fun getting dressed and they often change throughout the day just for the joy of it.
I get photos of them in their new looks feeling so awesome and I want that to be the case for everyone.
So how do you build that kind of wardrobe?
First thing first - you need to know your style and what works for you. That's fundamantal. We know that right?
But another really important thing is....
If you don't love it, don't buy it!
It's a great reminder to all - style novices and pros (and...Read More

5 Items you need to BURN

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 22:40:12 -0800

OK, guys, this is a serious call to action.
If any of these items are still in your life... BURN THEM (and the factory they came from).
Offender #1 - Crocs
When I see humans wearing crocs, I'm just like "OH MY GOD, how are these still in production??? How is there still demand for this hideous, dated, unflattering rubbish?"
My eyes are bleeeeding...please stop!!
What can you do instead?
Pretty much anything would be better, really.
But no, seriously, a pair of lightweight slip-ons would be a great option.
Depends on your style really. If you're a classic type you could do loafers, if you're sporty you could do Vans or Converse.
Here's an idea, a funky pair of espadrilles (these are from Aquilla)
Offender #2 - Cargo pants (and shorts)
OK - First of all, if you're a tradesman and you need these for work, obviously that's all good (for work, at work, yeah?).
But, if you're wearing them anywhere but work - please stop.
Stop, and BURN THEM!
Why?
Because:
They are unflattering, they add bulk where no one needs it and they are ugly AF.
What can you do instead?
A pair of flat front, slim cotton chinos. They look great and go with everything from casual to smart.
(These are from Calibre)
Another option for the funky, sporty boys is drop crotch, drawstring pants. I'm currently a bit obsessed with this Austrian brand, Sernes. Obviously, these are not for everyone, but they are pretty cool if you can rock this style.
Image below:
Offender #3 - Sports Shades
Sports shades don't go with anything but activewear. Definitely not with a suit.
If you know anything about me, you know about my excessive and dynamic eyewear collection.
Eyewear is such a fun way to keep your style vibing. It's like being in...Read More

fUCK fASHION

Tue, 06 Nov 2018 23:55:13 -0800

"when you don't dress like everyone else,
you don't have to think like everyone else"
~Iris Apfel
Being a Stylist doesn't make me a slave to Fashion.
fUCK fASHION!
I've always cringed at the idea of looking like anyone else.
Even as a child I remember feeling like it didn't make sense that my mother put my sister and me in matching outfits. I mean, I get it, It's super cute, but to me, it didn't feel right because I was made to look exactly like someone else when all I wanted to do is be me, and there is only one me and I am fiercely protective of that!
This is why I refuse to follow mainstream trends.
If you want to really rub me up the wrong way, tell me how "trendy" I am.
Questions people ask me because I'm a "Stylist":
* By the way, by profession I'm actually not a Stylist at all. I'm a Certified Image Consultant and that covers everything from Personal Style to Personal Brand and is a complete coaching service but people just don't understand what that is and it takes so much explaining that I decided "I'll simplify it and tell people I'm a "stylist", that should fix the problem".
But, no. Because now there's a misconception that I am a slave to fashion and dress my clients accordingly.
And then come the questions:
What should I wear this season?
How would you dress me?
So, what's hot right now?
Is that "
in"?
Read More

Elle Lavon | Men's Personal Stylist

5 Simple steps to organising your wardrobe

KNITS - 5 Things You Need to Know

The Best Jeans For Men And Women in 2023

The first time I kissed a boy

THE 90s ARE BACK

The Statement Piece

The Statement Piece"LOOK at me" vs "SEE me"

I have dug deep to find the source of this fear and here’s what I have uncovered –People mistake STYLE for FASHION.

And one of the tools we use in this process is what we call a“STATEMENT PIECE”

Let's talk about SEX!

Let's talk about my sex life!

5 Items you need to BURN

OK, guys, this is a serious call to action.If any of these items are still in your life... BURN THEM (and the factory they came from).

Offender #1 - Crocs

Offender #2 - Cargo pants (and shorts)

Offender #3 - Sports Shades

fUCK fASHION

The Statement Piece
"LOOK at me" vs "SEE me"

I have dug deep to find the source of this fear and here’s what I have uncovered –
People mistake STYLE for FASHION.

And one of the tools we use in this process is what we call a
“STATEMENT PIECE”

OK, guys, this is a serious call to action.
If any of these items are still in your life... BURN THEM (and the factory they came from).