Dress like...

As we mentioned last week, we're branching out from our typically female-centric topics into the realm of men's fashion through the newly-created "Gents" section. We're kicking things off with the new series "Dress like..." which translates a stylish celebrity ensemble into wearable pieces you can easily mimic.

First up is Chris Paul, All Star point guard for the Los Angeles Clippers. Whether directing traffic on the basketball court or stepping out in Tinseltown, CP3 always looks on top of his game. Clearly, we can't all have multi-million dollar sports contracts, but we can emulate Chris' off-court look with these affordable pieces from accessible retailers. Just as CP3 commands his teammates on the hardwood, you can command respect by integrating a few of these basics into your wardrobe.

look one
shirt / cardigan / cargos / shoes / watch

look two
fleece / check pullover / tie / jacket / hat / duffel

A special thanks to Mr. John Hickey (style icon) for lending his sports and writing expertise to this post and future series installments.

For the Fellas

He landed Blake Lively...must be doing something right.

1 / 2 / 3 / 4

I don't need to tell you that the majority of our lovely readers are women, which is 100% ok with us - we're happy to have them. Since most of our content is aimed toward women,  it's safe to assume that our readers are also members of the fairer sex. I never questioned that assumption until a recent (and strangely constructive) blogging conversation with my friend, Zach.

At his suggestion, Coral + Concrete is delving into the world of men's fashion, even if their girlfriends/wives/concerned female friends are the only readers we reach. Our plan will focus on the creation of a new post series titled "The Gents," which also appears as a navigation bar link on our homepage. This series will act as a fashion guide for guys who'd rather not flip through the latest Vogue, but are still interested in dressing well. Zach may have some innovative post ideas, but that doesn't mean he knows herringbone from houndstooth.

We're hoping to post in this series a few times each month, depending on the feedback from our readers. Here's where we need your help. Since this idea is brand new to Coral + Concrete, we'd love to hear your thoughts and suggestions as we brainstorm for future posts. Does your significant other's concept of "weekend casual" consist of basketball shorts and graphic tees? Does he think that Chuck Taylors are dress shoes? Does he brag that he's owned his Old Navy Performance Fleece since 6th grade (while wearing it)? If any of the these questions sound familiar, we'd love to hear from you - and your guy.

Happy Halloween!

Fall Boots 101

While the Chicago temps have spanned a 42 degree range within the past week, I'm going to assume that it is in fact October...and that I'm safe to proceed with today's fall-themed post. Even though I snatched my sandals out of hibernation for last week's 80 degree weather, I typically welcome fall as the beginning of boot season. I'm not typically a shoe-obsessed girl, but that doesn't mean the commencement of boot season is any less thrilling for me.

With the huge variation in boot styles (i.e. height, material, heel vs. no heel) I thought it might be fun to create a "how-to"guide of sorts. When I woke up this morning I still wasn't Rachel Zoe, so this is basically a compilation of my favorite ways to wear the various styles listed.

Hope you enjoy and Happy Monday!

Ankle: Bonny Boot / one / two / three

Mid: Watchtower Boot / one / two / three

Over the Knee: Børn Crown 'Cady' Over the Knee Boot / one / two / three