On the previous episode of Behind the Threads, veteran stylist Mike B. provided us with day looks for spring. In part two, the former head of fashion at Bad Boy Records breaks down evening looks. Below you'll find looks he pulled from Macy's and his responses to our style questions.
What are some trends that you'd like to see revived?
Mike B: "One trend I would love to see revived is that preppy look; you could always go prep. You know, where it's like a cross between that collegiate type style."
Here, Mike pulls a Tallia statement jacket with collegiate accents to finish his evening look. Tallia, a brand first established in 1893, delivers tailored high fashion at reasonable price points.
What is a go-to outfit for going out during the evening?
Mike B: "First, let me say that I don't think people really dress up like they used to anymore. There used to be a point in New York City when you couldn't get in to certain clubs unless you had on shoes, right. But then it came to a point where nobody really wanted to wear shoes like that because it was kind of like uncomfortable, but then, at the same time, you had these brands that started making that shoe sneaker. I call it the get-over, right. Because as long as it had a little sleek look to it you could throw it on with some jeans and a nice sweater and you were able to get into any club in New York City."
Sneakers are kosher and colored suits are in for spring. Shop the I.N.C. floral shirt and I.N.C. bottom here and don't forget the blazer.
What's a good go-to dinner look?
Mike B: "[Evening looks] depend on that ambience of where you're going. Are you going to dinner? Are you going to a club to stand on some couches all night? Are you going to turn up? Or, is it just a quiet get together? Nowadays I feel like fashion has just changed so much to where sexy casual fly is now the go-to for everybody. As long as you look presentable, and you look clean, and you have a little 'swagonometry' with your flow, then you're able to catch a wave anywhere."
"Swagonometry" is the term Mike uses to describe effortless style. Awhile back, the American designer Ralph Lauren tapped Mike B. to teach his team "swag." The legendary designer recognized Mike for his approach to fashion and dubbed him the "Prince of Fashion." Needless to say, Mike knows his craft. Here, he pulls a Michael Kors leather jacket to qualify as swag.
What are some additional evening essentials?
Mike B: "You might do a blazer with the sneakers, or you might do that denim jacket with a nice dress up look underneath and then your denim jacket is like your balance to the casual side of things. Or maybe it's just a cool fitted sweater, and you're pretty much on your way."
The denim jacket is one of Mike B.'s favorite essentials for night and day. If you missed the day looks, watch the video here, and shop more essentials at Macys.com.
