Valentine's Day Date

Ferrera Fresh Tip: GENTS Valentine's Day is usually one of the busiest dinner days of the year second only to Mother's Day! But this year it's on a Monday...

With that said make sure to plan your Valentines date ahead of time! To avoid the long waiting list or the awkward rush to finish the date in order to be ready for work the next day, here is a cool option. If you don't do it often and can, stay in and you cook for your Valentine's date that night.

So, pick up a nice bottle of wine, (get red wine mister, it's Valentine's) set the table, light a couple table candles and a few around the house, prepare a dinner that she will enjoy and let the Valentine's evening begin!

The way you finish the night is up to you, just make sure it's on a good note and that's Life...With Style!

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

First Date Tips: 6 Steps to a Successful First Date

Ferrera Fresh Hint: GENTS The First dates the most important date, period!

Ahhh, yes the first date is always exciting for the simple fact that it is just New! However, the first date is your opportunity to display the gentleman that you are as well as observe and learn about the lady you are interested in.  Listening and good conversation will make this date successful without a doubt but remember dates are to be fun and not feel like an "interview." Here are 6 tips that will avoid date disasters and will make your first dates successful!

• Make sure to plan this date! It shows her that you take time and that she is important. There is no excuse not to plan the first date, period!
• Know a little about the weather for your date and a little bit about the things she likes and does not like as it pertains to food, fun and entertainment.
• There is no need for too much touching or being close on a first date. If it does happen let her initiate it.  She may continually and subtly invite you to be closer to her with small touches, and other flirtatious signs. Just take note and keep your cool. 
• The first date should be a place where you can actually talk! Movies, operas or plays just don’t work since you have to be silent in these places. Having dinner, a glass of wine, visit a café or a lounge is more appropriate since you can interact in conversation.
• Be very alert on the first date! Listen, respond, remember, take mental notes and know that all communication skills apply. Her body language and conversation will tell you whether this is the only date or if there will be other dates to follow.
• Keep your cool and do not be too romantic on the first date! This might even make her want you more because it gives the impression that you are polite enough to respect her space which she will be attracted to! But, let her initiate romantic interaction and you respond as you desire...

One more tip for good measure which you regular readers know from other post which is, always dress your best! Put your skills in to play from the gentleman’s style blogs and carry on your "Life...With Style!"

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

Michael Ferrera Wins Project Style Top Trendsetter

 

As head PR representative a Michael Ferrera Custom Clothing, I'm am not surprised that Mr. Ferrera is the champion of the Project Style competition at Victoria Gardens!

This past Friday October 29, 2010 The Victoria Gardens Mall hosted the final round of their style competition. Earlier this year through the months of June and September contestants styled off head-to-head to create the most stylish outfit and users of @Shoptopia voted for the winners. Designer & stylist Michael Ferrera won the 2nd round that placed him in the finals with five other contestants who also won their rounds with unique style.

When talking to Michael Ferrera about his style idea for the finals he said, "...I really wanted something that would make my outfit stand out drastically, since I know the other contestants have nice style!...The rules were that I had to incorporate my style, add a current trend, and stay within the budget allowed so I thought in my mind about the outfit before I even started shopping. I really wanted to stay true to my style and not just go for the win with a bunch of trends...and (While nodding his head) I definitely feel like I did that in what I call an "Elegant Swaggeristic" outfit! (Michael chuckles)

Congrats to Mr. Ferrera and check out Victoria Gardens Project Style! Thank you all for the continued support, blog views, and comments! It is always a pleasure to blog about the exciting things happening in fashion & style.

Finally, as you know, you are welcome to ask Michael Ferrera questions on Twitter or Ask@MichaelFerrera.com for any style tips that will enhance you "Life...With Style!"

Stay Fresh,
PR for
Michael Ferrera

 

MENSWEAR FALL FASHION TRENDS 2010

Ferrera Fresh Tip: Just because it's "in style" doesn't mean it's your style! Stay true to your style by picking and choosing which fashion trends to wear this season...

It's in! After the season's showings at MAGIC, MRket and a tons of other fashion shows this Summer in Las Vegas we now know the items and trends that will be in the stores and boutiques for Autumn/Winter 2010. To save you time on looking into countless magazines, watching senseless sitcoms & movies to find the latest fashion trends, just stay close to "Life...With Style" by Michael Ferrera and we'll keep you covered.

Recently GQ online posted over 200 snapshots of the top trends in male fashion for the upcoming 2010 Fall season. Many of which were seen at MAGIC, Project, Pool, and MRket trade shows in August '10 by yours truly. A full view of the shots are below for you to look at, grab ideas, or take tips when you're ready but here's the "Ferrera Fresh" rundown of the notable trends to consider or not consider

1. For your suits gents, the slimmer suit lapel is still holding its ground as one of the looks to go for when choosing your suits.

2. The plaid neckties are still in as well. Not really the coolest thing to be wearing now since everyone is doing it, but nonetheless it's still a popular trend. Try not to wear this look more than twice a month.

3. Surprisingly the boat shoe that we talked about (in this post here) is continuing to be worn in the fall! Now it is like a mid-high boot style boat shoe in navy, green or tan that's worn dressed casual with tailored jeans and a blazer. A very cool look try it!

 
4. Flannel! Oooh, yes, I like! From full over coats, to simple blazers, ties, socks and other accessories, flannel is definitely a Fall trend 2010 to be used in your wardrobe this Fall gents.

5. Lace-up boots are another notable mention and I'm not complete with this look. It's cool for some gents but it looks very ol'-school-vintage-military. Not the coolest look if a girl will think you're leaving for the military next week.

6. The toggle coat is in and is Certified "Ferrera Fresh!" Although we may not get that cold on the west coast, it is for sure a piece for east coast gents to have and others to travel with.

7. Whoaaa! Graphic knit sweaters are in? Didn't see too much of this coming for the season. It looks kind of 'kid-ish' for a grown man to be wearing in 2010 but if you do wear this just wear confidence. I may try a few out and let you all know the response from the ladies.

8. The plaid suit or what GQ calls: shadow plaid....(Whatever) It's cool, try it! I have a nice amount of these styles in the Michael Ferrera Collection this season as well. It's Hot!

Other notables are wide knit scarves, beanies, leather gloves and oh leather wristbands on watches rather than metal links among the other usual accessories for the Fall season. Take a look at the picture and choose what looks you like and remember just because it's 'in' doesn't mean you have to do it. That's a "Life...With Style"

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

Check the article HERE

HINT: If you click the print button on the slide show you can see all the pics by scrolling down 

rather than clicking the next button hundreds of time!

Here's the Looks!

Beauty Come Forth feat. Michael Ferrera

On the October issue of Beauty Come Forth magazine marking the magazine's one year anniversary, designer Michael Ferrera was selected as the wardrobe consultant for the magazines front cover!

After learning more about the magazine and meeting with Myra Wallace the Beauty Come Forth magazine Founder/Publisher/CEO, Mr. Ferrera had the perfect idea for the wardrobe that would make the anniversary issue complete! When talking with Mr. Ferrera about his styling ideas for the October issue he said,  

"...The first thing that I thought of when asked to consult for the cover was, we had to make Myra the star of the issue!...I mean it's a valuable magazine, that she created, and she is worthy of the shine on the anniversary issue...So I considered colors in the male suits that would of course fit the fall season (October) and used some bright iridescent colors in the neckties for the gents to accent Myra's dress in celebration of the magazine's anniversary...I had a great time working with the BCF team and look forward to working with them again in the future."

After getting past the excitement of the anniversary issue and the handsome men on the cover in Michael Ferrera custom clothing, I did have a chance to read the issue by clicking on the page links above, to the right and left of the cover and found some very insightful information. Some topics on fashion & style, fitness & health, finance, and relationship are a few that stood out, which you may enjoy as well!

So when you have a moment take a look at Michael Ferrera Custom Clothing on the cover of the October anniversary issue of Beauty Come Forth magazine, as it is sure to fit your "Life...With Style!"

PR for
Michael Ferrera

Photography by Davide Stennett

Michael Ferrera Featured

Michael Ferrera was recently featured on Sonic Eclectic in an article titled The Next Fashion Giant! 

Sonic Eclectic is an online column with international interest in fashion, music festivals, television and film production. 

In an interview with Ay Rushing, Michael Ferrera shares a bit of his fashion style, the beginnings of Michael Ferrera Custom Clothing, and the expansion we are now seeing with the company!

The article is a nice inspirational read that will give you a bit more insight about Michael Ferrera that will make you say "I didn't know that," yet still leave you with a pleasing smile when you are finished!

Take a look at the article by Ay Rushing at Sonic Eclectic and as always, in the words of Michael Ferrera: "Stay Fresh!"

Yours truly,

PR for 

Michael Ferrera 

Cuff Links

Cuff Links! The gentleman's simple metal jewelry that is used to close and hold the sleeves of a French cuff shirt closed. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and can be a collectors item if you choose!

In your life with style gentlemen, please have a handful of nice cuff links that you can use periodically. And, if you choose to, wear them regularly.

If you're not a cuff link fan, I suggest in the words of Dr. Suess in Green Eggs and Ham "Try them, try them..." you might like them! By the way, ladies love to see a nice pair of cuff links on a man as well. Ladies say "It's a polished look!" "It says he gives attention to detail!" and "It's just a clean look!" Just don't take my word for it; try them, and the ladies may like them on you too!

Cuff links! Plain and simple, Life...With Style!

Yours truly,

Michael Ferrera

Top 5 Ferrera Fresh Father's Day Gifts

As Father's day soon approaches, some have procrastinated on gift purchases and wondering what to buy. Yeah, we all know that neckties are the last minute resort and can always work, but think about the countless ties dad has already received as gifts. Here are some good idea to kick your Father's Day gift giving up a notch from the "Ferrera Fresh" mind of Michael Ferrera. Lets start with number 5...

5. Toys! (i.e. Technology) - Why? Because most guys have always loved toys, so as we get older toys don't get lost, they just get a bit more expensive! With the iPad often sold out, the release of the first ever 4G phone in the HTC Evo, and the soon to be released the 4th generation iPhone try to get your hands on one of these gifts and dad will be in for a treat! If not, gift certificates for these gadgets are great ideas as well!

4. Custom Photo and Frame - Why? Because if you're a daddy's girl or one of dad's many boys, father's take great pride in their children, young or old. If you can find a memorable photo of you and dad, try having it blown up and mounted into a custom fame or canvas wrapped. With technology these days you can have it in a few days or even hours and can possibly have names engraved on the frame! Try Aaron Brothers locations for this item.

3. Custom Shirt Gift Certificate - Why? Because if he already wears custom shirts he'll love it, and if he's never had a custom shirt he'll love it! The personal fitting, monogram, and experience of a custom shirt will make dad feel like the important man he is. Of course it would be our pleasure to provide the certificate by visiting MichaelFerrera.com, but if you're outside of California please give us a call and we can direct you to some other fine clothiers.

2. Personalized Jewelry Cuff Links - Why? Because they are just flat out cool! Cuff links hold their our prestige, but when they are personalized with dad's initials, his chest will poke out a little more with swagger. Even if he's over 50 and doesn't know what "swagger" means! Or better yet, think about adding your name on the cuff links if your his daughter. Try Neiman Marcus for these.

1. Customized Ink Pen - Why? Because when dad has on that beautiful tie, power suit, and that sleek watch, it's only appropriate for him to reach in the coat pocket for a personalized pen with his name on it! Try the pen out in store to make sure it writes smoothly and your set. Try Things Remembered for this item.

The main thing you may notice in "Life...With Style" is to make it personal! Dad will feel like you took the time to think of him and that he is important, which he is!

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

Are Custom Suits Really That Expensive?

Some have fantasized about the day to put on a suit that fits like a dream. The coat lapel lays perfectly on your chest and wraps precisely around your collar. The matching slacks to the suit don't even need a belt because they fit perfectly to your waste and hips. And, to top it off the slacks land perfectly above your shoe line. Sounds amazing right? Yet some still cringe to fit the bill for a suit of this caliber, but why?

Recently, I had a chance to met a gentleman that complimented me on my attire and then asked "what is it that you do, that you dress so dapper?" I shared with him that, "I teach people how to dress to attract more revenue to their business." His response "Ahhh, and how do you do that?" The short response was "...and I design custom made clothes to create individual styles."

The gentleman was at least 60 plus years of age and no longer wears suits often but he began to share with me his great experience he has had with custom clothes. In his wonderful short story he stated "....I remember one particular custom suit I bought in 1987 that I still occasionally put on to this day." (2010) His story put a great smile on my face, even though it was not surprising. It sparked me to share how inexpensive and extremely enjoyable the custom suit experience can be!

Think about, lets say this gentleman bought his suit in 1987 at a mid-range custom suit price, of what some feel is expensive, at ummm... $1,300 (could be more or less). Again relatively mid-ranged price for a very nice European wool, well tailored to his style, you know, all the trimming. Now, knowing that a rich navy blue 2 button suit, for example, never really goes out of "style", this gentleman did not have to invest in a similar suit for more than 23 years!

Hmmm, on the contrary others may want the quick fix or addition to the wardrobe of the oh-so-common $300 suit, but will have to replenish the suit sooner because of wear and tear! Lets give this common suit, with regular wear, a life span of 2.5 to 3 years to look good, which at this point a new suit would need to be purchased. (You do the math [cough, cough] $2,700 something) Over that same time period that gent with the "inexpensive" suit would have spent more than the gentleman who invested in the so called "expensive" custom suit. Not to mention the time spent

looking for a suit, going to the tailor and so forth.

Please know that there is nothing wrong with the $300 suit or a suit that is feasible at the current time! As I've said before "you don't need custom clothes to look good, but it sure is an enhancement, a reward, and you're worth it!" In addition, in today's era you sure can find some custom clothing shops that start custom suiting under 500 to 600 dollars. Yes, there are some give and takes you may sacrifice among features, but it's still custom.

So, are custom suits really that expensive? Not in a "Life With Style," but you be the judge...

Yours truly

Michael Ferrera

(Another Wardrobe Article)

(Click Here)

Approach Her...Strategically

For some gentleman it is easy to approach ladies and start a full conversation from out of the blue, for other gents that is not the case. For both gentleman approaching that lovely lady can and should be very strategic! Your small interactions before an actual conversation occurs can be helpful in your approach. Your smile, your composure, a "wink" or just your gentlemanly swag can capture her attention before you even start talking. These little things can make a big difference between if a lady will talk to you or not!

If you are in an environment you attend regularly like a fitness gym, a club where only members can attend, or a 26 story office build, chances are you have probably seen the lady before, and will eventually see her again. Not to mention, that if you're at your best at all times, she's probably noticed you too! So use this to your advantage. You do not need to approach a female at your first glance or first time you connect eyes. There's many pretty ladies in the world, notice her and move on. In the mean time, set up your future contact. Smile, wave, say a short hello or wink and that is it. Depending on the response you get proceed or simply set up a more in depth "hello" on your second, third, or so encounter.

Of course there is always the case where the lady is drop dead gorgeous, which is when you have to just make an approach! In other cases be strategic, pretty ladies get straight forward approaches from a ton of guys often, you don't want to be looked at as "just another guy..."

That's "Life...With Style!"

Ferrera Fresh Tip: Your always communicating, even when you're saying nothing...

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera



HITCH 2005
The Approach...Strategically!

@MichaelFerrera

Some of you may already know but if you don't, the Michael Ferrera brand is expanding and reaching hundreds of new people daily on Twitter! Michael Ferrera's branded "Fresh Tips" have been getting a ton of attention from business professionals, other gents & of course the LADIES.

If you're not already, Follow @MichaelFerrera on Twitter for daily tips in being the best you ever, living a Life...With Style!

Yours truly,
ghost blogger for
Michael Ferrera

History's Most Stylist African American Women Says Essence

In honor of Black History Month, Essence magazine recently put together a list of the the most stylish black women in history to pay tribute to African American woman's impeccable sense of style over the years.

While the obvious Michelle Obama and Rihanna made the cut, the list also honors timeless legends like Zora Neale Hurston and Josephine Baker who left an undeniable imprint on fashion and style. Some of the names you'll know and others you may not, but you will see that style displayed in all these beautiful women!

Take a look at the gallery & story by Essence as you will see the history alone is definitely Life...With Style!

Yours truly,
ghost blogger for
Micahel Ferrera

Josephine Baker

Diana Ross

Rihanna

Grace Jones

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Happy Valentine's Day from "Life...With Style" & Michael Ferrera!

Valentine's Day Garments

We'll I know you're thinking, we're a clothing company and haven't mentioned anything about attire for the Valentine's evening, "What is that?" I hope you know you have to dress "fly" if your in the Michael Ferrera brand or not. Depending on where you are going, or not going, a suit and tie may be appropriate. But for us who wear suits daily and want the clean & cool casual look, going with crisp denim, dress shirt and a well fit blazer is it! Ditch the tie and add a handkerchief for a little flare and cool. Again, RED handkerchief for us not so smart ones out there, but if you can pull off pink, do it! Now the only thing you have to do now is not spill on your garments! Cause with well planned evening like this she's reminded why she's with you in the first place. Now daters, significant others and spouses I'll leave the rest if the night up to you...

By the way, Ladies, Don't forget to do your part! Yes, you have a part...Bring out the beautiful, magnificent woman that you are. Let him know why he's with you. Put on the black dress, elongated earrings are, and ooohh yes, high heels, we love them! Add if there is a bracelet, a watch, or necklace he may have bought you, wear that! And of course, you know bold lipstick is must tonight, we love that! The clear extra sexy lip gloss always works and you know it's Valentine's Day so red is perfect.

Finally, for the evening ladies, be you, relax, have fun, don't put too much pressure on him. Lighten it up by doing something for him too. A small gift is nice. Try a nice necktie, a watch, a gift card, shirt certificate or some simple candies and a kiss is fine too. But a gift is not a mandatory for either party on Valentine's Day, just enjoy the moment together. Nonetheless, thank him and compliment him for being the gentleman that he is by the end of the night!

Happy Valentines Day!

Yours truly
Michael Ferrera

Designer Michael Ferrera
"Life...With Style"

The Valentine's Day...Date Continued

As stated in the previous "Life...With Style" blog there are other options if you're not a cool chef in the kitchen...

The second option is again "go custom" choose a restaurant that ONLY takes reservations. That is sweet, cool, "Ferrera Fresh," exclusive, all the above. It says "I know what I'm doing." Again, out of the norm and you avoid the waiting foolishness, that's for the rookies. Many golf & country clubs, or city bistros offer this type of service and have a very nice selection of food at that. Note: Contact Michael Ferrera if you would like restaurant recommendations & ideas. The place you go will know it Valentine's so they will set the mood for you, no need to worry about that. Also if you can request a particular waiter/waitress if you've been to this place before and you know a name before you even get there, your Valentine will beyond impressed!

Finally, the convo for the night is light talk about her, how beautiful she is and why you're spending this night with her. No boardroom numbers tonight sir. Keep it cool, and chill as if still is the norm for you, even it's not. Comment on her earrings, bracelet, fashionable high heels or other things she may have on that are out of the ordinary. It lets her know that you pay attention to her and are interested.

Remember, as stated in the beginning of the V-Day Series keep your cool this Valentine's Day, it's just another way to display the gentleman that you are and you don't need a so called "Valentine's Day" to display it. That's "Life...With Style!"

Yours truly,
love blogger for
Michael Ferrera

The Dynamic Datng Coach

DeAnne Lorraine
"Dynamic Dating Coach"

As we start February its time for us gents to start thinking about the day ladies do more than we do, Valentine's Day! Rather than huff & puff about the drag of planning dinner reservations and so forth, use this day to display your swagger, your cool, your uniqueness! We all know about the roses and chocolates that ladies love, but what do we do when seeking new ideas? We do exactly what the best athletes, and business professionals do...ask a coach!

DeAnne Lorraine is a professional dating coach who specializes in working with individuals to create a plan for attracting the opposite sex and enhancing existing relationships! Throughout one of her programs titled the "Inner Game" DeAnne states that she is not about a quick fix or a confident alter ego but encourages her clients to focus on unique attributes and of the genuine value that you bring to the other person! (hmm, ponder on that)

DeAnne Lorraine and designer Michael Ferrera, have had the opportunity to meet earlier in 2009 through social media and have communicated regularly to share ideas on how their expertise compliment one another. Colors, styles, and cuts of your attire all play a part in the dating experience and can be very strategic in the message you want to portray to the other person.. Statistics have shown that 93% of all communication is non-verbal with body language, tone and presentation. DeAnne also agrees that a stunning image is important when first capturing the eyes of the opposite sex.

DeAnne Lorraine is not just for one gender but ladies and gents alike. She's a perfect for the busy single business professional, the attractive always studying grad student, the middle aged back to dating individual as well as couples who want to improve their existing relationship.

Yes, some gents may be saying, I have no problem with the ladies or my girlfriend or wife loves me and I know I make her happy. That is fantastic, and I encourage to continue to do it because she's worth every bit of it! For you gentleman, take a glace at DeAnneLorraine.com for quick & simple ideas to enhance what you are already doing.

So as we approach V-Day ladies and gents be unique, show your style, make your Valentine not only smile but glow as you continue to live every aspect of Life...With Style!

Yours truly
love blogger for
Michael Ferrera

Deanne Lorraine is located in San Diego California and has been seen on Good Morning America, The Rachel Ray Show, San Diego Fox 5 as well as her own Deanne Lorraine YouTube channel. Please do check out her work at the links above, join her free dating newsletter, and contact for her personalized services.

DeAnne Lorraine

Care for my Sheep...

A gentleman's suit. An essential part of the male wardrobe, but when shopping for that new suit do you really understand why that garment can sometimes carry an extremely high ticket price?

I'll get this out of the way first, yes, you are paying for the brand name. Designers and tailors that actually make the product come at now small price but their expertise and imagination are simply priceless. In addition, some of the luxury brands, or what we call luxury brands, in the world use some of the finest raw materials available to man, which is often what you pay for.

When beginning the construct of a suit, wool makers take sincere time in examining the sheep of which the wool comes from. There are many different breeds of sheep which we will not go into in this post. The sheep species is very delicate and can be very costly to care and nurture throughout its lifetime. Shepherds or persons that care for sheep spend countless hours feeding, watering, resting and protecting their sheep. Even to the point of minimizing the stress level of the sheep, which is cause by fearing other animals since sheep are nearly defenseless unless protected.

Caring for the sheep also includes making sure the weather and environment is conducive to the sheep's growth. Some fine wool sheep are even covered with huge shades to block sun rays, which can be harmful to the sheep by drying the wool, as well as to protect it from rain, snow, wind and all other natural conditions. Even finer wool can be taken from the belly of the sheep which is rarely exposed to the sun light, rain or show, causing this wool to be extremely soft and can carry a high price tag to the actual fabric manufactures. (the people that make those fancy pinstripes and colors you like) This in turn cases the finished fabric to be extraordinarily soft, look exquisite, and be extremely comfortable when wearing. Sheep essentially need extreme care just as a child, or any other animal, and when cared for correctly can be very valuable to garments.

The list of care that goes into fine sheep wool can continue, but these few points can put in prospective that high price tagged suit. Moreover, when taken care of properly, that same suit can last you a dozen plus years. Now when you think about it, that oh so expensive suit is now, not so that expensive. Quite frankly, I understand that most people do not think of all this when shopping for a suit, and are more concerned with a good product. Do know however, when you invest in that high quality suit, you're getting a lot more than what meets your mind, and true quality you and the other people noticing you will be able to see.

That's "Life...With Style!"

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

Luxury Raw Washed Wool

Fine English Wool Coat