The Best Part of Wakin' Up

March 25, 2015, 9:45 am

It's no secret that I am iced coffee obsessed. No matter the season, you will always catch me drinking the chilly, caffeinated drink most mornings. I sometimes even start craving a glass of iced coffee as I begin my nightly regimen, pre-sleep... as well as a big donut but that's a whole other topic. Luckily, the team over at Folgers® coffee noticed my caffeine obsession in some of my daily posts here and sent over their latest creation - Folgers® Iced Café.

I'm not going to lie, I just about lost it when I opened the small package and realized what I was looking at... in a good way of course. With Folgers® Iced Café coffee drink concentrates, which currently come in four tasty flavors, iced coffee is made simple in just seconds. All you need is milk [I use almond milk], ice, and a cool 'stache mug like mine shown here. Just add a couple of squirts to taste - Folgers® Coffee Café recommends two per eight ounces - then just stir and add ice and you're set to start the morning... and with about 75mg of caffeine per serving, it'll wake you in time to enjoy it and your morning. It really will be "The Best Part of Wakin' Up!"

Presented by my friends at Folgers® and Socialstars | All opinions and words are my own

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Try a Shave

March 26, 2015, 4:00 am

≫ Next: Lacoste for J. Crew

≪ Previous: The Best Part of Wakin' Up

I love changing up my daily routine to make the day-to-day a little more interesting but when it comes to grooming, I’m pretty specific on my regimen and rarely stray or change it up. I’m sure most guys can relate, when you find something that works you stick with it! So when my new friends over at 99 Cent Razor contacted me to try out one of their razors I’ll be completely honest here… my reply was hesitant and wasn’t quite sure what I was getting myself, and my skin, into. I can say confidently now, I was pleasantly surprised and you will be too!

It may have been love at first site… When first receiving the small trial package, which includes a sleek handle, two three-blade razors, and a handle holder that’s designed conveniently for your shower, I was already blown away. Knowing there are many low cost competitors out there, some of which I have tried, I thought I knew the quality and design replicated by those competitors that I would be receiving… I was wrong. The package at first glance will instantly convince you to rush to the restroom and give the shave a go before letting yourself fall head over heels attached to this razor. Trust me, your heart will not be broken post-trial.

The shave is shockingly smooth and will leave your face feeling baby soft. I’ve been using the razor for about a week now and have only had to shave once when I’m usually a two to three time a week shaver… the three-blade razor designed shave is that close! Best part of all is this razor won’t give that post-shave burn or ingrown hairs. Actually, the best part is the price but the quality is tied for a close second! Don’t trust me just yet? Well make sure you head on over to 99 Cent Razor now and sign up for your own trial razor kit! Pay just 99 cents for shipping and you’ll get your package within days to give your own test-run a go… note that this is not the same as signing up for a subscription and is in fact, a no strings attached and a non reoccurring service for all first time users. 99 Cent Razor is that confident in their razors and know you will love the trial, as did I! You can thank me later. Happy grooming fellas!

Presented by my friends at 99 Cent Razor | All opinions and words are my own

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Lacoste for J. Crew

March 27, 2015, 2:00 am

≫ Next: Space Upgrade

≪ Previous: Try a Shave

Anyone else out there completely obsessed with fresh pressed juice?! With a juice bar in just about every neighborhood in New York City [and probably every major city in the U.S.], you can't get away from the stuff. Thankfully, my friends over at Lacoste sent over a care package of goodies which included some fresh juices [plus some other things I'll come back to next week, so keep your eyes peeled for that] from one of my favorite spots in the city, The Butchers Daughter.

The pressure is on to get fit in time for summer so these juices are definitely getting put to work. Especially during busy days like today when I'm trekking the city without time to stop for grub. A juice in lieu of a meal gives just enough energy to get through the day, all while cleansing some toxins... or something like that. If you haven't tried one yet, then you have to give it a go. Just make sure you do some research and pick a place with good reviews and a helpful juicer that can give you some more professional advice!

Speaking of good reviews and warmer days, how great is this new Lacoste for J. Crew collaboration polo! These two classic, mega-brands could not have picked a better way to team up. With vintage-inspired details like a retro logo pulled from the Lacoste archives, a slimmer fit, and a tennis tail, it's spot on for a mending of the two brands in a modern way. These polos will be my sunny days uniform. Make sure you get yours - available at J. Crew - before the limited edition collection sales out!

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Wearing: Lacoste for J. Crew Polo | J. Crew Ludlow Traveler Suit | Converse Jack Purcell Sneakers | Giles and Brother Skinny Railroad Cuff

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Space Upgrade

March 28, 2015, 6:08 pm

≫ Next: Get Activewear

≪ Previous: Lacoste for J. Crew

I’m always so excited for a change in seasons. No matter if it’s summer to fall or winter to spring, this is the chance to completely upgrade your personal style in every way possible. For us, rotating our closets is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to upgrading our style. We take full advantage of this time as an excuse to rejuvenate our space and it all starts with the bed!

Let’s face it - in today’s over-worked, multi-tasking world of 24/7 access to information and distraction, sleep is really the ultimate luxury. I knew I needed to create a retreat from the stresses of life, and transform my bedroom into an oasis.

Designed with the latest technology for ultimate performance, our mattress of choice is the Beautyrest Black. When we decided to invest in this mattress, we knew it would not only upgrade our style but would also instantly transform our space and more importantly, our sleep! With Micro Diamond Infused AirCool Memory Foam and high performance fabrics, the Beautyrest Black Mattress delivers a rejuvenating sleeping experience and turns your sleeping routine into a luxurious experience. I’ve never been so excited to stay in on a Saturday night and do nothing but lay in bed…

Presented by Beautyrest and Style Coalition | All words and opinions are my own

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Get Activewear

March 30, 2015, 1:00 am

≫ Next: Shirting Arsenal

≪ Previous: Space Upgrade

There's always that fine line between looking like you just left the gym and looking like you just didn't feel like putting clothes on when you left your house. Obviously, you would rather the first but it's going to take a lot more than your basic sweatpants to pull of this look. We're still on our New Years health kick so why not kick your gym gear up a notch... it'll at least make you look motivated to hit the gym.

I've always been a fan of Lululemon gear and now that they have a men's only store in Soho I'm constantly stopping in between meetings to check out what they have and to get some gym motivation... the best part of feeling good is looking good! The brand isn't your ordinary sweat pants and tees though. The attention to design, comfort, and performance is what makes me invest in their activewear and always makes the transfer between hitting the gym in the morning to a busy day of meetings post-workout that much easier... and with technology like no-sweat and stink-free options, you won't smell like an old pair of gym socks!

Speaking of activewear, I recently discovered JoggJeans from Diesel. I know, I know, I'm probably the last one to find out about these but better late than never. You won't be losing style points for comfort here... they have the stretch of jersey but still look like your favorite Diesel denim. These are my 'busy New Yorker' jeans that I sport while running all over the city and pair perfectly with activewear or can be dressed up for a night out undetected as anything but denim. As you can see, by running all over the city I mean practicing my parkouring moves... HA, I just discovered this exists! Stay active friends!

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Wearing: Lululemon Revival Bomber | Lululemon Metal Vent Tech Henley [similar] | Training Short Sleeve Shirt [not yet available] | Diesel Thavar JoggJeans | Nike Sneakers [similar]

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Shirting Arsenal

March 31, 2015, 11:24 am

≫ Next: In a Day

≪ Previous: Get Activewear

No but really, where the heck is spring!? New Yorkers are on pins and needles waiting for a warm, sunny day that will last longer than just one afternoon! It really is controlling my mood lately. I'm definitely in need of some vitamin D and a good day of laying out in the grass with a good book and some iced coffee... those kinda days just can't be beat!

I'm not letting these chilly days control my wardrobe though! I've committed myself to stepping it up a bit and pushing my style boundaries as of late. Really, it's the perfect time for a style refresh and to get more into the tailored game... especially when you have great brands like Hugh and Crye making it all that more affordable to get a great fitting shirt that does not need tailoring post-purchase. You can get away with wearing the same blue suit to work a couple times a week but there really isn't getting around replaying your shirt game. Invest in a few great tailored shirts so you have multiples in your shirting arsenal to get you through your week... your shirt really is the base of your entire outfit! Just make sure you toss them in the hamper after each wear and keep it moving to the next.

Before we know it we'll be complaining about the heat so until then, I'm content building my wardrobe upgrades and keeping it chill. This weeks plans consist of a few dinners and some fun car shows. The New York International Auto Show is in town next week so there's some of my favorite car makers in town debuting their latest models in some top secret previews, so make sure you're following me on Instagram for all the action - @TrendStyled - and of course make sure you give me a follow everywhere else [just click the icons below] to stay in touch! If you want to see what other guys are excited about wearing this spring, head on over to Details Magazine's #MyDetails and check out the image feed... hashtag your spring favorites #MyDetails for a chance to be featured with us!

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Wearing: Gucci Corduroy Blazer | Hugh and Crye Oxord | J. Crew Selvedge Denim | Swims Penny Loafers | Ted Baker London Pocket Square [similars]

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In a Day

April 2, 2015, 7:28 pm

≫ Next: Easter Monday

≪ Previous: Shirting Arsenal

It seems like only yesterday that it was New York Fashion week. Time has flown and I can not be more excited that the colder weeks are finally over. I am however, reminiscing on all the excitement that goes along with the crazy week that happens twice a year here in New York City. Thankfully, Details Magazine followed me, along with my friends Justin of Scout Sixteen and Isaac of Isaac Likes, to capture some of what goes along In a Day of fashion week for us bloggers.

The video is all click-to-shop accessible so if you see something you like while watching, just click it and you'll be connected to shop our outfits or see more about us. Neat huh?! Big thank you to Details Magazine for putting this together and NC17 for producing the video!

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Presented by Details Magazine | All words are my own

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Easter Monday

April 6, 2015, 10:35 am

≫ Next: LOTW: Tropics Travels

≪ Previous: In a Day

Ah Easter... creepy bunny costumes, candy filled eggs, tulips, and pastels - lots of pastels! It really is one of the most campy holidays of the year [no offense], but any reason for me to down a candy filled basket is great in my books. It has come to my attention though, that some countries continue their celebration through the Monday following. Easter Monday is a thing so I'm jumping on board and enjoying another day of the holiday's style and of course some more egg shaped chocolates - thank you Reese's!

Not one to go full on pastel, my Easter style is borderline Kentucky Derby - which is also right around the corner - but much more subtle. If I could pull off an Easter bonnet then I would but until then, a more casual look dressed up with a great pair of shoes works for me. These Conrad Wingtip shoes from Johnston and Murphy are a current spring upgrade added to my shoe collection and really fit the holiday and the season. Made with leather and suede details and a rubber sole, they look great but are also super comfortable.

It's another busy week ahead but today I'm still on holiday mode! I'll be spending the rest of my Monday riding my bike, enjoying a sun filled Central Park. It's long over due but the wait has been worth it. Nothing like the first bike ride of the year after a long winter! Happy Monday friends.

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LOTW: Tropics Travels

April 7, 2015, 6:00 am

≫ Next: Good Jeans

≪ Previous: Easter Monday

It's that time of the week where I collect some of my favorite pieces from online shop, East Dane, and create a Look of the Week that I'm either dying to wear or am planning to wear soon. This weeks'Look of the Week is getting me prepared for the best season of the year... spring. Yep, there won't be a snowflake emoticon crossing my texts anytime in the near future and I could not be more pumped!

For this weeks'LOTW, I'm continuing my packing list for my upcoming trip to Thailand with the Tourism Authority of Thailand. I'll be traveling all over the country starting in Bangkok for Thailand New Year celebration, Songkran - it's basically a massive water festival celebrating the coming of a new year... and that's just the beginning, so make sure you're following along on Instagram - @TrendStyled - where I'll be asking all of you to help me decide on what daily activities I should do!

Until then, this is just one of many [MANY] outfits I'll be packing for my adventure. It's hella hot in Thailand this time of year so it'll be a shorts and lightweight knits kind of mood. Also, there will be as many tropical prints as I can get into just like these sick Y-3 Yohji Boost Sneakers. I can't get enough of the warm weather colors in the print and is a modern way of pulling off florals for spring... groundbreaking! Make sure you hit up East Dane today through April 12th for their BIG friends & family sale where you can use THIS promo code for 25% off your purchase. Happy shopping!

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Shop this LOTW available on East Dane here:

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Good Jeans

April 8, 2015, 1:29 pm

≫ Next: Jogger Wear

≪ Previous: LOTW: Tropics Travels

Ok, so this whole transition into spring isn't going so great... not only is Mother Nature not holding her side of the deal, but I just can't get out of the darker-hues side of my closet! I don't usually get into darker denim during spring/summer but there's something about getting a new pair of jeans that makes you reconsider your entire outfit. Last week, AG Jeans and Esquire Magazine hosted a fun dinner previewing the latest collection from the brand where I couldn't resist grabbing my favorite fit - The Nomad - which they only had in black... no complaints here.

Keeping to my go-to black and white trend [no matter the season], I paired my Blackbird Nomad AG Jeans with some of my current spring favorites from Lululemon Men, Orlebar Brown, and Montblanc. I'm still a Texas boy at heart so I'm really never too flashy - which now that I think about it, is the opposite mindset of most Dallas natives - so I always love the high-low combinations of getting dressed. For denim though, it's that one thing we can and should invest in as the base for our casual-wear! Great denim will last for years as long as you care for it correctly. My advice here: Do not wash your jeans for as long as humanly possible! Trust me on this one. One bum check in the mirror after getting your favorite jeans on and the rest of your look will fall in place. No need to dress for the season when you have some good jeans to back you up.

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Jogger Wear

April 9, 2015, 8:44 am

≫ Next: Spring Kicks

≪ Previous: Good Jeans

There are some colors that I tend to gravitate towards and olive is definitely up there in my top favorites. No matter if I'm tan mid-summer or going Casper ghost-white mid-winter, the soft hue is perfect for any season. Thankfully, my friends over at AEO sent me these olive joggers just in time before my big trip out of the country.

My go-to travel wear changes up season to season but I always try my best to not look like a mess when hitting the airport for my next adventure. No matter how long the flight, there's no excuse for the sweats jumpsuit while onboard. It may take a little more effort, but your in flight etiquette should always include clothing yourself properly.

It's no lie that I love a good pair of joggers. They can easily be dressed up, dressed down, baggy, or tailored, you just can't go wrong with the universal trend! For todays OOTD, I'm going a little baggier than usual with these AEO Joggers... perfect for your pre-flight, inflight, post-flight travel style. The fact that they're olive just makes them that much better! I'll be wearing these again this weekend when I take flight for Thailand so make sure you're following along on Instagram if you aren't already. Also, I want to know how you pair your joggers... Dressed up? Dressed down? Wear them as activewear? Comment below or tweet me and let me know. Just click the icons below to follow and share.

Presented by my friends at AEO | All words are my own

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Spring Kicks

April 13, 2015, 9:25 pm

≫ Next: #WheredSaulGo: Bangkok, Thailand

≪ Previous: Jogger Wear

Hello from Bangkok, Thailand!! This one is going to be short and sweet since I just landed down in Thailand for my ten day adventure and finally made it to my hotel room. Phew! What a long day of travel but definitely worth the trek now that we've made it.

I'm obviously not in Thailand for these pictures but managed to do one last OOTD shoot in NYC so I could get some use of my new Blundstone boots. These Brogue Boots are from the brands spring collection and are the perfect kicks for the rainy day season in NYC... not to mention super comfortable. These boots will only get better with the elements so you'll be seeing a lot of these this spring.

For the next two weeks I'll be traveling all over Thailand so make sure you're following along on Instagram - @TrendStyled - where I'll be calling on all of you to vote and help me choose my days activities. Today's plans: lots of coffee, lunch with the group, and Songkran!

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#WheredSaulGo: Bangkok, Thailand

April 18, 2015, 8:20 am

≫ Next: Floral Vibes

≪ Previous: Spring Kicks

It has been a whirlwind these last few days as I continue my #WheredSaulGo series and travel with the Tourism Authority of Thailand throughout Bangkok, Chiang-Mai, and Krabi so excuse my lack of posts these last few days, but as you can see from these images, it's worth the wait. We are only about a third of the way through the trip throughout some of the most popular cities in Thailand and I am already in love with this country. I have been to some beautiful parts of the world but none have compared to experiencing the people of this country. Without a doubt, Thai people are some of the most compassionate, welcoming culture I have ever encountered and is just another reason to visit this side of the world!

We started our adventure in Thailand's most populous city, Bangkok - which is also its' capital. The energy and size mimics New York City's but on an even larger scale. If you've been following on Instagram - @TrendStyled - then you got to see and even vote on some of the activities I've done while in Bangkok, but hands down, the must-do experience is visiting the Grand Palace which housed past Kings of Thailand and also, seeing the massive reclining Buddha at the Wat Pho Temple.

The Grand Palace grounds are covered with meticulously hand-placed Italian tiles and gold leafing on just about every surface of every building. As you can see from some of these pictures, the architecture is an art and the people of this country take pride in keeping their religious beliefs at the top of their values. These pictures are some of the most beautiful that I captured but still do not do the grounds of the Grand Palace justice!

After the short ride by way of tuk-tuk, we arrived at the substantially less busy Wat Pho Temple which houses the reclining Buddha. At a length of about 60 meters, or 200 feet, the size is obviously the first thing you notice but the entire statue is also gold-leafed and is made of stone. President Obama and Hilary Clinton even visited this site about two years ago to experience the monument for themselves... which you can still see evidence of by way of pictures on the walls of the entrance when entering the grounds.

In all, a great way to start your journey in Thailand and especially Bangkok. These temples are open year round but can definitely be crowded so make sure you get there during the morning hours to avoid some of the masses. The adventure continues... next stop, Chiang-Mai! Make sure you're following on Instagram - @TrendStyled - so you can help me make decisions on which activities I should experience, plus see all the day to day, live action.

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Floral Vibes

April 20, 2015, 4:02 am

≫ Next: Palatial Property

≪ Previous: #WheredSaulGo: Bangkok, Thailand

Ok so at this point, I am on full on island time... even though Thailand isn't technically an island, I'm easily setting into the more slow paced life this beautiful country has to offer. It's about as hot as an oven on broil mode but traveling with the Tourism Authority of Thailand [TAT] has seriously been a once in a lifetime opportunity that I will never forget!

For me, traveling to foreign countries gives me the opportunity to test out more bold looks that I wouldn't usually go for while back home in New York City. I rarely go for busy, bright patterns but while visiting such a tropical island, there's no reason not to go full on floral. This shirt from HM is such a great pattern that gives the perfect island vibe look. Doesn't hurt that it's super lightweight and tailored for a more casual fit. Make sure you're following along on Instagram - @TrendStyled - for all the beach play-by-play... sorry in advance for the pool/beach-side shirtless selfie takeover.

Wearing: HM Shirt | J Brand Denim | Garrett Leight California Optical Harding Shades | Giles and Brother Skinny Railroad Cuff | Vivobarefoot Sandals

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Palatial Property

April 21, 2015, 9:02 pm

≫ Next: Tours of Thailand

≪ Previous: Floral Vibes

Last week, while in Bangkok, we got to tour the Grand Palace... without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places I've ever been to. I, of course, could not pass up the chance to photograph there throughout the halls and grounds that make up this one of a kind place. As hot as it was, I managed to pull off some not so sweaty looks to share with all of you!

It is against the rules to wear shorts or show too much skin while visiting the palace... no matter how hot the season is. Respectfully, we followed orders and made our way seeing all the gold and glass tiles that made up the palace where Kings once lived in years past. This is must-see spot while visiting Thailand and really, you have to stop in Bangkok anyways if you're flying into this country so you might as well spend a couple days there! If you're looking for accommodation, make sure you check out the famous Lebua State Tower Hotel... you might recognize it from the hilarious Hangover 2 movie. Such a beautiful hotel with the most insane rooftop bar - Sky Bar!

As steamy as it was while touring the grounds of the Grand Palace, I managed to stay cool by dressing in some vital hot weather attire. This linen tee from HM's latest collaboration with David Beckham has been traveling with me and is perfect for any tropical weather location. It is Songkran in Thailand - basically a non-stop water fight throughout the streets, in celebration of the Thailand New Year - so these waterproof SWIMS loafers were a must... super comfortable and beautifully designed. The rest of the trip is less strict on proper dressing attire so stay tuned for some of my favorite swimwear from a new discovery I made during my last trip in Sydney, Australia! Next stop... Chiang-Mai!

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Tours of Thailand

April 23, 2015, 11:16 am

≫ Next: Beach Getaway Attire

≪ Previous: Palatial Property

At this point, you may be just about sick of my Instagram, but if you've visited Thailand before, then you'd understand the endless amounts of photo opportunities throughout this beautiful country. The amount of detail and pride that goes into building these cities is like no other I have ever seen... and the Dhara Dhevi Hotel in Chiang-Mai is no different!

After leaving Bangkok, we made our way to Chiang-Mai, a city in Northern Thailand known for its' remnants of historical monuments and walls. It's been hard to decide on what content to share with all of you through my blog so I'll be sharing some images on here and the rest on my Tumblr so make sure you're toggling between both to see all the beautiful colors and architecture that discovered in Thailand - or what is now one of my favorite countries to visit. I really could go on for weeks about what I've seen and done during the short ten days on this trip!

While in Chiang-Mai, one of our final stops during the short three days was visiting the Dhara Dhevi Hotel which we toured by way of golf cart because of it's large sixty acre size. It's one of those places you check into and never have an urge to leave! Mostly because of the size and the endless activities and amenities but also for it's architecture. It feels almost as if you are walking the grounds of a palace among the tropical grounds which include villas with private pools, colonial type rooms, and even residential mansions!

We were treated to a delicious meal of traditional Northern Thai dishes in the hotels Le Grand Lenna including chicken curry, a mildly spicy soup, prawns, and of course some in-house made pastries... my favorite was the macarons box set we received. I devoured them all during the tour of course. After lunch, we made our way to the spa and pools to treat ourselves to a bit of rest and relaxation. I of course spent some of that time backtracking through some of my favorite spots around the hotel grounds to snap a few OOTD photos.

These trunks are a recent discovery I made... Mocha Salt, a Sydney based swimwear brand, are without a doubt some of the coolest I've seen. Not only does the Aussie brand have an extensive color and pattern palette, but they are just about the best fitting shorts I've ever had! I'm definitely one to invest in swimwear that is easily transferred from beach to street so these were right up my alley. Just before touring the grounds of the Dhara Dhevi Hotel, I was lounging poolside and even riding elephants at a nature reserve in Lampang. If I can do that before stepping onto these palace-like grounds, then I can wear these trunks anywhere... and I will! Make sure you check the brands current collections and try some out for yourself. These in Seafern Orange were the perfect color for my Thailand travel so I'll be sporting these throughout the entire trip! Make sure you're following me on Instagram - @TrendStyled - to see even more of my travels!

Wearing: Mocha Salt Huck 5 Seafern Orange Trunks | J. Crew Linen Shirt | Vivobarefoot Sandals | Garrett Leight California Opticals Harding Shades | Giles and Brother Skinny Railroad Cuff

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Beach Getaway Attire

April 27, 2015, 3:38 pm

≫ Next: #WheredSaulGo: Chiang-Mai, Thailand

≪ Previous: Tours of Thailand

Excuse the tan... said no one ever. I have been traveling a lot as of late and thankfully it's all been to warm weather locations. Most recently, I was in Miami for a friends wedding and some more much needed beach time of course! As much as I love the heat, it's always difficult to look good while sweating through your clothes. My solution: lots of inconspicuous swimwear!

I've been sporting lots of swimwear lately... obviously excited for warm weather, beach days I've been enjoying non-stop for the past three weeks. After surviving a New York City winter, you'd be living in your trunks too! These Katin USA shorts are great for a low key weekend at the beach. The floral pattern and stone wash makes them a little more elevated than your basic swim shorts so can easily be worn post-swim while hitting up your favorite lunch spot. I'm all about a quick trip to Miami and when you're going for just a few days, nothing beats a small carry-on of swimwear and minimal casual-wear to get you through the days. I managed to get away with wearing these for a day at the beach and then some post-beach tacos at a restaurant in our hotel... now if only I could get away with making this part of my daily schedule!

Wearing: Katin USA Trunks [similar] | J. Crew Indigo Washed Shirt | Converse Jack Purcell Sneakers | Ray-Ban Wayfarers

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#WheredSaulGo: Chiang-Mai, Thailand

April 29, 2015, 1:30 am

≫ Next: #WheredSaulGo: Krabi, Thailand

≪ Previous: Beach Getaway Attire

Ok, so at this point, Thailand is starting to seem like a blur... If it wasn't for the hundreds of pictures I took while on the ten day adventure, I wouldn't believe it actually happened. As I said before, our second stop on our trip with the Tourism Authority of Thailand was to the beautiful, less populated Chiang-Mai. Our home-base for this leg of the trip was the very sleek and modern, Anantara Chiang-Mai Resort and Spa.

When we first arrived at the Anantara Chiang-Mai, we quickly checked into our rooms so we could change into some workout gear for a private Muay-Thai lesson... and if you're following on Instagram, then you saw all the sweaty action as I attempted to pretend like I knew what I was doing! It was great to get our hearts pumping after being stuck on a plane for a couple hours en route to Chiang-Mai. As fun as the lesson was, we were all pumped for a beautiful night prepared by the hotel... a sunset wine cruise along the canal that boarders the hotel and a private dinner in the hotel's super-cool restaurant, The Service 1921 Restaurant and Bar.

The food at was beyond amazing and was the perfect way to spend a night on the hotels property... the funnest part for us was the cocktails, of course! They were all customized by the restaurants in-house mixologist Ron, and paired perfectly with every course. The one shown here, made of mostly tequila, came with our main course which was a sampler of some the restaurant's best dishes including pot stickers, crab with caviar, and even fried chicken! I'm sure you can guess which was this Texas boys favorite.

The next day, we made our way to Lampang for a day trip to visit an elephant nature camp for some up close encounters with these enormous beasts. As large as these guys are, they are surprisingly very gentle! Just make sure you do your research when visiting one of these camps in Thailand. This one was a protected park that housed rescued elephants where, as you can see, were free to roam and interact with guests with the help of their human counterpart. The connection each elephant had with its' trainer was mind blowing and you can tell, these elephants really are happy in their new environment. Next on the schedule, our final and most anticipated leg in Krabi... also known as, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!

This post presented by The Tourism Authority of Thailand | All words and opinions are my own

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#WheredSaulGo: Krabi, Thailand

April 30, 2015, 11:18 am

≫ Next: Not-So-Basic Basics

≪ Previous: #WheredSaulGo: Chiang-Mai, Thailand

All good things must come to an end... and what an end it was! The #WheredSaulGo Travel Series continues onto our final leg of the ten day adventure with the Tourism Authority of Thailand in Krabi, Thailand. Also known as one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever been to, Krabi is a smaller beach town in the Southern region of Thailand and was the perfect way to spend our last few days on this amazing trip!

After two flights, one short layover [where we may or may not have skipped the VIP lounge to eat Burger King], and a van ride through the jungle and coastline - we finally made it to the beautiful Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort. As you can see from the images, this beachside resort is beyond unique where the views of the thirteen islands that rise from the Andaman Sea will leave you speechless! Just when we thought it couldn't get any better, we checked into our villas... and not just any villas. Each villa has its' own very private infinite edge pool, outdoor soaking tub, and sundeck... and with all this privacy, you know I had to take advantage and go for a skinny dip and tan my now ghostly-white bum!

After checking into our palatial villas and a dip in our pools, we were treated to a very filling Italian style dinner at the resorts'Di Mare Restaurant. Now I know what you're thinking, 'Italian'?!... as much as I love Thai food, after seven straight days of it, it was about time for a switch up and we weren't disappointed. It was an early night, especially after all the grub and wine, but mostly we were all eager to spend the first night in our rooms!

The schedule for this leg of the trip - beach, beach, and more beach! We took to the sea on the first full day to go island hopping, snorkeling, some off-schedule diving in search of an iPhone [thanks to LifeProof the phone was still working after a ten foot dip in the water], and a Survivor style island picnic. Crystal clear waters, lots of sun, and some much needed down time... it doesn't get much better than this! On our final full-day we headed out with John Gray Tours to check out some of the more secluded waters where we went cave touring by way of kayaks and also had one of the most amazing Thai meals - aboard the boat of course. After stuffing our faces, we teamed up with our kayak guides to make traditional Kratongs [floating baskets] to release among the water after sundown as a gift to the water gods in hopes of making our wishes we made come true. In all, a once in a lifetime excursion where we made memories for a lifetime.

Speaking of lifetime memories... I really want to thank the team at Tourism Authority of Thailand for inviting me on this once in a lifetime adventure. Without a doubt, this was the most amazing trip I have ever been on where we saw exactly why the people of Thailand are so happy and welcoming. If you're planning a trip you have to book one to this picturesque country... there's something for just about everyone. Also, a big thank you to Etihad Airways for treating us like Kings and Queens on-board their planes and in their very VIP lounges! This trip will not be forgotten. Until next time... #WheredSaulGo!

This post presented by Tourism Authority of Thailand and Etihad | All words and opinions are my own

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Not-So-Basic Basics

May 1, 2015, 1:00 am

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Basics don't have to be so basic... When it comes to my go-tos in my wardrobe, it's definitely a rotating flow of tees, caps, and denim. The collection that has gathered in my closets is endless and always seems to take over my day-to-day attire. Especially on my end of week hustle of tying up loose ends before meeting up with friends for a couple of cheers and comparing the weeks' work struggles.

Thankfully, Uniqlo sent over some LifeWear basics to upgrade my rotation! If you're a denim a day kinda guy at least upgrade to some selvedge denim. These from Uniqlo are the perfect spring wash that won't leave you washed out. Plus the slightly more relaxed straight fit isn't too uptight for the warmer days ahead. When it comes to the tees, take it one step further with a preppy polo like this Ultra Dry Pique Polo... not only great fitting, but the breathable fabric will keep you dry and cool while trekking around the city finishing up those end of week meetings. Like I said... basics don't have to be so basic! Happy Friday friends!

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