A Night in Paris, to Welcome London: The TOPSHOP|TOPMAN Private Dinner

Wednesday, September 7, 2011:
After attending the fantastic TOPSHOP|TOPMAN private shopping event - it was soon time to head over to Paris Club for the private dinner, hosted by Sir Philip Green.  (What a private day I was having.)  I was only allowed to arrive solo, so I threw the bowtie back on in the office and began my way over to the event.


Once I arrived - I was checked in and given a small card with a number on it ... a table number.  I memorized the number '11' and did what any solo party-goer would do - I located the bar.  A handsome bartender walked over and I asked him what the deal was tonight.  His response? ... "It's open bar, sir." ... "Oh?", I thought - "It's that kind of a party?"  I order a whiskey/coke and before the I'm-alone-and-it's-awkward set in, Emma Arnold of Tres Awesome (one of my favorite fashion blogs) nudged me on the shoulder.  She was a welcomed sight - with her cool, calm demeanor and leather jacket-over a t-shirt-over a dress hotness.  It was about to begin...


Before I could could make that slurping sound with my straw (more whiskey, please) - we had a full-on party going.  I saw Samantha Saifer (CS Magazine) across the room - looking amazing (those pants?! - love.) ... James Goeke and I spotted each other, both raised a 'hello hand' and he came by to gossip (P.s. LOVE him, James!) ... not far behind him, his wifey Jessica Zweig (Cheeky Chicago) came over for a smooch/hug combo ... I finally met the handsome Mr. Anderson Bell (FanFueled Tickets) and ordered him another Stella, as he told us about how he keeps his girlish figure ... my obsessions walked in shortly after - Christina Fan (C/FAN) and Ms. April Francis (AF - Refinery29 Contributor - Total Fox) - #CallMeYouTwo ...  Getting the point?  The room was packed with Chicago's most stylish and elite - and there I was ... somehow invited to be in the middle of it all.

Christina Fan & Bridget White:

The original time for dinner (8p) had come and passed (though, most of us didn't notice - see: open bar.)  As it approached 8:30p. I heard someone say "Well - Miley's not here yet."  I'm sorry - what?!  At this point, my stomach is Not. Happy. with said Miley Cyrus, who is holding us back from quite a delicious, fancy dinner.  So ... we wait.  Around 9p. it is time and I begin the search for No. 11.  


Arriving at my table, I was delighted to be sitting with some of my favorite Chicagoans.  I just about squealed when Molly Each (Michigan Avenue Magazine) scooted in to my right - love that women.  To my left - Ms. Bridget White (eDrop-Off) sat down (looking as beautiful as ever) ... minutes later, we'd be swapping childhood stories and literally holding back tears - xo, B-dub!  Across from me sat a stellar lineup of Chicago's finest men:  Matt Lee (Editor-in-Chief of The Men's Book) - which, to me, is liking sitting across from Oprah ... Jason Berngard (Market Lead, Gilt City), whom is marrying my girlfriend, Sam Saifer (don't tell him) ... and Michael Corrigan (Zapwater Communications) - THE man of the hour (as far as I'm concerned), who had a hand in planning the entire night.  Excellent work, Michael!


After everyone was settled, watered and wined - it was time to hear from Sir Philip Green - the man behind TOPSHOP|TOPMAN.  He stood and spoke kindly - telling us how thrilled he was to be in Chicago and how much he was looking forward to growing his business here.  After a few words - we raised our glasses and had a cheers to TOPSHOP|TOPMAN ... and rightfully so.

So - there we were - drinking fantastic wine, eating shrimp the size of my hand and having conversations that I wanted to last all night.  I could have thought of no better way to end the summer - surrounded by amazing, hardworking (and really good-looking) people - sipping wine - laughing and eating absolutely delicious food.  I didn't think it could get any better - until dinner was over.

Full and ready to burn those calories - the crew headed upstairs to the roof - aka: Studio Paris (which I had never been) - for another round of open bar (Sir Philip - I love you) and some stellar DJ sets.  There, I shook it up with Monica Dimperio (The MidWasteland), Kevin Aeh (Time Out Chicago), the handsome Ian Doran (Jack Spade) - and of course, Miley (who - by this time - had stolen someone's suspenders and thought it would be like, so funny to wear them with her outfit.)

LOOK at me, Miley!

Here was what I remember of our conversation:


Ryan:  "Hi.  I'm Ryan."


Miley:  (in that weird voice of hers)  "Hiii.  I'm Miii-lay"  (What?  She has an accent.)


They shake hands.  They dance for approximately 48 seconds.  They part ways.


Shorty after this experience, I was back to my girl Bridget, shakin' it like it was Saturday.  Until I realized ... it was Wednesday ... and 2a.m. ... and definitely time to go...

Kevin Aeh & Monica Dimperio:

As the cab drove through the streets of Chicago - wind whipping through the window - I thought about the truly amazing evening TOPSHOP|TOPMAN had created for us that night.  Never before had I been to an event like it ... and it took a shop from across the pond to give me that experience.  


As the cab driver reached my place, I had only one thought on my mind:  When is the next TOPSHOP|TOPMAN opening?!


(I just hope I make the list.)


Truly,


R.M.B.

Myself, Christina Fan & Bridget White:

Monica Dimperio ends the night with some #SASS:

Chicago (with an English accent): TOPSHOP|TOPMAN Arrives on Michigan Avenue

 Wednesday, September 7, 2011:

Hello, my friends ... it has certainly been too long - and I've missed you dearly.  Between hustling at the agency, freelance work and a move - I have been a bit distracted from the world of the bowtie.  I can't promise it wont happen again - but I can tell you I will always be back!

Speaking of being back ... I have good reason to be.

Have you heard a small whisper or tiny chatter about this little shop that opened up on Michigan Avenue?  Have you?

Ok - who am I kidding? ... Ladies and gentlemen - TOPSHOP|TOPMAN IS HERE ... and boy do they know how to make a stylish scene.

I recently received an invitation in the mail to attend the TOPSHOP|TOPMAN private shopping event and was definitely intrigued.  I was thrilled at the chance to check out the goods before anyone else - and since I have been a hermit lately, I couldn't think of a better excuse to shed the shell.

I arrived around lunch with my Agency Galatea boss, Marie P. Anderson - and quickly got to work checking out the merch.  We started on the ground floor and combed through the women's garments.  I loved the colors and textures - great styles and cuts - and decent price points.  (Marie was gawking over a very Gaga-esque t-shirt with a faded cross printed on it and cut-out shoulders.)  

After a few minutes - I began whining about wanting to see the TOPMAN floor and we caught the escalator up to Floor 1 for what was the beginning of many fashion heart attacks.  I loved the massive visual display in the men's section and the low ceiling kind of made it feel a bit more chic - like a secret (though, real fancy) basement shop.  The visuals are almost too much to take - but I'm okay with a little over-stimulation during shopping.

I can't speak on fit, as I did not yet try on the clothes - but I loved the looks that I saw.  Great basic wovens (with interesting added touches) - drop-crotch jeans and slacks that slim near the ankle - and THE suit.  Yes - THE suit.  I had a total moment when I saw it and I think I scared Marie out of her shoes from the squeal that came out of my mouth.  (Fashion heart attack alert.)  I wanted to strip this maroon creation right off the mannequin - AND the bowtie.  I'll say no more - have a look below.  (I died.)

After a few photo opp's, courtesy of Tyler Curtis (and Matthew Reeves of www.DarkroomDemons.com) - we made it down to Level -1.  First of all - "Level -1?"  It's kind of unnecessary to call it that (and I kind, sort of, totally love it and want to use it in daily language to describe where I am at, should I be in a basement.)  Level -1 houses walls of shoes, accessories, more garments (women's, if I remember correctly) and more gorgeous people that work at this delicious store.

After browsing every level of TOPSHOP|TOPMAN, I can safely say that I am in love.  Not only is the store visually beautiful - but it adds some much needed fashion street cred to Michigan Avenue (along with the sexy new AllSaints store.)  The prices are affordable and the styles are more edgy and London-ey than your average H&M.  (Did I just say London-ey?)  Chicago has been buzzing with word of this new shop and TOPSHOP|TOPMAN has done a very good job at creating such buzz.  If you haven't had a chance to check out the store - you must.  I guarantee you'll walk out with something you love - and if you're not careful, you may even catch an English accent.

Truly,

R.M.B.

'ello

The Chicago Fashion Incubator Announces the 2011 Designers in Residence

Tuesday, March 15, 2011:

It was a surprisingly pleasant Chicago evening as I made my way over to The 900 Shops for one of my favorite events of the year.  I pushed through the revolving doors and began my way up the escalator to the 5th floor.  I collected my thoughts as I rode the steps and thought about this event, the year before...

It was March 16, 2010 - the very day that I met some of the talented individuals that I now call my friends.  They were bright-eyed and nervous - ready to showcase their collections and prove to Chicago that they all had what it took to succeed as designers on a real ready-to-wear level.  For the six of them, this was an opportunity of a lifetime to learn the skills that would set their careers in motion.  It was also the day that I made six new friends whom I have had the opportunity to follow as they flourished in their craft - each with a dream of their own.  Let me now congratulate each of you on all the blood, sweat and tears that has brought you to your Chicago Fashion Incubator (CFI) graduation.  My friends, the class of 2010:  Christina Fan (C/FAN), Donaldo Smith (Killian Gui), Jonnie Rettele (Nonnie Threads), Leah Fagan (ALIDADE), Stephanie Kuhr (Dottie’s Delights) and Miriam Cecilia Carlson (Miriam Cecilia) - I am honored to be a part of your journey...

 *Ryan now wipes a tear, takes a deep breath and pushes forward...*

As I approached the 5th floor, I could hear the hustle of the crowd and the set laid down by DJ Sye Young as it got louder and louder.  I took the first steps through the media check-in and there I was - surrounded by my favorite fashion folk - mingling with some of Chicago's rising stars and those already shining bright.  I started my night by checking out the work of my friends - the current CFI designers in residence, soon to graduate.  After a few photos, hugs and conversation - it was time to make my way in to see the newest batch of designers - the class of 2011.  

I walked into the open space and was immediately greeted with a dazzling set of looks created by the talented hands of Chicago's next class.  Though I only met a few of the new designers, I could tell that this year would produce a stellar batch of what is to come in Chicago fashion.  Models stood tall on platforms, wearing the current collections of the freshest round to join the year-long Chicago Fashion Incubator journey.   Please join me in welcoming the 2011 class:  Concetta Cipriano (Cettina Designs), Shavonne Dorsey (Siobhan Apparel), Eric Kipp (Eric Kipp), Kahindo Mateene (Modahnik), Taneasha Prunty (Gidi) and Crystal Simms (Crystal B. Designs.)

The 2011 Class:

Once I had a good look at the stellar collections, I was able to mix and mingle with the crowd.  I bumped into a couple of designers, including one of my new favorites - menswear designer (call me bias) - and a fresh addition to the class:  Mr. Eric Kipp.  He walked up to me, introduced himself and told me a bit about his collection (one suit, in particular, that he was wearing was to-die-for.)  His custom garments are "fully canvassed construction, hand cut, primarily hand sewn and always made in the USA."  He continued, stating that he "sources fabrics exclusively from Europe’s best mills and offer more than 5,000 textile options."  (All this from a newbie?)  I was already impressed.  He went on to describe that the ready-to-wear line he is developing as part of the CFI program will differ in make from the custom pieces shown on his website and bear a separate label.  "The new garments will still be fully canvassed and feature hand sewn armhole and chest pieces, but will include more machining. The ready-to-wear line will be very masculine (but refined), very tailored and have a strong emphasis on separates as opposed to full suits."  All I know - is that I want to get my hands on these suits.

 

After shaking Eric's hand and hearing the official introduction of the 2011 class - by two of my favorite people:  Sarah Burrows (Marketing Manager at The 900 Shops) and Lara Miller (CFI Executive Director and Owner/Designer of Lara Miller Ltd.) - it was time to journey on to my next adventure.  I made my way back to the escalator and took the ride down, thinking yet again what a truly amazing event this is.  None other throughout the year are able to speak so fittingly to my Chicago fashion heart, as does this one.  Set to inspire, teach and expose our fashion community, the Chicago Fashion Incubator program is truly an initiative that fights for the continued evolution of the fashion in our fine city.  I offer my congratulations to the newest class and wish them well as they move forward to give their very own blood, sweat and tears.  Just know that we are all here to offer a band-aid, wipe your brow and give a shoulder to cry on.  

The fight is yours now.

Make us proud.

Truly,

R.M.B.

The 2011 class with their designs:

 

Jessica McCafferty & Ryan M. Beshel:

Sarah Burrows & Lara Miller:

Christina Fan & Chelsea Lavin:

 

Ryan M. Beshel, Jessica McCafferty & Marcus Riley:

If you weren't able to make the launch event, please don't miss these upcoming events to get your eyes (and hands) on these amazing Chicago collections:

APRIL:

Friday, 1st, 12 to 6 p.m. – Dottie’s Delights & Miriam Cecilia Manicures & Mocktails

Saturday, 2nd, 7 12 to 5 p.m. – Spring into Glamour and the Future with Evil Kitty

Sunday, 3rd, 1 to 5 p.m. – Anna Hovet Trunk Show

Sunday, 3rd, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Buyer’s Brunch

Thursday, 7th, 6 to 9 p.m. – Kristin Hassan Fashion Show

Friday, 8th, 4 to 7 p.m. – Alidade Trunk Show

Friday, 8th, 8 to 10 p.m. – Zamrie Fashion Show

Saturday, 9th, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. –Dottie’s Delights Spring Pin Up Photo Shoot Event

Sunday, 10th, 12 to 3 p.m. – Zamrie Trunk Show

Friday, 15th, 6 to 9 p.m. – Nonnie Threads Trunk Show

Friday, 15th, 6 to 9 p.m. – Miriam Cecilia Fashion Show

Saturday, 16th, 2 to 6 p.m. – Alidade Trunk Show

Sunday, 17th, 12 to 5 p.m. – Kristin Hassan Trunk Show

Sunday, 17th, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Nora del Busto Trunk Show

Thursday, 21st, 6 to 9 p.m. – Killian Gui Informal Presentation

***Store hours: The retail store will be open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. each Thursday through Saturday and 12 to 6 p.m. on Sundays through Saturday, April 23rd. The pop up shop number is (312) 649-9479.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF:

ANDREW TSE

"Beg, Borrow and Steal" - Artfully Disheveled at John Allan's

Thursday, February 10, 2011:
A couple months back, while clutching the metal rail on the Brown Line train, I got an email on Facebook from a beautiful woman named Maria Ponce.  If you are not familiar with this smart and exotic individual - allow me to fill you in:   Maria is an extremely talented photographer who divides her time between Chicago and New York shooting commercial portrait work, as well as fashion.  She has shot for many stellar Chicago publications - including her most recent work photographing all fifty of Chicago Magazine's "50 Most Beautiful Chicagoans."  (Check out the rest of her hotness by clicking HERE.)  Anyhow - Maria introduced herself (as if I didn't know who she was) and began to tell me about an amazing new line of neckties, pocket squares and bowties (she knew her audience) in Chicago.  Clearly - I was listening (aka:  I began to read faster.)  As I read more, the name of said line immediately intrigued me:  Artfully Disheveled.  Right away, I knew had to learn more and I quickly found out the story behind this young lifestyle brand...

Chris Berre & Trey Berre:

Photo by Maria Ponce

While staying on his brother Trey’s couch in Chicago, Chris Berre thought up the idea for a new line of neck wear that would speak to the modern gentlemen who shared a flair for style that told a story.   The brothers soon reached out to a friend named Palmer, who shared their passion for quality and timeless style choices - and before they knew it, Artfully Disheveled was born.  In it's debut collection titled "Beg, Borrow and Steal", the lifestyle brand features thoughtful accessories "geared towards the urban professional, the eager student, the aspiring artist and any style minded individual."  The debonair Look Book describes the concept behind the name of the brand, explaining that Artfully Disheveled is "rooted in the Italian philosophy of Sprezzatura," and "is a contradiction by definition.  Artfully Disheveled is for the man who desires a look that is sophisticated but not subdued.  That is stylish but not stuffy.  That is classic but not conforming." 

Chris Berre, Ryan M. Beshel & Trey Berre:

Photo by Maria Ponce

Once I knew the story, I immediately reached out to Chris Berre (thanks to Maria's introduction) to learn more.  He was such a gentleman and he quickly invited me to an event at John Allan's to meet himself and his brother and get a look at the collection.  I arrived at the event that Thursday night and found Trey and Chris who were incredibly warm and welcoming.  We discussed menswear in Chicago and I shared my excitement for their young brand.  I was lucky enough to walk away with my own "The Sharps" bowtie, which I immediately tied with pride.  After a cocktail or two and some excellent conversation, it was time for me to head out - but not before snapping a few photos with the guys.  (These things are essential.)  I want to congratulate Trey and Chris for having the courage to begin this new Chicago brand.  Starting a venture such as theirs takes dedication, vision and patience.  Our fine city is in need of more individuals such as themselves that foster a passion for style and the motivation to make an idea come to life.  I look forward to the next collection from Artfully Disheveled and I know for certain that the collars of my shirts will be waiting for their next line of bowties.


Until then, Berre Brothers...


Truly,


R.M.B.

ARTFULLY DISHEVELED:

THE PRODUCT

(click to enlarge)

 Chris Berre & Palmer:

All Photos by Maria Ponce

“We believe a man should strive to find his own personal style and not chase trends.” Explains Designer, Palmer.

Founder Chris Berre adds; “Style is enduring whereas fashion is fleeting. One’s personal style should tell a personal story. Artfully Disheveled provides essential pieces that integrate to one’s personal style and provide a ready made story and conversation.”

www.artfullydisheveled.com

Obsessions of the Bowtie: Have Links, Will Travel

Friday, February 5, 2010:
I recently received an email update from my Urban Daddy account telling me about a really great service that I had to pass on to all you Chicago gentlemen! (If you don't get Urban Daddy updates in your inbox, you are missing out. They are constantly keeping me up to date on hot Chicago happenings, great deals, store openings, new restaurants and more.) The service I'm currently obsessed with is called "Have Links, Will Travel" and is one of the first of its kind that I have ever heard of.

Brought to you by the lovely Tracey Mayer, this service brings cufflinks right to your office so you're always prepared to look sharp, even if you're a busy boy like me. Tracey puts it perfectly: "For months, many of you have been telling me you love wearing my cufflinks but do not have the time to shop for them. It is all you can do to find the time to get measured for your custom shirts and suits; forget the accessories. As a result, I have created "Have Links, Will Travel", a mobile cufflinks studio that makes office calls. This personalized service is now available in Chicago and will launch in New York in April, 2010. When available, I will personally show you over 70 samples of my cufflink designs and assist you in selecting the ones that best exemplify your personal style and attitude toward life." Now, that's service!

Tracey Mayer is the creator of these truly one-of-a-kind cufflinks, as well as many other fantastic pieces of jewelry for men and women. I've already got my hands on a pair of links called the "Karma Cufflinks" which include citrine bullet end stones (and they are very, very cool). Her jewelry is, quite simply, like no other. "Each piece is patiently handcrafted by artisans at the peak of their art using cutting-edge techniques hand in hand with the noblest traditions. The end result is the fusion of nature’s most exceptional rocks, including black diamond, ruby, emerald, pink sapphire and black spinel, with 950 silver, which is slightly more pure than sterling, all created in an environment where human value is a priority."

My new cufflinks!

Leave it to a gorgeous female to know what a man needs and what a woman wants to wear! In addition to being a true artist, Tracey is also a member of Mayor Daley’s Fashion Advisory Council and an active volunteer with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. In a nutshell: This is a woman who knows what she wants, forges her own creative path, and follows her dreams...and that, my friends, is today's true "Obsession of the Bowtie."

-R.M.B.

**To get your hands on a pair of cufflinks or to have a look at her entire collection of fine jewelry for men and women, please visit www.traceymayer.com ...To learn more about the "Have Links, Will Travel" program, simply click HERE and tell her Ryan from "The Bowtie Memoirs" sent you!**

The beautiful and talented, Tracey Mayer:

Tracey Mayer Inc.
T 847.217.6647
F 847.394.8040

Wholesale inquiries:
Yvonne Guest Showroom
12 W. 57th Street NYC
212.586.1186
yguest@verizon.net

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Tracey Mayer Jewelry is also sold in Chicago at:
koros
1039 West Lake Street

Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 738-0155
‎
Have a look at more of my favorite designs
from Tracey Mayer below:

Women's Pieces:
Men's Pieces: