Happy Halloween!

No more fashion posts today as today is the day you can wear whatever you want and get away it!!

Enjoy the holiday and be safe!

Rick's Pattern Mixing

This morning, Rick said that he went over yesterday's pattern guidelines and it inspired him for today.

As we can see, Rick is doing everything correctly. The stripes from the tie and shirt are of different size; the stripe color in the shirt is the identical to the colored check on Rick's trousers; and the pocket square is white matching with the white ground of the shirt.

Bravissimo Rick!

Pattern Mixing 101

Mixing patterns can be a difficult and daunting task. So today, we felt it was important to share some general guidelines and ideas to help when getting dressed.

One Pattern

Mixing one pattern is fairly easy. The key is to have some variation in size. The two pictures below show this well:

Cary Grant looking dapper in stripes, Credits: Alan Flusser

Fred Astaire spot on in a game of Backgammon, Credits: Alan Flusser

Although both gents are wearing stripes on stripes, the mixture of sizes make both images work. On the opposite hand, the image below shows what is traditionally considered to be a pattern mixing flaw. Although he looks okay because the overall colors work, the stripes all being of a similar size create a sort of visual blur. It also removes the sense of "interest" from a well dressed man as he becomes too "matchy-matchy".

Too Matchy-Matchy, trying to hard, Credits: Alan Flusser

Two Patterns

Mixing two patterns is not much more difficult than mixing one. There are three general guidelines - sizes should be similar, or very different, and the colors should work well together.

Gentleman 1: showing that similar sizes look great when mixing patterns. The large striped repp tie pairs wonderfully with the larger check from the suit. A smaller stripe on the tie would be overpowered by the bold check.

Gianni Agnelli showing that similar dimensions always work! Although hard to detect (and maybe this proves our point), but the checks in Agnelli's tie perfectly match the checks in Agnelli's jacket.

Photo credits: Life

Gianni Agnelli going the other way: the larger check looks flawless when paired against the pin dots in Gianni Agnelli's tie.


Our very own Rick Faubion showing that although the tie and trousers have very little in common in regards to pattern, the yellow in both give a ground that allows them to work harmoniously as the tie floats in front of the pants - always classic!

Three or More Patterns

There are not many rules once you start to mix three and more patterns, but the safest route is to make sure that they are all different from each other. Although different in size or pattern, the colors need to work together to bring a sense of cohesion to the look.


Sgr. Barbera showing the art of mixing four patterns. As we can see, the patterns are all different but with similar tones and grounds (a little Sprezzatura thrown in - notice the watch), he looks incredible!

However, when combining multiple patterns, and two are the same, vary the scale of the two like patterns dramatically.

Andrew mixing three patterns. Notice the tie color matches the checks, but that the sizes are drastically different allowing for the overall look to work.

Ultimately, as most things in fashion, it is all about having fun! So mix and match as you please. What we have presented are general guidelines and hopefully a good groundwork for you to begin you own looks. Patterns are fun because of the options. A new pattern can revive an old jacket while mixing patterns can bring out the blue in your eyes or add depth to the colors of a coat - again, have fun!

We would love to hear your thoughts and see your pictures. If you have a do or don't, please post it and let us know. Later next month, we will post some of the responses to see our how stylish our readers are.

Snow Day!

The store will be closed today due to the ongoing snowstorm here in Denver. 16 inches and counting, stay dry and stay safe if you have to go outside.

LC

Andrea Fenzi

New in men's: a colorful assortment of Fenzi Merino Wool sweaters. We have knit vests, mezzocollos, and classic V necks. Prices start at only $195, so do not miss out on these incredible pieces.

Red and Navy Fenzi Mezzocollos

These knits are perfect for anything - under a suit, for travel, casual day around the house, or even around the shoulders as you walk the dog around Wash Park. Again, stop by or call the store and we can fill you in on all of the great colors.

The Half Windsor

The Half Windsor tie knot is perfect for the semi spread collar (like the Borrelli shirts shown below). Not only that, as it falls between the askew, narrower four-in-hand and the larger Full Windsor, the Half Windsor is the perfect everyday knot for most men.

New Colors in Women's!

New for the ladies as we start our holiday and resort deliveries are the soft and luxurious Allude cashmere tops pictured below. They come in a variety of shapes and colors including cardigans and v neck sweaters - very cool!

Stop in soon as these are going fast. These are the perfect tops for a day like today, sunny and crisp, but even better for lazy Sundays around the house cuddling up with those you love.

Thank You from LC!

Thank you to everyone who came out last night and made our "Taste of Parma" event such a treat. Everyone seemed to have a wonderful time; especially considering all the wine we went through. We hosted around 100 people throughout the night, so please keep checking the blog for info regarding upcoming events. We will certainly be doing something similar in the near future.

We must also thank Enrico Di Giovanni from Caruso as he did an incredible job showing the new fabrics and fitting a never ending line for new suits and jackets. Caruso really is an amazing company, a real gem find that we could not be happier with. Please check out their website for more info (ww.raffaelecaruso.it). We will have all of their samples and fabric swatches for the weekend, so anyone interested in a new piece for their fall wardrobe, be sure to stop by to not miss the incredible deals.

Lawry and Enrico

Customers sampling the incredible offerings

New fabrics from Caruso

Enrico explaining the quality and craftsmanship behind Caruso

The Masters still at work!

Come by the store, 4 -7 PM tonight!

Taste of Parma tonight at the store, 4 - 7 PM. Stop by for a glass of wine before dinner, it will be a lot of fun as we celebrate the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy.

Icons: Dickie Greenleaf and Tom Ripley

The Talented Mr. Ripley, Miramax Films (1999)

Always well dressed and inspirational, Matt Damon as Tom Ripley and Jude Law as Dickie Greenleaf show what casual dress is meant to be - take a cue from these good looking men and remember that when in the Piazzas of Italy, jackets and ties are requirements.

Are you Talented?

Trouser Fit

Fabio Borrelli - owner of Borrelli

The proper fit of a trouser is an endless debate around the store. Some prefer the shorter and narrower cuts synonymous with "Neapolitan" tailoring while others appreciate the fuller and longer leg often associated with the classic "American" look.

Longer and Fuller "American" Fit

No matter which way you prefer to wear your pants, there are some general rules that will most flatter the wearer. Essentially, the narrower your trouser, the shorter they should be. It simply fits the eye the best, and in terms of the fuller trouser, the length is a necessity to add weight to the bottom of the pant. The weight is necessary to ensure that the pants hang properly flattering the wearer and creating a longer line for the leg.

Lino Ieluzzi demonstrating the shorter, narrower leg (clearly, this man inspires a certain employee that shall remain nameless)

Luca Rubinacci showing that with a fuller pant, some added length really looks best

Although, you could always split the difference and wear your pants at a "Mid-Atlantic" length. Our dear friend Luciano Barbera says that the Italians prefer their pants too short while the Americans wear their pants too long, Luciano says he likes to split the difference in both length and width and coined the idea of the "Mid-Atlantic" look. Luciano Barbera says that he would like to see your shoes, but he does not want to see your socks.

Barbera's Mid-Atlantic Length

There are also some rules for the shorter man. The man on the shorter side (5'7" and below) benefits best from a mid-rise pant with just a bit of break. Essentially, the wearer should want to create the longest vertical line possible creating the illusion of length/height. That being said, a long break (long pant) defeats this purpose as it bunches over the shoe destroying the longer vertical line.

The Duke of Windsor does it perfectly as we can see his pants are as long as possible without being "too" long. There is no big break to interrupt the vertical crease in the pants. The Duke of Windsor was only 5'4", and knew how to maximize every facet of his wardrobe to add the illusion of height. We can also see that with his longer pant, the cut is fuller as well.

The Duke of Windsor

The Caruso and Taste of Parma event ...

is only four days away - Thursday, October 22nd. We have already received a large number of RSVPs, so please let us know if you intend to come so we can save you a glass of wine!

joe@lawrencecovell.com or 303.320.1023.

This will be an amazing event, be sure not to miss out.

The Truffle

For all of you meat, cheese, and exotic food lovers, Denver is blessed to be home to Rob and Karin Lawler's The Truffle.

Located at 2906 East 6th Avenue (303.322.7363/http://www.denvertruffle.com/), The Truffle has established themselves as Denve's premier destination for hard to find gourmet food items and cut-to-order hand made cheeses.

Always happy to provide a taste of anything in the store, The Truffle is ideal for gifts and for hosting any party. Not only are we huge fans of the store, but The Truffle will be supplying all of our food for our upcoming Taste Of Parma night.

Lambrusco

We will be celebrating our upcoming Emilia-Romagna event by toasting various wines from Italy, including the Lambrusco. Lambrusco is the name of both the grape and the wine that originates from the Emilia-Romagna region of nothern Italy. The grape itself has a very long wine-making history. The most famous and highly rated of its varietals is the sparkling, frizzante red wine that we will be showcasing during our event. Not as well known given its small production, this is a sparkling red similar to a (Red) Prosecco or Rose.

Again, please stop by to taste this rare treat. We are incredibly excited about this upcoming event (October 22nd) and are looking forward to sharing some new and fun wine with our friends.

Cathy's Report from Paris

Cathy working the Parisian showrooms

"Wow, what an amazing trip" was all we could first get out of Cathy Covell after her recent trip to Paris. She and Lawry had such a blast - running into Scott Schuman, a.k.a. The Sartorialist (old friend and supporter of the store), on Rue St. Honore, dinners at Bistrot l'Universite, tours on the Champs Elysees, it is a hard life going to the fashion shows.

The trip was also great for other reasons - optimism seems to have returned to the marketplace.

After attending the shows and showrooms for Spring/Summer 2010, Cathy has let us know that Dresses will be big! She said she saw dresses everywhere in a lot of colors, textures, and prints. Not only were dresses a major trend, but short skirts will certainly be making an appearance in 2010. Similar to the dresses, skirts were shown in a multitude of colors and prints only adding to the optimism in the air. After a few seasons or more somber colors and looks, it is refreshing to see that Spring will be more uplifting. Not only is the merchandise making a change, but Cathy said even the overall feeling of market was positive. She said people seemed much more upbeat and Paris was just that much more crowded then the past few years - again, it seems that optimism has returned.

To top off a great week, Cathy got to meet one of her industry icons and all-time favorite designers: Dries Van Noten. After almost ten years of carrying the line and visiting the showroom, this was the first time Cathy has seen Dries and had the opportunity to meet the man. Often when people meet icons, it can be a bit of a disappointment; putting people on such high pedestals is difficult because people rarely live up to the reputation you have created. However, Cathy was so excited to share that Dries was a nice as he could be! She says he was an absolute pleasure and could not have been more welcoming and cordial. It is so nice to hear such great things about a wonderful designer and a man we love to support.

For a full break down of the shows from Paris, you can see photos at http://www.style.com/.

Giving back to the Community

Here at Lawrence Covell, we are huge advocates of charity and doing work for the local community.

As supporters of the Denver Polo Classic and the Denver Active 20 30 Children's Foundation we wanted to remind everyone to take some extra time during the holidays to help out those around you.

If any of our readers are members of the 20/30 or other supporters, we will see you tonight at their annual "Thank You" ball held for the sponsors from the year.

Emilia-Romagna Celebration!

Famed Italian Opera Star Enrico Caruso

Come by the store next Thursday, October 22nd, as we host our "Taste of Parma" event and celebrate the Emilia Romagna region of Northern Italy.

We will showcase wine and cheese from Parma including sparkling Lambrusco wines and rare Parmesan cheeses. We will also be hosting Enrico DiGiovanni from Caruso. http://www.raffaelecaruso.it/

Caruso, the renowned clothier from Parma, Italy, was founded 51 years ago by Raffaele Caruso. Caruso, a Neapolitan trained tailor, moved to Northern Italy during the post World War II economic boom in search of work. Settling in Parma, Caruso has created one of the top clothing manufacturers doing the work for many of the best known brands in the world. Still family run, Caruso is working hard to establish themselves as one of the top luxury Italian suiting brands in the world.

It will be a great night of wine and cheese, with a little Italian storytelling and education thrown in. Please RSVP at 303.320.1023 as this will be a can't-miss event!

Cathy and her Icon in Paris

Cathy and Lawry recently went to Paris to see the shows and new merchandise for Spring/Summer 2010. Paris is amazing this time of year and Cathy was fortunate enough to run into her personal style icon on Avenue des Champs Elysées.


More from Paris to follow ...

More colors in Fall

Photo Credits: Scott Schuman

Luca Rubinacci, a current star in Italian tailoring and industry wide muse, shows again the importance of color during the fall months. Remember, color is fun, and Luca here shows that even a simple yet bright shirt and tie combination add some real pop to a dreary day. And don't forget the socks!

Skinny Jeans

After tremendous success with our initial shipment of Red Engine Jeans, we are pleased to announce we just received another shipment including more of the incredible Cayenne style.

Priced at only $185, these have been flying off the shelves. The skinny jean is one of our ten essentials for fall and these do not disappoint - fun and always flattering. So come in soon and make sure not to miss out.

Colors during Fall

Although often associated with spring and summer, Colors are equally if not more important during the fall months.

First glance at this photo would say "Summer", but the textures and the fabrics clearly show this to be a fall outfit. Again, color adds a wonderful pop of personality to the more somber fall and often shows your own courage and thoughts in a world of black. Anything works - be it a striped Etro shirt or a Paul Smith scarf. Remember, it is all about having fun and some color is a wonderful way to stand out and add a smile to your face.

Twelve Restaurtant

Since some of our readers do not receive our emails, I wanted to repeat a post from our recent E-News since we love to support small and independent companies.

New Restaurant Alert - Twelve Restaurant

Located at 2233 Larimer in Denver, Colorado, Twelve Restaurant has become a recent favorite of the "LC" family.

The name "Twelve" comes from their monthly changing menu coinciding with in-season ingredients. Local farms and produce are highlighted as the food is always fresh. And with a menu that changes every month, there is always something new to enjoy.

You can get more information at http://www.twelverestaurant.com/. Tell them Lawrence Covell sent you, you will love every bite!

Cashmere socks ...

play a big role in our 10 fall essential items for men. Similar to many of the items on the "lists", these socks make great gifts and are a crucial element to taking care of yourself in the cold weather. Whether you are lounging around the house, or walking in the snow, it is important to have something that will keep you warm and comfortable. And to be fair, the more luxe, the better!

These socks from Falke are a cashmere/wool blend and at only $35, they are a complete steal. They come in various shades of blue, brown, grey, green, and Andrew's favorite - red.

Sales Tip

We recently found a new book full of advice/quotes and could not help sharing. We are all voracious readers and as people constantly surrounded by inspirational ideas and thoughts, quotes become an easy thing to share.

"Always do more than is required of you."

George S. Patton

Great for sales, great for everything you do in life.

The Henry Cuir Handbag ...

One of our ten essentials for women, the Henry Cuir handbag also makes the perfect gift. Pictured here with some Henry Cuir boots, Henry Cuir is a new line for us this fall. We are proud to say that we are one of a select group who are carrying this new and very exclusive line and owner Cathy could not be any happier as her next "must-have" purchase is a Henry Cuir bag. So stop in a see the new range, before Cathy buys it all for herself!

Quotes of the Day ...

Andrea Perrone, the Co-CEO of Brioni summed up elegance perfectly when he said:

"Elegance is an attitude, and the first rule is to be never too excessive."

We could not agree more, it reminds us of an old ad we ran in Esquire:

"The most forceful statement is understatement."

Shaving Accessories ...

are one of our ten essentials for fall as men must pay a little more care to their face during the drier winter months.


We have an amazing selection of products from both Art of Shaving and Truefitt & Hill to protect your face during the cold. During the winter, we put our faces at constant exposure to adverse elements such as snow and cold wind. This combined with the ever-present cold weather and drier than normal climate, men really do some serious damage to their skin. Although we recommend these products for year round use, again, it is extra important to use pre-shave oils, rich and nourishing creams, and after-shave moisturizers to keep your skin at its best during the winter.

We have a wide range of oils, creams and balms, razors, and badger hair brushes (once you use a brush you will never go back!) and even cologne in scents such as Lavendar, 1805, Trafalgar, and Grafton. So please stop in - also, these make wonderful gifts!

And for those of you new to the store, of for those that have yet to come it, yes, that is a pool table. So stop in and get to know us over a pool match and a glass of wine.

A Link for a Friend

A dear friend of the store, Chris, recently shared his personal blog with us:

http://web.mac.com/claw55/Site/Blog/Blog.html

Although not updated as frequently as our blog, definitely check it out when you get some time. This gentleman travels everywhere and is always full of great stories.

Style Profile: Rick Faubion

As the longest running and most experienced employee at Lawrence Covell, our next profile is focused on Rick Faubion. If Rick is not playing golf, he is at the store giving his incredible insight into classic mens' clothing and sportswear. Rick always knows what is appropriate for any occasion, and will always surprise with a look and clothes combination many others do not see.

Style Icon
My father, he too was in the industry and a complete master at his craft; Cary Grant

Describe your personal style ...
Modern Classic

Favorite Labels or Designers?
Luciano Barbera, Kiton, Oxxford, and Etro

Your most cherished possession?
Matchbox Car Collection, but in the distant future it will be my grandfather's pocket watch

When you wear ..... You feel at your best
Quality, and my bathrobe

What do you first notice in someone's outfit?
Normally the overall impression

What would you never wear?
Bone colored khakis paired with a camel hair blazer (Always a bad look!)

Who do you dress to impress?
No one, it is about feeling good mentally and physically. Fine clothing and style should not shout out "look at me!"

Do you shine your own shoes?
When I have time, I am fairly lazy in this department

"Must have" next purchase ...
A soft unstructured Cashmere jacket - the perfect travel piece because you can wear it with anything and anywhere while still being dressed

When you were younger you wore ...
I was a total nerd, but look at me now!

Favorite Items?
I do not have one, I cherish and keep certain items that remind me of the great times in my life.

Favorite place to holiday?
Anywhere where I can find great golf, great food, and a comfortable bed. Do not Disturb!

Favorite local restaurants?
Rodney's, Zaidy's, and Barolo for some great rich Italian food.

Hobbies
Golf (but I intend to quit), Rock Band, Movies (love the classics!), Talk Radio, Working Out ... the normal "stuff"

Favorite "fashion" movie? North by Northwest

Best advice from your father?
My father was the perfect example to "keep on going, keep on striving." He has incredible personal strength and will power. When the chips are down - keep on going! And more importantly, if the party was a hopping - keep on going! He really instilled in me a terrific work ethic.

What keeps you inspired?
I have been fortunate in my career to meet the best makers, vendors, designers - the top end of the industry. But at the end of the day, it is the amazing clients and great friends that keep me coming back.

The 10 Essentials for Her for Fall ...

1) Tall Boots

We have received an amazing selection of new boots from Jil Sander and Henry Cuir designed to keep you warm and look incredible with your skinny jeans and pencil skirts.

2) Skinny Jeans

Dark and Black Denim Jeans from Red Engine are back in stock! These keep selling out fast, as they are the perfect companion with your tall boots for fall.

3) Long Cardigan Sweater

The perfect piece for lounging or dinner, the long shape always flatters the legs and body allowing you to look your best no matter the event.

4) Statement Coat

We have beautiful new belted coats from Dries Van Noten in prints and patterns such as Cocodrillo. The statement piece is the perfect essential to ensure you will always wear a smile throughout the colder months.

5) Scarf

We have a large selection of new and colorful scarves from makers Faliero Sarti and Johnston's Cashmere. These are perfect for keeping you warm and adding some personal touches to your outfit.

6) Cropped Cucinelli Cardigan

The Cardigan always adds warmth and shape to any look. The double closures always flatter, so do not miss out on the hottest makes from Brunello Cucinelli.

7) Turtleneck

A fall classic in any color. Wear a black turtleneck and look classic, or wear a more colorful piece to add some pop to your sweaters and jackets.

8) The Pencil Skirt

New for this fall, bring back the classic skirt shape with new additions from Pauw and Gunex.

9) The Luciano Barbera Blazer

Barbera makes the classic women's blazer that's chic and shaped. If you want black, we have it! If you want prints, we have checks in red and purple cashmere!

10) Handbag from Henry Cuir

We have new bags from new designer Henry Cuir, they are incredible and a must have for the fall season.

11) A Gift for Him

Remember the men in your life, new shaving accessories, cashmere socks, or a colorful Paul Smith scarf make the perfect gift for the hard working man who deserves a little extra.

The 10 Essentials for Him for Fall ...

1) Navy Blazer

Cashmere, patterned, light checks, the Navy Blazer is the ultimate staple in every man's wardrobe. We have them in heavier weights now to get you through the fall.

2) Washed Flannels

New arrivals from Luciano Barbera give the fit, style, and comfort to last all fall.

3) Knit Cashmere Ties

The Perfect Winter accessory - adds texture and style to any outfit while keeping you warm.

4) Cashmere Socks

Cashmere Blend Socks from Falke only $35. Take care of those feet in the cold!

5) Shaving Accessories from Truefitt & Hill

Every gentleman knows the importance of a good shave, especially in the dry cold winters. T & H shaving creams and moisturizers starting at $30

6) Barbera Car Coat

We have a handful of excellent Barbera outerwear new for fall. But the standout is their new car coat - side vents, the perfect length for walking and driving, and cashmere!! This is your needed piece for fall.

7) Bold Striped Shirt from Etro

Don't give into the dark colors of fall, a purple or green striped shirt is the perfect way to beat the darker weather

8) Colorful Scarf for that Pop

And if you must wear a coat, a Paul Smith or Barbera scarf is the best way to add some color to your look. Scarves start at $75!

9) Cozy Flannel Shirt

For lounging around the house and cooking romantic dinners for those you love, the Gant Flannel shirt is only $129 and the perfect addition to any winter wardrobe.

10) Knit Polo

Zanone makes the ultimate Merino polo. We have them in four colors including purple, grey and black, and at only $325 it is the essential piece to remain classic and warm.

11) Gift for Her!
Never forget the person that makes the man, the new bags from Henry Cuir make wonderful holiday gifts.

Style Icon: Audrey Hepburn

One of the most iconic images of all time - Audrey Hepburn

Breakfast at Tiffanys - Paramount Pictures

Audrey Hepburn, the name alone conjures up images of beauty and enduring style. Often referred to as one of the most beautiful women in history, she is a true icon and a personal favorite of owner Cathy Covell.


Although better known as an actress, her iconic status is enhanced by her biggest passion: UNICEF. Hepburn was a life-long humanitarian stemming from her good fortune as a child. After enduring German occupation as a child in World War II, she dedicated much of her life to helping poor children in impoverished nations around the globe.

Audrey Hepburn will always be remembered for her role as "Holly Golightly" in Breakfast at Tiffany's. The image of her (top photo) is the epitome of beauty and helped to create the now-famous "little black dress". The film is considered an American classic and the wardrobe was designed by Audrey Hepburn herself and top designer Givenchy.

Although Audrey Hepburn admittedly enjoyed fashion, her personal tastes were geared towards casual and comfortable clothes. Although she used the words casual and comfortable, she always appeared perfectly chic whether at home with her family or out in the world reconfirming her status as a legend.

With fellow icon: Cary Grant

Style Icon: Gianni Agnelli

L'Avvocato Agnelli

L' Avvocato Gianni Agnelli - what else really needs to be said? As many consider Italy to be one of the best dressed countries on earth, it must be noted that most Italians consider Gianni Agnelli to be the best dressed man in history. Esquire magazine, in a recent "Best Dressed Men in History" article, gave that identical honor and top spot to Gianni Agnelli.

The personal favorite of Andrew and store friends Massimo Bizzocchi, Luciano Barbera, and Michal Sestak, Gianni Agnelli was the head of FIAT and at one time his companies were responsible for up to five percent of Italy's GDP. The fact that he was also a billionaire playboy and affectionately known as "The Rake of the Rivera" only adds to his legacy.

Although a top Italian industrialist, Agnelli is best remembered for his personal style quirks (Agnellisms) and as the embodiment of Sprezzatura. The tie pulled to the side, no tie dimple, hiking boots with suits, watch over the cuff, unbuttoned collar, the list goes on. The impressive thing - no matter how affected or contrived these might sound, everything seemed natural, nonchalant - Sprezzatura! He was clearly a man who knew "the rules", but he was also a man who knew when to break them. We recommend that from time to time, incorporate an "Agnellism" into your daily look, remember, it is all about having fun!