Bootcamp: Best Boots Under $100

Oh yes people it's full on boot season now and if you are that guy who is walking around with white sneakers while there is snow on the ground because you just never know which boots look right, don't fear Real Talk Fashion is here to help. We're going to show you the best boots out there for under $100 so you can still afford to get your girlfriend those christmas gifts she's been hinting at since summer.

Name: Micro Sole Canvas Chukka Boots
Price: $71.88
Where to Buy: Asos

Even though these boots are canvas and can easily get wet, they are still a must have for the cold weather months when its dry. The color is great, with just a light touch of green these boots will stand out from the rest and give your classic brown and blacks a much needed break.

Name: Trenton Skerry Rubber Rain Boot
Price: $59.99
Where to Buy: Nordstrom

We like to call these our commuter boots and if you live anywhere that has winter weather similar to Chicago, you will know why. Going to work sucks but going to work in the winter when the ground is full of slush that looks like dumpster waste sucks even worse. No need to get your good dress boots dirty and also no need to go buy those horrid, ultra thick, duck boots your mother made you wear to go sledding. Tuck your pants into these and not only will your feet stay dry, but you wont have that god awful feeling of wet pants. These are super understated and wont make you look like a dork, we promise. 

Name: Stacy Adams Tamarack Suede Chukka Boot
Price: $64.99
Where to Buy: Macys

There's no hiding it, we love all things chukka. Stacy Adams hits the mark with a super simple yet sophisticated boot that can be worn with jeans, chinos, and trousers all the same. And don't be afraid to rough these guys up, they only get better with age. 

Name: GBX SoHo Boot
Price: $99.99
Where to Buy: Journeys

At the high end of our price range, GBX mixes tough winter boot features with high end style. The thick laces and padded upper are all winter, but the 7 eye laces with side zipper are all style. 

Name: Winter Boots
Price: $49.95
Where to Buy: H&M

These boots have more of a classic winter boot look, but still keeps its fresh with new features and a sleek design. Definitely your go to boot for everyday use.

Name: Lace-Up Work Boots
Price: $71.88
Where to Buy: Asos

Undeniably stylish, Asos out does themselves by giving the classic work boot a modern update. All leather with a rubber gripped sole, these boots will get you through the toughest weather without sacrificing style. We really like the grey but the black is also hot fiyyyya, so get on it.

The Other "Hoodie"

It's our favorite time of year here at Real Talk Fashion and if it's not yours already, we will do everything in our power to convince you why it should be. For the next three months we are going to be bombarding you with layers, sweaters, coats, jackets, vests, boots, textures and more. So don't dread the cold and get the most of your weather. Here are a few of our favorite cardigans this season.

Cardigans

Name: Classic Knit Cardigan
Where to Buy: 21Men
Price: $22.90

 Exactly like the name states, this cardigan is a classic and will never go out of style. It's definitely updated though and features a slimmer silhouette then its' old school predecessors. We must however point out that in no way shape or form do we support the awful shirt paired with the cardigan in this photo.

Name: Cardigan
Where to Buy: H&M
Price: $24.95

Another pretty basic cardigan, but in a not so basic color. Red is definitely one of those colors that pops and is able to grab peoples' attention. It allows you to add depth to your outfit without adding extras like zippers or pockets. Rock this with a dark wash pair of slim fit or straight leg jeans and you're golden. 

Name: Earnest Toggle Cardigan/ Kenneth Cole Reaction Toggle Cardigan
Where to Buy: AllSaints/ Macy's
Price: $150/ $50

You may be asking yourself, why are they listing two cardigans but only showing one picture? To be perfectly honest it's because every picture of the Kenneth Cole cardigan is horrid. Think Orlando Blooms acting type horrid. You love the movies he is in but you can't stand when he opens his mouth. That's exactly how we felt about the Kenneth Cole version of this cardigan. Every single picture featured this brilliant toggle cardigan being ruined by douche like supporting pieces. So by all means if you have 150 bucks to blow treat yourself to the AllSaints version, but if you're on a little more of a  budget the Kenneth Cole option is an amazing deal.

Name: Tin Roof Cardigan
Where to Buy: G by Guess
Price: $49.50

What can be better than a breast? Oh wait two breasts! Yes that is our sick attempt at humor but it's true. The double breast is alive and well. This cardigan adds some spice to a classic piece with not only the double breasted buttons but also with the modern pattern. 

Name: Chunky Cardigan
Where to Buy: H&M
Price: $49.95

Our first stop on the texture tour bus is here. This  wool cardigan is a great way to add texture to your wardrobe. The lines are moderately chunky and give just enough dimension without over powering the piece. 

Name: Moon Shawl Neck Cardigan
Where to Buy: Asos
Price: $52.38

Probably our favorite cardigan of the bunch. The shawl collar is what separates the boys from the men. If your girlfriend constantly yells at you for lack of attention to detail, show her you're all about the details with a shawl collar. It's an understated touch of style not everyone is capable of appreciating but there's no doubt it looks damn good. 

Item of the Week 8/1/11

I'm not the biggest fan of Aldo shoe company only because the quality of the product doesn't match the price tag, but at the moment they are running a pretty decent sale. It turns out to be a win win for both consumer and company, they get rid of old stock and well you get a great pair of shoes for an even better price. These suede  desert style boots are only becoming more popular especially as Fall is just around the corner. It's the perfect shoe to wear when sneakers are out of the question but dress shoes are a bit too much. Be sure to pick these kicks up before the price tags skyrocket.

Name: Aldo Kantis
Price: $49.98
Where to Buy: Aldo

Item of the Week 7/23/11

This summer has been a little different than I imagined, and lately it's hard to find time to do much of anything let a lone a full blown blog post. So I figured until things settle down we'll be featuring one MUST have  item every week until the end of summer. Thanks for sticking with me guys.

Name: Athletic Knit Jacket
Price: $32.90
Where to Buy: 21Men


21Men hits the mark with this throwback knit jacket. We would usually say this is a great alternative to the other pricier designers but believe us when we say...this jacket owns them all. Don't get left behind this fall and be caught without this bad boy in your starting lineup. 

Your Guide to Summer Style

Alright guys I know it's been awhile since my last post, but it's time to get back to business. The temperature is rising, the beer is getting colder, and the girls are looking better. This means we need to look better as well. Start dressing for the way you want to be seen this summer, and make it one for the record books. Were gonna go bottom to top as we walk you through everything you'll need to make it happen.

-Shoes

There's nothing more I love than a fresh pair of white kicks on a hot summer day. Some call it basic, I call it timeless. These are the kind of shoes that will never go out of style and can always be used in a crunch. Even better yet, the white shoe works well with any style and build, virtually all guys can rock these and look good too. Great in leather, great in canvas, the great white fleet is here to stay people; So get with the program and embrace the simplicity.

Name: Polo Lander
Price: $65.00
Where to Buy: Macys

Name: Converse All Star Lo
Price: $39.99
Where to Buy: Famous Footwear

Name: Converse Jack Purcell Lifestyle
Price: $49.99
Where to Buy: Journeys

Name: UO Pimsoll
Price: $18.00
Where to Buy: Urban Outfitters

Name: Warrior Classic
Price: $49.90
Where to Buy: Urban Outfitters

Now as much as we love us some white shoes, Real Talk definitely doesn't discriminate against other great colors. Here are some other options that will be sure to turn up your summer swag. 

Name: Bertozzi
Price: $80.00
Where to Buy: Aldo

It's very hard for us here at Real Talk Fashion to condone spending $80 on a pair of loafers let a lone a pair from Aldo, but I promise there is a reason. This loafer is not only the perfect style of shoe for hot summer days but this vibrant blue will take your game to a whole new level. I also love this shoe in black; you just can't go wrong here. I recommend losing the socks on this one, it never hurt to show a little ankle.

Name: Canvas Slip On
Price: $17.90
Where to Buy: 21Men

Slip ons are going to be your best friend this summer. They are simple and easy to pull off. They look good with a solid pair of jeans, shorts, and even board shorts. They come in a variety of different styles but we particularly dig the neutral tones of these slip ons. Always fashionable, always affordable, 21Men hits their mark. 

Name: Classic Flip Flop
Price: $2.50
Where to Buy: Old Navy

The flip flop is about as summer as it gets. A classic staple that will never go out of style, the flip flop comes in a variety of colors and makes. These rubber flip flops are perfect for the wear and tear of hanging out at the beach or cooling off around a pool. It'll be the best $2.50 you spend all summer, we promise. 

-Shorts

Name: Kenneth Cole Cut Off Shorts
Price: $34.99
Where to Buy: Macys

As always the Reaction line of fashion powerhouse Kenneth Cole, comes through big with these tailored  cut off chinos. The unfinished hem gives these shorts a very laid back look while still maintaining their sophistication. Perfect for lounging poolside but works just as well out to dinner. Versatile, durable, classic, it's a win win situation my friends.

Name: Classic Plain Front Short
Price: $10.00
Where to Buy: Old Navy

If you're looking for a more traditional american short, Old Navy offers a great selection. They offer two lengths 10 inch as well as 8 inch, which caters to the old school and the new. Their classic styling will work great with a polo or graphic tee. Durable and coming in well under everyones budget, this is your go to basic short for the summer.

Name: Custom Jean Shorts
Price: Free
Where to Get: Your Closet

It's hard to imagine jean shorts ever looking fashionable, but we will go out on a limb and say they can be fashionable, you just have to wear them correctly. Cut off the pant legs of an old pair of jeans that fit well but maybe are just a little run down. Make the cut about half an inch under the knee cap (or an inch depending on desired length) and fold the unfinished bottom twice to finish off the hem. And walla you have your self some slim fitting fashionable jean shorts.

Name: Express Plaid Short
Price: $38.99
Where to Buy: Express

Keeping it classy while wearing shorts is never an easy task, but these monochrome plaid shorts from Express will keep you on track. Not quite as over the top as most plaid shorts can be, Express keeps it simple and true to form. Rock these with a nice S/S button down and you'll look like a million bucks.

-Boardshorts

One of the most important investments one can make this summer is the board short, both functional and stylish. Try to ditch the over branded board shorts with dragons and skulls. Don't be afraid to go for something bold, just think more mature, and allow the high school boys to play with the dragons.

Name: Striped Boardshort

Price: $19.90

Where to Buy: 21Men

Can't say it enough how much we love these retro board shorts from 21Men. The length of these might take some getting used to, but honestly it's time you stopped wearing baggy shorts. Wear these with confidence and you will definitely stand out in a good way. 

Name: Plaid Cargo Board Short
Price: $22.50
Where to Buy: Old Navy

At first glance you wouldn't be able to tell that these are board shorts at all, and that is genius of these shorts. Still made from the same durable materials as other board shorts, yet easily worn while not near the water. It's the perfect transition short from pool to lounge, no one will ever know the difference.

-T Shirts

Not to beat a dead horse but when it comes to tee's, simple is key. As adults it's no longer cool to wear shirts that have what we believe to be clever sayings or crude sexual innuendoes. In fact if you are over the age of 18 and still choose to wear those kind of shirts, they might as well read as follows "I don't get laid, so I try to be funny." Try that one on for size. 

Three must have basic t shirts this summer; The v-neck, the wide neck, and the crew neck. Mix up the colors, just make sure the shirt fits nicely, there's nothing worse than seeing a grown man wearing a white tee two times his size. Last time I checked I didn't get the invite to be in Death Row Records and neither did you.  

Name: Fine Jesery Knit V-neck
Price: $21.00
Where to Buy: American Apparel

Name: BDG Wide Neck Tee
Price: $14.00
Where to Buy: Urban Outfitters

Name: Basic Crewneck
Price: $5.98
Where to Buy: 21Men

Each one of these tees is versatile and can be worn with just about anything. Dress them down with a pair of jeans and some classic sneakers, or dress them up with loafers and a blazer.

Name: On the Byas Baseball Shirt
Price: $12.99
Where to Buy: Pac Sun

Another must have for the season is the 3/4 length baseball shirt. It's a little retro, but always looks good and is a nice way to keep it casual while opting out of the basic S/S tee. Keep an eye out for black, as well as rust red if you're looking to get away from the blues. 

-Button Downs

Name: Cotton Poplin S/S
Price: $34.50
Where to Buy: Express

I have to give credit to one of my buddies for finding this great short sleeve button down. The quality of the shirt is fantastic, and it fits like it was tailored. Also the poplin gives it a little more texture than your run of the mill shirt. Keep this on deck for a nice night out on the town.

Name: Checkered Woven Shirt

Price: $26.90

Where to Buy: 21Men

Honestly we were such big fans of both color schemes we couldn't just pick one. If you want to add a splash of color to your wardrobe this summer, this is an easy way to do that without going overboard. The clean cut checks and slim fit construction make this shirt a perfect candidate for the rising temperatures. 

Name: Marc Ecko Stitch Position
Price: $39.50
Where to Buy: Marc Ecko Cut & Sew (online)

For a little darker toned shirt try going for this Cut & Sew short sleeve. The colors are rich and will give you a nice break from the light greys and blues. Wear this out to your next BBQ with those Kenneth Cole cut off chinos and the Jack Purcells (warning you will look damn good).  Plus right now Marc Ecko is hooking it up with an online promotion of buy one get one 50% off the entire store, doesn't get much better than that. 

-Ties

Name: Madras Plaid Tie
Price: $24.00
Where to Buy: Urban Outfitters

Tap into your preppy elitism with this madras plaid tie from Urban Outfitters. Just because you don't go to Princeton or Harvard doesn't mean you can't look like it. Keep it slim but proportional to your collar, and try to avoid matching shirt patterns, that just gets really messy...really fast

Name: Gingham Bow Ties
Price: $35.00
Where to Buy: Etsy (online)

Name: League Bow Tie
Price: $35.00
Where to Buy: All Saints

Have some fun this summer with your ties and opt for the bow tie. They come in all different colors and sizes but just like with traditional long ties, always try to have the size of your tie and collar of your shirt proportional to each other. Don't be afraid to experiment with a little color, and you'll be glad you don't look like every other Joe Shmoe around the bar. 

-Jackets

Name: Vintage Windbreaker
Price: $33.90
Where to Buy: 21Men

Name: Nylon Taffeta a-way Jacket
Price: $54.00
Where to Buy: American Apparel
(Don't ever wear those pants)

Name: Shruken Blazer
Price: $64.00
Where to Buy: Urban Outfitters

Even though the summer days get blistering hot, it's nice to have a light jacket for walks along the beach or lakefront on those cooler nights.

-Sunglasses 

Name: Ray Ban New Wayfarer

Price: $119

Where to Buy: Lenscrafters

Now we understand times are hard, but if you can spare the cash and take care of your belongings, we can't help but recommend a pair of Ray Bans. Truly their to protect your eyes from UV rays as well as make you look like a badass. These are some of the most well built sun glasses around.

Name: Wayfarer
Price: $5.90-14.99
Where to Buy: Pac Sun, Zumiez, or 21Men

Now if  there is just no way you can afford to drop a bill on a pair of sunglasses there is no need to worry. You can get the same classic wayfarer style for a fraction of the price. Remember though you pay for what you get and some quality may be lacking but overall they look good.

-Hats

Name: Canvas Driver
Price: $14.95
Where to Buy: Gap

Driver caps are the new baseball cap, trade in that beat up hat you wear while cutting the grass and hook your self up with this canvas driver cap from the Gap. 

Name: Summer Fedora
Price: $18.71
Where to Buy: Gap

Gap also hits their mark with this super lightweight cotton fedora. The jersey knit texture gives this stylish hat that summer look, with lightweight fabric to keep your head cool. 

Staying Stylish From Takeoff to Landing: A man's guide to having good baggage.

With spring break coming up, it's the perfect time of the year to plan a trip. This means you're going to need some serious travel gear. So spend some time thinking not just about what you're going to pack, but what you're going to pack it in.

Real Talk Fashion brings you all the travel gear you need to stay stylish from takeoff to landing. 

1. Carry Ons

Name: Jack Georges Nevada Duffle Bag
Price: $160
Where to Buy: Jack Georges

The idea of doing a piece on travel gear, came from this past weekend when a couple buddies of mine came to visit. All of them had backpacks, except one who had this great leather carry on. The bag was a Jack Georges, and the quality was unbelievable. The leather was so soft, I could have mistaken it for suede. The price tag may be steep, but this cabin bag will only look better with age. Real Talk...This bag has some real balls.

Name: Ben Sherman Canvas Weekender
Price: $47.99
Where to Buy: Ebags

I already knew Ben Sherman had a great line of british inspired mens clothing, but just recently found out their bags are just as great. These Brits get it right with this sick leather/canvas weekender. The dark marbled leather and light beige canvas, give this bag the perfect mix of luxury and utility. Just as the title says, this is the perfect weekend bag. 

Name: Belt Strap Army Bag
Price: $22.90
Where to Buy: 21Men

Easily one of my favorite bags, 21Men brings their "A" game with this khaki army bag. A classic staple in american culture, it instantly brings a vintage cool to any look. This bag is simple, can fit a good amount of stuff, and honestly just makes you look like a badass. 

Name:Faux Leather Carrying Bag
Price: $28.90
Where to Buy: 21Men

Keeping it in the same design house 21Men pumps out this super sleek faux leather carry all. Big enough for those longer trips and plenty of compartments for those smaller objects. And as always 21Men keeps it affordable with a price tag of only $28.90, you can't miss this deal.

2. Passport Cases

Name: Milano Collection Passport Cover
Price: $35.00
Where to Buy: Jack Georges

With all the crack downs on airport security and more countries requiring official passports, there's no way to get around it. So if you're going to have to carry your passport with you at all times, why not have it in a case that looks good. Jack George's colorful line of leather cases has a little something for everyone. If you're bold and like colors that pop, go for the orange or seaweed green. If you want to keep it conventional, black and tobacco brown look good as ever. 

3. Toiletry Bags

Name: GUESS Men's Travel Kit
Price: $35.00
Where to Buy: Amazon

Don't be the dude who is asking to borrow everyone else's shampoo and razors. This GUESS toiletry bag looks sophisticated and manly. I bet if you had this bag you would actually be excited to pack your own toiletries, yeah it looks that good.

Name: Dakine Men's Bomber Travel Kit
Price: $25.00
Where to Buy: Eternal Snow

For a more youthful look, Dakine takes the cake with their distressed Bomber travel kit. This bag looks rugged and keeps it fresh with its low key label and worn in finish. Perfect for those who live an active lifestyle and need the versatility of a toiletry bag they can rough up.