Perhaps the most popular option for men looking to invest some money in a special piece is The Watch. A high quality watch can last through several generations, so picking a high quality and established brand is very important. Go for a long lasting material such as leather for your strap, and choose a metal such as Gold or Silver for the finishing’s. Many high end watch makers will also offers engravings or personalisation such as diamond embedding – so you really can completely tailor it to your individual style. Great for the man who likes to keep things simple and understated – but also a great option if you like flashy jewellery because of the amount of variety available.

If you’re the kind of guy who only really makes the effort with jewellery or accessories on special occasions, then the best option for you is probably something like Cufflinks. Cufflinks add the finishing touch to a good suit and a good pair of cufflinks can also be a great conversation starter (who’d have thought?) Go for timeless and classic Silver or Platinum as the colour of these metals is a nice neutral tone which will go with whatever colour tie or shirt you’ve chosen. Similarly, with cufflinks – consider paying that bit extra or engraving or diamond embedding.

For the business man, an often overlook jewellery option is the Tie Clip. The tie clip is simple and understated and yet (much like cufflinks) adds the finished touch to a suit. It’s an understated and yet very classic look to sport one of these – think Mad Men 1950s style.

The Ring is probably the most common piece of jewellery for men. The ring is a subtle piece of jewellery and something men often choose to wear once married. There’s nothing stopping you from purchasing a ring before then though – there are lots of great ring options for men, and there are so many styles available that you’re guaranteed to find something to your taste. You’re not limited to wearing the ring on your finger either, for something a little different try opting for a thumb ring or even a ring worn on a chain around your neck.

Finally – for the guy who likes a bit of bling, your options are endless. Take a trip to a jeweller and ask them what kinds of fine jewellery they can offer men. They’ll most likely present you with an array of diamond earrings, bracelets, chains and pendants – all of which are completely acceptable now for men to wear and experiment with. Earrings are a great choice for men who don’t want anything to large but still want to make a statement, and bracelets and chains offer that bit of bling for the guy who doesn’t have his ears pierced, so you’re covered from all angles!

Author’s Bio

Ellie-Rose Williams writes for Gold Traders who specialise in buying scrap gold and unwanted jewellery. If you’re interested in cashing in your old jewellery, you might be interested in their cash for gold guide and advice.

The most important luxury travel accessory that you must purchase is a high-quality weekend or overnight bag. The Tumi Alpha Business Overnight Expandable Boarding Briefcase is an excellent option for the traveler who wants to use one bag for everything. Not only is this bag made from high-quality nylon, but it has compartments to fit your laptop, files, a change of clothes and grooming needs. If you are looking for a classic style that will always remain popular, then look at the Safari Bag by Mulholland. This bag is all leather, made from the finest materials, and is available in three colours. Make this bag even more sophisticated by adding monogrammed initials. This is the type of bag that will last a lifetime, so it is certainly worth the price tag.

A comfortable and easy-to-use neck pillow is another must. Magellan makes an excellent choice. Their Luxe Inflatable Neck Pillow comes with its own travel bag, and inflates and deflates quickly and easily. With just a few breaths, you can relax while on a long flight to Europe or a short jaunt to do business in a nearby state. Magellan offers many other great products to ensure your comfort such as airplane blankets and the G-Seat Light, a small, lightweight seat cushion that is discreet and easy-to-carry.

Not only should you travel in style, but your iPad deserves the same treatment. There are many designer cases out there that do not do anything to protect your iPad, or require you to completely remove your iPad to use them. If you are looking for a classy case that still provides function, then look no further than Tod’s Alligator Skin Covers. These have hefty price tag at $4,900, but you are paying for the finest in handcrafted alligator skin. Another fully functional, still luxurious, yet more affordable option is the Piel Frama iPad Case. Prices range from $140-$225 and provide function and style. The cases have either a magnetic or snap closure, document storage, and display of your iPad.

Make sure if you are packing your electronics that you also pack converters. The Tumi Electric Adaptor with Ballistic Case is a classy way to ensure your devices will work in 150 countries. At only $50, this is an easy item to add to your travel bag. The Dynex International Travel Adapter is another option that is compact and will work with most portable devices.

Traveling in luxury is easy with a few simple choices. Make sure you have the best bag and accessories, both for function and comfort and your next trip will be incredible.

Author’s Bio

Chloe Vasquez is a luxury fashion writer and online Costa Rica vacations agent. Her idea of the perfect trip should include ease, comfort and of course the latest fashion trends.

Out of reach?

It may feel like the stars are out of reach to us mere mortals. We see them all the time attending red carpet events and wild parties, as well as on adverts promoting the most stylish brands. But it does not have to be out of your reach to emulate the stars. With a classic second hand watch, you may be able to emulate the best style icons simply and without having to spend a fortune in the process.

Worried about the cost?

Part of the problem when it comes to emulating the stars is the cost. It may be hard to find the clothes to wear because they may be too expensive. You may not have the budget to change your wardrobe whenever your idol changes theirs, and by the time you have saved up for an item of clothing, they are wearing something else and it has gone out of fashion.

Instead, you may want to follow their choice of timepiece by purchasing a luxury pre-owned model. If you cannot afford to spend a fortune on clothes, you can hardly afford to go and buy the most expensive designer watches around, so when you purchase it pre-owned then you do not have to spend a huge amount.

Of course, whether you would call a luxury pre-loved TAG Heuer timepiece cheap depends on your own financial situation. But it is fair to say that buying the same watch second hand may often cost you less than when you buy it brand new.

Go out and get the same watch as your style icon

As soon as you see your style icon wearing a luxury timepiece, either in a film or advertising it, you may want to go and get the same brand. If that happens to be a TAG Heuer watch, one of the most famous luxury brands around, then you may easily be able to find a classic second hand model.

What is even better is that you do not have to stick with it. If you buy a new luxury second hand watch, the value may not depreciate as quickly as a new model. That means if you sell it, you may be able to recoup your money and buy another model to keep up with the trends set by your style icon.

You too can become a style icon

If people see you wearing the same as the celebrities then they are sure to think better of your style choices. Who knows, you may even become a bit of a trend setter yourself when you purchase a quality second hand Tag Heuer watch.

The function of the watch is important. If the individual is someone who has an active lifestyle, a rugged watch may be in order. However, if the watch is to be worn with business attire, it does not necessarily need to be one that is built for extreme conditions. A digital multi-function watch is great for the individual that will utilize it for exercise or training. In general, unless used for these purposes, the digital watch has fallen out of vogue for everyday use.

The size of the watch itself should match the individual and his or her wrist. In general, a men’s watch is significantly larger than those designed for women. If a smaller watch is purchased for a man, he may feel uncomfortable wearing it due to the size. For men, an oversized watch is something that is currently in fashion. If choosing a larger model, it should not be too big for the particular individual. Someone with a smaller wrist might not be able to wear a very large watch.

For women, there is a fine balance when it comes to the look of a watch. It should be attractive and petite, but still needs to be functional. Having a colourful and unique watch is great for a woman, but it should not be distracting in that is takes the attention away from the individual or her outfit. This is certainly true when attending a more formal event. In these instances, the need for a second watch that is more reserved might be in order.

A watch can be viewed as a status symbol for both men and women. An individual who owns a Rolex watch may be viewed as having money and being successful. If able to afford such a watch, there is no reason not to own one. The problem is when such a thing is used to flaunt one’s success. This is never viewed well and is something that should certainly be avoided.

In addition to being a status symbol, a watch should be an investment and a wise purchase. That does not necessarily mean that one needs to spend thousands of dollars on the timepiece. A quality watch well certainly last longer and perform better than inexpensive models.

Choosing the right watch is something that can take time and be somewhat difficult. With the wearer in mind and some common sense, a great watch that will last for many years is easy to purchase.

Author’s Bio

Keith Barrett writes about shopping, white watches and other fashion accessories. He believes that it’s possible to be fashionable, without having to spend too much money.

Carry It

For a traveling man, the first place to look in buying stylish accessories is luggage. Of course, you should not sacrifice a suitcase’s portability or carrying capacity just to look good, but very little beats a good leather case both in durability and style.

With the Zuca Pro luxury luggage, style and versatility go hand in hand. This carry-on case has metal reinforcements, allowing the luggage to act as an impromptu seat. Inside, stacked drawers can act as smaller suitcases, helping you organize your clothes and toiletries for travel. And of course the Zuca Pro comes with a retractable handle and wheels for easy travel through the world’s airports.

Tag It

Travelers who spend any time frustrated at the baggage claim area know the disadvantage of owning a popular brand of luggage. You can avoid that by buying luggage with distinctive fabric designs, but if you’ve found a favourite piece of luggage and it’s black, you can make it distinctive by the use of unique luggage tags.

The Bag Tag Studio makes durable plastic tags that are thicker than your ATM card. These are printed with distinctive designs, like a sepia image of the Eiffel Tower, so you can spot your bag from a distance; they’re also personalized with your name and contact information, in case your luggage is lost and the airline has to return it to you.

Charge It

Trekking across country, far from a power outlet, how can you keep your cell phone or laptop powered? Why not harness the power of the sun? Votaic Systems offers solar chargers that can be strapped to any backpack or carry on, as well as special backpacks or bags with solar chargers built in. One hour in the sun can give you four hours of talk time on the phone, and you can recharge your laptop as you hike.

Data Store It

A good Swiss Army knife is an invaluable accessory. Victorinox has updated the Swiss Army knife for the 21st century, putting a USB flash drive next to the scissors and nail file attachments. Available in 8, 16 and 32 gigabytes, the flash drive can be removed from the knife before you board a plane, so you can access the data while the rest of the knife is checked with your luggage.

Clean It

Heading off the beaten path? If you want to avoid a travel bug, consider investing in the SteriPen. This battery-powered handheld device looks like a pen and can kill bacteria and pathogens in a glass of water with just a 45 second blast of ultraviolet light, because Montezuma’s Revenge is just not stylish at all.

Dry It

Finally, quick drying underwear may not be a stylish accessories that anybody else will see (unless you want them to), but there are no articles of clothing you’ll appreciate more than this, especially when you’re waiting for a clean pair that you’ve had to hand wash. REI’s ExOfficio’s boxer briefs promise to dry overnight, which is a godsend in places where you have no access to a dryer.

Author’s Bio
Matt Reider is a Canadian traveler and backpacker, as well as the manager of CanuckAbroad.com, one of Canada’s best sources for last minute flight deals.

Based in Switzerland, Lucien Piccard has been manufacturing quality timepieces since 1923. They first gained fame with their luxury fourteen karat and eighteen karat gold watches. Today Lucien Piccard watches are sold under a few lines, with each designated to suit a specific need, and they span all price ranges. Their most affordable line, Dufonte by Lucien Piccard, offers watches that are priced below $100! Both Lucien Piccard men’s watches and women’s watches utilize the exquisite timekeeping technology that the Swiss are so famous for.

An excellent choice for a Lucien Piccard men’s watch is #26584BK, a stainless steel and ceramic watch. Silver and black accents combine to make this Lucien Piccard watch an attractive addition to your wardrobe. Arabic numerals mark the hours, and the date is displayed in a small window on the face. The watch’s quality Japanese quartz movement is water resistant up to ninety-nine feet. This watch is easy to read, and provides a durable, yet dressy option that will be a sleek addition to a smart wardrobe.

Lucien Piccard women’s watches are available in both classic designs, and models that are more elegant. The dressier pieces can sometimes take the place of jewelry! One such watch is #28105SL, a watch that exudes understated elegance, with diamond accents. This watch has a unique stainless steel link band and a scratch resistant sapphire window. It features an analog display, Swiss quartz movement, and is water resistant up to ninety-nine feet. Unique designs along the bezel, a pattern of diamonds and sapphires inset around the face, and a faint grid background on the face all lend this Lucien Piccard watch a timeless and elegant charm.

A more sporty option for a Lucien Piccard women’s watch is #27070SET. This watch is diamond accented for a high end appeal, and has interchangeable bands, so it goes well with any apparel! The watch bands are crocodile embossed leather, and come in black, white, medium blue, and a soft pink. As with all quality Lucien Piccard watches, the timepiece boasts Swiss quartz technology, and an analog display. The face is mother of pearl, and artfully adorned with diamonds.

Lucien Piccard watches cater to virtually any preference and need, with watches that span the spectrum of trendy and sporty, to dressy and elegant. For a watch that is affordable, functional, and stylish, look for Lucien Piccard timepieces.

Author’s Bio

Sean Bay is a style consultant for Dealsaholic. Dealsaholic offers quality watches from luxury brands at discount prices. Some of the watches offered on their site are Casio watches, Lucien Piccard, Michael Kors, Invicta, and more.

Oversized Jewellery

You don’t have to opt for tiny pieces of jewellery that no one will ever notice. Today’s styles dictate that men can have larger, more elaborate pieces of jewellery without being considered over the top. Think about the difference a nice, chunky sterling silver bracelet can make when you’re wearing a darker coloured outfit. Or, try adding a little sparkle to your lighter summertime colours with a diamond encrusted pendant on a gold chain. Don’t be afraid to go big and use costume jewellery. After all most of us have to get our bling on a budget.

A Blast from the Past – Retro Sunglasses

With summer creeping up on us, you need to think about getting the right shades. A look that is really making a comeback this year is the retro, oversized sunglasses for men. You don’t have to stick to simply dark colours when you pick up a few pairs of retro eye-wear, instead, you can add as much colour as you want. The right pair of sunglasses perched on your head or over your peepers can make your next night on the town a night to remember. Yes, you can (and should) wear your sunglasses at night.

So go big this year when it comes to jewellery and other accessories. Mix, match, and try out new things. You aren’t living in a world where you have to be afraid to take chances with your style. Be brave and strike out on a new path and get the right accessories to liven up even the most boring clothes.

Next, bring a plastic zip lock bag containing toiletries. You will need items for brushing your teeth, shaving, applying cologne and so on. Why bother going to an exotic resort if you’re going to look like a bum? Next, devote an entire bag (or two) to clothing. Take your mom’s advice and bring along many clean underwear. Bring along shirts, pants and jackets for as many days as you plan to hit the town. Don’t forget the socks! You may spend a lot of time relaxing on the beach with your bare-naked feed, but some classy clubs and restaurants will expect dressy shoes. Besides, if you wear socks you can take your shoes off on the plane!

Take something to read while traveling. Avoid anything Internet-compatible. This is your time to relax. Read philosophy, travel books, humorous anecdotes or Hugh Hefner’s “Little Black Book” if you can’t get women off your mind. In other words, find time to relax. Now let’s get down to it: what are the most important gadgets you should bring and what can you live without?

You should definitely bring along a cell phone, if not for the emergency calls from home, then for the tip calculator! Bring along your iPod for some relaxing music and perhaps a portable video game system once you realize those books aren’t going to advance you to the next stage! Last but not least, bring an iron for pressing suits and some water bottles to keep you hydrated. These are the most vital men’s accessories when you’re on the road again.

Starting with sunglasses, some of the most popular brands are Ray-ban, Oakley, Armani, and Dolce and Gabbana, to name a few. Another big company this year is Retro Super Future. One of the most happening trends right now is extremely square frames, and Retro Super Future doesn’t disappoint with its 1970’s Italian style black frames. These frames somehow combine the past and the present in perfect measure. Italian style is a happening trend in 2010 with no sign of slowing. The brand Persol has been making and designing all their sunglasses in Italy ever since the year 1930. They are a hot brand to keep your eye on.

Picture a very foxy lady sauntering over to you and asking what time it is. You don’t want to be stuck with the lame answer of “time to get a watch.” Watches have been status symbols for men for many years. Currently some of the top affordable designers are Fossil, Diesel, and Kenneth Cole. Back in the game are companies like Swiss Army and Swatch. The Swatch G-Ring watch might be the very last watch you need as its slick style goes with any outfit you can imagine. However, since a watch is such a powerful accessory for a man, it is often wise to have several styles and colours on hand to match to your outfits accordingly.

There are so many great sunglasses and watch styles available this year that you are sure to find a pair that complements your personal style. Now you are looking all decked out—a true man of the year 2010.

How do you go about choosing sunglasses? An eyeglasses professional will first try to determine the general shape of your face. Don’t lie and say you’re a perfect circle even if you’re not. There is no sexy or unsexy facial shape. Some attractive men have oval shaped heads, while others have oblong shapes, diamond shapes, heart shapes, round shapes and even triangle shapes. Certain styles of glasses will compliment certain types of facial shapes.

For example, oval and round sunglasses fit square heads. Oval shapes go well with anything, while triangle faces work best with semi-rimless frames that accentuate the upper part of the face. After you choose the basic shape (a glasses specialist can give you detailed face matches) then focus on the extra features you want or need. UV protection is the most important feature. If you tend to drop your glasses frequently then go with a polycarbonate plastic instead of glass. You can also add automatic tinting to your shades, or a permanent tint color. Other features include scratch resistant coating, polarized lenses and mirrored lenses.

Make sure that your sunglasses fit your personal style. You might even ask a friend for an objective opinion on what the shades do for you fashion-wise.