The stylish gentleman is back

MANILA, Philippines - The ‘40s was a war-stricken era that saw a contradiction of the times. Men and young men sacrificed themselves to fight the war as women were left behind to take care of their homes and what was left of their cities. But at the midst of all the chaos and difficult times, the stylish gentlemen emerged. Non-soldiers came to work in big factories as manual labor was mostly the only alternative available. In the middle of these difficult times, men remained polished and clean in their styles that were kept simple and with purpose. Some argued that probably it was a denial or escape from what was truly happening. Thus, the birth of utilitarian fashion.

The utilitarian fashion emerged as both men and women looked for easy-to-wear fashion that looked and felt cool and comfortable. Since most people during this period fell on hard times, men held on to the hope of a better life, which they showed in their sense of style and fashion.

J’adore La Mode! (I love fashion!) is Tomato Green’s pre-holiday campaign that will bring your style and fashion back to basics. Back to the time when dressing was no fuss, no mess, simple lines, simple cuts but with a twist of modern edge. Interpreted to suit the modern times, J’adore La Mode takes inspiration from the unexpected men’s French fashion of the ‘40s. It’s a mix of clean, simple, innocent and wholesome vibe of the era that contrasts the chaos of that wartime period. It’s a return to the basics, the no-fuss attitude to clothing. Tomato Green gives this fashion a modern take by incorporating elements of simplicity with a modern urban sexy appeal for the active lifestyle of the man of today.

Geek is the new cool prep. Combining the classic and trendy pieces in sexier cuts and fit. The new Prep takes inspiration from basic khaki pants with a fit that is closer to the body. Paired with your grandpa-inspired cardigan in modern lighter texture and material and a basic tee under, geek becomes sleek and irresistably sexy.

Simple white shirt. This ever reliable staple piece in any man’s closet gets a new updated fashionable look that will go beyond any classroom or office boardroom. Accents of piping and collar combination details in various patterns; checks and dots or minimal contrast color matching make the basic white shirt a stylish piece of clothing you can wear from day to night.

Plaids and checks are for cowboy no more! Look rugged in a wholesome way with this western plaid and checks rendered in a young urban pattern and tailor fit. Wrap a cardigan over your shoulder for a casual clubhouse feel or wear a plain jacket over for that fashionable early evening event look. This versatile pattern is truly fashionable for every occasion.

The fashionable hipster. Making a fashion statement that says “I’m an artist” is the “now” style for men. The second-hand vintage fashion style is cool. The new hipster emotes fresh fashion and color with a touch of classic vintage feel. It’s comfy dressing that is relaxed and not over the top. Accessorize with a statement piece eyewear and you are set to conquer the world!  

So the next time you go shopping, think basic utilitarian fashion with an edgy statement.

(Visit Tomato’s website at www.tomato.ph to view the complete pre-holiday collection.)