The peacock

In the soon-to-be peacock world of today’s men’s fashion scene, men have taken to ruffling up those feathers now more than ever. Guys place more value in individuality and being able to distinguish themselves from the commonplace dodos, which have long been extinct. Diddy is revered while Pee Wee Herman has long gone into oblivion. The long-held notion that men should garb themselves in blah colors and clothing so that the ladies can stand out is now only reserved for the few that enjoy the life of being henpecked. Men now voraciously keep themselves up-to-date with evolving styles and looks. In achieving looks that rave rather than cave, variety is key. Head-turners know how to mix patterns and colors in very clever ways. Fashion wit is key in building the right wardrobe.

For decades, Rustan’s has always offered the eager male shopper vast choices in men’s wear under the supervision of Joel Tantoco. As a child, I remember my mom taking me to the kids’ department to shop. She let me choose the pieces I liked but somehow, when we got home and opened the bags, my choices magically transformed into hers. Now, I get to do my own choosing. Unfortunately, I also have to do my own paying.

With luxury brands you used to have to cross time zones to find, labels like J. Lindeberg, Rykiel Homme, Kenzo Homme, Cesare Paciotti and John Varvatos among others now proudly hang on racks. Homegrown brands such as the hip Salt label and the high-end Rustan’s Black Label have come up with some pretty great stuff. Their men’s wear now offers an extensive collection of clothing and accessories, both local and imported. It’s difficult not to find and develop your own style. Now all you need is some good fashion sense and guts to stand out and become your own fashion peacock. After all, who wants to be labeled commonplace?

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E-mail me at djmontano@pacific.net.ph