When you buy something that uses animal skins, you’re buying authentic luxury. Each type is as unique as its wearer, with details and texture that admirers can’t help but touch. Designers love to work with the different exotic skin varieties because they transform each garment into a one-of-a-kind work of art.
Rare skins and luxury brands go hand in hand. Louis Vuitton crafts briefcases from ostrich skin, and Tom Ford makes sneakers with alligator. Hermès uses exotic leathers for their most legendary bags, and the most expensive Birkin ever sold was a white crocodile version that called to mind “snow-capped Himalayan mountains.” That description was from Christie’s, which auctioned it for about $400,000.
Exotic skins are so rare that they comprise less than 1 percent of the leather trade. Cow leather, of course, has the majority share, while the “exotic” category includes the varieties below, as well as animals such as emu, camel, python, elephant, and even chicken legs. Designers recognize the continuing demand and have begun to acquire animal farms and tanneries to source their own leathers.
There’s more than one way to create a luxe, soft leather jacket, so why not set yourself apart with the most valuable and striking exotic skins you can buy? With so many choices, you’re sure to find a handcrafted masterpiece that brings out your wild side.
People may confuse it with crocodile skin, but alligator skins are more difficult to source responsibly, and the scale patterns are actually very distinct. Alligator skin has larger scales that become smaller in disordered patterns. It’s soft but doesn’t stretch out—the hard scales are almost bony in structure. Alligator skin is smoother than crocodile. Buffed up to a high shine, it embodies old-world elegance with edgy, fashion-forward potential. It’s delicate and elegant enough to elevate a woman’s pocketbook and sturdy enough to become a man’s favorite dress shoe for decades.
Alligator in Action: Kendall Jenner likes to throw on a pair of $7,500 white gloss alligator ankle booties with her vintage Levi’s.
The most obvious difference between crocodile and alligator skin is that crocodiles have hair follicles—you can see the remaining dot-sized hole of one on each scale. Their patterns are more consistent and symmetrical, a series of rectangles that suggest a more conservative and stately vibe than alligators. In reality, they’re no such thing; crocodiles can grow to 2,200 pounds and have evolved by fending off anacondas and tigers. They eat alligators for breakfast. Crocodile handbags have never gone out of style, and the rugged look of the skin makes it a natural for items that need to be sturdier, such as boots and briefcases.
Crocodile in Action: When Jay-Z collaborated with Barney’s for the Shawn Carter Collection, the priciest offering was a $58,000 black crocodile skin moto jacket.
This is one of the rarer skins that designers use in clothing and accessories because it can be so delicate. Lizard functions more often as an accent in combination with something more durable, like cow leather. Different species have scale shapes and sizes that vary from round to square and rectangular. If you’re picturing a tiny reptile that would fit in your hand, though, you’re way off base. Nile and Teju lizard skins are some of the most popular, and these animals can grow to three square feet. Designers love using lizard skin because it’s so thin—no more than .66 mm thick—and pliable. It takes special care to ensure that the skin doesn’t peel or dry out.
Lizard in Action: Lizard skin may be less expensive than other exotic skins because so many celebrities are already wearing it.
Ostrich skin has an unmistakable pattern, thanks to the large follicles remaining from feathers. It’s a coveted material for upholstery in high-end cars and the most masculine way to incorporate polka dots into a luxe look. Ostrich skin is thick and durable, with natural oils in the leather that keep it soft and prevent cracking. Over time, the skin can darken, so many clothiers dye it brighter colors to take advantage of the texture without losing impact.
Ostrich in Action: In Paul Manafort’s 2018 tax-evasion trial, a significant portion of the testimony centered on one luxury item: a $15,000 ostrich jacket that took 30 hours to make. It was part of a single-day, $102,000 spending spree for Manafort.
This is a category that encompasses all kinds of snakes with very different appearances. Python, cobra, and sea snake are three of the most common, but you can also find boa constrictor, kingsnake, anaconda, and more. Bigger is better in the fashion industry if you want enough skin to cover an entire garment. Like lizards, snakes’ skin is delicate without protective treatment but still adds an element of danger to accessories like purses and cowboy boots.
Snake in Action: A snakeskin jacket had a star-making turn in 1990’s “Wild at Heart”: the slick python blazer came from Nicolas Cage’s personal collection and inspired the line, “For me, it’s a symbol of my individuality and my belief in personal freedom.”
Stingray skin is the toughest exotic leather, immune to scratches and even attempted punctures. It doesn’t stain and is, of course, naturally water-resistant. It can be tricky for designers to find panels large enough to match and even harder to sew them, but you can find stingray skin on shoes and purses as well as motorcycle seats. It has a subtle, bumpy texture that looks particularly spectacular with ombre dye.
Stingray in Action: Drake sleeps on a $400,000 mattress made of stingray skin and horsehair when he stays at his Toronto mansion. Its designer markets it as the Grand Vividus bed, but Drake received the first one.
There’s no way to replicate the random beauty of nature, which is why tastemakers have sought after the different exotic skin varieties for centuries. Dudes Boutique understands the power of exotic skin, whether it takes the form of a sumptuous jacket or an accent on a dress shoe. Contact us to find unique pieces that speak to your spirit and style.
]]>If you’re going to wear a fur coat, do it right. The real thing is an investment, an incomparably warm luxury that can last for generations. It’s a reward for someone you love or your own success. Buying one requires research and thought, and these tips for choosing a quality fur coat will ensure that you’re getting the best.
That’s a question you shouldn’t have to ask if you’re with a seller you trust. The quickest way to confirm authenticity is by running your hand through the fur. It should feel soft and silky, not rough like faux fur made from petrochemicals. You should be able to see animal skin, which feels like suede. Each individual strand of hair will be thicker at the base, tapering to a sharp point at the end.
Superior fur coats use full pelts of the more valuable parts of the animal, such as the back and belly. The fur there is denser and softer. That leaves legs, tails, and heads, which work best for smaller accessories. When a designer uses the less desirable parts—also known as “cropped skin”—used for a coat, it will contain more seams from stitching the partial pelts together. That makes the coat less symmetrical, but if you have a lower budget, it’s a chic and reasonable way to get your first fur.
These pelts are the gold standard because they look as sumptuous as they feel.
The best-selling fur globally is lightweight and irresistible—and it will outlast you. It comes in various rich shades of chocolate. If you can, choose pelts from females, which have the softest and lightest fur.
Sable’s texture is sleek and satiny, while the colors are lighter than mink—typically, golden or reddish-brown. Faux fur can’t begin to imitate those natural highlights.
It’s easy to recognize a men’s chinchilla fur coat because of its distinct blue, gray, and white coloring. It comes at a cost, though. The high hair density makes it difficult to sew into those unmistakable horizontal stripes.
If you want a deep, reddish-orange tone, fox is the way to go. Its hair is much longer, setting it apart from the other furs, and the golden shades look amazing on anyone.
At Dudes Boutique, we have a few more tips for choosing a quality fur coat that go beyond the basics. We recommend you try on plenty of options to make sure the one you choose works with your skin tone and eye color. We also put a modern twist on traditional furs with vividly dyed colors and playful designs. With 20 years in the business of show-stopping fashion, we can find a vest, coat, or jacket as unique as you are. Contact us for more information.
]]>For too long, men have taken belts for granted. You throw on something nondescript each morning. If you think about the belt at all, it’s to wonder if it matches, or if it’s appropriate for the occasion. But a fashion belt? That’s one high-end accessory that isn’t meant to blend in—it’s the star of the show. You just need to learn how to style men’s fashion belts so you can take advantage of this neglected accessory. They may be bold, but they’ll soon become signature pieces in your wardrobe.
Men’s belts must adhere to many, many rules: Match your belt to your shoes. Your formal belts should be thinner than your casual belts. Match the metal on the buckle to all your other accessories. Don’t wear a brown belt with a black suit. Don’t wear an embellished buckle to work. But men’s fashion belts? There are no rules. They can be an extension of your existing aesthetic, an amped-up elevation, or they can inspire a new look altogether.
Go ahead, wear brown with black! A next-level accessory, such as a B.B. Simon belt, is all about anarchy. You’ve been waiting for this fashion flex for a long time. Maybe you’ve dipped a toe into sparkly waters by wearing a chain, or figured that if Harrison Ford can wear an earring, so can you. It’s a sign of unshakable confidence and success, the waist’s equivalent of a Jacob and Co. watch. Your shoes are meant to shine, after all, and so should your belt. You’re ready for this. First, let us explain some distinctions:
First, foremost: To hold up your pants. Beyond that, your belt is chosen mainly to be inoffensive to others. It’s meant to fade into the background.
To express yourself. To attract attention. To transform your outfit into a celebration. Your belt can have as much meaning and symbolism as you want. Or you can wear it simply to rebel.
You stick to black and brown belts and hope you don’t get it wrong. There are firm guidelines that have been established for at least a century, limiting your choice of belt by width, color, finish—and your mother’s disapproval.
Match? Oh, heck to the no! If anything, the rest of your clothes should adapt to the belt.
You have acceptable taste, at least as defined by Victorian-era snobs.
You have a personality. Your fashion belt is a beacon to announce you’re the absolute center of the universe.
Yes, bling is on trend if that’s important to you. The men’s 2020 fashion runways were punctuated with blinding details. One crystal-and-sequins men’s jacket with a party-boy vibe took more than 1,000 hours to create, but the critical reaction was worth it. “Daytime Disco” detailing crept onto coats from Dior and Alexander McQueen, and Alyx’s Michael Williams urged men to start wearing sparkly barrettes. Belts are the ideal accessories to start experimenting with glitz and glitter.
These spectacular, handcrafted pieces are the latest in a long history of statement belts: fearless, unmistakable symbols of honor that dominated men’s ensembles. For instance:
Fashion belts are worn by legends. Pro wrestlers are nearly dwarfed by their championship belts. Batman is nothing without his utility belt. Elvis flaunted wide, bejeweled belts with his Vegas-era jumpsuits. Now you can accentuate your swagger with a fashion belt, too.
Where do you learn how to style men’s fashion belts? For inspiration, you can always look to the rap and hip-hop stars that grasped the magic of B.B. Simon belts from the get-go. Here’s how they do it.
With Jeans: In the early 2000s, Julez Santana of Harlem’s Dipset collective first held up his baggy pants with a B.B. belt with a brilliant American flag theme. The look included a bandana headband and Ed Hardy shirt.
With a Loud Suit: Rapper Post Malone loves to hit award ceremonies in brightly-colored suits with whimsical patterns like rhinestone snakes. What belt could compete with the sartorial equivalent of a neon blinking sign? A belt by B.B. Simon.
Just Below Your Calvins: A$AP Rocky didn’t need too much encouragement from paparazzi to lift up his “I Heart NY” sweater on the street and reveal his B.B. belt, slung just below his elastic underwear band.
With a White Suit: Diddy’s annual White Party in the Hamptons had a strict, colorless dress code, but he set a blingy example with a coordinating B.B. belt.
With a Black Suit: Lil Nas attended a wedding with a black suit and silver sparkling B.B. belt. He completed the look with black and white snakeskin cowboy boots and a red Mustang.
Those are just a few examples of high-profile fashion belts, but they’re natural complements for all kinds of styles: military, unisex, retro. Most fans wear them with white sneakers, but only the freshest pair can stand up to the glare of a fashion belt. B.B.s look particularly incredible with leather jackets or pants. And once you build up your collection, you can layer them around your neck in place of gold chains. Hey, it’s been done. Quite a bit.
At Dudes Boutique, we can help you find the perfect belt for your personal style. We’ve been carrying B.B. Simon belts for more than 20 years, and we’re the company’s largest authorized dealer. Take a look at our selection online, or contact us so we can track down a masterpiece just for you.
]]>In theory, you probably know they come from different reptiles, but can you tell the difference between alligator skin and crocodile skin? They’re both signs of the highest-quality handcrafted luxury goods—an exotic touch that can’t be mass produced. But each has its own appeal and distinctions.
Alligators live in fresh water, while crocodiles prefer saltwater. The latter have developed thick, scaly, strong skin to resist predators; crocodiles have been known to fend off anacondas and big cats such as tigers. Alligators have more worries: if they can survive to adulthood, pythons and crocodiles can attack them, or larger alligators can even cannibalize them.
Alligators have round, U-shaped snouts, while crocodiles have V-shaped snouts. They both have an impressive size; alligators grow between 10 and 15 feet long, weighing an average of 500 pounds, while crocodiles can get up to 17 feet long and a terrifying 2,200 pounds.
Alligator skin has smaller scales that are smoother than a crocodile’s. The scales are larger in the middle and become smaller as they move outwards, sometimes in a chaotic pattern. In a crocodile, the tile pattern is more symmetrical, with consistent rectangular scales. You might detect in crocodile skin a small hole near the edge of each scale, which is the remnant of a hair follicle. Alligators don’t have pores.
Alligator skin is more expensive than crocodile skin because there are so many more crocodiles legally available from Africa, southeast Asia, and Australia. For instance, Dudes Boutique pairs a crocodile jacket with complementary skins such as ostrich or lamb, but an all-over black alligator jacket can be priced around $17,000.
Dudes Boutique has worked with both skins for 20 years, with endless variations in color and form. Each piece is one of a kind, and it will be the signature piece of any wardrobe. Contact us for more information or to find the luxury clothes that can amplify your personal style.
]]>Ranchers and wranglers wear cowboy hats for many reasons: shade, warmth, protection from the elements, to fan a fire, or to wave at other cattlemen from horseback. But you? You will wear it because you can. With the right tips for styling your western cowboy hat, you can effortlessly amp up your aesthetic.
There are an endless variety of cowboy hats, and the right one is waiting for you. To use a wizarding metaphor, you are Harry Potter looking for the wand of his destiny. Try different sizes and styles—there’s “the gambler,” “the pinched front,” “the derby,” “the cattleman,” and more modern interpretations. John Stetson wasn’t born a cowboy—he was from New Jersey, the son of a hatmaker, and came up with the design for his signature Stetson in 1863, somewhere on Pike’s Peak. You have every right to find your perfect fit with both feet firmly on the ground.
Felt hats are dressier, while straw hats are appropriate for everyday wear. Look for something that doesn’t overwhelm you, and complements your face shape. You might recognize the right hat by its buckle, or details like crystal embellishments, or a suede weave.
Don’t ask others if you should buy a cowboy hat; they will say no, and even use phrases like “lumbersexual” and “all hat, no cattle.” They are wrong. The only advice you need comes from Dudes Boutique. You can add flair without going over the top. A cowboy hat says that you are confident, rugged, and your own man.
Don’t wear it backwards. Many hats have a small bow on the lining inside, around the headband. Make sure the bow is at the back of your head, or that it’s narrower in the front. The low point of the hat is at the back, with the high point at the front. Even if the other city slickers won’t be able to tell the difference, you’ll know.
There’s a language for the brims of cowboy hats, so be sure you’re saying what you mean. A level brim indicates a straightforward, from-the-hip attitude. Tipping it down over your eyes gives you an air of seriousness with a hint of mystery. You can tilt a cowboy hat slightly to the side for rakish confidence but be careful—people may think you’re looking for love… or trouble. Don’t push the brim up too far, unless you want to appear really, really friendly.
If you live anywhere other than Texas, you don’t want to overdo the western wear, or you can look like you’re wearing a costume for a barn-themed rave. Choose the rest of your outfit in relation to the hat. You can’t go wrong with a plain white T-shirt layer. If you want to wear boots, avoid anything too overtly cowboy. Solids, plaids, flannels, and sweaters are natural under a hat.
For outings that are just a bit dressier, you can wear your cowboy hat with a blazer for that pro-athlete-in-town-for-the-game look. But if you’re pairing it with jeans, the only way to go is straight leg, without any details that can detract from your intended focal point. Avoid jeans that are:
Only you will know when too much is too much, but you can’t go wrong with a “less is more” attitude. If your ensemble gives you a fresh-from-the-range twang, pull back a little. Wear one western-inspired item at a time, so admirers will know where to look first. At Dudes Boutique, we generally aren’t about fashion don’ts, but first-time cowboy hat wearers may want to avoid:
Statement belts always add to an outfit, but when worn with a cowboy hat, they can be too much competition. Steer clear of blingy rodeo belts and buckles, or anything approaching the grandeur of a wrestling championship belt. You may be wearing it ironically, but not everyone will get it.
Warning: A bandana? Let’s not. You are not John Wayne, or even Woody from “Toy Story.” Don’t even wear a bandana even as a mask with a cowboy hat.
Whole-hog western trends come and go, but real men look great in cowboy hats no matter the era or the occasion.
No: “The Electric Horseman,” “Midnight Cowboy,” “Back to the Future Part 3”
Yes: “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “Unforgiven,” “No Country for Old Men”
Advanced: “Easy Rider,” “Brokeback Mountain”
Sam Elliott is a natural in a cowboy hat, while Elton John achieves a very different effect. Know who you want to be. But if you’re going for “Marlboro Man,” don’t accessorize with a cigarette.
Cowboy hats invoke tradition, and in the west, there is specific etiquette for them. Use your best judgment, but you should at least know the cowboy code. It’s about respect, but resist the urge to say “howdy” or “ma’am” when you’re taking off your hat. Here’s when it’s not considered tasteful to keep your hat on:
If you’re going to go western, you need to walk the walk—and we don’t mean the bow-legged walk that comes from riding a horse. The style comes with the behavior of a southern gentleman who believes in courtesy and respect. You should have the demeanor of a cowboy who has had a long, dusty day herding high-spirited cattle, and has been presented with a heaping plate of down-home grub. Or just imagine that you’re talking to your mama.
You can keep it real—and keep it rugged—with some tips for styling your western cowboy hat that emphasize you, not a cosplay alter ego. At Dudes Boutique, we offer a selection of choice hats that will put you head and shoulders above the rest. As a men’s clothing boutique with a legendary reputation 20 years in the making, we know how to elevate your look with one-of-a-kind pieces. Contact us for more information.
]]>If you ever want to see the embodiment of swagger, watch the opening of “Saturday Night Fever”: John Travolta—and his glorious real hair—strutting through Brooklyn to the Bee Gees, as the camera zooms in for a closeup of his red, shiny shoes.
They would have been alligator-skin if he could have afforded it. There are many reasons every man should own a pair of exotic shoes, and they all add up to this; confidence. So, why do you need a pair?
If exotic-skin shoes cost more than you usually pay, rest assured that they’re worth four cheap pairs, at least. This is not disposable footwear. Animal skin is in a different class than leather. Each skin has unique characteristics, and the random patterns create textures for built-in detailing you can’t get any other way. Exotic skins amplify the cutting-edge designs of brands such as Mauri, who insist on old-world techniques such as hand-crafting and hand-stitching. The word for that? Luxury.
Ditch the image in your head when you think of “exotic shoes” because there’s a pair out there that fits your look, not the other way around. Whether you want to add some subtle polish to your outfit or turn heads with a pair of statement shoes, there are more ways to wear exotic skin shoes than you can imagine. Dudes Boutique carries the following varieties:
Now mix-and-match those with every color in the rainbow, and imagine the possibilities with all these skins:
Now, picture all of that with exquisite touches like two-tone contrast, kangaroo fur, hand-painting, and additional materials like pony, suede, and patent leather. With all that, you can find something to wear for every occasion. Exotic skins have got you covered.
Every exotic skin level up your look with unmistakable, luxe sophistication. Burgundy ostrich loafers do the talking for you, and they’re usually saying, “I’ve got somewhere better to go after this.” Green hornback crocodile shoes signal the rugged strength of a real survivor. Orange python sneakers are a reminder that everyone collects Nikes—but you are not everyone. Are they jealous? You know they are. You may set trends and inspire copycats, but they won’t measure up to the original.
Once you’ve bought them for yourself, you’ll understand the reasons why every man should own a pair of exotic shoes. Every great man walks tall when he’s grounded with world-class footwear. At Dudes Boutique, we can help you find your perfect pair, or have them custom-made. Contact us when you’re ready.
]]>For too long, women have had all the fun with fur coats. But there’s no reason for men to avoid one of the most luxurious ways to show off your style. After all, cavemen brought home the first fur coats. While cavewomen were gathering berries, early hunters risked their lives to bring home pelts that would keep the whole tribe toasty.
Today, fur outerwear is much easier to find and far more flattering. Coats have evolved past shapeless status symbols into colorful statements of individuality, available in every form imaginable. With a few tips for how to wear a men’s fur coat, you’ll realize there’s no look you can’t wear. Don’t limit yourself; make fur an essential extension of your style.
Full-length raccoon coats were all the rage at Ivy League football games in the ’20s and ’30s, just as the artists of the Harlem Renaissance were embracing them, too. The Depression put the kibosh on that until fur coats were revived by a series of figures in the music industry, such as Miles Davis, Ray Charles, Jim Morrison, and Elton John. Fur coats were fixtures in ’70s blaxploitation classics, but in the mainstream, men weren’t wearing furs; they were buying them for their trophy wives.
Instead, most men were content to settle for small accents of fur indulgence in their wardrobes: a fox coat collar here, fur-lined gloves there. In the early 2000s, Cam’ron rejected that restraint, turning hip-hop upside-down by wearing a baby pink mink and matching hat to New York Fashion Week. He even paid homage to men’s fur in his single “Down and Out”: “Fox, minks, gators, that’s necessary / Accessories, my closet’s ‘Pet Sematary.’” The song featured a young Kanye West, who was inspired to accumulate his own fur collection.
But you don’t have to be a rap star to rock a fur coat. Too many men are intimidated by fur and spend season after season retreating into the comforting cocoon of a puffer coat. If you’re stumped by how to wear one, take your cue from style icon Mick Jagger. When the Rolling Stones first hit the scene, they were pressured to wear matching suits like the Beatles. Instead, Jagger posed in a hooded, fur parka for a photo so famous that it’s still exhibited in museums. So do you want to look like the other guys? Or do you want to be a legend?
Tricked you: There’s nothing you can’t wear with a fur coat if you have the right attitude and even a little swagger. It ups the ante for dressy looks but can also enhance everything from a suit to chinos and even your favorite jeans and sneakers. If your fur coat is extra textured or bulky, it’s a good idea to wear a solid column of color so that the man underneath still looks sleek. But if your brand is fearlessly combining colors, patterns, or eras, stay true to yourself. Having the kind of day where you feel like topping off your sweats with the ultimate touch of luxury? The combination of high and low fashion couldn’t be more chic. In general, a fur should elevate your look, not dictate it.
This is our specialty here at Dudes Boutique, and it’s your best chance to show off your style with flair. A fur jacket or car coat is more casual, easier to wear day-to-day, and won’t overwhelm your frame. You can break the rules with these briefer bursts of fur, transforming familiar basics with an opulent twist. Fur gives a Technicolor makeover to bomber jackets, biker jackets, and vests. There are options for everyone: hooded, reversible, styled with a puffer sensibility, or even combined with materials like exotic alligator skin. Fur jackets make even more of an impact when dyed in eye-popping colors, for intense luxury that doesn’t go over the top.
Midlength, oversize fur coats in neutral colors are designer favorites right now for both men and women, with appearances at the fall fashion shows. These high-end versions have evolved from the “teddy bear” trend begun by teen girls a few years ago. They wore faux fur and sherpa for an extravagant look at rock-bottom prices. So be careful how much you invest in one of these shapeless walking blankets. For starters, you will indeed look like a teddy bear, and now is not the time to be attracting unsolicited hugs on the street. Second, you run the risk of looking like you raided your grandma’s attic. And third, everyone will assume that it’s fake.
We never speak of it, but in our deepest fashion dreams, there’s a little pimp in all of us. It’s hard to resist full-length fur that’s so street-fabulous you’ll want to accessorize with a gold-plated cane—the better to strut with, my friend. If you’re feeling confident enough to commit to all-over fur, go easy on the elaborate hats and platform shoes. Without at least a little restraint, you’ll end up getting directions to a costume party. Keep it high-end with tailored furs over neutral colors. And be prepared for the price of fur that skims the floor—you do have to pay for every inch of it.
Mink is still king of the furs, thanks to its incomparable softness and luster. The price can vary, as there are long-haired pelts, sheared mink, and everything in between. Mink tail fur works well with chevron designs.
Chinchillas can grow 50 hairs from one follicle, resulting in a densely soft coat. Its distinctive silver lusciousness is usually pieced together for a striped effect.
The fluffy texture makes fox ideal for collars or coats with contrasting colors and textured stripes. Fox naturally comes in a variety of colors, so you’ll have to start early to collect them all.
Rabbit is surprisingly affordable; if you can find a good sale, you can get something under $1,000. This is a great choice if you love fur but also change up your aesthetic often.
Sheepskin is more a fur than a form of leather, and right now shearling is having a designer moment. It’s less expensive than most fur, and this classic is being reinvented in endless ways.
If you have swagger, the fur coat will amplify it. And if you need swagger, fur will give it to you. With just a few tips for how to wear a men’s fur coat, you can effortlessly add luxury to your look. Inspired to find your first fur? Dudes Boutique is the place to start. Whether you’re looking for a rabbit derby hat or a men’s mink fur coat for sale, take a look at our eclectic collection of fur. Or contact us so we can track down the perfect coat for you.
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Let’s be clear: This is not another “Belts 101” guide about how many shades of plain brown belts you need for work. This is not about matching your belt to your shoes, or throwing on a belt as an afterthought just because your jeans have belt loops.
This is about fashion belts—bold, bright, three-dimensional, and unforgettable. They don’t enhance an outfit; they define your style and tell the world who you are. These tips for choosing a men’s fashion belt will help you in your quest. Ask yourself the following questions.
The most recent men’s fashion shows will tell you all about what’s trending and may inspire you. This season, bling is in, with coats covered in “couture crystals.” Crystal leather belts are the best way to incorporate the look more often—and without completely depleting your clothing budget.
Consider the purpose a fashion belt will serve for you. If you need a belt that will blend in, you should be using the word “basic,” not “fashion.” Are you looking for something to hold up your pants, or a work of art? Fashion belts are for the clubs, the streets, and anywhere you feel free to be yourself.
If you are ready to keep the rest of your outfit monochromatic, anything that speaks to you is the right choice. If you hope to wear it often, or with more patterns, your first fashion belt should probably be silver, gold, or your signature color.
If you’ve been looking at high-end offerings from designers, you’ve been seeing a lot of dark, neutral colors, buckles in the shape of a logo, and prices topping $1,000. That’s luxury, but not fashion. BB Simon belts are the only name that matters in statement belts, with a word-of-mouth cult following.
BB Simon belts are crafted with Italian leather and precision-cut Swarovski crystals, stitched and embellished by hand. The “BB” stands for “belts by,” and the man behind them is Simon Tavassoli, a true artisan. The quality almost elevates the belts to jewelry; in fact, fashion-forward fans have worn them as necklaces.
BB Simon belts have been photographed on celebrities since Madonna in the early ’90s. Hip-hop artists have been obsessed with the brand for years, with collectors such as Lil Wayne, Travis Scott, and Post Malone.
BB Simon keeps it simple. Measure the area where you’ll wear the belt. The number of inches is your size.
Dudes Boutique has been carrying men’s BB Simon belts for more than 20 years, and we remain the largest authorized reseller. We can give you more tips for choosing a men’s fashion belt that adds to your unique style. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, contact us so we can track it down for you.
]]>A pair of alligator shoes is an investment in personal style and can serve you for a long time. But custom handcrafted shoes need to be treated as a financial investment as well with protection and careful maintenance. After all, the skilled artisan who created your shoes couldn’t have done it without years of training, tradition, and attention to detail, and they will last for years if you learn how to properly care for alligator shoes.
Dudes Boutique is a proud purveyor of Mauri shoes, which have been made for three generations in the hillside between Milan and Como, Italy. They combine old-world techniques and cutting-edge design that sets the trends in fashion. They rely on the best exotic skins available, and their shoes deserve just as much care after you’ve bought them. Once alligator skin has cracked, there’s no way to repair the damage.
Alligator leather is unmistakably luxurious, and it will hold up for years with loving care. It is at its best with oils and compounds that help retain flexibility, but they need to be replaced periodically as with any fine leather. Polishing your shoes will restore the shine that can disappear with use. Never wear them two days in a row, or traces of your feet’s moisture can damage them. Keep them in a dry, dark closet, preferably in their flannel bags, in their original box.
If you notice your alligator shoes looking dull, have a maintenance kit at the ready to restore their glory. You’ll need:
If you’re not sure what to buy, a leather shop in your area can answer your questions about alligator skin.
After you’ve worn your shoes, get rid of any dirt or dust that might have accumulated even invisibly during the day. Use a stiff brush—gently—to clear out any crevices, then wet a rag and wring it out until it stops dripping. Wipe the alligator skin and let the shoes dry completely before the next step. You can wipe them off with a dry rag or let them air dry.
Part of the ritual of having alligator shoes is reverently storing them with their own cedar shoe trees. Some have adjustable heel stays, but spring-loaded trees are easier to work with. Cedar trees will retain the original shape of your shoes, the wood will absorb any lingering sweat, and the cedar will deodorize them naturally. Each pair of shoes deserves its own dedicated shoe trees.
Before you try any product for the first time, it’s a good rule of thumb to test it on a less visible area before going all-in. Because these are alligator shoes and you have a healthy respect for them, you probably aren’t putting them through too much wear and tear. But if they do need cleaning, reach for the saddle soap. Keep the shoe trees in your shoes, and your leather will remain taut as you proceed.
Use your toothbrush (well, not your toothbrush, but a spare) to lightly work the saddle soap into the alligator skin uppers. It will pull and remove any dirt that’s gotten lodged in the texture. You don’t need much, but be aware that as it’s removing dirt, the saddle soap will remove the skin’s necessary oils, too. That can lead to brittleness and cracking.
A conditioner will take care of restoring that flexibility, so put some mink oil back into the leather. It will go a long way toward waterproofing the shoes, too. Don’t use too much, especially if your alligator skin is lighter; the mink oil can darken it. Let it absorb into the scales on the skin for a good hour. Then, using a horsehair brush or a dry rag, buff off the mink oil for a soft shine. It may take a little work to get the residue out of all the scales. If you’d like a glossier finish, try some low-solvent mirror gloss.
Lightly polish the uppers with a neutral-colored wax base, which will give the leather a better layer of protection than a cream polish can. Don’t use too much, and it only needs to sit for a few minutes, and then buff again with a shoe brush. Look around for polish that will match the shade of your shoes in case of scuffs. The colored polish can be used to disguise them.
Water is not your shoes’ best friend. If you get caught in the rain, gently wipe off the water with a soft, absorbent cloth, and then let them dry naturally out of the sun, which can fade the skin. Use a fan to keep the dry air moving around them, but make sure it’s cool air, not warm. You can rotate them for even drying. Then apply mink oil, wait a day or two, and apply some more. Don’t wait too long, or that gorgeous alligator leather will crack.
Unless specifically created for exotic leathers, keep cleaning products away from your shoes. A burnished finish on alligator skin will suffer when exposed to solvents, cleansers, and conditioners that are used on other kinds of leathers. As far as household chemicals, alcohol-based treatments and other solvents are a hard NO. They are too harsh for a sartorial investment like this.
Treat your alligator shoes as well as you would a luxury car, and they will transport you in style indefinitely. The legendary Dudes Boutique has been the best source for high-quality exotic and original shoes for more than 20 years. As you develop your personal style, you’ll find one-of-a-kind items in our spectacular selection of leather, fur, and exotic skin accessories that will set you apart from the crowd. And once you know how to properly care for alligator shoes, you’ll want to expand your collection.
]]>An alligator hat is such a versatile fashion staple that it should be one of the first pieces you incorporate into your style. We’re not talking about Crocodile Dundee’s kitschy classic; these high-end baseball caps reinvent the unmistakable texture with an urban sensibility and refined attitude. Learn how to show your style with an alligator skin hat, and soon you’ll be shopping for more.
If you’re still developing your style and aren’t sure what you’ll use most, a solid black alligator hat is the easiest way to start. It doesn’t dominate an outfit but finishes it with an attention to detail that instantly elevates whatever you’re wearing. It’s a more subtle twist that will give your look polish. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are many more choices that announce your individuality. On the neutral end, you’ll find lustrous, rich shades of chocolate brown, black cherry, cognac, cream, navy, money green, and all points in between. You can make even more of a statement with bright blue, purple, mustard, champagne, and even a metallic sheen.
An alligator hat will work with a variety of looks, making it a common element that will unite your style. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Wear the hat to top off streetwear such as a hoodie or T-shirt and jeans, giving it a flourish that doesn’t look like you’re trying too hard. In winter weather, it looks great with an overcoat and boots. You can even go for a dressier suit look by pairing your hat with an unstructured blazer over a T-shirt with sneakers. It adds a laid-back, sports-luxe vibe to whatever you’re wearing.
A handmade piece such as an alligator hat deserves the spotlight; make it a focal point of your outfit. You definitely don’t want to wear anything too similar at the same time, or you’ll look like a matched living room set. For instance, don’t break out the alligator shoes at the same time—the shoes deserve their own day of glory. Stick with clean lines, not too many competing textures and patterns, and a confident attitude to make your look as flashy as you want it to be.
Ultimately, there’s no wrong way to show your style with an alligator skin hat. Whatever you’re wearing, it communicates an irreverent, youthful outlook with an unmistakably grown-up standard of living. You can find the biggest selection of statement hats and exotic accessories at Dudes Boutique, the legendary source of next-level fashion. Classy, eclectic, or casual, we can help you express your attitude.
]]>Crocodile Shoes in Philadelphia
Crocodile Shoes in Philly
Alligator Shoes in Philadelphia
Alligator Shoes in Philly
Crocodile Shoes: dudesboutiqueonline.com/collections/crocodile-shoes
Alligator Shoes: dudesboutique.com/collections/alligator-shoes
$ 198.00 USD
$ 239.00 USD
$ 198.00 USD
$ 198.00 USD
$ 198.00 USD
$ 198.00 USD
$ 198.00 USD
$ 198.00 USD
EMAIL US AFTER YOU FINISH SURVEY FOR COUPON CODE
info@dudesboutique.com
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