Plant your tree or shrub now

Fall is an excellent time to get planting your tree or shrub. Plant it on a cool day when the sky is overcast. Putting them in the ground now will help these plants establish a great root system before the frost.

Heller recommends watering the ground before you put the root ball in the ground as well as after. “The water helps wash the soil down into to the roots so the roots don’t have air pockets.” She said. More Tips on planning shrubs.

Some shrubs and trees to get in the ground:

·Azaleas

·Holly

·Dogwood

Stop feeding your perennials

Your perennials need food for great blooms deeper green foliage but fertilizers are going to hinder your plants readiness for the first frost. “If you keep feeding it in the fall, the roots don’t go dormant,” Heller said. “That’s not good because then they are going to freeze.” If you want it to survive the dreary winter colds, let them go dormant.

Plant your hardy annuals.

Get your mums, snapdragons and pansies in the ground now. This is a great way to add color to your garden as your as those warm weather annuals start to die off. Make sure you select plants that are cold hardy so it will continue to bloom throughout October.

Mums for sale at the Home Depot. Mums and Snapdragons can survive in colder temperatures. Photo: Jessica Gonzales

Great Hardy Annuals:

·Hardy Mums

·Pansies

·Snapdragons

Stop deadheading reseeding annuals

Deadheading is a great way to get your annuals to develop more flowers, but if you let the flower fall on its own, you will have better luck reseeding naturally. “This is how Peony and Iris and Phlox do it.” Heller said. “They send out new shoots every spring.”

Use blood meal when you plant bulbs

It’s the perfect time to get your bulbs in the ground for next spring. Get your daffodils, tulips and hyacinths in the ground now because they need freezing time in order to look great next spring.

If you use blood meal, you can give them a jumpstart in the spring. “You can put blood meal on it, so when the snow melts, the granule will dissolve right over the bulb, but its not necessary if you have a good bulb.” Heller said.

Bulbs to get in the Ground:

·Tulips

·Daffodils

·Hyacinth

Story by Adam DeRose

This is Liz Silver's fan page. Are you a fan?

Facebook created an application, which allows people to dedicate an entire page to anything they are interested in. These are fan pages anyone who is also interested in the topic, person or subject of the page can join. Fan pages have 10 million users joining each day, reports Facebook’s latest statistics.

What fan pages are and aren’t used for
“I think people use fan pages to express their interests in a different format,” said Facebook user Amanda Carew, who uses fan pages for information on her favorite sports teams and musicians. Fan pages consistently allow people to be updated on their selected interests without having to search for the information. Pages engage fans through contests, status updates and messages.

“I’ve seen a dramatic increase in the usage of fan pages in the nonprofit sector,” said Ryan Blackburn Marketing and Communications director for the Archdiocese of Chicago. “For example at the recent American Marketing Association’s NonProfit Marketing Conference, nearly everyone of the 300 attendees indicated that their organizations have a Facebook fan page.”

Most fan pages have a section for a:
• Wall
• Info
• Photos
• Discussions
• Reviews

All fans can write on the wall and participate in discussions people have created. On the fan page “I love sleep” there is a discussion about the weirdest places people have fallen asleep and Zachary Childs wrote, “I fell asleep in a grave yard.”

Where to find fan pages
Fan pages bring people together from all over the world. “I use fan pages because they keep me in touch with my favorite artists, groups, brands, or anything, and they’re an easy-to-go-to, one-stop-shop for everything related to that artist, group, or brand,” said Brandon Blackmer. Using the search bar on Facebook and typing in an interest with “fan page” at the end should bring people to fan pages. If someone is already a fan of something they can locate the page in the info section of their profile.

A little about the top two fan pages
Allfacebook.com reports that Michael Jackson has the most popular page with 10,321,954 fans and a weekly growing rate of .13 percent. President Barack Obama has the second most popular page with 6,885,619 fans and a weekly growing rate of .28 percent.

Jackson’s fan page releases information on:
• Albums
• Videos dedicated to Jackson
• Photos
• People share thoughts and stories about Jackson

Obama’s fan page releases information on:
• Political views
• Discussions
• Events he’ll be attending
• Allows people to share their comments and ideas

Fan pages have gathered over 10 million Facebook members and have brought people from all over the world together to share their interests.

Photo by Liz Silver

Written by- Yalanda Russell

Photo By Molinovski/Wikipedia Commons

Have you ever longed for a relationship with God? If you want to become closer to God or become a better Christian this guideline is for you. Dr. Wayne Odle, pastor of New Heights Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Markham, IL, laid out six very important ways to become closer to God.

Have a desire to know God

According to GlorytoChrist website, a person must begin to seek God. Dr. Odle agrees that one has to “have a mindset to want to get closer… a real …almost a burning desire” for wanting to know God. Some people go to church and do many spiritual things but are not close to God. “That craving has to be there first. Prayer and reading the Bible can help get this desire.”
Read the Bible
“The Bible is the chief manifestation of truth about God and His power.” Dr. Odle says it is like “pouring God into your system” Simply reading the Bible heightens your appreciation of God. GlorytoChrist advised that if we spend time reading the Bible as well as studying it….. there will be something about it that enriches our heart.”
Study the Bible
Dr. Odle believes that reading the Bible broadens your spectrum of God but it is not enough. When you study, the Bible “…becomes alive …” GlorytoChrist.
Dr. Odle believes that studying the Bible is critical to getting closer to God. He offers some ways to study the Bible.
• Get other books to deepen your appreciation of the Bible such as theoretical books, experiential books, poetical books, inspirational books of how God helped people through miracles.
• LostSeed advises that if you want to be closer to God you need to spend time to know His heart. “Lack of time is a serious enemy to getting closer to Christ.”
• Dr. Odle suggests “Before you run into your day and before you close your eyes spend time with God.”
• Space is important. Dr. Odle suggests finding a place where you can “communicate in peace.”
• Other ways to study the Bible is by using media such as internet, TV, magazines, and DVD’s.

Nature
Dr. Odle believes that nature strengthens a person’s belief and appreciation for God. When you look at nature it “makes you say wow, who is the Maker of this.” He suggests that exploring nature such as plants and animals increases one’s appreciation for the Maker of this world.
Prayer
GlorytoChrist states that we draw near to God in prayer. Dr. Odle says that reading the Bible and looking at His work and character helps you to get to know God. He also suggests reading books on prayer.
But Dr. Odle pointed out that prayer should be a conversation. “If one has to have a conversation with God you have to know God. Most people’s way of prayer is asking God for things”. Instead we should converse with God like we do with people. To expand your conversation with God you could use what you read in the Bible and apply it in your prayers.

Putting into action what you have read
Dr. Odle said that the Bible advises us to “be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) He says that when you are in a situation, practice what you read. “God said he is powerful, put him to the test….Practicing the good things of the Bible are very instrumental to getting closer to God.”

You could reach Pastor Odle at corayne4614@yahoo.com

By Esther Leonard

A traveler walks along the terminal as airplanes taxi along the runway in the background. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez, file)

As the struggling economy forces millions to deal with pay cuts and unemployment, traveling might not be high on your agenda. However, there are some methods you can use to get around your money woes as you… well… get around. Here are a few tips:

1. Book early, not late.

While you may find discount deals last-minute, but you might not want to take that chance when planning international trips. You’re likely to save just as much on early-bird specials, anyway, so leave yourself time to shop around. That way, you can inform yourself about the nitty-gritty of your travel plans, such as supplementary fees.

“Take into account an airline’s extra fees,” says Chicago Cheap Travel Examiner Amanda E. Snyder. “When you find good airfare, be sure to check into the company’s baggage policy.”

Snyder says many foreign airlines don’t charge for changes to your ticket, so if you decide you would like to take a few extra days off, it won’t cost a thing!

You’ll be guaranteed your early rate and your seat on the plane. Wait and see, and you may find yourself scrambling to find anything!

2. “Couchsurf” to save on hotels.

Hotels can be expensive. Hostels are often cheaper. But the cheapest bed will be to stay with local families who volunteer their homes for travelers, often providing you food and transport as well as a free local tour guide.

It’s safe, sane, and you can make contact with host families and check their references – and vice-versa – before you get on the plane

3. Don’t discount a no-frills regional flight.

Major national air carriers offer dinner, drink, and a movie, for a price. Trains and buses provide a scenic tour of the countryside, but take time and can still be costly. Sacrifice some luxuries and you’ll find you can get around cheap, even snatch some penny flights, by using no-frills airlines.

In Europe, for instance, RyanAir, EasyJet, and WizzAir have become nearly synonymous with cheap point-to-point air travel. Snyder says the Mobissimo meta-site comes in handy if you’re not familiar with foreign airlines.

“They have fantastic international rates because they offer flights on regional airlines that many American travelers haven’t heard of,” she says.

4. Be flexible.

It may be tough, but the more flexible you are, the more likely you are to score special discounts. Be willing to board the red-eye flight, at the crack of dawn or middle of the night – it will cost you less than the more convenient mid-day or early-evening fare.

Rent a compact car, and you may be surprised at the benefits that await you. Compact cars tend to be cheaper and generally more maneuverable in congested urban areas. Also, if you can drive stick, you can save money on price of rental itself, and enjoy better gas mileage.

5. Don’t just rely on the airline or hotel websites.

When planning travel, some people instinctively head for the local travel agency and book via the company websites. Snyder offers another option. Encouraged by a reader, she compared deals offered on various travel search engines, and suggests others do the same for their own benefit.

“Definitely search meta-sites like Kayak or Bing Travel,” she says. “I’d never heard of Mobissimo until I did the comparison.”

Here are a few more meta-sites you may or may not already be aware of:

• Expedia
• Travelocity
• Momondo
• CheapTickets

Don’t let the economy keep you down – the world is waiting for you. Use these tips, and you won’t even need a fortune to explore it!

Photo by Fighting Fitness/Wikimedia Commons

By Megan Perrin, Loyola University Chicago

Whether you live in a big city or in a suburban town, the threat of danger is there. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, even though national crime has slightly decreased over the past year, rapes, domestic violence and abductions still occur.

THE STATS:
• Women in their early 20s are “four times more likely to be sexually assaulted.”—Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network

• There are about 4,000 deaths a year as a result of domestic violence against women—Domestic Abuse Shelter of the Florida Keys

• There are over 100,000 “attempted abductions a year in the U.S.”—Just Yell Fire

According to Sensei Jim O’Hara, a teacher of Shotokan Karate for over 22 years and an instructor of the self-defense class Fight Like a Girl at FOCUS Martial Arts and Fitness, there are ways to prevent yourself from being attacked.

1. Make Sure You Know Who Your Friends Are
“Almost 80 percent of attacks come from people you know,” says O’Hara. While we’re taught at a young age to protect ourselves from “stranger danger,” we should also determine if those around us are trustworthy. “If you meet up with someone [you don’t really know], meet them in a public place and make them earn your trust,” O’Hara stresses.

While out, make it a rule to have a “designated safety net,” says O’Hara. This person should be a trustworthy friend who will look out for you.

2. Let Someone Know Your Plans
Before you even go out, you should let someone know:
• Where you’re going
• Who you’re going out with
• What you’re doing
• When you’re planning on coming home

It seems simple enough, but far too often our over-confidence can hurt us.

3. Watch Your Drink
If you choose to drink, keep track of it! By doing so, you can minimize the chance of someone “slipping a date rape drug into your drink,” asserts O’Hara. Once you put down your drink, don’t pick it back up again.

4. Trust Your Instincts and Intuition
Simply put by O’Hara, “Trust your soul.” Whether you believe it to be women’s intuition or just that little voice at the back of your head that says, “Something’s not right,” trust it. Remember your designated safety net? Get him or her to help you, and get out of there!

5. Run
If faced with a potential attacker, “Scream and run,” maintains O’Hara. “Statistics show that if you run, you increase your odds of survival.” Remember, “There are two things attackers don’t want,” says O’Hara:

1. They don’t want to get hurt.
2. They don’t want to get caught.

“If they tell you to get in a car with them, don’t. You don’t know where they’re taking you,” and you don’t want to go to “crime scene number two.”

6. Take a Self-Defense Class
O’Hara is a proponent of self-defense classes that show you how to use your strengths against an attacker. For women, strengths include the legs, butt and back. Self-defense classes teach muscle memory, which is extremely important when facing an attacker.

According to O’Hara, “When we’re afraid, our heart rate increases to 130 to 180 beats per minute. This stress-induced response makes us lose our cognitive ability, so we freeze.” A self-defense class will increase muscle memory and allow you to fight back.

7. Get Rid of the “But it Won’t Happen to Me” Mentality
Seemingly, every day on the news or in the paper, we hear and read stories of women getting attacked or of college students getting mugged. We might even have the “that won’t happen to me” mindset. But what if it did?

By using these seven tips, you will have a greater chance of protecting yourself from an attacker and getting to safety.

For links to more information on protecting yourself against rape and other sexual attacks, visit <http://focusma.com/self-defense/safetylinks.html>.

Snapshot of Givenchy's "Play"

The perfume season is beginning as the holidays are approaching. Gift-givers should know the best ones to give to the one they love. Lisa Anderson, a long-time perfume sales expert from Macy’s on State Street, suggested these 5 best selling men’s fragrances this season.

1. Dolce & Gabbana: The One
As Dolce & Gabbana: “The One” has been number one at Macy’s since its release in March 2009, Lisa predicts that it will hold its place through the holidays. According to Dolce and Gabbana’s website, “‘The One’ is charismatic and seductive, elegant and sophisticated.. The one is a spicy, oriental perfume developed on the harmony of tobacco with refined boisé notes.” This cologne is sure to create a loyal customer base.
• Smells like a woody blend of fruitiness, peppermint and chocolate.
• $52.50 for 1.7 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray; $65 for 2.5 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray.

2. Diesel: Fuel for Life
Lisa predicts that Diesel’s original fragrance, “Fuel for Life”, will maintain a number 2 spot through the holidays. The Diesel website describes “Fuel for Life” as “a magic potion of mysterious star anise, vintage raspberry and authentic heliotropine for him.” The cologne bottle’s grenade-like appearance has proved to attract a masculine crowd.
• Smells like an elixir; a mix of anise, grapefruit, lavender, and dry woods.
• $55 for 1.6 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray; $70 for 3.3 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray.

3. Gucci by Gucci
With sex icon James Franco as its spokesmodel, “Gucci” by Gucci is sure to attract a strong customer base. According to Lisa, “Gucci” has been selling well since its release in September 2009. Gucci’s website states that the cologne carries notes of violet, jasmine, patchouli and tobacco.
• A leathery smell mixed with bergamot, violet and calone.
• $55 for 1.7 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray; $70 for 3.0 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray.

4. Yves Saint Laurent: La Nuit de l`Homme
“La Nuit de l’Homme” by Yves Saint Laurent is the newest cologne of this brand. According to Lisa, this cologne has continued YSL’s legacy, pleasing its regular patrons and bringing in new customers. Yves Saint Laurent’s website states that “La Nuit de l’Homme” is one of a kind. “[La Nuit de l’Homme] is a seduction that lies half-way between restraint and abandon. Bright, masculine freshness combines with sophistication and nonchalance for a deep, mysterious and sensual fragrance [in this cologne].”
• Smells like cardamom, cedar, and coumarin; a comforting mix of tones.
• $55 for 2.0 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray; $72 for 3.3 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray.

5. Play by Givenchy
Givenchy’s new fragance has been a hit since its release in 2009, pop star Justin Timberlake its spokesmodel. “I don’t understand why people like this fragrance so much, it’s not that good,” states Lisa. Apparently, loyal Givenchy fans and Timberlake fans are keeping this fragrance on the rise. Its sleek look may also attract the eye, the bottle mimicking the look of an mp3 player (Take a look at the fragrance on Givenchy’s website).
• A sensual mixture of bergamot and amyris wood; a warm and comforting smell.
• $53 for 1.7 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray; $71 for 3.4 fl. oz. eau de toilette spray.

Photo Credit: Kathy Willens/Associated Press

Have you ever watched a cooking show or been to a fabulous restaurant and thought, ‘I’d love to be able to cook like that?’ Well, you are not alone. I have learned that cooking like a professional chef isn’t as hard as we all thought. In fact, learning to cook like a professional chef will help you make your meal mistake free, save you time and help you enjoy cooking! Stacy Dixon, the culinary and marketing director for Frontera Foods Corp., as well as a graduate of the Le Cordon Bleu’s Cooking and Hospitality Institute of Chicago, shared five easy ways to cook like a professional chef.

1. Organize and plan before you cook.
You may have heard many chefs make a game plan before even setting foot in the kitchen. Stacy Dixon says, “The more organized you are in the kitchen, the better. Having a list, in order of importance, will help you stay on track.”

2. Prepare all ingredients ahead of time.

Having all the ingredients of your recipe chopped, measured and placed into separate containers ahead of time means that your meal will come together faster. Professional Chef Stacy Dixon says, “This is called ‘misenplace,’ which literally means put in place. If you have ever watched a cooking show, you’ll notice that the chefs are just dumping little bowls of chopped carrots and garlic into the pot; not stopping and cutting as they go.”

3. Keep your knives extremely sharp.

“Investing in a good set of knives, like Wusthof knives, is the best thing you can do, because a sharp knife is a safe knife,” says Dixon. She loves this motto and used an example of cutting an onion to demonstrate that if your knife is dull, the knife would not cut directly through the onion and could slip and cut you. Sharpening your knives often leaves less room for injury.

4. Taste and season as you cook.

Dixon suggests that you build flavor as you go. For example, she says, “start with olive oil, and then add garlic, then onion, etc., until you have built a background flavor that’s rich and tasty. Do not wait until you are finished to dump in a ton of salt and pepper!” Layering your dish with different flavors is a sure way to have a meal that tastes like it has been cooked by a professional.

5. Clean up your mess as you go.
This is the easiest and most helpful thing you could do while cooking. Stacy Dixon says, “If you clean up as you go and put ingredients away you no longer need, it leaves your workspace free from clutter and leaves less room for error.”

1) Barack Obama goofs up on Leno-
President Obama was the first president in office to appear on a late night talk show. But it was a certain slip up that got attention. Obama used the term “Special Olympics” to describe his bowling scores in the White House. Hours later, Obama made a formal apology.

• Air date: March 19, 2009

• Memorable quote: Obama: “I have been practicing all…I bowled a 129.”

Leno: “No, that’s very good. Yes. That’s very good, Mr. President.”

Obama: “It’s like — it was like Special Olympics, or something.”

2) Blagojevich can’t redeem himself on Letterman
The ex-Chicago governor, Rod Blagojevich, accused of selling a senate seat, appeared on many television shows, the Late Show being one. Letterman grilled Blagojevich, challenging him about his self proclaimed innocence. He even threw in punch lines about the governor’s hair. Kyles said this interview proved David Letterman has “turned out to be a tougher interviewer… than some of [his] news peers.” Letterman seemed in total control, while the Blagojevich was tripping on his words.

• Air date: February 3, 2009

• Memorable quotes: Letterman: “Why exactly are you here, honest to God?”

Blagojevich: “I’ve been wanting to be on your show in the worst way for the longest time.”

Letterman: “Well, you’re on in the worst way, believe me.”

Dave: “Do you use shampoo and conditioner?”

3) Drew Barrymore does a strip tease on Letterman
In honor of his birthday, Drew Barrymore got on Dave’s desk and gave him an unsuspected present. She is the sole late night TV guest to flash a host. Kyles says, “Drew Barrymore’s antics were amusing on the show. What I like best is Dave’s dry response to the shenanigans.” According to Kyles, this interview is a classic because of Dave’s refusal to be surprised by his guests. The combination of Letterman and his guests makes his interviews unforgettable.

• Air date: February 2, 1995

• Memorable quote: Letterman: “I enjoyed that, I wish more of our guests would consider that sort of thing!”
  

4) Joaquin Phoenix weirds out Letterman
Phoenix appeared on the show sporting his new beard, and was uncooperative with Letterman’s questions. He stuck his gum under Letterman’s desk and became very hostile towards the audience when they laughed. The interview got even stranger when he announced he was retiring from acting and becoming a hip-hop singer. “I think that Letterman’s reaction to Phoenix was classic, as he refused to let him off the hook for being a stumbling, mumbling fool,” says Kyles.

• Air date: February 12, 2009

• Memorable quotes: Letterman: “Joaquin, I’m sorry you couldn’t be here tonight.”

Letterman: “What can you tell us about your days with the Unabomber?”

5) Hugh Grant comes clean on Leno
A poll taken by MSNBC and news magazines revealed Hugh Grant to be the most memorable late night TV guest. After being arrested for picking up a prostitute on Sunset Boulevard, Grant appeared on the Tonight Show the next evening. His interview helped him clean up his reputation.

• Air date: July 10, 1995

• Memorable quotes: Leno: “What the hell were you thinking?”

Grant: “I think you know in life what’s a good thing to do and what’s a bad thing, and I did a bad thing…and there you have it.”

It's true what they say, an apple a day keeps the doctor away

There are many ways to maintain your health that don’t involve an exercise machine or a strict diet. Loyola University Chicago’s Fitness Program Coordinator, April Boutler, of has 5 tips for staying healthy when you’re too busy to work out regularly. Her tips are easy and stress-free.

Take the Stairs Instead of the Elevator
If possible, always take the stairs. “You want to get your body moving throughout the day”, says Boutler. Walking up stairs for 1 minute will burn 8 calories. If you’re office is on a floor too high to reach by stairs, try walking up a few flights before taking the elevator

Eat Healthy Snacks
Snacking throughout the day will quickly add up your calories and fat in-take. Boutler explains that healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables are commonly mistaken as not filling. However, fruits and vegetables offer enough nutrients to keep you full while also keeping you healthy. Boutler suggest always having a piece of fruit or vegetables with you. “

Eat Smaller Portions
Diets are not always the answer. Cutting down the size of your meals and snacks is an easy way to eat less and still enjoy some of your favorite foods. Portion controlling also reduces the amount of calories and fats you consume.

Always Stay Hydrated
“Keep water with you at all times”, says Boutler. Staying hydrated can not only cut down on your food intake but it will also help you lose weight. “Most people don’t understand how helpful drinking water can be”, she said. If you are like most people, you probably don’t like the taste of just plain water. Boutler suggests adding flavor to your water, making it easier to drink. Crystal Light has On-the-Go powdered flavors for water that only have 5 calories per serving. These or any other similar products are a great way to enjoy hydrating. If you want to be more simplistic, adding fresh lemons, lime, or cucumber also add flavor and minimize calories.

Keep a Food Journal
Write down everything you eat throughout the day. Boutler says, “If you keep a food journal, you are far more likely to be aware of what you are eating. Sometimes you don’t notices that you ate that whole bag of M&M’s because you did it throughout the entire day”. A journal will show what you are eating on a regular basis and help you make the necessary changes to your diet and lifestyle. Sites such as The Daily Plate can help you get the facts about what you are eating. LiveStrong has an excellent calorie counter based on your current weight and how much you want to lose. Keeping track of what is in food can help you learn how much of something you can eat without maxing out on calories.

-By Caroline Beck

Photo Credits: Justin Knol/Flickr

John Hamm’s character in “Mad Men” has inspired fashion all around the world this fall, even his own.

With autumn approaching, all you men take note as time to ready your wardrobe for the fall. So what is the style this fall? Sacramento California’s own, Steven Benson (this reports’ father), and owner of S Benson & Co. has these tips on how look dapper this season:

Imitate Mad Men

AMC’s TV series about advertising executives in 1960s New York, “Mad Men,” has not only taken the TV world by storm, but the fashion world as well. The Emmy’s took note too by nominating the show for best costume design in a series. “Fitted suits make you look trimmer and more youthful,” says Benson.

Benson’s Tip: Pair correctly: “It is important these suits are paired with a narrow tie and a small collared shirt.”

Our Pick: A fitted three-piece suit by John Varvatos. (Price $795.00. Available at Nordstrom)

British designer Ozwald Boateng shows off his own fitted suit.

Buy Brown Suede Shoes

Forget blue suede shoes, brown suede is in this fall. “They can either a pair of modified wingtips or chukka boots,” notes Benson. Brown suede shoes don’t have to be worn for dressy occasions. They work well with a “pair of blue jeans or gray flannel trousers,” says Benson. Brown suede shoes are a throw back to the classic English look that has been around for decades, but is now being copied and updated by Italian designers.

Benson’s Tip: Keep them clean: “Lightly Scotchguard your shoes before wearing to keep them looking nice.”

Our Pick: Johnston & Murphy Runnell Brown Suede Chukka Boot (Price $130.00. Available at Macys)

Pay Homage To Mr. Roger’s Cardigan Sweater

Well, not exactly Mr. Roger’s sweater, “This is not you grandpa’s sweater. Cardigan sweaters are being worn by younger men who pair them with ties and a sport coats”. Although brighter colors might be more popular with a younger crowd, Benson comments these cardigans can be worn, “in timeless colors of grey or camel.”

Benson’s Tip: Don’t dismiss color: “cardigans can be worn in sapphire blue, bright yellow, and royal purple.”

Our Pick: Gap’s take on the cardigan sweater (Price $58.00)

Go For Grey Flannel Trousers

“Grey Flannel Trousers are always correct to wear,” explains Benson. Continuing with the classic theme, grey flannel trousers have been around for some time but never go out of style. Steve Benson points out, “trousers like these complement all ranges of color bright or dark and will look nice paired with a cardigan sweater.”

Benson’s Tip: Wear for warmth: “These pants are nice to wear because they will keep you warm, but also keep you fashionable.”

Our Pick: Grey Flannel Trousers by Calvin Klein (Price $125.00 available at Macys)

Invest in a Vest

This fall, vests are not just for suits anymore “These vests are separate articles of clothing worn over a nice tee shirt,” states Benson. He continues, “They look great with blue jeans or trousers.” These vests aren’t a one off either. Benson points out, “They not only proved warmth, and they will provide a fashion forward look for men this fall.”

Benson’s Tip: Buy these classic patterns and fabrics: “vest will look especially great if they are made of pinstriped wool or a patchwork tweed.”

Our Pick: Civil Society’s Shoulder Epaulet Vest (Price $79.00 Available at Nordstrom)

-By Alex Benson

Photo Credits (Top To Bottom): Chris Pizzello/AP Images, Reed Saxon/ AP Images