Donna Serino

Puffer and Down Jackets – What’s the Difference

It’s true. Puffers and down jackets share similarities, but they are not interchangeable. The key distinction lies in the insulation  material. Sometimes, it’s not about the jacket material but what’s inside that counts.

When we think of a puffer jacket. you immediately think of the quilted design that is typically filled with a synthetic insulation; the insulation is usually polyester or other synthetic fibers. Often, these jackets are lightweight, breathable, and have water-resistant properties. From cropped to full length, there is a puffer for everyone. Bonus- they come in a rainbow of colors! (And some designers are offering full personalization such as Moncler.)

Down jackets are filled with the down from ducks and geese; there are fluffy clusters that are found underneath the feathers. This type of natural down is an excellent natural insulator. What makes it really special is that it provides warmth without being heavy. Due to the fluffiness, pockets of air get trapped and retain heat.

To keep it simple, all down jackets are puffers. All puffers are not down jackets because they may have a synthetic insulation. One is not necessarily better than the other. It is more about personal preference and need.

Why Dry Clean?

Wondering on how to get invited to fashion week?

Two times a year (or more), fashion enthusiasts all over are hoping (or trying) for those highly anticipated invitations. If you are interested in a career fashion, you know an invitation is like a holy grail. But what can you do in the way of Fashion Week outreach or get the attention of fashion brands?

The mere mention of Fashion Week evokes an irresistible allure, shrouded in exclusivity and glamour. As you already know, it is the epitome of the fashion calendar. For many, the prospect of being part of the fashion industry and witnessing iconic runways shows is a dream that transcends the boundaries of aspiration.

Navigating the path to securing a coveted invitation to your favorite designer(s) at Fashion Week isn’t easy. If you are not already ‘in’ and don’t have the immediate connections, this means a journey marked by passion, persistence and an unyielding commitment. Getting access to fashion industry events isn’t always easy, but it’s also not impossible.

The New York Fashion Week Basics

New York Fashion Week (NYFW) is a prominent event in the fashion industry that showcases the latest collections from renowned designers and emerging talents. It is a bi-annual event held in New York City, typically taking place in February and September each year.

Each year, the specific dates of New York Fashion Week can vary slightly, as they are determined by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA).

• February presents Fall/Winter collections
• September showcases Spring/Summer collections

These shows set the tone for trends and styles that will influence the industry in the coming seasons. If you know, you know. (And if you don’t, revisit that iconic Meryl Streep moment in The Devil Wears Prada.)

NYFW is a culmination of runway shows, presentations, and various glamorous events. The select audience is full of fashion editors, buyers, celebrities, and influencers. Each show attracts attention for its high-profile attendees and influence on global fashion trends.

Who Is Invited to Fashion Week

While many of aspire to be at New York Fashion Week in one way or another, there are a few main players that always have access to fashion events:

• Designers from various fashion houses
• Models
• Fashion editors
• Hair stylists or MUAs
• Photographers
• Stylists
• Fashion writer
• Buyers
• PR or other media person
• Fashion influencer

And of course, many celebrities have access to fashion events simply for the exposure. Celebrities, editors, and buyers often score a coveted front-row seat. And as we all know, seat assignments are important at a show. (However, we’re not picky. We are here for the fashion!)

How to Get Invited to Fashion Week

Let’s Build Your Fashion Presence

We all already know how important an online presence is the cornerstone of gaining recognition in the world of fashion. By successfully leveraging social media platforms, you can create a dynamic canvas to showcase your personal style, personal fashion insights, and engagement.

Take time to create a carefully curated Instagram feed and other engaging content on social media platforms like TikTok. Use your online presence to captivate audiences and draw attention to your designer creations, overall style, or whatever you’re showcasing.

Simultaneously, creating a professional portfolio or blog post allows for a more in-depth exploration of your fashion expertise; this provides a space to delve into your inspirations, style evolution, share fashion tips, and commentary on industry trends. Treat networking within the fashion industry as the gateway it is. Connect regularly with like-minded enthusiasts, designers, and other fashion industry professionals using high-quality fashion content. Building relationships, whether with seasoned influencers or emerging designers, fosters a supportive community that can open doors to NYFW. Use your fashion knowledge to build your presence.

Build Your Online Presence and Visibility

For many, it is not easy to become a recognized fashion insider. Often, it involves a multi-faceted approach that transcends our online presence. Sometimes, it’s best to start with local designer collaborations and brands. Establish tangible connections within your community using your fashion expertise.

Lend your unique prospective to their creations. Be a part of the local fashion ecosystem, but also position yourself as an integral part of it. Consider contributing to fashion publications and blogs that brings your voice to a wider audience. Offer insights, trend analyses, and style recommendations through high-quality fashion content. Position yourself as a thought leader. Finally, participate in fashion-related events and competitions to amplify your presence. Each of these avenues serves as a stepping stone toward being recognized as a fashion insider, inching closer to the coveted invitation to Fashion Week.

Networking at Fashion Industry Events

In pretty much any career path, the art of networking is a skillset not to overlook. When it comes to the entertainment or fashion industry, the mastery of networking is pretty much a necessity.  Attending fashion events and fashion shows provides a firsthand opportunity to immerse yourself. From properly rubbing shoulders with key players, you can build relationships that can be helpful in so many ways.

By connecting with designers, influencers, and other fashion professionals, you can learn so much.  However, the essence lies in building genuine relationships. Authenticity forms the bedrock of lasting connections that goes beyond transactional interactions and into more meaningful partnerships. Engaging with fashion communities and forums, whether online or in-person, allows you to exchange ideas, seek advice, and contribute to discussions, establishing your presence within the intricate tapestry of the fashion world. Try not to miss any networking opportunity at these fashion industry events.

Navigating the Application Process

Intro emails are key so plan ahead and give yourself time to perfect it.

Navigating the application process through official channels is a crucial step toward securing your seat at Fashion Week. Applying for press accreditation involves showcasing your credentials, whether as a fashion journalist, influencer, or industry professional. Registering through official NYFW channels ensures that you are recognized as a legitimate attendee, providing access to exclusive events and showcases. Meeting eligibility criteria and submission requirements demands attention to detail, from furnishing a comprehensive portfolio to adhering to deadlines. Navigating this official route demonstrates your commitment to the event’s structure and regulations, increasing the likelihood of receiving a coveted invitation to witness the pinnacle of fashion excellence.

How often should you wash your bedding?

There is nothing better than fresh clean linens. The frequency with which we wash our sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and mattress protectors plays a pivotal role in maintaining not just cleanliness but also our overall well-being.

Luxury Bed Linens

When it comes to bedding, you should invest in quality bed linens.  Common thread counts are around 200 to 400; this level of thread count is comfortable and cozy. However if you are looking for luxury, aim for 600 to 1000+; elevate your bedtime with the softest bed linens you’ve experienced.

Fortunately, there are so many different colors and designs to suit anyone’s unique taste. Many of our clients choose a classic Frette set with signature border, embroidered Yves Delorme, and other luxurious linens.

How Often Should You Wash Your Bedding

Whether you have invested in a high thread count or simply love your bedding, it is important to provide them the right level of care. Questions? Stop by either of our storefronts or give us a call today.

Why Machine Washing May Not Suffice

High-quality bed linens often have intricate weaves and delicate fibers; they contribute to the exceptional softness and comfort. It is this exact delicacy that makes them susceptible to damage in your home’s washing machine. Fine materials, such as high-thread-count cotton or linen, require specialized care to maintain their luxurious feel and appearance.

If you’ve attempted to wash your luxury bed linens at home, then you may have already experienced fading, wear, and tear. These are common pitfalls that we see time and time again. Aggressive detergents, home washing machine mechanics, and high temperatures can contribute or accelerate possible color fading, fabric thinning, pilling, and more. By compromising the fabric’s integrity, this diminishes the overall aesthetics and comfortability.

In the end, this will shorten your linen’s lifespan. Therefore, proper care is paramount in preserving the longevity of your investment.

Bedding Cleaning Guidelines

The suggested frequency guidelines vary for each bedding element. Sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers have their own usage patterns. When determining cleaning patterns, consider the material type, frequency of use, and your own personal reference.

Before determining, keep in mind your personal preferences, allergies, and the manufacturer’s specific care recommendations (found on the care label). The Hallak team always recommends checking your care labels and guidelines to ensure proper maintenance of your bedding items. Each type of fabric has its own requirements so don’t any instructions found on a label.

Some suggested cleaning routines:

Silk and Cotton Sheets

• Wash every 1-2 weeks for regular use
• Tip: Rotate between two or more sets of sheets to extend each set’s lifetime. Also, it can be fun to change up patterns and/or colors.

Linen Duvet Covers:

• Dry clean every 3-4 months
• Tip: Air out in the sun occasionally to maintain freshness. If you suffer with allergies, you may wish to consider additional cleanings rather than airing outside.

Wool Blankets:

• Dry clean once or twice a season
• Tip: When not using, store in a breathable garment storage unit or cedar closet. And always clean prior to any storage.

Down Comforters:

• Dry clean a few times per year (if used all year long)
• Tip: Use a duvet cover for added protection and wash the cover regularly.

Mattress Protectors:

• Machine wash or dry clean every 1-2 months
• Tip: Follow care instructions specific to the protector’s material especially when it comes to water temperature.

Decorative Throws and Shams:

• Dry clean every 3-6 months
• Tip: Carefully spot clean as needed to address spills or stains. For luxury pieces, leave spot cleaning to the experts at Hallak. Improper stain removal may result in discoloration, treatment area ring, and other trouble areas.

Memory Foam Pillows:

• Spot clean with a damp cloth as needed.
• Tip: Use pillow protectors that are machine washable. These protectors are pretty hardy and can be washed quite regularly.

Professional dry cleaners bring a level of expertise that preserves the linen quality found in luxury bedding. Our team understands the various types of fabrics and their unique care needs. We also use the most advanced cleaning techniques and bring a level of attention to detail.

Why Consider Dry Cleaning

There are several reasons you should consider professional care for your luxury linens.

• Safeguards and helps retain the original color’s intensity
• Protects against shrinkage and distortion
• Eliminates stubborn stains without compromising a fabric’s integrity

When linens arrive at Hallak, they receive a full inspection. Our team is trained to provide meticulous attention to intricate details such as delicate embroidery and other special finishes. Through a thorough inspection, every element of your luxury bed linen is guaranteed to be well-preserved, maintaining the original craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.

Once inspected, we pre-treat stains, provide a full cleaning, and professional finishing. Linens are inspected several times throughout its journey – and then again right before being packaged.

Clean Bed Sheets and Your Allergies

Proper cleaning eliminates dust mites, dead skin cells, body oils and other outside factors. Sensitive skin has direct contact with your sheets so make sure they are clean sheets. Dirty sheets can cause skin irritation, asthma flare-ups, and other skin conditions.

People with allergies may opt for a frequent washing pattern. If so, we encourage you to invest in high-quality linens and follow care instructions. Regular cleaning equates to a good night’s rest in fresh sheets.

Free Pick-up and Delivery

Ultimately, the time between washes is determined by your preferences and what time allows. What we have provided is a good rule of thumb. If you have questions, please feel free to speak with one of our customer care representatives. We also offer tailoring for your bedding!

Take the stress out of washing sheets. Schedule your free pick-up today.

Choosing your winter wedding groom suit doesn’t have to be stressful.

Winter weddings evoke a magical ambiance with their crisp air, glistening snow, and cozy celebrations. As brides steal the spotlight with their stunning winter gowns, grooms have the perfect opportunity to showcase their style with refined winter fashion.

Whether you are choosing a wedding suit rental or investing in a formal wedding tuxedo, there is fortunately a  large selection of wedding suites to choose from. In this guide, we will explore the essential elements for a dapper winter groom, from color palette choices to weather-appropriate accessories.

Your Winter Wedding Groomswear Guide

Choosing the Right Color Palette

There are several different factors that go into choosing the right color palette. Often, winter weddings embrace the colors of the season; shades that not only compliment the seasonal surroundings, but also exude elegance. 

• Deep Blues: Navy or midnight blue suits and tuxedos evoke a sense of sophistication

• Forest Greens: Deep, rich greens add a touch of nature’s charm

• Burgundy: A deep, warm burgundy brings a sense of opulence and romance 

• Charcoal Gray: A versatile and timeless choice, charcoal gray exudes understated elegance

• Eggplant Purple: For a regal touch, consider eggplant purple

• Chocolate Brown: A warm and inviting choice, chocolate brown suits or tuxedos create a cozy and intimate atmosphere

• Icy Blues: Lighter shades of blue, resembling icy tones, bring a cool and refreshing aesthetic

• Black with Accents: Classic black suits or tuxedos adorned with silver or gold accents can add a touch of glamour and formality 

• Cranberry Red: Vibrant and festive, cranberry red is an unexpected pop of color

Of course, a wedding’s color palette really comes down to the couple’s taste and individuality. And when in doubt, you cannot go wrong with classic neutrals like black and white.

Find the Perfect Winter Suit Fabric

If you live in the New York metro area, it is safe to assume your wedding will be indoors. Even so, you may take a few pictures outside. Choosing an amazing fabric for your winter wedding suit or tuxedo is pivotal in achieving both style and comfort. 

• Wool: A perennial favorite for winter, wool suits and tuxedos offer not only warmth but also a refined texture. Opt for a medium to heavyweight wool fabric, such as tweed or flannel, for a classic and timeless appeal.

• Velvet: Elevate your winter look with the opulence of velvet. Velvet suits or tuxedos add a luxurious touch and are ideal for formal winter affairs. 

• Cashmere Blend: For the ultimate in comfort and luxury, a cashmere blend suit or tuxedo is a superb choice. The softness of cashmere combined with other materials like wool ensures both warmth and a sumptuous feel. 

• Mohair: If you’re seeking a winter suit fabric that effortlessly blends elegance with breathability, mohair is an excellent choice. Known for its lightweight and breathable properties, a mohair suit or tuxedo provides comfort without sacrificing style. 

• Brocade or Jacquard: For those embracing a more lavish winter wedding theme, consider brocade or jacquard fabrics. These intricate weaves create visually appealing patterns and textures, making them perfect for a formal winter soirée. Choose deep, jewel-toned colors to enhance the regal feel.

Tuxedo and Groom Suit Ideas

Choosing the right wedding outfit is dependent on the type of wedding. (This also is a good rule of thumb for a wedding guest as well.) Deciding between a suit and a tuxedo depends on the formality of the event (and personal taste). Traditional style or a formal evening wedding calls for a tuxedo. Of course, a three-piece suit also elevates a groom’s look; this would easily be appropriate for a semi-formal winter wedding. A more casual wedding or daytime wedding may require less formality. 

• Traditional tuxedo or suit – For a black-tie wedding, your choices are pretty limited. Consider a classic, formal look. This attire is typically a black or darker color jacket with matching trousers, a white shirt, and a bowtie or necktie. Of course, you can add a pop of color to embrace wedding colors. (A french cuff shirt really can elevate your outfit.)

• Destination wedding attire – Escaping your area’s cold winter? Do yourself the favor and choose light and airy clothing especially with a more casual dress code. Depending on when and where you’ll be celebrating, you’ll want breathable fabrics. Linen, seersucker suits, short-sleeved shirts, and light-colored shoes are all great ideas for beach weddings.

• Rustic or bohemian wedding attire – Try a relaxed, earthy wardrobe that is suitable for a more laid-back, outdoor wedding event. Think denim shirts, suspenders, and brown leather shoes. As it’s winder, you may want to choose a heavier lined jacket, sweater, and/or layers.

• Military uniform – For grooms who are active or former military personnel, they can opt to wear their dress uniform as a symbol of their service.

Of course, a well-tailored suit can also exude a level of sophistication and charm. With a suit, you can dress it up and down with the right button-down shirt, tie, and other accessories. Pay attention to styling details like lapels and buttons to achieve the perfect winter look. Always choose a wedding style suit that you feel comfortable wearing.

Consider Seasonal Accessories

Whether it’s your wedding day or a winter day, accessories can add a special touch to your look. 

• Silk ties and pocket squares
• Soft, leather gloves
• Cashmere printed scarf (also makes a great wedding party gift!)

Don’t forget about a seasonal berry boutonniere – a small detail that ties the entire look together.

Proper Footwear Selection

When it comes to winter wedding groom fashion, selecting the right footwear is paramount for both style and practicality. Here are some options you may wish to choose from:

• Stylish Boots: Opt for stylish boots that not only complement your chosen attire but also provide the necessary insulation for colder temperatures. Leather or suede boots in darker tones like deep brown or black can add a touch of sophistication to your overall look.

• Formal Shoe Choices: If the wedding attire leans towards the formal side, classic formal shoes remain a timeless choice. Ensure they are weather-resistant to tackle any unexpected winter weather challenges.

• Consider Ankle or Chelsea Boots: Ankle or Chelsea boots offer a stylish alternative, providing a contemporary and sleek look. They not only pair well with suits but also offer additional ankle support. Opt for darker shades for a classic winter vibe.

Remember, your choice of footwear is more than a practical consideration – it’s a key component in completing your winter wedding look. Whether it’s elegant boots, classic formal shoes, or a stylish blend of both, the right footwear ensures you step into your wedding day with both style and confidence.

Complete Your Winter Wedding Groom Look

So you’ve completed your walk down the aisle and reception look. However, you may have missed one key item – your outerwear. Even if you do not think you need a coat, you probably do.

• • Overcoat: A staple in men’s formal fashion, overcoats are available in various lengths and materials, such as wool or cashmere. 

  • Peacoat: A timeless choice for men’s formal outerwear, peacoats are double-breasted and offer a shorter length. Ideal for colder weather, they effortlessly combine style and warmth, making them suitable for various formal events.

  • Tuxedo Cape: Specifically designed for formal occasions, a tuxedo cape provides a unique and elegant layering option for men, enhancing the overall style quotient of the groom or wedding party.

  Choosing the right formal outerwear for men involves considering the formality of the event, the season, and personal style preferences.

Winter Wedding Groom Suit Care

It is rare that you purchase clothing that fits you. And it shouldn’t. We are meant to buy garments – and then have them tailored to fit our bodies. This simple reminder should make shopping a little bit easier. Hint – Hallak offers tailoring and alterations at both locations. (How nice is that?)

Prior to your wedding, you may be in need of tailoring and/or restyling of your fashion. If you are rewearing or renting items, a pre-wedding cleaning may also be a priority. After our big day, schedule your pick-up for post-wedding care. Hallak’s team will be sure to clean and finish your fashion. We are a trusted name among fashion enthusiasts, designer garment boutiques, and designers.

Last Thoughts on Winter Weddings Groomswear

In addition to looking your best, it is important that you take into consideration what weather you may be dealing with. Rain, snow…these can easily ruin a look without some preparation.

The winter season usually requires heavier and warmer clothing materials such as wool o cashmere, which are ideal for keeping cozy. Of course, you may be dancing so layers are key! 

In addition to providing warmth, winter wedding grooms fashion also can incorporate functional features such as waterproofing, wind-resistant materials, and fur trim. Fortunately, there are plenty of cold-weather friendly footwear designed with thicker soles and insulation to keep the feet warm and dry. Just make sure they are stylish OR you have something more stylish to change into.

Questions about the pre or post winter wedding groom suit care? Contact us today.