Hard and Wet! That's how I like it! Get your mind out of the gutter people, I'm talking about the fierce NEW Tees from Wet Cement! Sure to be a fashionista favorite, these three new burnout tees are a bit of hard core mixed with rebellious attitude! Hand printed and ultra comfortable these babies are a must have for the *Nista on the go.

+What is Burnout ?
"In the fashion industry, fabric with a burnout pattern is known as devore. Crafters call burnout patterns "fabric etching," because of the technique used to create them. It starts with a chemical paste, commonly containing sulfuric acid, which is applied to the fabric to create the desired pattern. The acid eats away the fibers, leaving the fabric backing behind. The fabric is rinsed to remove the acid, which does not compromise the integrity of the garment. "
-from www.wisegeek.com

--Dustin Schaad

Dive into the new 2010 collection of hot sizzling swimwear! All of your favorites are back, Hugo Boss, Andrew Christian, Park & Ronen, Pistol Pete & Penguin, as well as new comers like the Australian brand Ristefsky Macheda and Sundek. Universal Gear has you covered, this year we have all of your favorite swimwear styles, Bikini, Army-Cut, Square-Cut, Trunk & Boardshort.

Modest - When in a setting where there will be mixed company such as parents, children or your boss, leave the Bikini at home and go for a more traditional swim suit. The Hugo Boss Andoya Boardshort and the Park & Ronen Stretch Boardshort are perfect choices, they are modest yet well fitted.

For more hot trunk or boardshort styles check out these brands Park & Ronen, Hugo Boss, Penguin & UG Swim

Show A Lil Leg - You have been in the gym all winter and you are ready to show off your well toned physic! Go with a square-cut or army cut for these. Pistol Pete has a great collection of mid-cut swimwear such as the Pistol Pete Nouveau Midcut Swim & Pistol Pete Sprint Midcut Royal as well as Ristefsky Macheda with their Ristefsky Macheda Swim Hipster Square Cut Blk.

For more fun mid-cut styles check out these brands Pistol Pete, Ristefsky Macheda, Sundek, Andrew Christian

Scandalous - Be daring and bold, just make sure your tan lines are in check. Often sexy and seductive, bikinis are great for grabbing attention if you're walking down South Beach or on a Caribbean cruise you're sure to get noticed. Some of my favorite Bikinis of this season are the Hugo Boss Crab Bikini, Pistol Pete Nouveau Bikini, Ristefsky Macheda Black Swim Brief & Andrew Christian Show-It Sailor Bikini.

For sexy bikini styles check out these brands Hugo Boss, Pistol Pete, Ristesky Macheda, Andrew Christian

--Dustin Schaad

NEW YORK CITY - SATURDAY FEBRUARY 13th
Gotham City, no stranger to runways or fashion, will host the Universal Gear 2010 Denim Fashion show at Club 57 located NYC's Hell's Kitchen neighborhood. Showtime @ 11pm.

Can't make it? No worries, here are a few of our fashion shows from years past.

Universal Gear DC - Diesel Fashion Show

Universal Gear DC - Spring 08 Fashion Show

Universal Gear DC - Swim Fashion Show

--Dustin Schaad

There is just something sexy about a man in a plain white tee and a pair of jeans. If you don't believe me look to some of Hollywood's leading men, James Dean, Marlon Brando, John Travolta (during his Grease days) and Mark Wahlberg. . . all of these tinsel town hunks have one thing in common. . .they sure could fill out a great pair of denim.

What I like about denim, and please forgive the pun, is that it's universal. In today's culture jeans have become the most common piece of clothing we are likely to wear in our day to day lives. If asked how would you describe the perfect pair of denim I would have to say that they'd have to be well fitted, comfortable, and versatile. I like a jean that you can dress up or dress down. A great pair of jeans are to men what the little black dress is to women, we all should have at least one and it should go with almost everything we own.

I believe in having a decent smattering of denim in ones' collection. There should always be a dark wash and a light wash, a lazy jean (for pure comfort-sake) and a say something jean (for when you just broke up with your ex and you're on the hunt). Also don't be afraid to try new things. I was a boot-cut purest for years until I stumbled upon the Diesel Viker Straight Leg and fell in love! I can't stand it when people say that they can't rock a skinny jean, to this I often reply you just haven't found the right one. In fact I was with a customer the other day who said the very same thing to me and then I introduced him to the 7 For All Mankind Slimmy. He was shocked, he had never actually tried a skinny jean, he just thought that they weren't for him. It's all about variety. Right now worn in denim is really hot, Adriano Goldschmied has an amazing collection of aged denim that is put through a unique process to look like worn and rugged. For example, the Protege 5 year is a great straight leg jean that has been aged to look like it's been worn for 5 years. The same goes for the Protege 8 year, but note that the 8 year is more distressed. It's such a unique concept.

*Universal Gear is launching their annual spring Denim Sale on February 3 rd 2010. During the Days of Denim Sale you will be able to get all of your favorite jeans at 25% off. . .this is the first time we are offering ALL denim at 25% off. We're talking Diesel, G-Star, Rock N Republic, Project Raw, and Levi's plus NEW denim brands like 7 for All Mankind, Adriano Goldschmied , and 1921. Take advantage of this great sale before it ends on February 23 rd 2010.

--Dustin Schaad

Sharp Smart and Sexy, those are the three S's that I would use to describe the New Ben Sherman line. Our latest from Ben Sherman is a sophisticated blend of Vintage Varsity. Perfect for the hipster gone Ivy League.

The Collegiate look is very present in this hot spring line. My favorites are the Popular Blazer and the Loughton Cardigan, both are great versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down and translate very easily from day to night. Along with these two "must haves" I am currently in love with the Red Hoodlum plaid woven. It's a great basic with a perfect fit. I say wear it over a vintage tee, roll up the sleeves and hit the streets. Comfortable yet fashionable!

*If you're looking to rock the proverbial boat you can always try the Alpha pant. It's a modern skinny twist on the basic Ben Sherman slack. Play it up with some fun pastel socks and hip pair of dress shoes. To completely pop the look get a crisp white button down, black skinny tie or bowtie and throw in the Loughton cardigan. When out and about rock the new Winchester jacket (If you have a pair of black thick framed reading glasses your look will be complete!)

--Dustin Schaad

"Walk Walk Fashion Baby. . ." to quote my favorite Lady of the moment (can't get that song out of my head!). Most definitely a conversation piece and not for the faint of heart, these man-bags are from the legendary fashion icon himself, Christian Audigier. The man behind hit brands like Von Dutch and Ed Hardy is at it again but this time putting his own name in the spotlight. Fashionistas, you too will be caught in a Bad Romance with this NEW bag collection from Christian Audigier, sold now at Universal Gear and www.universalgear.com

--Dustin Schaad

1) Shirts - When on vaca you want a wide variety of tops to choose from, depending on the occasion. I always say pack a few light tees, some short sleeve button downs, and maybe one nice shirt (in case you go out to a nice dinner)

2) Shorts - You definitely want something comfortable yet well fitted (we always dress to impress, especially when trying to catch the eye of a local), a short that would be perfect for walking the beach or sitting at a tiki bar. Cut offs can be fun. . .as long as the cut is slightly above the knee, sorry boys leave your Daisy Dukes at home!

3) Swim wear - A must for any vaca where you will encounter a beach, pool or hot tub. I always say bring at least three different pairs. One safe (family friendly) One that shows a little leg (modest but sexy) and One Fun (you know what I'm talking about!)
Tip: if you're self conscious about being pale two weeks before your vaca hit the tanning bed one or two visits should leave you with a nice glow, thus leaving your time at the beach for perfecting your tan.

4) Footwear - Sandals and a comfortable walking shoe are all you should need to really enjoy your time in paradise, (if going dancing or to dinner with friends bring one "night out" appropriate shoe)

+Odds and ends, unless it's a beach party if you go out dancing or to dinner bring one smart pair of denim, well fitted and dark wash, sun screen (it's hot to come back tan it's sad to come back a lobster), a light travel bag and a nice pair of sunglasses.

If you have all of these you are set to jet set out of your winter prison and escape to your vacation destination!

--Dustin Schaad

OMG, these are a total must have, new from Diesel (just in time to update my
spring wardrobe) the Deco-Impression midtop and the Upward patient leather
hightop are the "it" shoes when you want to make a statement. To quote a fellow
fashion enthusiast... "I DIE"

--Dustin Schaad

They have reinvented their denim styling, the new Slimy Straight and Standard Straight are nice depart from the old boot cut look of years past. These two new cuts are great slim jean styles. What I find most appealing about this brand (besides how they make my derriere look) is that these jeans are completely versatile. They transition from Day to Night with great ease. Whether it's casual Friday at the office or a night on the dance floor this brand has you covered.

Click here to check out more styles from this brand.

--Dustin Schaad

Maybe it's the frost in the air or the warm Cocoa in my cup but this time of the year always gets me in the mood for giving. I'm not sure if it's the gratification of seeing that special someone's face light up when they open my gift or the laugh I get out of watching that special someone's face as they struggle to open my intricately wrapped gift (the trick is double sided tape and tons of ribbon)! Thought and humor are amazing tools during the holidays especially when it comes to gifting. Welcome to Gift Guide 09' a quick crash course in how to be the best gift giver this holiday season!

Practical Gifts

Whether it's your best friend or your little brother, there are just some gifts that are just... well practical. Socks and underwear are always a welcomed/needed gift. Especially when they bare the name, Calvin Klein or Ed Hardy. Depending on your relationship with your intended giftee have a little fun with some novelty styles from Andrew Christian, Sexy Bastard, or Ginch Gonch. Novelty underwear always goes over well (unless you give it to your boss, awkward) Other practical gifts include scented candles like the Archipelago Blackberry Sage votive (a personal favorite of mine), Scarves, Hats. When all else fails go with a gift card, they are very practical and an assured way for the recipient to get exactly what he or she wants.

Grooming Gifts

Let's face it most men are hairy beasts, so why not give them a little hand in the maintenance department. Grooming products are often the perfect gift for any man. Whether it's your boss or your brother-in-law, Grooming and Skincare are a great safe gift. Universal Gear carries an excellent assortment from brands like Art of Shaving, Malin & Goetz, and Molten Brown. The Art of Shaving Kits are great for Dads, Bosses, and Boyfriends and the Molton Brown Atlantic Trail gifts set is perfect for Roomies, Friends, and Coeds.

Fashion Friendly Gifts

Whether you consider yourself a Carrie or a Samantha, bonding over fashion, sex and gossip is a universal thing. Give your favorite fashionista a new addition to their wardrobe this holiday season. Gifts like the Knomo Tokyo Wet Slim Briefcase and Bed Stu Steven Duffle Bag are fierce day bags that give so much attitude that any true fashionista would die over them! (JUST IN! Check out the new Christian Audigier Machine Studded Duffle!)

Accessorizing Gifts

Whether it be a sleek brief case or a fresh trucker cap, accessories make great gifting items. A personal holiday favorite of mine is to give a time piece. Watches are traditional gifts that can have a very significant meaning to them. A time piece is a perfect gift for someone special like your father or your long time boyfriend. This is a gift they will truly cherish for years. For a classic design go with the Android Vortex, it's sleek and traditional or if you want something edgier try the Diesel Face watch. Both are handsome time pieces.

Splurge Worthy Gifts

There are just some people we go that extra mile for. This holiday season there are a few things that are on your giftee wish list that are splurge worthy, kinda like my wish for a MacBook Pro (hint hint, mom...) These are items that are a little above the average price range but are well worth the smile that is sure to radiate from opening this "gift of gifts". Here is a list a few fashionable gifts to splurge on this season; the Ben Sherman Popular Blazer, the D&G Sheriff Dog tag, the Diesel Reyan 8SS, the Knomo Tokyo Wet Slim Briefcase and the Diesel Face Watch... just to name a few.

I hope that you learned a little from this crash course. Remember that it is good to give... not just in the month of December but year round. Happy Holidays from the all of us here at UG.

--Dustin Schaad

I know, these are some of my favorite words as well! Click Here to check out this great
sale! Hurry while supplies last (I've always wanted to say that)!

--Dustin Schaad

Having known our model, Dylan Davis for years I'm proud to announce that the local up and coming DC artist is having a gallery opening on December 3rd through the 6th at in the heart of the Districts Logan Circle neighborhood. I encourage all to attend, this bodes to be a most impressive show, I know I'll be there. When asked to say a little about his work Dylan stats that !It represents time and my main focus is to let the medium control the image just as much as the brush. The different figures represent our not knowing which way is up, down, left or right and pertains to the uncharted grounds our globalized world is treading. My paintings aren't meant to be dark, they are merely stating a fact. Aside from the figurative imagery, my new found transition from Oils to Acrylic paints has opened up new doors, as has the interconnectivity of our world.!I

Dylan has been an active model in Universal Gears 2009 campaigns and we are proud to sponsor such a talented local artist. If you would like to learn more about Dylan Davis click here or if you would like to get a peak of his latest collection please visit www.dylanfinearts.com

--Dustin Schaad

Hey guys and gals, take advantage of this amazing sale- going on right now! From November 18 th to November 30 th 2009, all full price outerwear is 15% off. Yes, that's right...OUTERWEAR is 15% OFF (price as marked)!

--Dustin Schaad

Can you feel it? Winter is creeping up on us, and with the onset of a winter wonderland comes one of my favorite holiday traditions …the Holiday Party. From the week of Thanksgiving to the ringing in of the New Year there will be an overabundance of get-togethers, cocktail parties, and sit- down dinners. My job is to see to it that you are dressed for the occasion.

The Informal-Formal Look

Don't know how formal the party is? Is it dressy or casual? What do I wear? Don't panic. Here are a few helpful outfits ideas that will not only help you blend into the scene, but maybe even steal you a bit of the spotlight. Pair a classic button up with either a pair of flat front chino pants (chino's are a dressier choice but not super formal) or nice pair of clean cut denim. If you go with denim, there are a few rules to follow: dark solid wash denim only, and clean (no rips and no abrasions). The Diesel Zatiny 88Z & Diesel Viker 88Z jean s are great choices. You should top the look off with a v-neck sweater, cardigan or sweater vest. This will add a touch of sophistication and dress up the denim combo. Complete the look with a classic belt . As for footwear, dress shoes or boots are a must (sorry boys no sneakers here). If you follow these guidelines, you'll have a look that will work with any occasion from an office party, cocktails after work, to an intimate gathering with friends.

Shaken not Stirred

When attending a holiday party that calls for a cocktail attire, go with the classics. A crisp, bold color, solid button up (go with strong colors like Crimson Red, Forest Green, Deep Purple, Charcoal, Rich Black or White) tucked into a classic black pant (no cargos or pleats please). In general , your look should be clean, crisp, and put together. If you want to have some fun with your outfit, choose a sleek black or gray vest and accent it with a skinny tie (or bow tie if you're in the mood for something a tad more fashion forward). If vests are not your thing, you can pair this look with a jewel toned v-neck sweater; try playfully tucking your tie into the sweater. This is a smart, witty ensemble that is sure to turn a few heads. If it's really cold outside, complete the look with a classic blazer (a velvet or cord blazer works as well) that you can take off when you reach your destination. Finish the look with a black dress shoe or Chelsea boot, black belt and cuff links.

Pass the Gravy

Whether with family or friends, the holidays bring about endless banquets and feasts. These gatherings tend to be informal and call for more relaxed attire. This year, we are seeing an insurgence of chunky sweaters like the Ben Sherman Rumble Shawl Collar Sweater and Twice Gold Fisherman Sweater. These are good finds because they are both ultra-comfortable and stylish, and pair perfectly with medium wash denim like the Levi's 514 Slim Straight Sky Wash Jean or the Diesel Zathan 8TA . Other feast-friendly choices are fun sweaters like the Diesel 55 Kamazzotti Neck Sweater and Twice Gold Military Detail Zip Sweater, or the cozy Dorsia Nelson Cardigan, Dorisa Fredrick Double Breasted Cardigan , and Ben Sherman Araneta Button Cardigan. Layer them over a light basic tee or thermal; Or, create a fun look by layering over a plaid button up. The key is to be comfortable yet fashionable. Complete this look with a boot or sneaker for that down-home feel. Good eats, great company and amazing style!

I wish all of you a blessed holiday season and want to leave you all with my favorite recipe for holiday cheer!

--Dustin Schaad

It's been a while since we checked in on the ins and outs of the Men's Accessories world. Let's see what's on the scene:

Bags: More and more, you see dudes, bros, guys, and other variations of men-folk rocking a " man-bag." Most typical is the bowling ball style or messenger bag. These are great because fellas can transport anything from gym clothes to laptops in them. The braver style mavens will sport a classic gentlemen's tote or over the shoulder bag.

Hats: While fedoras still reign supreme, we are seeing a wide resurgence of bucket caps and baseball style hats. A good number of these up-and-comers are ornately designed with embellishments, embroidery, studs, and grommets.

Footwear: Boots are in, and chunky heels are back! With pants and denim styles slimming up in shape, big chunky boots almost become an exclamation point for your look.

Ties & Bow Ties: Nerd chic is in boys, the skinny tie and poindexter bow tie have crept back en vogue. These guys can be spotted everywhere from the punk/emo movement to the ultra trendy hipster scene (often paired with skinny jeans or slacks and suspenders).

Cozy Scarfs: No longer are these only a means to keep you warm, scarfs for men have evolved into a powerful fashion statement. I'm constantly seeing new and inventive ways to wear, fold and drape these bad boys. Depending on the style and way you choose to rock this look, you can add a tone of androgyny or give yourself some serious street cred. Steven Tyler was truly a head of his time.

Jewelry: We have come a long way from the customary gold chain nestled in a thick thatch of chest hair. Guys have tons of options here, right now leather necklaces and unique one of a kind pendants are very popular as trends go. Cuff links have made their way back to the twenty something crowd (they tie in with the Nerd Chic look). Watches are always in style, but the trend has veered away from the ultra modern designs and focused more on the classic sleek look. Men who run in fashion forward circles have also been spotted sporting broaches (Not your grandmother cameo, these are more like embellished crests to be worn on jacket lapels or on a lapel of a vest).

--Dustin Schaad