It was quite a start for a brand that got its name from a drug trip. At 19, after dropping acid and going for a stroll on Ipanema beach in Rio, David started hallucinating while trying to envision his future as a fashion king. The acid was called Blue and his favorite brand at the time was New Man. With one foot in la-la land and one foot in reality, the brand BlueMan was born.

David arrived in Rio in the 60’s with his brother Simao and right away knew they were not destined for the career in medicine their father had envisioned for them. Instead, they took after their mother and both had a way with the sewing machine. David focused on beachwear, while his brother became the creative genius behind the denim brand Yes, Brazil through most the 80’s until dying from AIDS-related complications in 1988.

Personally, David is also not your traditional CEO. His critics say that he could double his business with a stronger focus on marketing and international sales. But David sticks to his guns, “People only think about increasing marketing and boosting sales. I now have 3 times as much as I ever dreamt of having. I have a successful business. Now, I want to enjoy life.” For the owner of BlueMan, now at 49, enjoying life includes spending quality time with his daughter, going to the beach, drinking coconut water and hitting the gym. “I’m an addict now. I can’t miss a day at the gym or I go nuts.”

See David's latest collection.

-- Ricardo

Your travels are extensive, you've journeyed across half the known world. In your explorations you've trekked across mountain, dessert and rough terrain. You are wild and uncontrollable and refuse to be domesticated by society and civilization.

Ok, who are we kidding, the last major "excursion" you went on was last night to your neighborhood convenience store to grab some mixers and an energy drink. But let's be real. In today's world, the modern man is more likely to be climbing the corporate ladder than scaling Mount Everest. Extreme sports aside for a second (and yes I was referring to the corporate ladder), one of the most important pieces to a man's wardrobe are his shoes. Be they tattered or polished, in style or out of style, it all reflects the man's personal character.

Don't believe me? Take a look at the inner workings of your office and see for yourself. The confident "alpha" is sharply dressed and his shoes are never without shine, the chill laid back summer intern may on occasion rock the converse, and is it just me or does the angry guy in the corner, the one that's worked there far too long, always seem like his scuffed loafers are a size too small. My point here is to take pride in your appearance, people notice, in a glance, what you're wearing and associate those qualities with you.

Side Note: Not that I have a thing for feet, but men listen up: it's beach season again, so before you put on your new flip flops take a hint from the wiser gender and go get a pedicure!

--Dustin

All at Universal Gear Chicago
3153 N Broadway
773.296.1090

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To get you in the spirit of D&G, imagine that you are the quintessential Italian man, lean with a dark tan glistening on the Mediterranean coast. The sleek D&G bathing suit grabbing the attention of your fellow beach goers while you survey the scene behind dark sunglasses, you casually kick at the sand as you walk the shores of paradise. You and your friends take the yacht out at sundown to leave the city behind, conversation crosses from fashion trends to politics with unnoticeable ease as you sip your Bellini slowly and enjoy the night breeze. Good, now you've got it.

D&G's beachwear line has a timeless elegance mixed in with an understated modern style, complimenting your shape and exuding an overall vintage look. The swimwear collection, made in Italy, is well crafted and designed. The sporty Rugby collection is unique in its style and unsurpassed comfort. The overall look and feel will draw all the right attention and you will soon find yourself bombarded with compliments.

Indulge yourself even further with the sandals from D&G. They are comfortable and the perfect summer accent piece. Last weekend I bought a pair and have already gotten several "Nice, where did you get those." Luxury is for everyone and should no longer be for the fashion elite. Be bold and confident, refine your appearance and get what you want. Dive into our new line of D&G beachwear.

-- Will & Dustin.

All at Universal Gear New York
140 8th Avenue (between 16th & 17th)
212.206.9119

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Over the years the man-bag or "murse" has evolved from the controversial "Hey is that dude wearing a purse?" to "Hey, dude where'd you get your bag?" The man-bag has become the corner stone in accessorizing for men with the recent comeback of the brief case, weekender, and camera bag (which rarely ever holds a camera). Men are becoming ever bolder in their selections. Texture and fabric have become important players when it comes to choice. Be it a smooth suede handle, a bold plaid body, or even the occasional hard edgy studded leather messenger comes into play when it comes to diversifying your assortment. When on the go, whether it's on a three day trip to Miami or just down the street to your local gym, it's your responsibility and duty as a fashion conscious male to travel with style and class resting on your shoulder.

--Dustin

Q&A (March 2008)

DUSTIN: What musical artist was your biggest influence?
KRISTINE: I would have to say as far as tenacity and just hanging in there I would have to give it to Donna Summer and Annie Lennox.

DUSTIN: If you could do a duet with any recording artist today who would that be?
KRISTINE: Donna Summer I adore her. I idolize her.

DUSTIN: What's your favorite Kristine W music video? Which one did you have the most fun making?
KRISTINE: Queer as Folk was the most fun, ("Some Lovin") yeah because the whole cast was there. There were just so many people, I got to meet Sharon Gless.

DUSTIN: What did you think of the new flagship Universal Gear store in DC?
KRISTINE: It's a beautiful store, I’ll tell you that, great design! I think what was the best part of the store was the staff, an amazing staff.

DUSTIN: We found out that you're a former Miss Washington do you still have your crown? If so do you ever wear it around the house please say yes!
KRISTINE: I still have the crown it's in the kitchen on a shelf (laughing) yes I have!

DUSTIN: With so many music artists crossing over into the movie industry, have you ever considered making the switch? If so what kind of role would you love to play?
KRISTINE: Not really, It'd be fun to play somebody sassy I like the role that Vanessa Williams plays (Ugly Betty( that's a great character.

DUSTIN: Is there any thing you would like to say to your fans?
KRISTINE: Thank you so much for your support your loyalty your friendship, always checking in on the website and for their feedback. Staying after the shows and chatting about the music because it's so inspirational for me and I get so many ideas.

--Dustin

Hello all! Well, if you couldn't guess from the title it's my Birthday! Other than the ceremonial birthday shots and inevitable hangover the day after, I always look forward to the presents (and of course spending time with my family and friends)!

So when asked "Dustin, what do you want this year" I always get the same huge grin across my face and that poor individual realizes that they've opened the birthday edition of Pandora's Box! Ok, so contrary to what you might be thinking, this isn't one huge narcissistic blog. It's my Birthday Gift Guide for the Modern Male! Here are just a few helpful suggestions to make sure that you don't look like the lame duck of gift giving.

Unless you know the Birthday Boy extraordinarily well, I say always go for funny over serious. Some of the best gifts I've gotten over the years are hysterical but useful. It always gets a laugh to give fun, funky, underwear. this genre of gift is perfect for practically everyone (exceptions: your boss, your local clergy, & prominent politicians)

For the sensitive soul or the guy who is just really into hygiene and skin care, get him a few fun things for himself. Scented candles have always been a favorite of mine but I also love skin care assortments such as body washes, exfoliates, and cologne! As my Grandmother always said "start taking care for yourself while you’re young" and she just turned 77 and looks terrific!

After all of that if you still are unsure of what to get the guy, go with a gift card. Gift Cards are no longer considered impersonal actually, most people prefer one. They are the perfect way to ensure the person gets exactly what they want for their Birthday!

--Dustin

Team DC is taking applications for men to model clothing from Universal Gear and The Leather Rack in their Fashion Show and Model Search on Friday, March 29. To apply, simply go to Team DC, and follow the prompts. The deadline to submit an application is Monday, March 10!!!

The Winning Model receives:
- $500 in Universal Gear store credit.
- A photo feature in Genre Magazine.
- A professional photoshoot (Headshot and three other looks) with Robert Mercer Photography.
- A chance to be featured in the 2009 Ripped Genes calendar....a nationally distributed calendar.
Proceeds from the event help support the Team DC College Scholarship Program for a gay or lesbian student-athlete. The event is sponsored by Team DC, Genre Magazine, The Washington Blade newspaper, Universal Gear, The Leather Rack, and Bang Hair Salon.

Men, the time has come to put your fears aside and accept the term "Accessorize." I know this can seem scary and foreign, what with all of the combination options, but let Universal Gear lead you through this treacherous terrain with our 2008 Accessories Guide!

For the spring and summer months to come you are going to want to keep it light yet colorful. Bright and bold colors can add that extra pop to your daily routine. I'm not encouraging you to leave your house looking like a neon Rainbow Bright but a few flashes of color will pull your outfit together. Fun baseball caps with bright color pallets are the perfect choice to pop your basic denim and tee combo. You can also compliment the outfit by pulling a color out of your hat and choosing a belt with the same hue. The goal with this trick is not to have a look that's too "matchy matchy," but to have a style that flows. Playing with color is what it's all about this year and letting your accessories do the talking is the perfect way to express your creativity.

With sunny days ahead your sunglasses almost become and extension of your personality. Whether your preference be the subtle business aesthetic of John Varvatos or an over the top Fashionista approach, eyewear designers are playing with color and texture this year. Be it a bold red arm, glossy bronze frame, or a gradient purple lens fit for a rock star; it's easy to match your mood from day to day. If you're feeling strong that day go with jet black polarized lens, in a creative mood try a novel azure blue framed aviator, or if you had a bit too much fun the night before a large wrap around will hide you from the world (and the sun that seems to be burning a bit too bright).

To close the 2008 UG Accessories Guide we will go on to my favorite subject the Man-bag or "Murse, " as I like to call it. This once controversial accessory is the key to any mans day to day existence. Briefcase style bags are really in this year along with the travel weekend bag and the ever popular messenger bag. Not only is this an essential but it's fun aswell. Not unlike our female counterparts we have the option to switch out our Murses to coordinate with our outfits and the occasion. Okay so that last step might seem a bit high maintenance but relax it's all in fun. To quote my favorite reality show "Lighten up It's just fashion" Mix and match, be bold, texture and color can be your friend.
--Dustin

Here at Universal Gear HQ we are daring to be ambitious; working harder than ever to build a vast website rich in new clothing, bordering on obnoxious with the volume of product available to you, our customer. Prepare in the upcoming weeks to get lost in virtual space, wondering about as you browse our selections.

With the task in our sights we are barreling forward to bring you more from Diesel, G-Star, D&G and other great brands. We wouldn't be doing enough though if we stopped at clothing. Skincare, Home Accents, and Accessories will all be popping up in droves onto your screens.

So keep checking back as we bring the latest styles!

--Will

It's time for Universal Gear's "Donate Your Denim" drive. Starting February 15 donate your old denim toward the purchase of a new pair and we'll give you a $25 UG Money Card for every new pair purchased. This is the perfect opportunity to bring new life to your wardrobe while helping out those in need. Even if you can't get to our stores I encourage you to seek out a charity and donate your old clothing. There are many people who are less fortunate who really appreciate the clothing donations they get. It's such a small way to brighten up someones life and such an easy thing to do. So next time you're walking around and you see a friend in his new pair of jeans ask him what he did with the old ones!
--Will

ONLINE CUSTOMERS: Buy a new pair of jeans online and we'll give you a $25 UG Money Card toward your next purchase.* That's right, for each new pair of jeans you buy you get a $25 UG Money Card. But we still encourage you to donate your old clothing to help others.

*PROMOTION STARTS FEB 15, 2008 & ENDS MAR 4, 2008. UG MONEY CARD AVAILABLE ONLY AFTER PURCHASING A NEW PAIR OF JEANS AT REGULAR PRICE.

Start your day off right with a selection from our wide variety of skin care and shave products from Malin & Goetz, Molton Brown and The Art of Shaving. From the stimulating Malin & Goetz Mojito Soap Set, to the Art of Shaving Sandalwood after shave balm, we have you covered. If you're a man who always on the go try the Molton Brown New Age Traveler travel set.

Smell is one of our strongest senses and you can often tell who's around you just by their scent. Make yourself known with our new men's cologne, Diesel's hit fragrance, Fuel for Life. Light but irresistible, and sure to get you noticed.

Archipelago and Molton Brown both offer Candles that when lit, take your mind off of the stressful workday. Scents like Galbanum, Bulgarian Rose, and Bergamot candles will relax and calm you with all the power of aroma therapy.

Well guys if you still can't decide or perhaps you've found this so inticing you want to share it with your loved ones, Universal Gear offers several gift sets to treat yourself or that someone special.

--Dustin