Guest Blog: Style It Local with Jonathan Martone of The Versatile Warrior

Name: Jonathan Martone

Company Name: The Versatile Warrior 

Website:  www.versatilewarrior.com

Instagram:  Versatile_Warrior_Clothing

Twitter:  TheVWarrior

About Me: An attorney by day, my brother and I founded The Versatile Warrior, an up and coming men’s clothing company with an elevated twist on basic wear such as polos, hoodies, t-shirts and hats. Since its inception in 2009, The Versatile Warrior and its clothing have been featured in numerous style and fashion publications throughout the U.S., and have been worn by several professional and Olympic athletes. 

Photo by BTW Photography

Photo by BTW Photography 

Style it Local:  

Camel Hair Top Coat, Cardinal of Canada; available at Nordstrom.

Gray UltraSoft Zip Hoodie, The Versatile Warrior; available at www.versatilewarrior.com.

White v-neck shirt, Calvin Klein; available at Nordstrom.

“Byron” fit blue jean, Hudson Jeans; available at Nordstorm.

Chelsea Boot, Alfani; available at Macys.

Classima Executive Watch, Baume & Mercier; available at Darakjian Jewelers.

Cashmere Scarf, Charter Club; available at Macys.

Style Inspiration: Versatility! I love clothes that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.  I wear my top coat most often with a suit during the week, but on the weekends it looks just as great made casual with my favorite zip hoodie and jeans.

Favorite Cold-Weather Accessory #1: Any cashmere scarf that I own - I love the softness and warmth.

Favorite Cold-Weather Accessory #2: My Patagonia down vest.

Do It: This Weekend’s Fashion, Beauty and Style Events that Are Not To Be Missed

This pre-holiday weekend is chock-full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you’re itching to hit the town and celebrate the season, these events are sure to keep you busy!

Free Art & Architecture Walking Tour | Wednesday, December 30
When you step foot in the city of Detroit, you see all of the beautiful architecture around town. Well, why not learn more about it? The Detroit Experience Factory and Pure Detroit have partnered to bring you a walking tour to explore some of the great contributions of prolific architects and emerging artists. Starting at 5 p.m., this one-hour tour will bring you through The Belt, One Campus Martius, the Spirit of Detroit and end at the Pure Detroit shop inside the beautiful Guardian Building. As it says the tour is free and open to the public, but you still need to register on Eventbrite.

Detroit Experience Factory is located at 123 Monroe St., in Detroit.


New Year's Eve Ball Drop - Campus Martius | Thursday, December 31
Haven't nailed down New Year's Eve plans yet? Don't fret! Head downtown for the 6th Annual Motor City New Year's Eve Ball drop at Campus Martius. Over 20,000 people will gather for this free event complete with a warming tent, fire pits and beverages and food tent spread throughout Campus Martius and Cadilac Square. This family-friendly event starts at 4 p.m. with a children's ball drop happening at 6:30 p.m., and features live entertainment throughout the evening. The show will go on snow, sleet or shine, so make sure you dress in layers depending on the weather! More information can be found at www.motorcitynye.com.

Campus Martius is located at 800 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.


2016 Nothing Elegant NYE | Thursday, December 31
Official Detroit Pistons DJ, DJ Thornstryker, and Dine Drink Detroit have partnered to bring you Nothing Elegant, a night of dancing, drinking and celebrating the New Year in style. A 5,000 sq. ft., warehouse in Eastern Market will be open to guests at 9 p.m., and is hosted by Amy Kahrl, Sara Aldridge, Emily Thornhill, Scott Rutterbush, Andrus McDonald, Candice Simons and Godwin Ihentuge. Tickets are $12, and free parking is available on Russell and across the street from the warehouse.

The Eastern is located at 3434 Russell St., in Detroit.


New Year's Even Run/Walk - Belle Isle | Thursday, December 31
Exercise your way into the New Year at the longest continuously-held running event in Michigan. Beginning at 4 p.m., head down to Belle Isle for a 5k run/walk and enjoy a healthy activity before you celebrate the New Year later that evening. The first 1000 to cross the finish line will receive Finisher Medals, and a long-sleeved shirt is guaranteed for all pre-registered participants. Entry fees are $15 for children ages 12 and under, $35 for ages 13 and older through December 20, and $40 for ages 13 and older on race day. For more information and to register, click here.

Belle Isle State Park - Michigan's 102nd State Park is located at 1 Picnic Dr., in Detroit.


Noon Year's Eve | Thursday, December 31
The Detroit Historical Museum is celebrating the New Year from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the third annual Noon Year's Eve. This family-friendly event is free to the public and features winter crafts, hot chocolate and cookies and a kids' New Year's countdown at noon.

The Detroit Historical Museum is located at 5401 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.


Resolution Brunch at Cafe 78 | Friday, January 1
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., recover from the New Year's celebration at Cafe 78. Enjoy a nice brunch while listening to live music by DJs Rick Wilhite and Monty Luke. Once brunch is finished and the coffee has started working, take a walk through the galleries at MOCAD. It's the last opportunity to see United States of Latin America, 33 emerging artists from Latin America. Parking and wifi are free.

Café 78 is located inside MOCAD at 4454 Woodward Ave. Detroit, MI | 313.784.9636

Guest Blog: Holiday Shopping with Versatile Warrior

The team at the Versatile Warrior is guest blogging on Style Factory, and excited to share its 2015 men's holiday shopping guide! Founded in 2009 by brothers James and Jonathan Martone and based in Metro Detroit, the Versatile Warrior is an up and coming men's clothing company, featuring clothes with a modern, silhouetted design, comfortable fabric, and  the "always conquer" lifestyle branding. Sold through local stores such as the Claymore Shop in Birmingham, as well as its online boutique (www.versatilewarrior.com), Versatile Warrior clothing has gained popularity amongst many, including being worn by several professional athletes, including National Hockey League players Chris Summers and Jason Wooly, and gold and bronze medalist Olympic athletes including Michael Phelps, Peter Vanderkaay, and George Buvell. The company and its products have also been featured in several style blogs and publications throughout the country. Enjoy a look at gift ideas for last-minute giftspiration through the eyes of Versatile Warrior.

On The Town: Network into the New Year in Style

Blogger babes Bruna of StyleMile, Kori of Color x Number and Brittany of PurpleLove have partnered with United Front for a style event to kick off the holiday season and New Year. These style experts will assist attendees with onsite styling and tips that will help achieve an unforgettable look to make every holiday party and new years picture worthy.

“I would love for women to find their confidence through conscious fashion choices and use them to their advantage in their day-to-day lives," says Bruna of StyleMile. "A lot of times, it has nothing to do with how much something cost or who made it, it’s about how you feel when you wear it, and that’s what I’ve learned over the almost 4 years I’ve been writing StyleMile. Finding your style should bring you joy!"

From 2 to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 19, stop by Cafe Con Leche Nord for networking, a champagne toast and style and blogging tips from three of Detroit's fashion experts. Cafe Con Leche Nord is located at 2990 W Grant Blvd., in Detroit. For more information and to register, visit Eventbrite.

Wear It's At: Looking Your Best at Holiday Parties

With the holidays upon us (even though it has been 50 degrees outside), 'tis the season of holiday work parties, dinner dates with friends in town, and fun winter events galore. Get on Santa’s Best Dress List; he’s checking it twice! We’ve put together a few ideas fit for all occasions, so you can wow those family members you haven’t seen in a while.

1.     Holly Sweater, $70, J. Jill

2.     Gingham Button Down Shirt, $32, J Crew

3.     Gold Tone Chunky Chain Necklace, $17, Guess

4.     Shaping Skinny Regular Jeans, $50, H&M

5.     Aldo Solvay Riding Boot, $90, DSW

6.     Excursion Quilted Down Vest, $100, J. Crew

1.     Faux Fur Vest, $50, H&M

2.     Apt. 9 Metallic Band Women’s Wool Floppy Hat, $48, Kohl’s

3.     Crystal Baguette Collar, $90, Ann Taylor

4.     Jeffrey Campbell Stormy Rain Boot, $55, Urban Outfitters

5.     Women’s Short Sleeve Ponté Shift Dress, $59, Lands End

6.     Dolce Girl Faux Leather Clutch, $58, Nordstrom

1.     FRLOEDON Necklace, $25, ALDO

2.     Two-Tone Flute Sleeve Sequin Sweatshirt, $125, Nordstrom

3.     S. Rothschild Side-Zip Jacket with Faux Leather Trim, $90, Lord & Taylor

4.     Mirrored Bangle Set, $8, Forever 21

5.     Faux Snakeskin Clutch, $48, Nordstrom

6.     Guess Babbitta Pointed-Toe Pumps, $90, Macy’s

7.     Women’s Collection Wide-Leg Trouser, $130, J. Crew

Do It: This Weekend’s Fashion, Beauty and Style Events that Are Not To Be Missed

This pre-holiday weekend is chock-full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you’re itching to hit the town and celebrate the season, these events are sure to keep you busy!

How to Secure Local & National Media Attention | Thursday, December 17

Do you wish you knew more about media strategy, press release writing, spokesperson training, and interviewing with media? If your business could grow based on becoming an expert in any of these topics, join Detroit Consulting to help your organization with traditional and nontraditional media outlets. The world of media can be a whirlwind, and this event is the perfect platform to gain exclusive access to inside knowledge for engaging and securing local and national media attention. Detroit Consulting is happy to have Ben Bowman as the featured presenter. Bowman is a former broadcast journalist whose reports have aired on: CBS, Fox News, AOL News, and local news outlets across the country. Come prepared to share a story about your experience contacting the media and receive feedback on any press releases you may have. Bamboo Detroit will be hosting this event from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased for $20 online, buy yours today before they are sold out.

Bamboo Detroit is located at 1442 Brush St., in Detroit.

After Dark: Holiday Mixology at the Michigan Science Center | Thursday, December 17

You are sure to be in awe at Toytopia, an interactive exhibit that focuses on learning through play at After Dark, this weekend. Featuring life-sized toys, vintage games, and more, challenge your friends with vintage video competitions and extreme dot-to-dot challenges. Get inspired by the holiday beverage blends at the cash bar as you learn about the chemistry of color changing liquids. Who said drinking and socializing couldn’t be an educational experience? For only $10 online or at the door, you can bring your friends from 5 to 8 p.m. to experience everything the Michigan Science Center has to offer. Once you’ve had your fill of this colorful event, visit Maccabees, Chartreuse, Seva, or Treat Dreams Ice Cream for a dinner discount if you show your MiSci ticket stub.

Michigan Science Center is located at 5020 John R St., in Detroit.

Free Fiber Workshop: Crochet & Tapestry Weaving | Thursday, December 17

Gabrielle Duggan is holding a free workshop on crochet and tapestry weaving this Thursday at 6 p.m, at Ponyride. This designer creates elaborate installations of disparate materials; glass, tar, rocks, wire, yarn, and other textiles. Her pieces twist multiple meanings infused in the material itself. This workshop is open to the public, with no previous experience required, and materials are supplied. Come learn a new skill as you have the opportunity to pick the brain of a developing artist that is also trying to make a name for herself in the industry.

Ponyride is located at 1401 Vermont St., in Detroit.

Detroit Santarchy 2015 | Saturday, December 19

Come all ye faithful for a night of alcohol infused fun. Experience a night with over 2,000 Santa’s and his Elves for the 16^th Annual Detroit Santarchy from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. This festive holiday celebration consists of a bar crawl in Corktown, Cass Corridor, Eastern Market and all over downtown with thousands of people dressed as Santa. Pick out your best red suit, as costumes are mandatory. The kickoff party starts in Corktown at the Gaelic League Irish-American Club near Slow’s BBQ with live entertainment. Don’t have a DD? No problem! Private busses will be transporting Santa’s all night if you purchase a $20 buss pass. Get there early to ensure you get a spot!

The Lodge // A Cozy Drinking + Shopping Excursion | Saturday, December 19 and Sunday, December 20

Skip the lines, ditch the malls, and shop handcrafted goods at The Lodge from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. This event features top-shelf regional artisan vendors and brands, food trucks, and The Wild Turkey Bourbon Bar. A complete list of all the talented vendors is available online, some of the vendors on that list include Alchemy Detroit, Dolly Rockers, City Girls Soap, Slow Jams Jam, Green Toe Gardens, and Detroit Marshmallow. Get some Christmas shopping done at the bustling Eastern Market.

The Eastern Market is located at 3434 Russel St., in Detroit.

Industry Spotlight: Banner Sign Company Offers Different Options to Help with Branding

There are a lot of things that come with owning your own business, paperwork, taxes, sales, etc., but the one thing people think about last is signage. Not only does the Banner Sign Company offer that to its customers, but tons of other products that help tell a story about the brand. We spoke with Nicole Piach, co-owner of Banner Sign Company, who has been working to offer more to her customers, and changing with the times

DGG: Tell us about yourself, Nicole.  

Nicole Piach: Proud mom of two great teens, I love the arts as well as fashion, interior and architecture design.

DGG: Tells us about Banner Sign Company. 

NP: Banner Sign Co, has been around since 1924. I joined the company in 1992 after I married my husband and business partner Nick. Although we work together on a daily basis, we each have our own thing; I oversee the finances, as well as product & technology development and we each maintain our own clients. Over the years we’ve been extremely fortunate to have been awarded some major accounts and events. However, it’s not every day you have a Superbowl, so with the downturn in the economy I thought about non traditional ways that we could keep our printers printing. It’s taken a lot of time and research, but over the last few years I’ve developed Digital Print Specialties. Basically, DPS is an interactive and comprehensive print resource for design professionals from any discipline. Our slogan is “Your world, your way” Here we offer one of the largest varieties of specialty printables, from fabrics that can be used for either apparel or interiors, we even offer a few contract fabrics that can be customized for the Healthcare & Hospitality industries. We also offer Functional art, which serves as both art & acoustic sound absorption. These are great retrofit options where sound is a problem, but aesthetics are important. Other products are custom window films, wall covering, and tile. 

DGG: How can fashion and interior designers benefit from your company?

NP: Well, if they ever do need a sign, we’re still more than happy to assist. But beyond that, and until recently, fabric and wall coverings were limited to traditional rotary press capabilities. Scale, colors and imagery were the limiting factors. However, with todays on-demand digital printing technology all boundaries have been removed and have set the stage for the world of customization. Today’s clients are all about expression and being unique, and we’re here to help designers give their clients what they want.

DGG: What’s the best advice you can give to a budding entrepreneur when it comes to starting a business?  

NP: Do something you’re passionate about, it will keep you motivated. Secondly, don’t rush into anything, do your research. You want to make sure you do things the right way from the very start because it’s hard to back peddle in business and develop a good reputation. Thirdly, if you don’t know, ask. Surround yourself with good people, you can’t be good at everything, so focus on what you do best and learn to rely on others.

DGG: If you could create something for anyone in the world, who would it be, what would it be and why? 

NP: I’m actually thinking about creating a line of custom printed bean bag chairs and sofas. I’d love to see them used in non-traditional environments like a wine bar, or a children’s hospital playroom, or maybe even a conference room. In certain situations, if you can let go of all the formality and just relax, it could spark contemplation, great conversation and creativity. Sometimes, I think we could all use a bean bag.

DGG: What is your favorite local boutique to shop? 

NP: I’m proud to say I’m bargain shopper, so I go everywhere! But I can tell you, I have quite a collection of Detroit themed T-shirts. 

DGG: Describe your style. 

NP: I’d like to think I’m fashionably casual. I love traditional lines with modern accessories.

How do you take your coffee? 

NP: French press - black

DGG: BCBG or Ann Klein? 

NP: BCBG

DGG: Acetate or acrylic fabric? 

NP: Acrylic