In the Zone

While modern technological conveniences accommodate our on-the-go lifestyles, they fail to do the same for our wardrobes. The ability to carry our music libraries, phones and calendars with us at all times leaves us with devices stuck on our ears, accessories clipped to our belts, and objects stuffed in our front pockets. But luck is on our side because there is a better way to sport these instruments. When Nike announced plans to make all its running shoes iPod-compatible, the company set the tone for where men’s fashion is going: the seamless blending of our technology into our daily attire and routine.

So gentlemen, let us heed Nike’s call to arms -- and belts and pockets -- in the battle to incorporate our gadgets more stylishly into our wardrobes.

IPODS

When it comes to iPods, the rule of thumb should be “out of sight, but not out of mind.” The arm strap and belt clip are the most common means of wearing iPods, but these are not ideal fashion accessories. These items mar the visual appeal of any casual or business outfit because they look cumbersome, juvenile and unprofessional. As you go about your everyday routine, your iPod should disappear into our appearance.

A couple of options exist for achieving the unobtrusive iPod look. One, simply place your iPod inside either your inner coat pocket or your back pocket, not on your belt or bicep. You can even use the clip to hold your iPod in place. Much like your wallet, your iPod will be out of sight while also being instantly within reach. Two, buy clothing with built-in storage. Not surprising, most designers -- especially outerwear designers -- have made iPod accommodations in many garments. Express, for example, recently released a line of suit jackets that includes a pocket created especially for your iPod. Going this route with your clothing provides a seamless integration of music and wardrobe. As you shop for new clothes, look for items that complement not only your body but also your lifestyle.

CELL PHONES

Cell phones are a staple of daily attire; seldom do we leave home without them. The problem comes when we leave home with them clipped to our belts or with Bluetooth headsets stuck to our ears. Ideally, cell phones blend innocuously into an ensemble, not hanging obnoxiously at your waistline or requiring gadgets strapped to your ear. Sure, these things are functionally practical, but they are also aesthetically distasteful. Attaching cell phones (or any other gadget for that matter) to your belt imbalances your appearance by drawing attention to your midsection, and clipping Bluetooth headsets to your ear just looks silly. Clips and headsets should be avoided at all costs, and cell phones, like iPods, should be carried strategically.

Today’s cell phones are sleek and compact, allowing them to be concealed inconspicuously on your person. Similar to your iPod, your cell should be kept in interior pockets that allow it to be hidden from plain sight -- this includes not stuffing it in your front pocket where it will be visible -- but accessible at a moment’s notice. The outer pocket of a bag or briefcase is an excellent choice too. Or, if you’re going to be unreachable for an extended period of time, go ahead and store your phone in your briefcase or luggage. Hey, you might even enjoy the break.

The sleekness of today’s phones makes them very stylish and more fashionable than a Bluetooth headset. And for those who always carry a phone and an iPod, most cell phone manufacturers like Nokia and Motorola sell phones with music capabilities, combining two gadgets into one.

PDAs

PDAs are an integral part of one’s daily routine. How else would you stay on schedule, keep your contacts organized, and add meetings on the fly? No doubt your PDA works for you, and you should also make it work for your wardrobe. So, it must be taken off your belt and out of your pockets, unless it’s an ultra-small model; it must be incorporated more fashionably into both your wardrobe and your routine.

To up the style ante on your PDA, store it somewhere off your person. The easiest alternative is to keep your PDA in your briefcase. If you don’t carry a briefcase, do one of the following: Store it in your current planner or in an all-new leather case. Either option gives you and your PDA a refined, polished look. The first option is simple; it’s a PDA-attachment insert for your current planner. The idea is small in theory, but big on impact. It incorporates your PDA in your existing planner, cohesively tying your PDA into your already established routine.

No planner? No worries. Invest in a new leather binder with built-in storage. These binders give you storage for your PDA and other business items such as cards, pens, phones, and notepads. They create a more professional look not only for your PDA, but also for you, making you look more put together and efficient.

LAPTOPS

No doubt laptops are the most obtrusive gadget around. And since they can’t be disguised in a coat or camouflaged by a binder, they should be carried openly and stylishly. But this doesn’t mean carrying your laptop loosely under your arm, in a knapsack or in a rolling case. As with all other gadgetry, there are style rules for laptop transportation, and these options are the most outward ones for showing your fashion sense.

The most fashionable way to successfully incorporate your laptop into your wardrobe is with a high-quality leather bag. While nylon is available and is less expensive, these bags can show their age and lose their shape quickly. Be sure to choose wisely; that’s why a rich brown or classic black leather bag will earn you compliments.

Aside from their finish, laptop bags also come in a variety of styles, so shoot for the one that best meets your needs. Never sacrifice form over function. Today’s styles range from the traditional briefcase to the casual “man purse.” And any style works, as long as it works with your own particular style. For instance, if you dress more conservatively and work in a buttoned-up office, you should go for a more traditional bag. Simply stated, your laptop case is an outward expression of you and your lifestyle, so choose a high-quality, functional case that supports who you truly are.