Wish List: D.S. Dundee Winterwear

Like many of you style blog regulars, I've heard of brands like D.S. Dundee. Although, usually when I find out about these brands, either they only have one or two really good pieces that get showcased a lot or you happen upon a trove of incredible gear, some of the likes are incredibly fresh takes on common menswear garments. Hence why today's Wish List issue is not just one item but several, from one of East London's classic manufacturers. Also, depending on who you are, their gear is quite spendy. For me, it's very much so, which makes it perfect for my wish list.

Ettrick Shooting Jacket, $678

This is the first piece I saw from them that made me do a double take. It's a shooting jacket made out of tweed (of course) in a great plaid pattern with a belted waist and patch pockets. When is the last time you saw a jacket that looked like this? The great thing about a jacket like this is you can very easily dress it up or down depending on what you're doing in it. The only way this could have been better is if they had cut the collar so you could wear it as a blazer (because I'm dandy like that). Also, check out the attention to detail that goes into this jacket. The stitching for the buttonhole is incredibly tidy, and the leather work on the button is flawless. Keeping in line with things are age well, this jacket looks like it would last you until it's time to hand it down to your children's children. Learning to notice things like this go a long way in determining whether or not a garment is worth it's salt (and it's price).

Kirkhill Cardigan, $238

This cardigan is the type of sweater that you should be able to find in all thrift stores. Unfortunately, my normative views never translate to reality, so companies like D.S. Dundee then therefore compensate by making it so. It's made out of some sort of super thick futuristic material that sheds beer stains and advances from questionable bargoers. Or so I wish, but it is made out of wool, which is arguably the best clothing material of all time. The nice contrast creates a mid-century American schoolboy look, which is balanced by the wool and elbow patches, in typical across the pond style. It's also a great choice because green doesn't get enough play in your average wardrobe.

Bannerman Derby Leather/Canvas Boot, $599

And finally, look at these friggin' boots! A lot of people around this time of year ask if you can wear boots with a suit, the answer to that question is boots like these. Upon first glance, these seem like the type of boots you might have seen British soldiers wearing during the early 20th century. The mixing of canvas and leather has a very utilitarian functionality, yet stays stylish with subtle patterning and details like the double leather straps, polished cap toe, and leather sole. The derby (also known as blucher) lacing structure is more casual than a balmoral boot, but keeps a sleek silhouette that makes it give the appearance of a dress shoe under trousers. Consider it, like the other items a great mix between military-like utility with traditional English refinement and style.

I haven't seen these particular D.S. Dundee items featured anywhere else yet, so I thought I would bring them to your attention if you haven't had a chance to check out the website for yourself yet. You should definitely do so now however, as you have now seen the type of goods they produce. P.S. They also run a great blog.