Fall/Winter Inspiration: Navy Trousers

Tennis Sweater by Lacoste, Shirt by Brooks Brothers, Corduroy Jacket by LL Bean,
Repp Tie by The Tie Bar, Belt by Alden, Briefcase by M&W Traveler,
Navy Chinos by LL Bean, Bit Loafers by Alden, Argyle Socks by J. Crew

Navy trousers are highly underrated. While khakis predominate summer style, and flannel the same for winter, they are often skipped altogether. However, they're actually perfect year round. Wear them exactly like you would a pair of jeans, although know they will impart significantly more class. You can get them in a mid-weight chino cloth, as shown above, or even in wool for the colder climes. Here they are perfectly at home with a casual yet sharp outfit, one that you could easily have on under a tan, navy or charcoal topcoat, wool cap and gloves. Navy trousers are also a perfect match for almost any color shoe, making them even more versatile in your wardrobe. They go well with a tan corduroy jacket like the one pictured here, a brown or gray wool jacket, or even a darker navy blazer. I finally purchased a new pair navy chinos recently, the very same ones from LL Bean you see above and I've been wearing them almost non-stop.

Fall/Winter Inspiration: Weekend Wear

All by LL Bean:
Waxed Cotton Down Vest: $89, OCBD Shirt: $34.50, Lambswool Cardigan: $79.50,
Ragg Wool Hat: $19.50, Merino Wool Scarf: $34.50, 1912 Flannel Chinos: $49.50
Boot Socks: $19.50, Allagash Bison Belt: $39.50, Bean Boots Moc: $64.00

Sometimes you get lucky and you have a day off from everything. On those sort of days you can relax and take your time. No rushing out the door tie half done, jacket half on and toast in mouth. On those sort of days you can also dress however you want. Comfort usually plays a large factor in how that all plays out. Most of us call this time the weekend, but for some of us, even a weekend can be work. So when everything happens to work out and you got nothing on the calendar, it's a great time to lounge around doing whatever is the opposite of what you usually do. You might find yourself spending the day in a plush chair doing the NY Times crossword, catching up on a TV show or a book, maybe even taking a nap. You might head out to the store for a good six pack and something to grill. On days like this I tend to reach for the basics: khakis, OCBD, sweater, mocs, etc. LL Bean is the perfect purveyor of relaxed and comfortable, something I believe so much I went with all Bean everything for this one. It's the perfect casual outfit: it looks good, it feels good, it is good.

Fall/Winter Inspiration: Tweed, Rugby, Flannel

Jacket by The Harris Tweed Shop
Rugby & Shirt by Brooks Brothers
Tie by Hillside, Socks by Woolrich
Shoes by Sperry, Trousers by Hackett
Bag by F. Rock, Belt by Leather Man Ltd.

I've been wearing a variation of this outfit nearly every weekend now, it's a classic look that can be replicated by everyone. It's a casual, comfortable look that is still unremarkably all-American. I really like how the tan tweed and gray flannel pants impart a grounded stylish foundation upon which to layer the rugby and OCBD. It's just the right amount of muted colors for the colder months without being so drab it blends in. The tie just barely peeks out of the rugby and adds a nice dandy element that you might not expect, use a bow-tie instead for some extra pop. The navy loafers tie in the navy in the rugby and are unusual enough to make most people look twice. The bag from F. Rock goes perfectly for any prep rig with classic wool and leather, perfect for campus or the office. I highly suggest this outfit to stand out on campus or around town while everyone else wears hoodies and jeans, let's take back the colder months and show them how it's done.

Fall/Winter Inspiration: The Purple Jacket

Shirt, Jacket, Pants, Socks, and Tie, all by Hackett London

Belt by Allen Edmonds, Shoes by Shipton and Heneage

Hat, Scarf, and Pocket Square by Fine and Dandy

Briefcase by Lotuff & Clegg

This episode of Fall/Winter Inspiration was brought about by my own take on this look that I've worn a couple of times now. I must say that it's quite the standout rig, bring it out if you really want to make a good impression. Initially I had an incredibly difficult time finding any purple jacket, however, while perusing the Hackett website for my Holiday Gift Guide, I came across the one you see above. The jacket, as well as the pants, are both needle cord, meaning a very thin corduroy that is quite frankly easily mistaken for velvet.

In the fall and winter I really like the look of variation on common colors, as it starts to tone down from the wild and varied bright colors of summer. The purple gingham shirt forms a solid base with the jacket, creating some uniformity and keeping it from appearing too bold. The pocket square and socks keep with the theme of the outfit but really up the dandy-quotient as well. For those not as daring, simple tan socks and pocket square will work as well.

The outfit is really tied together with the addition of the double monk strap shoes, briefcase, and scarf (the hat is really optional, I would go with it when the temperature really drops during the day). The shoes, bag and scarf plant the outfit firmly in the formal business category, ensuring this outfit remains incredibly crisp and upscale. I would wear this outfit to any business outing (where such an outfit would be acceptable), to a weekend lunch, out shopping in a high end district (trust me, dress up when shopping at a nice spot and they'll treat you like a king), or even just casually around town if you're really into being dandy and everything that goes with that sort of thing.

Wish List: Temple Laptop Briefcase

Laptop Briefcase, Temple, $478

This may look like every other canvas and leather briefcase you've seen recently, but there's something about this bag you may not have expected. All of the materials were sourced from vintage military duffel bags (some dating back to WWII). If you have to carry a briefcase everyday, there's no better way to escape from the potential tedium and conformity of having to do so than by carrying something that was at one point being used on the battlefield of major world wars.

The bag holds a 15" laptop, an ipad and an iphone, with an expandable magazine/book pocket and a document sleeve. Temple also has a great deal going on where if you buy one of their larger goods, like this briefcase, they'll throw in a wallet or iphone case as well. With it's rugged good looks and proven durable materials, this is one briefcase that is sure to stand the test of time and look better as it does so. Temple also has a great selection of bags and cases for just about anything you can think of, all made from those very same vintage sourced military duffel bags.

Holiday 2010 Gift Guide

The Holidays are undoubtedly a great time of the year, when everyone forgets what they were doing and gets together to have a good time (theoretically anyway, actual results may vary). But it can be a challenging time of year as well in deciding what to get everyone. Even if you know someone well it can be difficult to get them something they'll actually use. Luckily, there are some basics that everyone can use (as long as you know they don't already have it, no one wants that awkwardness).

Now, there are three tiers of gifts (if you didn't know), and it's important to know which level of gift you're going to give. The first tier is a gift for an acquaintance, a stocking stuffer, or something compatible with a larger gift. This gift is usually up to around $20, unless you're filthy rich and the polar opposite of Mr. Scrooge. The second tier is upping the ante and is usually the main gift for a family member or friend, there's no real dollar limit here, obviously since it depends on who the gift is actually for and how deep your pockets go. Typically, most people will spend up to or around $100 on these gifts however, so that's our price range here. The third tier is the top of the range gifts for your significant other, your parents, or your children. Who knows how much you're going to spend at that level, so I threw in some really interesting stuff you might want to take a look at.

Tier 1

Chambray Watch Strap, J. Crew $10

A watch strap is always a popular option to get someone, as it's a unique gift they will actually probably use. J. Crew offers up the cotton versions above and some nylon ones here as well. Works perfectly with any Timex or similarly sized watch and is a great compliment if you are also giving the person an actual watch. Of course, J. Crew would love to sell you their iteration.

Wool Cable Knit Boot Sock, Polo Ralph Lauren, $10.99

A pair of socks is a completely underrated gift. While we all loathed receiving them as kids, now that we're grown up I think it's safe to say we all enjoy a good pair of socks. This pair of wool socks from Polo have a vintage athletic look and work well with any sort of casual shoe. Indeed also a great side gift if you're giving them some actual boots (like the ones below).

Money Clip Wallet, Duluth Pack, $15

Chances are, we all know a big wallet guy. You know, the one who has a stack of receipts from the past five years crammed in there along with every gift and membership card he's ever accrued. Effortless Gent has written about the  slim wallet for Primer Magazine, and slimmer wallets seem to be popping up everywhere. There's no better gift for that guy than this wallet from Duluth Pack, it combines a money clip with a card holder to form the ultimate in slim and trim carrying.

Merino Lambswool Gloves, Dots, $20

Like a pair of socks, a pair of gloves is also an underrated gift. Especially these gloves that allow you to use your touch phone in cold weather. The wool for these gloves is sourced from the United Kingdom and is woven with conductive fibers in the finger tips that allows you to use a touchscreen without taking your gloves off.

Down Vest, Land's End, $24.50

The down vest is really the perfect gift, it works with nearly every outfit and is warm to boot. It's water and wind resistant with 600-fill down insulation. It also comes in ten different colors, although if you're giving it as a gift I would stick to navy, brown, gray, green.

Custom Surcingle Belt, Leather Man Ltd., $28

These canvas and leather surcingle belts are the perfect gift because they are customizable. Instead of picking one out, purchase a gift card and allow the recipient to design their own belt. It's an inexpensive and easy way to get someone something they're sure to like because they're the ones who pick out exactly what they get. It comes in enough colors and with enough design options, there's sure to be a perfect combination for everyone.

Stainless Steel Flask, Fine and Dandy Shop, $29

The flask is a gift you give to someone you know who has their own specific favorite drink. If your family member or friend only drinks small batch bourbon for instance, give them a flask like this, personalized with their initials along with a bottle of their favorite stuff. It's a surefire gift that's easy and won't disappoint.

Folding Hoof Pick Belt, SmartPak Equine, $29.95

The hoof pick belt is the coolest leather belt you could ever hope to own. It's a guaranteed conversation starter and something that really not many people even know about, much less have. This particular hoof pick is made from fine English bridle leather right here in the USA and the hardware is solid brass.

Tier 2

Tartan Watch Cap & Tartan Knit Muffler Pendleton Woolen Mills, $28 & $58

This knitted wool watch cap and muffler by the famous Pendleton company is sure to delight anyone as it is probably one of the best cap & muffler combos you can buy. Pendleton's wool is near bulletproof and warmer than sitting too close to the campfire. For this price, you really can't go wrong here. Goes perfect with the robe below if you know someone who is a blackwatch nut.

Scotch Plaid Flannel Robe, LL Bean, $49.50

Every guy could use a robe, although most of them don't know it. I'll admit I had never considered even buying a robe until I received one last year, now I wear it around the house all the time. This robe by LL Bean is made from Portuguese flannel and is combed on both sides for an incredibly soft feel and will keep you warm enough to lounge around the house or check the mail.

Vintage Marled Fleece Sweatshirt, J. Crew, $49.50

Heather gray is having a nice resurgence among the style minded, and for good reason, it's really the ideal sweater to carry you through Fall and Winter. Sure there are thousands of other options, colors, styles and materials, but a simple heather gray sweater goes with nearly everything and is the perfect layering piece to complete your ensemble. J. Crew offers up this athletically inclined sweatshirt, and be sure to check out the others linked to above.

The Nadurra, Glenlivet, $60

If you know a scotch drinker, buy them a bottle of this. Of all the scotch I've ever had, the Nadurra is one of my favorites. It's a single malt that is sure to please the most discerning of scotch drinkers yet also readily accessible to the beginner. Nadurra means "natural" in Gaelic, which is in reference to it being non-chill filtered and bottled at cask strength. I received a bottle last year for Christmas, and it's become my go-to scotch for special occasions.

Bean Boots, LL Bean, $84

Bean boots are really the perfect winter gift, especially for someone who lives in a place where the winters are harsh. They are made in Maine, as they have been for nearly a century. The bean boot hasn't really changed that much over time and is a testament to dedicated craftsmanship and quality control that only a company with Bean's reputation can provide. There are several styles and types of bean boots and Maine hunting shoes, however the 8" is the most classic of all of them. It can come with or without thinsulate liners and in either tan or brown. Heck, get a pair for yourself if you don't already have some, they'll last forever and see you through the toughest conditions you can think of.

Custom Tailored Goods, Tailor Store, From $50-$100

Another great custom option is to buy a gift certificate from Tailor Store, an online purveyor of custom made goods including dress shirts, polos and chinos. Instead of just buying someone a shirt, let them design their own. With a wide range of fabric choices and colors, the combinations are nearly endless. Even if the shirt isn't for yourself, it's still fun to play designer and put together some really nice garments.

A Year's Subscription to Netflix, $120

If you don't already have netflix, you're missing out. If you do have it, give the joy of endless streaming movies and shows for about the cost of your monthly cable bill. In fact, many people are canceling their cable service and going with netflix, at around $10 a month, you can't beat it.

Tier 3

Skull and Bone Velvet Slippers, Del Toro, $215

Del Toro isn't the first company to make velvet slippers, but they are quickly becoming one of the most notable. Yes, there are other brands offering similar slippers, but for the price, you're better off buying these. Lined in leather instead of silk, these slippers are more robust and can be worn around town without fear of fraying the lining. They are ideal for formal black tie events to show your dandy side, but also just as comfortable with jeans and a blazer. The jolly roger velvet slippers are a personal favorite, but there are several other designs available including the option to have yours custom embroidered with a monogram or other design. For more in depth information, check out their review from Sartorially Inclined.

Aston Martin Racing 1959 Bag, Leadenhall, $460

In 1959 Aston Martin won the world famous LeMans 24 hours race in it's famed DBR1 racer driven by none other than Carroll Shelby & Roy Salvadori. To commemorate that win, truly a thing of national pride for the England, Leadenhall created the Aston Martin racing bag. It's all leather and comes in traditional British racing green. It's not your average duffle bag, but with it's good looks and high-end pedigree it will take you and your goods anywhere you need to go with not only style, but comfort as well, knowing that your possessions are in such quality luggage.

Burris Cordovan Double Monk Straps, Mezlan, $199

Double monk straps are a pair of shoes that everyone should have. They've been endorsed here and elsewhere time and time again because they're the best pair of shoes you can own. They are, for the money, also the most versatile shoe you can buy. These double monk straps from Mezlan are made from cordovan leather, a very durable shoe material made from horse hide and are sure to last you longer than you need them to. They're also on sale, so act quickly.

Timeless Three Piece Charcoal Suit, Indochino, $399

Do you know a recent graduate? If so, there's no better gift to aid them in joining the working world than a classic charcoal suit. This three piece suit from Indochino is made to measure, just have them enter their measurements and the suit is delivered to them with a guaranteed perfect fit. The three piece is recommended, because while he won't want to wear the vest to an interview, after he gets the job, he will want to wear it around town to meetings with clients and the higher ups to show he has impeccable style and has his eyes on moving up the ladder.

Signature Grand Complication, Citizen, $1125

There are many fine watches to be had, and at many price points as well. But with incredibly fine watches comes a price, regular servicing that can sometimes cost almost 1/10 of the MSRP. That is set to change with the new Citizen Signature collection that runs on solar power and never needs a battery or servicing. Citizen has been making watches for close to a century now and is the largest watch company in the world with it's multiple subsidiaries. The Grand Complication boasts an amazing number of functions, to the level only seen on watches costing at least ten times as much. It's movement is hand-assembled, like all fine watches, and includes either a metal bracelet or an alligator  strap like the one shown here. They are sure to make a statement no matter where you go, in fact, GQ recently picked up on them. They are also relatively brand new, so there aren't too many on people's wrists yet. Note: If you're serious about buying this watch and can't find one, email me, I work for an authorized Citizen dealer.

The 714, Persol, $300

Arguably one of the most classic pairs of sunglasses you can buy, the Persol 714 is a symbol of elegance, class, style and quality all in one little package. Persol was one of the first companies to ever offer sunglasses, they've been around since 1917. They are made of some of the best materials you will find in sunglasses and are so durable it's not uncommon to find vintage pairs that are almost half a century year old. Also, Steve McQueen wore them all the time, and that's good enough for me. Note: I have a pair of persol eyeglasses, and they have been so good they are the only company I will buy glasses from in the future.

AR.Drone, Parrot, $299

One of the few non-style related items that made this list, the AR.Drone is one of the coolest things to come out in a while. It's a flying quadcopter that is remote controlled from your iphone/ipod touch/ipad. It has a front mounted camera that displays what's in front of it on your screen while hand gestures fly the copter itself. I've seen them firsthand and I can say it's probably also one of the best time wasters I've ever seen. If you get your hands on one of these, hours will be gone in an instant. If you have a friend or family member that is the technological person and has every gadget you can think of, get them this, it will blow their mind.

Quilted Biker Jacket, Hackett London, $470

This quilted biker jacket is reminiscent of a Belstaff jacket but with a more trim and refined English style. Made of durable yet soft polyester with leather trim, it's perfect for a cruise on your bike or just about any physical activity you can think of. It also looks smart with some gray flannel trousers or khakis, an OCBD and a knit tie.

Yearly Membership, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, $200
(from Gear Patrol, by way of Amateur Economist)

If gifting a bottle of scotch just isn't enough, purchase and gift a membership to The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. It invites the member into an exclusive club with access to purchasing rare scotch carefully selected and bottled by the society itself to ensure the best quality. There are also no labels denoting what distillery any of the scotch has come from, with the idea of removing any bias the member may have towards a certain brand. Renewals are only $60 a year and decrease $5 for every bottle of scotch purchased.

Smoking Jacket, Turnbull & Asser, Price Upon Request
(photo from A Suitable Wardrobe)

Undoubtedly the most expensive item on this list, the velvet smoking jacket by Turnbull & Asser is the pinnacle of refinement and character. Available in either a single or double frog button stance, it comes in black, red, green, burgundy and navy. This jacket is the ultimate gift for the discerning gentleman who enjoys nothing but the best in life.

Hopefully this gift guide gave you some new ideas on what to get the people on your list this year or perhaps even some stuff you would like to check out for yourself. Either way, Happy Holidays!