Tuesday, November 30, 2010

This is why you go to sales...

Picked up this sports jacket at a department store clearance a while back and just got it back from the seamstress (added a third button, but not before her vacation to China). The material is a grey herringbone with a maroon/navy check pattern over it. The cuffs are actually working cuffs and the lining in a fantastic purple on purple polka dot. I have been really into patch pocket sports coats recently as it seems to be a great way of saying "this is a sports coat, not a suit jacket sans the trousers". I am really pleased with this purchase and am already thinking of shirt and trouser combinations to wear with it. I had to shell out $5 to have the button hole added and button sewn on, but add that to the $35 cost of the jacket, and I am still ahead for my value I think. (And yes, you read it right, $35 smackers for this coat, very very very marked down) So, if any of you are in any doubt, here's proof that you can still grab a great deal (or steal) at clearance sales or department closeouts. With the upcoming chilly weather, this will make a great informal evening jacket for those nights out on the town when a suit isnt' required. Note to self, look into purple pocket squares....

Monday, November 29, 2010

Mad for Madras

Reeling from Black Friday sales, Cyber Monday, and the upcoming winter months, and what I am obsessing about? Madras. Yes, i know it's out of season and I wouldn't be able to wear it for 6 months, but I don't care. I have added to my list of things to get and that is a nice Madras sports jacket. I know that Madras isn't for everyone, and a lot of the time it conjours up images of anything but cool, but I have a feeling I can make it work. Now, before you say anything, patchwork Madras is right out, and what I am looking for is a nice fitted jacket with thin lapels and a nice dark blue or, preferably, green pattern.If it's tailored right, then it's going to be a great spring/summer sports jacket, trust me. The material is a good material and gets sold short a lot of the time, and in this case the jacket is going to be all about the details....as it always is. I am even considering covered buttons, side vents, and slanted pockets, but I may just have to settle with finding one and altering it. As always, I will keep You posted.

UPDATE. I was supposed to pick up sports coat today, but got side tracked. Should have tomorrow.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

New Shoes

Got a coupon for Macy's and went today to use it and get a good deal. So, of course, I didn't read the fine print and found out that my coupon was worth less that the paper ii was printed on and not valid towards 95% of the items they sold. Undaunted, I decided to have a look around and see if I couldn't find something else. I did notice that the Macy's online had an umbrella I liked, but not in the store itself it seemed. Anyways, I wandered into the shoe section and harassed the poor sales girl who was covering too many departments by herself, but she was very nice and attentive and helped me pick up these, a pair of super soft brown leather drivers. I have been looking for a pair at a decent price for a while, and thought they would look great in the spring/summer without socks. Simple design without any silly embellishments and actually quite comfortable. So, due to the sale, I got these at 50% off their already marked down price, so basically $24, not too bad if I say so myself.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Field Trip Part II

Ok, so Urban Outfitters trip was a bust. I would also like to take this time to say that the store in itself was a bust. First of all, they didn't have any of the things I went there to look at. Secondly, the "staff" was there in body only and couldn't care less why I was there, they seemed more interested in talking to each other than actually helping any of the customers. It really seemed to me that there were two types of people working there; the ones who stocked shelves, folded shirts, and walked into the backroom every five minutes, and then there was the cashiers who stood behind a counter and took your money. Anything else you had to do you yourself, and god forbid if you had a question. Lastly, the music being blasted in there was crap. Ok, now I know what you are thinking, old-man-itus, but I have an explanation. I realize they are catering to a different crowd with different tastes, but the music was still crap and it was being played loud. I am developing a theory on music in clothing shops, and that is, the louder the music, the crappier the clothes, I think it's a ploy to make you not concentrate on how bad the clothes really are. Don't get me wrong, I like music while shopping, but if I can't whisper to someone a foot away, then it's a shop I shouldn't be in. I have decided to stuff the J Press/UO clothing as all the reviews I am reading are stating that it's junk. It's a shame really and more of a mar on J Press' reputation than anything else.

UPDATES!
Called my seamstress and newest blazer should be finished Monday (apparently she made a trip to china the day after I dropped it off)

Cabana set is almost done (woman making it suffered an accident, will be making her cookies and dog treats for her canine co-pilot "chip")

Tattersaw vest is in the works, Rachel got me sewing lessons for birthday and met with instructor, will be attempting to make a vest for first project. Ultimate goal is trousers.

Black Friday sales! I might be at the malls tonight at midnight to see whats new, needing an umbrella and leather satchel and found some that might work. Also a good time to just rake in deals on consumables! So socks, underwear and everything in between. Might want to consider braving the crowds!

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Field Trip

So, in a round about way, i found out that J Press, longtime clothiers, are doing a line for Urban Outfitters for some unknown reason. I took a look at UO's website and viewed the limited wears. All in all I was not too interested, but there was a nice navy flannel blazer complete with brass button, hook vent, and J Press label. It's a high three button affair with patch pockets and doesn't look half bad. The price is reasonable (for J Press that is) so it has peaked my interest. However, it's also the low price that has me concerned. I am not too sure if this is going to be on par with the rest of their items since is a lower cost Urban Outfitters item. While on their site, i also found a pair of shoes that they call "jazz shoes", which are just a pair of soft leather oxfords with a super low heel, which is right up my alley. Since I have the good fortune of living in the same town as an Urban Outfitters, I am thinking that a field trip is in order. My plan is to go take a look and report back to you good people. Since the store is right across from UT, I think tomorrow will be my best bet as most the campus will be closed due to Thanksgiving. Should have more tomorrow.

P.S. UO wasn't letting me grab any pics to post here to let you see, but you never know if one of these things might follow me home...

Busy doing nothing

Haven't posting anything in a bit due to being a little busy around here, but obviously nothing to show for it online. I will make those changes promised soon, I...well...I promise. Anyways, in the meantime, the weather here has been teetering on brisk and warm. On occasion I have been able to wear a sweater or light jacket, but only to have to revert to a short sleeve shirt or knit the next day. Here's a "cooler" weather ensemble; as it was actually chilly enough to warrant it, I wore a light vintage turtleneck in a pea green color, a off white London Fog vintage golf jacket, Levi's 514 cords in a nice dark brown, and a wide brown leather belt with a full buckle. (shoes were brown suede). Very very daytime casual, but still managing something better than cargo shorts and a hoodie, blech. The more I wear the 514's, the more I am being sold on them, going to try some of their jeans soon. The jacket I have is unlined and very simple, mostly for keeping out the wind and not much else. The turtleneck i recall getting as a lot of two, there was a white one as well, but having trouble figuring out how to pull that one off. All in all I think the colors all work well with each other and look good (if I may say so myself). If you disagree, feel free to email me so I can read it and then delete it.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Fall classics

So the wind is picking up and the temperature is dropping just enough to warrant something more than the usual shirt.As I felt the cool breeze today I couldn't help be feel the need to mention to classic items of British clothing that look as stylish today as the day they were introduced. I'm talking of the Baracuta G9 Harrington and Clarks desert boots. The G9 is a short sports style jacket with elastic cuffs, slash pockets, and the iconic tartan lining. It's been worn by everyone from Elvis to Steve McQueen, and of course Mods, since it's introduction. Great lightweight jacket to keep out the breeze and look stylish while doing it. The G9 is the classic style that comes in a myriad of colors, with "sand" still topping the charts. As for the Clarks, I have personally gone through a few pairs in my time and enjoyed everyone one. (word of advice, avoid the rain and mud) They are comfortable, smart, and make a great combo with the Harrington. Once again, "sand" tops the list of colors, but next time around I will be getting the dark brown suede. The design has not changed since it's debut, and it's a brand that had stood the test of time for a reason. So, if you are looking to update your wardrobe for the fall weather, give these two some consideration. I know I always do.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Wraparounds

I was going through my jewelry box the other day when I noticed a pair of cufflinks that seem to have fallen out of favor over the years, but I feel are due for a come back. Now, having said that, I know that there are groups of people that these style of cufflinks have never left the hearts of, but I am talking more of the everyday Joe and not the sartorial fanatic. These cufflinks are basically very similar to all the other style you would see in the stores today, except for the metal mesh band traveling from one side to the other. If this added feature serves any purpose other than decorative, then I am unaware of it. One of the things I really like about these links are the fact that they aren't worn that much any more and actually for the weight they add. Last time I wore these out I received several compliments and was convinced that they were still a nice touch to any mans jewelry collection. Links such as these cans till be found in the occasional shop around town, but your best bet is to look online. Of course, with all things, you get what you pay for. Some cufflinks can be had for a reasonable price, and some for an obscene price tag. You are either paying for quality or a name, I always say to pick quality over a name. Of course, on the other side of the spectrum, there are cheap cufflinks to be found as well, but remember, that's all they are, cheap cufflinks. A quality set of cufflinks will be treasured for man many years and will always be a good investment.

Candid camera

At home with the dogs, but still managing. White DNA Groove long sleeve button down, burgundy merino wool v-neck sweater, grey prince of wales pattern trousers with burgundy and black. Finished off with black socks and black square toed loafers and the look is brought together. The burgundy in the trousers were successfully brought out by the sweater while the shirt and shoes were a nice contrast. The weather was finally cool enough to wear a sweater with doing just that, sweating. Trying to plan more with sweaters as the temperature finally falls. The goal is to have a smart, causal look through the day that can be easily put together.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Keep it simple

I wore this the other day and thought I would post. Even though you are lounging around the house, you can still look stylish without looking like you spent the better part of an hour putting it together. I had this knit shirt from Ban Lon that I got of eBay a few years back for some small sum, the trousers I had made a while back as well, and the loafers were actually a pair of Arnold Palmer shoes that I got at a clearance sale for chump change. Inexpensive yet eye catching. A quick look on eBay and varied vintage stores will turn up old knits such as this like you wouldn't believe, just be sure to try it on, look for holes, cuts, or pulls in the fabric as most of these are acrylic or polyester. Also, having clothes made is not as expensive as you would think, especially now with the Internet being such a great commerce tool. As for the shoes, well, let's just say you should NEVER discount a sale just because it's in a store you would never go to. Take full advantage of going out of business or holiday sales, sign up for email discounts, and even shop out of season, and you'll eventually find a handful of fantastic deals that make it all worth it. Eventually I would like to add a section on being stylish on a budget, or at least tips for being frugal with your wardrobe dollar. (providing I get enough feedback to do so, so if you would, use that comment button or feel free to email)

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

There's nothing manly about a man-purse

But on occasion, you do need a bag for various reasons; such as a day at the beach or off to a weekender away from it all. In that case, I highly suggest you pick up a decent flight bag. These used to be passed out like candy during the 50's and 60's from every airline there was. Do you want to look like a metrosexual courier? Or would you rather look like a man about town that's on the move? Rock stars carried them, movie stars carried them, why even Williams carried one on Enter the Dragon right before he karate chopped the cops, and how cool was he? Here's the best news, these are readily available on eBay for fairly cheap and you can have choices of airlines, also there is a website for an outfit called Inretro that makes new ones if that's your bag. Of course, I am a fan of the BOAC bags, but the TWA and PAN AM ones are looking pretty cool as well. With so many options, you can pick and choose to your liking. Now don't get me wrong, I am not saying to carry one of these all the time, as no man should carry that much with him every day, but if you do have that special occasion, here's a cheap  and infinitely cooler alternative to the man purse.

P.s. In case you wanted to have a look......  http://www.inretro.net/

Monday, November 8, 2010

I need my meds

I've gone insane and need to be medicated. Well, that's only half true..I choose to be medicated. This is a little off the mark for me, but I wanted to show this off in an effort to let you know that it's pays to be a little crafty from time to time. Every now and again, I go to my parents and I am sent home with some sort of garage sale find that ranges from "completely awesome" to "hoarders would throw this out". One of the items (that ran closer to the hoarders end of the spectrum) was a little silver and chrome metal box that housed a travel razor. The razor was a novelty at best and not really suitable for shaving anything, ever. However, I thought that the little case it came in was pretty neat. It was solid, well made, and closed tight with a little spring latch. So, I chucked out the razor and it's components, removed the plastic housing inside, made a short trip to the hobby store and here's what I made, a nifty little pill box. Until recently, i had been toting my self prescribed meds in a little blue and red capsule made to look like a large pill, not exactly flying under the radar, but it worked. Now I have something that almost looks, dare I say it, classy? I really like that the inside of the lid is highly polished to an almost mirror like state. I think the green liner makes a nice contrast as well, don't you?

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Double breasted psych suit

So, first trial of the new camera. I recently got this new suit off eBay of all places for a reasonable price I feel. It's 60's double breasted suit with a high buttoning small crossover. It's a nice grey color with a very light dark burgundy and black check pattern. The trousers have unique slash pockets that are actually inset into the fabric and do not follow a seem. It fits like a glove ( a very tight glove) but it's due time I lost some weight, so it will work out well. I like the fact that I can make some subtle changes on how I wear this and it will change the feel of it. I can go with a plain white shirt and tie and it will have a very stylish, yet formal business look. Or I can wear a thin turtleneck or perhaps a shirt with a cravat and it's a more psychedelic feel to it. The one thing I don't think I can get away from is that i will definitely need a pair of proper Chelsea boots to wear with this suit. I'm thinking a good pointed toe, low heel and a nice smooth black leather. I like the look of the Cuban heel, but it's not something I can pull off, sadly. I am thinking a nice red or burgundy (to match the check) for any tie or cravat.....any other suggestions?

New Camera!

Got it in last night, battery charge, SD card formatted. Expect another post today with pics and several more as the week goes on. Woot!

Friday, November 5, 2010

Forgot to post!

Went to a friends wedding not too long ago and this picture was snapped. Blue mohair suit with white button down with french cuffs. Vintage tie bar and cuff link set, CK tie and a burgundy pocket square (out of sight) with four points showing. Full silver buckle on a black leather belt and black chisel toe shoes (also out of sight). Love this suit as it fits like a glove and the material is beautiful! Anyways, thought I would share.

Also, the weather here is actually tapering off and a slight chill is off and on during the day so I have a bit of advice for you guys and that is to pick up some chapstick if you don't already have some. They are super cheap and come in a myriad of flavors, so you can throw one in your car, once around the house, and one to take with you. You don't want to be the cracked lip guy, plus not deal with the discomfort. You'll thank me later. So, if  you are planning a trip out of the house for groceries or anything else, slap that on your list to pick up.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Costume change.

So, obviously you know what I wore yesterday during the day, but we went out that night for a dual birthday celebration and I needed to change, of course. I have been wanting to wear the green and navy boating blazer form quite some time and I used this as an excuse. I mated that with a pair of mohair navy trousers, brown square toe shoes with matching hue socks, and a brown belt with full buckle. I also went with a simple DNA white shirt with barrel cuffs and a button down collar. Surprisingly enough, I received several compliments on the coat, from friends, friends of friends, and complete strangers who simply wanted to express how much they liked the jacket. Needless to say I was pretty chuffed. The only complaint I would have is that after adding the third button to the jacket, the lapels don't sit properly, but it's nothing a little time with a steam iron can't resolve. AND, as I was out, i was asked if I had a pen.....so I just wrote about how I needed one and the situation comes up the next night I go out. I think I am definitely on the right track. I dug up an old photo of the blazer to show in case you don't feel like searching back through previous posts. By the way, still waiting on feedback on anything you would like reviewed, discussed, or explained on here. Feel free to email me and I'll reply back as soon as possible!

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Lion about town.

I have a few errands to run this afternoon and the weather is not exactly sun shiny today. It's overcast and drizzling rain, so I want something to keep me warm. Today I am wearing a rust colored sweater I got from a vintage store last week, as I am not sure on the material, I am going to guess alpaca. Needless to say, I love the fuzzy quality of it, but not so much the itchiness. In order to combat the itches, I am wearing a long sleeve button down I got from a department store close out, nice white with blue, light blue, and emerald green checks. Finish it off with black mohair trousers, corduroy bowling shoes and some rust colored socks to tie it all together. I am fairly happy with the outfit with my only complaint being that the cuffs on the shirt are a bit large, so I will move the buttons over and have a nicer fit. Until then, stay warm and dry.

Note to self....must get umbrella.

P.S. new Camera is one state away and should be receiving something special in mail today.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Always be prepared.

Still a good lesson to be learned even if you weren't in the Boy Scouts. Part of being the dandiest lion on your street is to be always be prepared. Granted, you don't need a utility belt of accessories when you head down to the post office or to the liquor store for a bottle, but certainly when you go for an evening out for cocktails or perhaps a day out at the races. I find there area few items that are not necessarily indispensable, but are nice to have and certainly set you apart for the next guy. One thing I am considering carrying out with me for anything involving a suit or sports coat is a nice pen set. No, I am not talking the Skolnick special of 43 pens and pencils crammed in your shirt pocket. I am talking a nice chrome pen and pencil set Ala Cross. How many times have you asked the barkeep if they had a pen? Meet that special somebody on a night out, what better way to leave your number than to write it down? How cool will you look marking your racing form when you dive into you inside jacket pocket to produce your own pen? Also, you can pick up a set on eBay for fairly cheap, or with the holidays coming up, most of the department stores have little gift sets that are reasonable priced. So, there's no real reason to not be prepared. I am eyeing a few sets now, and will of course post once they are in my possession. And for anyone who cares, I bought my new camera and it should be delivered shortly, so there will be posts galore with pictures coming as soon as that arrives!