nice suit

Freemans Sporting Club does a lot of things right. The food, the barbershop, and the clothing are all spot on. Fall is here and Winter is just around the corner. Be prepared. Everyone needs a good solid suit for the colder months. And there's nothing like a three piece Donegal grey suit, right ladies? Handmade in New York from 100% deadstock English Donegal, this could easily be the only Fall/Winter suit you need.. 

The Machinist shirt is another gem from Freemans. Short loomed Japanese cotton paired with Italian mother of pearl buttons makes it an obvious choice for adding to your closet. The button on the upper sleeve to keep it rolled up for doing all that hard work we do is a great detail. 

Don't fall into thinking you can only wear a suit as nice as this formally. I'd even wear it with the Machinist shirt and those Alden Roy boots from Context for a nice look. 

nice parka

The changing seasons haven't gone unnoticed by yours truly. Solid parkas are a necessity where I'm from and often times have little to do with style. Survival is key when you're trudging to school in February, dodging snowballs, and trying not to slip on ice covered sidewalks. A good parka helps you enjoy the beauty that is winter. Living in the midwest has garnered me quite the collection over the years of nylon, quilted, and down stuffed parkas. That doesn't mean I don't notice a good thing when I see it.

The first photo is part of the amazing Nigel Cabourn collection. Inspired by the first ascent of Everest, Mr. Cabourn's collection is as meticulously constructed as it is aesthetically appealing. The Mountain Rucksack Parka is certainly one of my favorites this season. I love wool and the hop-sack style wool outer is choice. The term 'investment piece' is bandied about a lot these days, but I do think that this is such a piece. I especially love the built in rucksack on the back in a contrast color. Check out Oi Polloi for more detailed shots. 

The second jacket is the CW Corona Parka from Woolen Mills by Woolrich. This is probably one of the more perfect parkas I've seen in awhile. The knee length helps cut down on wintry winds, while the fur lined canvas outer keeps you warm and dry. I also really like that the lining is removable-I always end up wearing the lining of parkas a lot. Also available at Oi Polloi. 

So grab yourself a good coat and go snowshoeing this winter-it's a great way to enjoy a fresh blanket of snow...

nice bag

It's no secret that I'm a giant fan of Billykirk leather goods. My cardholder has been a faithful friend all throughout my trip in China. I think the construction and aesthetic are spot on and will never go out of style. While no one can argue about the craftsmanship or quality, some may have a hard time scrounging up a few hundred bucks for a bag, even though they're totally worth it (I suggest getting into the lucrative game of blogging-we're all millionaires now, right?). Needless to say, I was surprised when I saw this Brothers Bray tote by Billykirk for Urban Outfitters. At $88, you can't really beat it. I kind of wish it dropped before I left for China; it'd be perfect. Get it for yourself or for your girl (I bet if you get it for yourself, she'll 'borrow' it for extended periods of time). Or, tell your sugar momma you really need it.

Brothers Bray for Urban Outfitters

While you're at it, check out the Billykirk site.

nice fall gear

I know it's the middle of July, but I've got fall fever. Having lived in the midwest my whole life, I've developed an addiction to sweaters and jackets. I'm pretty sure fall/winter is going to be pretty epic for the fellas this year.

This wings+horns mk2 field jacket is technically from last season. Buying last fall's gear now is a pretty good bet. Especially when that bet is as sure as a jacket from wings+horns. This is the jacket that never makes it back into the closet, it's that heavy into the rotation. Get it at blackbird.

Gitman Bros. shirts are back with a vengeance. This is my favorite from the fall collection so far. From what I hear, they're going like hot cakes already. Blackbird has them too.

The Malone pant by Woolrich is perfect if you walk even one block during the winter. Gray with a subtle check, these pants will keep you warm and look great with boots as you trudge through the snow. Plus the suspender buttons make them even cooler. Get them at various hunting/outdoor supply stores.

photo: jake davis

Russel Moccasins for J. Crew. I love all three. I guarantee these sell out insanely fast. Which ones do you guys like? I'm feeling the low tops for sure, but the buckled boot would be perfect for the snow and for motorcycle riding...

nice jackets

Maybe it's just me, but when it's 90 degrees out I seem to want to wear jackets and sweaters, and when it's 40 below I want a nice pair of seersucker shorts. These jackets have been calling my name. The only thing holding me back is I know if I bought them now, I'd end up being way too tempted to try and wear them. The only thing worse than sunglasses at night/indoors is wearing clothing that will give you heatstroke because it makes you look cool.

I've only seen a handful of fishtail parkas that I think could work. I found this one through Mono magazine. Mono is a Japanese magazine, so all I know about this jacket is it costs 14,490 yen and it's called the M-51 field parka. That and if she notices the fishtail it means she was checking out your rear end. Check it out here.

I have a moonstone jacket. I really like it because it's extremely light and really packable. It's perfect in a lot of situations. You can wear it as a middle layer underneath a shell or on it's own. I always end up wearing mine way too deep into the winter. It's a great 'sprint to the car from your front door or you'll die of hypothermia' jacket. Get it at your favorite camping/outdoor store. I like REI.

Saved the best for last. The boys over at h(y)r pointed this Albam jacket out. The madras print is sweet-just make sure it's a slimmer fit-a baggy fit with a print like this could lead people to confuse you for a couch. I love the hood too. I never really pull my hoods up, but I think a good hood always adds to your silhouette. I also have a sneaking suspicion that your girl would add this to her steal from your closet list. Buy it here.

nice gear

I really like this shirt/jacket by Post Overalls. The Cruzer shirt could be worn as a single layer or as a lightweight jacket. I heard from a little birdy that girls like to steal their boyfriends' jackets and blazers to wear as oversized looks. If your girl stole this from your closet I bet all the hipsters in the world would hit on her...It's on sale at superdenim.

Chambray is a popular guy lately. This waistcoat by Kato is really nice. Plus, girls like guys who wear three piece suits and what not. Rock this over a nice white oxford and a good pair of chinos or denim- we can't all wear three piece suits around everywhere. Again, on sale at superdenim.

Of course I'm going to put the new standards on here. The color is dark enough to work with a chambray shirt (or vest) without looking too much like a texas tuxedo (or canadian tuxedo depending on which one you're closer to). Get them at the h(y)r store.

These Fracap mountaineering boots are awesome. Everybody's on the Red Wing tip, but for me, these would be the boots I'd buy. Get them at Oki-ni quick.

nice shoes

I love Clarks. There is nothing more comfortable than a crepe sole for walking through the city or taking a quick hike in the park. I have owned a lot of shoes, but I always go back to Clarks. 

I started with the wu-wallabee. Everyone in the day rocked these, kids in catholic school to the guys that kicked in the brewsters. I blew out my last pair, so I don't currently own a pair, but whenever I get around to it, they will be in this color. 

I owned a pair of luggers once. Every time I find a store that carries them, they aren't in my size. Everyone's been on the whole mocassin tip lately, but I like these more than quoddys. 

Desert Treks are my favorite. I've been wearing my pair off and on for the past few years. The beeswax leather just gets better looking the more you wear it. Unlined and at a nice height, perfect for the summer. I plan on taking these to China at the end of this summer. 

i'm not suicidal, i just can't get out of bed

Arlo just posted a preview of gost's summer line. I'm really feeling the racing team tee. Because, really, you can't win them all. That and when I was little, my dad was really into cycling. He has a peugeot and he rode all the time. 

 

The happy melancholy of Arlo's work really stands out in the t-shirt game. Maybe it's my inner misanthrope, but it always makes me smile. 

I really like this tank too. If you don't have the gunshow to pull it off, I bet your girl would look amazing in it with a pair of skinny jeans...

check it out on the gost brand blog. 

nice shirt

So before this blog turns into complete sycophancy, I promise I'll keep it cool on the praise for the h(y)r collective crew. But I really do think that if you're in the market for a shirt this season, THE oxford by h(y)r and Gitman Bros. is the one to get. Gitman Bros. are known for their quality and workmanship-they also make shirts for Thom Browne. I really like the high gusset on this cut. A higher gusset normally looks better when worn untucked. This shirt could easily become the shirt that never really leaves your rotation year-round. If funds were unlimited, I'd cop all 3 colorways. But if you put a gun to my head, I'd pick the gray. But it's a tough one between gray and red.  

The best window into someone's sense of style is always in the details. For me, small subtle details are the way to go. The red contrast stitching on the back of the collar is so choice. Now, when you step in front of her to open the door she'll notice that you have discerning taste, and it may just make her smile.  

Seriously, girls really like oxfords. I think. I'm pretty sure. A solid oxford may be the closest thing to girl-kryptonite. It's not going to completely win her over (even with kryptonite Lex Luthor never won), but it does make it that much more possible. And we could use all the help we can get. 

For more detailed shots and sizing info go here.

Get them at Roden Gray, Nom de Guerre, or Tres Bien. 

nice read

It's no secret here that I'm a huge fan of h(y)rcollective and all they do. The daily blog is probably the best practical mens' wear blog out there. Ryan always presents wearable, relevant options at all sorts of price points. On top of it all, they have good taste.

The real highlight is THE magazine. Especially this edition. For sure a great read for anyone interested in fashion in general. The interview with the designers behind Ralph Lauren's Rugby line is really interesting. To hear designers' real feelings on blogs is certainly a must read. Another favorite was the feature on Red Wing shoes and a tour of their factory. I could go on and on.

Make sure to check it out for more info on THE duffel too. An interview with the designer as well as more insight into how the bag was created. There's only 25 of these beauts. So if you want one, you better move fast. For a limited edition,hand made bag, $300 bucks isn't so bad.

Also highlighted is THE oxford by Gitman Bros. This is the shirt you drop hints about around anyone who remotely may give you a present in the near future. Say you're out shopping with your girlfriend. You'll say things like: "You know what every guy needs? A good oxford. Which is hard to come by these days..." Then just trail off wistfully. A few hours later, at dinner, bring it up subtly again: "A solid oxford is the male equivalent of a little black dress. You can dress it up under a suit with a tie, or wear it with denim." If you don't think they're getting the hint, just hurry up and buy it yourself, they're gonna go quick too. For my two cents, this is the shirt to get this season.

I'm really excited to see that the h(y)r crew are opening a store and branching out into making product. It's good to see their focus is almost entirely on construction, materials, and usability. They are making stuff that you could keep for a long time. Jump over to their spot and let them know what you think.

nice bag

My family used to tease me that I had way too many sweaters and bags for my own good. Perusing my stash, yes, they are right. How I know I have a problem? I know I have too many and I still want more. The guys over at H(y)r Collective aren't making things any easier. Although ryan has been a little coy with us, from what I can glean, THE collection by (y) is looking like a heater. Their first preview is this duffel. Sourced almost entirely in Vancouver, the duffel is hand made by Tannis Hegan with 10 oz. canvas, brass hardware, and leather straps. Available at a who's who of men's boutiques: roden gray, nom de guerre, nomad, and tres bien. At $290, I guarantee it goes quickly.

The one thing that is readily apparent about the h(y)r crew is their good taste and demand for strong construction and quality materials. If I got one bag for traveling, this would be it. Perfect for carry-on, ideal for those top secret documents you romanced away from that kgb agent.

nice denim

It's no secret that mall powerhouses like the Gap and J.Crew were, for a little while, well, a little bland. I never really was into the Gap brand (especially after they murdered banana republic-remember when it was all Hemingway and safari?) and J.Crew was a popular choice in high school. Both brands have recently shown signs that they are really stepping their games up. J. Crew with redwing collaborations and a refocus on quality material (selvage chambray shirts for $98 anyone?). Now the Gap brings us a resurgence of their '1969' premium denim line. Normally this means expensive jeans that aren't really much different than their regular line. Not so this time you jaded hipster. Medium-weight raw selvage denim? For around 60 bucks? 60 bucks?! Check out men's style for more info on the new denim. 

For some bloggers out there, it's no secret that I lament the dearth of diffusion lines for men. H&M, topshop, uniqlo, etc. all normally have a whole slew of pretty cool designers for their womens' collections. But now I'm happy us guys don't get the same treatment. I'd rather get raw denim, quality linen, chambray, and other materials at my mall stores. I think if that's what qualifies as 'disposable' fashion for men, then I can't really complain, can I?

nice shirts

Steven Alan makes good shirts. Although a tad rich for my blood, I always keep an eye out for a good sale (like the one a little birdy told me about at barney's co-op on Monday). I dare you to find a better madras out there. The reverse-stitching thing is cool, but really I'm all about the tailoring and the patterns. Slightly slimmer fitting, these shirts look good with denim or a suit. My pick is the madras, although you can never go wrong with a good solid plaid. I say always opt for the long sleeve and roll it up.

 

nice bags

Everyone needs a good bag. Canvas is probably the best natural material ever. Many thanks to A Continuous Lean for pointing out Beckel Canvas Products. Based out of Portland, Oregon Beckel makes really cool stuff. Everything from tents to tote bags and all of it at really reasonable prices. I think as bloggers we can get desensitized to price points, but really you can't beat a tote bag for twenty bucks. Especially 100% American made-buy one and help the economy! 

I see a lot of dudes rocking totes on the old interwebs. But I bet your girl would like it a whole lot too. All you diy-ers could go to town on the blank canvas. 

Every guy needs a good duffel. Great for a weekend getaway or smuggling top secret codes on the Orient Express. 

This is my favorite of the bunch. Called the 'briefcase' I like that it zips closed, that way I don't have to worry about rain or pickpockets. 

nice suit

A.P.C. brought the heat for their Spring/Summer collection for sure. I really want this suit. The grey is spot on and the slim fit is a nice change, especially for a summer suit. I don't know if it's lined or not, I'm hoping not-it would be so much more comfortable once the humidity starts to rise. 

A.P.C. online store

nice summer gear

Once again, Monocle  brings it. The yellow shorts are great. I have a light blue pair, but I think yellow would look great with a blue oxford, or even a chambray shirt. The gingham blazer is a great look too especially in the sea of plaids we've been flooded with lately. I never really think about pairing  shorts with jackets, only because once I'm wearing shorts regularly, it's too hot to wear a jacket. 

nice shoes

I've been looking for a good pair of brogues for a little while now. Although I've publicly drooled over these for long enough, really they're a poor replacement for my dad's. He's had these shoes forever (at least as long as I've been alive). There are few objects that always will remind me of my dad and these are two of them. 

I love the way these shoes have worn. You might be able to buy pre-distressed leather, but it'll never look this cool.  Nothing goes better with a beautiful date than a grey suit and brown brogues. 

nice books

I always love inspecting people's bookshelves. It's like stepping into their brain. Here are just a few of my favorite reads. 

My b.a. advisor J.Z. Smith introduced me to Ernst Cassirer my second year at chicago and I was a fan ever since. I spent a lot of time with The Philosophy of Symbolic Forms vol.2  in 2004. 

W.E.B. Du Bois was probably one of the smartest americans ever. If you are over 15 and haven't at least skimmed this book, shame on you. 

Franny and Zooey will always have a special place in my heart. I love the way Salinger described people and situations. I don't think dialogue gets much better either.  The Glass family has enthralled me for my entire life. I am nearly 27 years old and I still want to marry Franny Glass and smoke cigarettes in the bathtub like Zooey. 

Salinger is also probably one of the reasons I didn't get into Northwestern too. At least if you ask me. I blew my admissions interview. Hardcore. I had an interview with the head of admissions at Northwestern. He asked me who my favorite authors were. I replied "Salinger, Thompson Greene, and London." He said, "And your favorite amongst them?" "Salinger", I said quickly and confidently. "Isn't that a bit obvious?" he asked. 

It was at this point that I asked him who his favorite author was. It was Melville and Moby Dick. I told him that that it was funny that a middle-aged man's favorite book was  about a self-destructive quest for the unattainable. Then I told him Bartelby, the Scrivener was a better story. Needless to say, I got the little envelope from Evanston, Illinois. 

Franny and Zooey is also why I read the last book in this group. The Way of a Pilgrim. It's about a pilgrim who endeavors to learn how to pray incessantly and what his journeys teach him. Franny reads it in the novel and when I found out it was a real book, I could not resist. It's kind of tough to get through, but it is pretty interesting and is sort of a must read for Salinger fans, no?

Spring is coming. Grab a book and go read outside. I heard girls like guys who can read. 

nice jeans

A good pair of jeans will never let you down. Like a good best friend, they're with you for all the terrible life choices as well as the good ones. Just treat them right and they'll never complain about all the gross stuff you make them sit in after a few cold sodas. 

The Nom de Guerre classic fit jean is perfect. Wear them until your girlfriend who normally never questions your wardrobe ever so subtlety tells you to wash them or she will never talk to you again.

 

Everything is spot on with these jeans. The beautiful girl who always stands out at the party? She doesn’t have to tell you she’s beautiful does she? Branding is in quality and style. NDG always stands out in a crowd without being loud or ostentatious. 

The one thing to remember about denim is it doesn't matter who made it or what Japanese mill wove it unless it fits you. I have a sneaking suspicion that girls notice if a guy's pants fit him. Keep it like the buddha-not too baggy not too tight. Leave the blown out jeans to the young guns and the cigarette jeans to the girls with nice legs. 

nice spring/summer gear

Spring is certainly on its way. Time for you hipsters to break out those fixed gears and hot new kicks. Personally, I think I'm more of a single-speed guy. I like to coast a little in life sometimes. 

I always hesitated getting Supreme  gear because I never really skateboarded and couldn't shake the feeling that I was posing. I would rock this tank though. Simple and sweet. The Supreme crew has been pushing weight for a long time now. Plus it's cooler than rocking the same americanapparel one as everyone else.  

Shorts are still hard to come by, but this pair from wings+horns are a great option. Wool shorts are a nice change from all the chinos and denim. Wear them with a t-shirt or with an oxford. Sneakers or those brogues I want. The slim trend for shorts definitely gets cosigned. Just keep the cargo pockets off and the inseams a healthy length.  Nobody likes booty shorts on their man. 

Another closet find. These nike oregon waffle racers are my favorite sneaker. I like to think Pre rocked a pair quite like this. I first got them at a random shop in Montreal on Ste. Catherine. They had tons of them for like 20 dollars a pair. I should've bought a bunch, since they're kind of hard to come by now. Especially the green and yellow colorway. These are my second pair, the first pair aren't really fit for photographing anymore. If you find these in an eleven, I'll be your best friend forever.