Shawl Collar Cardigan from Grayer's: Things I Want

It's getting cold and that always means time for sweaters... so I went to look at the offerings from Grayer's, one of my favorite new brands. And given my penchant for anything shawl collar, it was no surprise this caught my eye.

Their Blair Shawl Collar Cardigan, cotton/poly blend, not only sports a shawl collar, but is double breasted as well. An opportunity to wear it casually (as shown) or dress it up with a shirt and tie, and wear it as a sort of blazer. Give it a try!

More Grayer's available here... 

Cashmere Blazer from Eidos: Things I Have

I've been waiting for a while for Eidos, the new label from uber-luxe Italian company Isaia. Helmed by a Michael Bastian alum, Creative Director Antonio Ciongoli has a sophisticated yet approachable point of view, and a price point that is a bit easier to swallow than it's brother brand.

So it was with a lot of excitement that I stopped into Carson Street Clothiers last week and fixed my attention on the rack of gorgeous cashmere blend blazers. 

I tried on this deep green one first and fell in love. Beyond the obvious softness of the fabric, the soft shoulder silhouette and front pockets help keep it a little more casual. 

After a few nips from the tailor I was ready to throw it on for a California wedding and felt like a pro. Highly recommend you stop by Carson Street to see the goods in person (and they just launched MTM suiting), or peruse their website. 

Osklen Fall 2014: Things I Love

So I've been a fan of Osklen ever since my first trip to Brazil. I would walk into their store on Oscar Freire in Sao Paulo and feel transported... the scents, the sounds, the feel of the clothes. As a result I've been made some great purchases (including a one-off enormous leather duffel created for their runway show) along the way. 

For Fall '14 the brand has gone full force with color, and I love it. Staying true to the casual meets luxury core of the brand, yet updated with a strong punch of vibrancy through the color and prints being used.

I loved this look with the green on green, and the wide neck sweatshirt. 

Already owning a number off white/off-white pieces from Osklen, I thought the combination of this collared shirt with a slick pair of pants presented a sophisticated look.

A simple use of black and white, but something that stands out, stays true to the brand, and is definitely something I would wear for summer (north of the equator that is).

Overall a strong continued showing from Osklen and I can't wait to shop their Soho store once this collection arrives. Full images at Fucking Young!

Orange Pullover Anorak from Filson: Things I Want

Over the weekend I was in Atlanta and had the pleasure of stopping by Sid Mashburn. The one, the only. While the trip was meant to shop for others and not myself (in which I was strangely successful), I did spot a fantastic piece of outerwear that I'd love as Fall approaches.

This pullover anorak from Filson, when styled with the blue gingham shirt (and in my case finished out with some wool pants and Gucci loafers), definitely came across as a more stylish piece of rain gear.

I loved how many pockets there were, and the adjustable cuffs would definitely come in handy for layering.

While I couldn't find this piece on the Sid Mashburn site, it's easy to find if you're in Atlanta and go into the store. Otherwise Filson's website stocks it in two colors (although I prefer the more unusual orange).

Todd Snyder Spring 2014: NYFW Review

It's no secret I am a big fan of Todd Snyder (and not just because I was able to wear one of his tuxedos to the CFDA awards this year). Since launching, he has stayed on a consistent path with each collection, diverging slightly for a number of well-placed collabs -- Champion, Gap (for GQ Menswear Designer), suiting by Southwick.

For Spring '14 he continued on the consistency track, with a solid showing of everything from casual tees to printed blazers, and awesomely tailored pants and shorts.

My first favorite look was this striped tee paired with navy trousers. Loved the simplicity of the pieces together + I can already tell those pants will be a great addition to my Spring wardrobe.

Second on standouts from the presentation was partially due to the man wearing the clothes. I was really taken with this model and the attitude he exuded -- definitely felt right for the brand. But that aside, I loved the light button down with the plaid pants. The blues and greens make this a great transition piece as it could easily move into Fall.

And my third favorite was this blue coat -- a nice update from a traditional navy trench. The pleated shorts are another Spring must-have (yes, pleats done right are back).

While getting into the actual Todd Snyder presentation was a harrowing experience (Jenna Lyons, Frank Muytjens, and a couple of Jonas Brothers were there), it was definitely worth it. You can see the full collection here.

David Hart Spring 2014: NYFW Review

I've been a fan of David Hart since he launched amazing neckwear. I interviewed him, saw some pre-season inspiration, and definitely purchased a number of fantastic ties. 

So I was excited last season when he expanded into apparel -- and his inaugural collection did not disappoint. This week he presented Spring '14 and I loved how rooted Hart has quickly become in use of key fabrics, and rooted in a nostalgic yet current point of view. 

My absolute favorite look was this 'lava' colored mohair suit. The deep rich color, the fit on the pants, and the fact that the fabric will surely be out of this world. 

The second look I gravitated towards was this custom printed shirt -- the horizontal colored bars actually reminded me of a pattern Loden Dager did a few seasons back, and it paired nicely with the linen pants and sandals. Perfect 'dinner on vacation' outfit.

Finally you have to love Hart's use of exquisite fabrics to create evening wear. I loved this shawl collar tuxedo jacket, the woven pattern, and slim cut. Of course if I picked up every tuxedo I was drawn too it'd be all I wore, but this is one to keep an eye on for a very special occasion.

This second collection was very wearable, didn't cling too closely to it's vintage inspiration (Jet age Hawaiian holiday), and is hopefully the beginning of more to come from David Hart. All images here...

Michael Bastian Spring 2014: NYFW Review

Yesterday menswear maestro Michael Bastian showed his Spring '14 collection and he continues to show he knows his sweet spot and how to pivot from it.

The sweet spot -- whimsical knits, well tailored jackets, short shorts, and a continuation of Stubbs & Wooten slippers -- were there and updated to reflect Bastian's Parisian inspiration. 

The pivot -- a fantastic pineapple print, more athletic driven pieces, and a bag collaboration with Frank Clegg -- rounded out a very solid collection for Spring.

Three of my favorite looks:

Those damn pineapple pants! Bastian did the print in shorts and a hat, but the pants are totally me and I'll be coveting them come Spring.

The backgammon sweater. He's always in for a playful knit and this one has just enough subtlety that it takes you a minute to know what you're looking at.

Peak label printed tuxedo jacket. Bastian continues to design tuxedo jackets that don't take themselves too seriously, and I love it. What better way to stand out at a 'black tie' than in a white tie and eye-catching jacket!

Another strong showing and gives me something to look forward to next season... check out the whole collection over at GQ.

Fall Styling: Three Looks from Ports 1961

I definitely have an affinity for Fall. The opportunity to buy sweaters, jackets, and all things wool is something I just can't resist. So it was without hesitation that I took Details magazine up on the offer to style a few Fall looks from the expansive closet of global brand Ports 1961. 

It was hard to actually settle on just three, but I loved what I was able to come up with, and hope you do too!

First up -- I saw this cashmere rollneck sweater in their lookbook and knew I had to include it in my pull. The heathered red mixed with the solid swoops stood out to me and it's a piece that you'll see from across the room.

I paired it with wool pants and amazing keltie loafers. These are the pieces I'd put together on a snowy day when staying warm (and looking good) is paramount.

Next, there was a windowpane suit that caught my eye. I am seemingly always on the hunt for a new suit, and this one fit like a dream. But before we dive in there, I threw on this fantastic coat.

Navy (my go-to color), light enough for a Fall day, and I loved the paneling on the back. It was a feature in a lot of the Ports 1961 pieces from this collection and I thought it was a great subtle touch.

Now, about that suit... have to love something off the rack that fits you this well. Great attention to detail and the pattern was classic yet compelling. Another pair of keltie loafers (these in blue on blue) rounded out the look.

The finale was an unstructured green jacket, wool pants, and pebbled leather boots. One of the reasons I had to try the jacket was how well it can go from casual to dressed up. Large front pockets, soft shoulders, and a rich color make this a perfect Fall choice.

The wool pants included more of the paneling seen in the navy jacket above, and went really well with the leather boots. I also grabbed this beautiful leather tote bag -- it's important to have something to throw your scarf, gloves, and other Fall necessities in.

Talk about a fun day... it was such a pleasure to get to experience Ports 1961 and have an advance look at some of my major wants for Fall. 

And finally, here's a quick behind the scenes video shot on set... enjoy!

New Specs from Steven Alan: Things I Have

Last week I had the opportunity to stop by the Steven Alan store in Chelsea, where they seem to continually expand their product offerings. Women's and men's, then home goods... and now eyewear!

This latest addition is called Steven Alan Optical and offers frames in a variety of colors and styles. I tried on a number of styles and settled with the Coleman in dark tortoise. It's a little different shape for me, and sits lower on the eyes than normal, but something about them felt right.

Once I'd selected my frames, I went through the checkout process via iPad and received a confirmation e-mail. I replied to that e-mail with my prescription and a few days later... 

Was definitely excited to wear them for the first time today! I love how the frames fit -- nice and snug -- and they came in a gingham lined carrying case. While the folks at Steven Alan comped this pair, I definitely recommend both the experience and the selection (and am already thinking about a second pair, as sunnies!).

Lapo Elkann for Gucci: Things I Love

Lapo Elkann, Fiat heir, CEO of Italia Indepenent, and all around style icon has now collaborated on a capsule collection for Gucci. It's well, a pretty robust capsule with both suiting and separates.

And for me it evokes an amazing throwback to Lapo's grandfather Gianni Agnelli -- wide lapels, spread collars, rich fabrics -- and an aesthetic that Lapo himself has largely adopted.

Here I've picked my three favorite looks, starting off with this great one button blazer paired with a wide collar button-down shirt, and very Gucci looking trousers. The beautiful carryall doesn't hurt either.

In the suiting department I loved the light windowpane for Fall, and the styling of the wider-than-currently-trending tie helps anchor the spread collar shirt. Office ready for sure.

And for a more formal night out -- this velvet double breasted tuxedo is the epitome of luxe. Staying on the wide collar trend, I feel like this jacket could sprout wings and fly, but I love how neatly tailored it is on the sides. Velvet is a bold choice for a tux, but that wasn't always the case -- again showing a nice look back at Italian fashion legacies.

All images here... and definitely a collection to watch for in-store.

Todd Snyder x Champion Sweatshirt + Shorts: Things I Want

I've been waiting for this to drop ever since I read about the Todd Snyder collaboration with Champion. Already doing some awesome sweatshirts on his own (and the one he did with Gap is my go-to), this seemed like a very natural fit.

Offering sweatshirts, sweatpants and shorts, knits, and tees the collaboration uses Snyder's classic touch and blends in Champion's heritage.

The two pieces I'm dying to pre-order -- the off-white pocket sweatshirt and sweatshorts in oatmeal...

 These would definitely get a lot of gym, errand, lounging use and the Todd Snyder quality ensures a long life... the whole line is available here!

Leather Tote from Black Fleece: Things I Want

A few months ago I saw a preview of Brooks Brothers and Black Fleece collections for Fall 2013. Some really great stuff, especially from Black Fleece which followers of this site know I have a slight obsession with... 

Apart from continuing with strong apparel pieces also love the accessories Thom Browne designs for the line (guilty disclosure: I have two duffels already). This pebbled leather tote caught my eye -- using the now signature red, white, and blue stripe it is simple yet exudes quality and craftsmanship. 

The tote comes in black and brown, and it's definitely on my "want" list for Fall. Check out more of the Black Fleece offerings here... 

Specs from Tom Ford: Things I Want

Just last week I was thinking I could use a new pair of specs... I'm loving the Warby Parker's I have now but something a little more unique.

This morning I came across these rockin' frames from Tom Ford (quelle surprise). Mix of a light navy around the eyes with a tortoise type print on the sides. Love the contrast and how it stands out.

Definitely keeping an eye (no pun intended) on these -- they're listed at Restir but currently sold out. More info from the good folks at Hypebeast.

Preview: Menswear Designers do Duffels for CFDA x Details

Last Fall the CFDA and Details magazine partnered to have men's designers create an exclusive pocket square. One was framed and signed and auctioned off... 100 more of each design were available through Bonobos. Not only did I bid (and lose) on a number of them, I ended up buying the Billy Reid design for a friend.

Well the collaboration has returned and this time the accessory of choice is a duffel bag. An Army standard issue duffel bag. Twenty designers participated, making the duffel their own, including Marc Jacobs, Ovadia & Sons, Michael Bastian, UNIS, Gilded Age, and many more. 

Details gave me an advance peek at the bags and here are my favs (and the ones I'll most likely be bidding on!)...

Public School -- before I even knew who designed this bag it stood out to me. Turning the whole bag + hardware black, I loved the quilted leather side pocket. Oh and these guys just want the CFDA Swarovski Menswear Award.

Tommy Hilfiger -- I saw the photos of this bag and loved the bright red leather handles, and the black leather end caps. Then I looked closely at the blue patch on the side and saw that signature "TH". Classic, subtle, sophisticated.

Simon Spurr -- while his own line shuttered (fingers crossed for a re-launch), Spurr has continued to consult Hilfiger's men's collection and I've long been a fan of his work. He took the duffel and added some lux touches -- a white leather handle and leather croc-print side pocket. The studs on the Army issued strap (see below) add a touch of punk.

Todd Snyder -- saving this one for last because I thought Snyder had the most innovation in his design. Literally turned it on its head... the bag now goes vertical and the top and bottom are trimmed with leather. A leather shoulder strap and rope closures give this a vintage military feel, and the TS brand stencil rounds it out.

The bags will be available for auction via eBay and go up on Monday, June 10. So just a few more days + you can start your bidding!

Navy Tuxedo from Todd Snyder: Things I Love (And Wore)

With the CFDA Awards approaching a few weeks ago I was a little worried about what I was going to wear. Luckily the good folks at Todd Snyder came to the rescue, hinting they had a pretty cool tuxedo available. Was that an understatement!

It's funny because during his Fall 2013 presentation I noted the navy tux and how cool it was. Great peak black lapel, and a dark rich navy to contrast with it.

So I was blown away at being able to wear the tux yesterday to the CFDA Awards. Without any alterations it fit perfectly -- hit on the shoulders, tucked in the back, and showing just enough cuff. All the signs of impeccable craftsmanship (and someone who's been doing this for a while).

Was asked quite a lot who I was wearing... but it's from Fall '13 so you'll have to wait just a little bit longer to pick one up for yourself!

In the meantime, head over to the Todd Snyder site to see what you can grab right now.

Flamingo Sweatshirt from WAW: Things I Want

Recently came across a new line of tees, tanks, and sweatshirts from a brand called WAW Like Our Grannies Made Them. Now, I can't quite admit to being clear on the name... although it might have something to do with the fact that instead of screen printing all of the objects are embroidered. Just like your Granny used to do!

My favorite from the small collection was this flamingo on a black sweatshirt. Simple, great color contrast, and something not a lot of folks would wear.

The pieces (only 100 of each style) are slated to go live today, so head over here to see 'em all!

Calder Trunks from Onia: Things I Have

I recently did my annual swimsuit review for Summer 2013, and while it had some great entries, it was definitely not exhaustive. Shortly after posting it I came across these Pocket Swimmers from Owner Operator that I loved. I also had the chance to see Onia's release for summer, which included an amazing digitized paisley and a range of bright + vibrant solids.

To that end, the kind folks at Onia sent me a pair of their Calder trunk, so I could give it a try as I head out for Memorial Day weekend. It arrived with three different sizes of plastic sleeves, allowing me a way to transport it wet and to fold it down to almost playing card size for easy packing.

The Calder comes in a range of colors but I went for Azure... since I normally gravitate towards navy I felt this was a nice change and a little brighter for summer.

I also chose the 5" short, although it also comes in a 7.5" and 10", if you like it a little longer.

Check out the rest of their offerings here, and I'll keep you posted with pics of me wearing these in over the summer!

Uniqlo x Michael Bastian Polo Shirts: Things I Have

I'd been waiting for yesterday to arrive ever since the collaboration between Uniqlo  and Michael Bastian was announced. May 20 was the release date for the polo shirts the designer had done with the Japanese retailer. In a seemingly endless combination of colors, prints, and styles -- and all for $19.90 -- I knew I had to stock up for summer.

While scanning the perfectly stocked shelves at Uniqlo on 5th Avenue, I was impressed with the small tweaks and attention to detail. One style had pearl buttons and chest stitching for a "western" look; another was a series of v-necks with striped collars. 

These are the three I picked up yesterday, but Selectism has photos of (most) of the overall options, for your perusal. And Uniqlo has a somewhat limited selection that you can purchase online. 

Listen, you're getting Michael Bastian's expert eye and design aesthetic at a great price, so grab a few of these + enjoy them this summer!