Summer 2013: Swimsuit Review

Well it's time for my annual swimsuit review. Where I take a look at what's out there, make a short list to share with y'all, and then pick one of them to wear this summer. Putting my picks together I realized I can't stay away from something loud and colorful -- so get ready for what's to come.

First up are the High Tides from Bonobos. These were an Americana inspired standout -- 5" length and with a variety of white, blues, and reds.

While continuing my search I found these eye-catching trunks at thecorner.com. Continuing with the dot pattern he used for his Spring collection, Jonathan Saunders green and yellow design, while pricey, are fantastic.

Ever since meeting one of the founders of Aloha Sunday last year in Palm Springs, I've been taken with both the brands they carry and their private label offerings. The Manitou trunk contains a few irresistible favorites -- seersucker and anchors. Preppy trappings done in a cool and wearable way.

Over at Opening Ceremony were these contrasting gingham shorts from Frank's. Looked to me like someone took a picnic tablecloth and spilled yellow paint on it. And I think it works!

The last pick for my review is another nautical piece -- these shocking yellow sailboat board shorts from Club Monaco. Again tying back to my love for all things nautical, and in a favorite color of mine, these will definitely make a statement poolside.

Stay tuned to see which of these I take home -- and for pics of me rockin' them this summer!

Late Winter Coat Shopping: A Review

Today I was asked to recommend a price-conscious yet cool overcoat... now it's the time of year where anything heavy + wool is on sale. It's also the time of year where I feel you should start looking towards Spring, and picking up a coat that will give you some warmth, but also suitable for rain (and more generous temps).

So with that, here are a few ideas that came to mind... first up, this wool lined trench from Todd Snyder. Black, so it goes with everything, cotton outer so it's not too heavy. And hello, it's Todd Snyder so it's going to be that right mix of rugged sophistication. And it's on sale.

 

Next I had to include the Structured Mac from A.P.C. Every season I ogle this coat for it's slightly rounded shoulders, slightly cropped cuff, and just general great fit. It comes in beige but I far prefer the dark navy.

 

So this next pick is a bit on the heavier side, but for the cross between quality + price, you can't go wrong. The Mayfair Topcoat from J. Crew, produced in a blend of wool and cashmere. Soft, warm, soft, warm... it'll do it all. Here I really loved the Saddle color, and it's on sale for a deal you can't (and shouldn't) miss.

And finally, another lightweight (and rain appropriate) option in the Club Monaco 3 Layer Mac. With a subtle gray herringbone pattern, this coat is super versatile and can go with a suit or jeans. Adam Levine has been turning out great stuff over there, and with the price, it's a great addition to your closet.

Penny Loafer from Rancourt: Things I Have

This past weekend I stopped by this year's Pop Up Flea, newly located in Chelsea and showcasing an even stronger group of brands than last year. One of the booths I stopped by was Rancourt, the shoe company crafted in Maine that in addition to its own line produces for Ralph Lauren and Club Monaco.

Perusing the wares, their Beefroll Penny Loafer caught my eye and I had to try them on. They were so comfortable and fit perfectly, it was an easy decision to take them home. Handsewn in the U.S. -- and from everything I've heard, amazing customer service to keep them repaired and in great shape for as long as they're in my closet.

I already took them out for a spin (above), and here is another look from the Rancourt site.

Be sure to check these out, plus the other great styles they offer (and they do Made to Order)!

Transition to Fall: A Style Guide

While items for Fall have been trickling into stores for a while now, it can be hard to visualize why you need that great new sweater when even the thought of going outside makes you sweat. 

But I felt it was time for a story on transitional dressing into the new season and how to create versatile looks. The key word is: versatility. With a few key pieces you can easily be comfortable in and out of work, and even continue wearing some of it once winter approaches. 

To that end I relied heavily on two retailers that have been focusing on growing their men's business: Club Monaco and J. Crew. Each are accessible and provide a mix of basics and more seasonal trend driven items.

Look #1: 

In colder months I love using texture to create a standout look. Here the heft of the tweed jacket contrasts against the formality of the slacks. Using a small-checked shirt provides  pattern-on-pattern with the striped wool tie. While the burgundy brogue may not be for everyone it is a rich color and stands out.

Jacket: Aubin & Wills (similar), Shirt: Club Monaco, Pants: J. Crew, Tie: Fahlgren, Shoes: Florsheim by Duckie Brown

For a more casual day I swapped out the blazer for a shawl collar sweater. I'm a big fan of a shawl collar as it provides a nice smooth visual line around the neck. In a cream color this one lightens up the whole look, and while the sweater keeps the whole outfit business ready it is also a comfortable alternative.

Shawl collar sweater: Club Monaco (similar)

Look #2:

Again using texture was important, as seen with the quilted vest and corduroy tie. I used a white oxford and ginger khaki as the base so there would be more neutral colors to contrast with the shock of yellow. I have always been drawn to a bright hue like this, and think it is perfect for the transition into Fall. It also serves as the fashion piece that helps pull together your basics. We kept the brogues as again that rich color provided a nice blend with the rest.

Quilted Vest: Club Monaco, Oxford Shirt: Uniqlo, Pants: Club Monaco, Tie: Unis (similar), Shoes: As above, Bag: Model's own

For the variation here I replaced the vest with a cotton shirt jacket. The navy darkens the whole look -- and while I personally haven't worn any camo, everyone else seems to be, and the collar is a nice surprise. To take him from the office to canvassing design showrooms, we switched out the footwear to a bold red sneaker. Still holds its own with the rest of the look!

Shirt Jacket: Unis, Shoes: Nike

Look #3:

Now I don't subscribe to "no white after Labor Day" and received some looks when wearing white jeans during fashion week. But I think when changing seasons it is perfectly acceptable. Paired with a gray heathered shirt for a soft and nubby feel, and with a military inspired khaki tie. I kept the shirt jacket which can stand in for a casual blazer, and those red sneakers just wouldn't quit.

Shirt Jacket: As above, Shirt: Club Monaco, Jeans: Uniqlo, Tie: Todd Snyder, Shoes: As Above, Bag: As Above

As seen here it didn't require a whole new closet to create a lot of different looks -- you can even pull from what you already have. Everything shown can be worn in any number of ways -- encouraging layering, mixing up colors, and making it your own! 

Photo Credit: Mikey Kay

Model: Jon Call