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!).

Raleigh Denim Fall 2013: Just One Look

Yesterday brought my first show for NYFW Fall 2013... I happily hit Raleigh Denim, a line that I've seen mature season after season. As they continue to produce great jeans (and have a rockin' store in Nolita to showcase them), the full collection has evolved.

Keeping a toehold in the Southern roots, there was definitely a nod to workwear. Raleigh also rolled out some great tailoring pieces that started to remind me of Billy Reid meets Steven Alan... but with their own locally produced point of view.

My favorite look was this pocketed vest -- a superb layering piece, and I loved the crop that kept it nice and clean. Styled with a long sleeved knit, denim, and a huge scarf to round out what you'll need for a perfect Fall day.

GQ has the rest of the men's looks, and they're definitely worth a peek. And if you're in NYC check out the Raleigh Denim store!

Steven Alan Tennis Shorts: Things I Have

Over the weekend I stopped into Steven Alan, as I was looking for some new shirts. I ended up taking home two great white shirts (one with a club collar, that I am very excited about). But I also had to buy these fantastic tennis shorts!

Now they may be considered a "short short", as they hit mid-thigh, but I thought they had a really great fit. I also liked that the light cotton will make these perfect for summer...

And in fact, I've already worn them... to my going away party! (My friend Carlo is also wearing a great Steven Alan shirt he picked up that day.)

Go check them out at the Steven Alan site!

Steven Alan x Keds: Things I Want

Who would have thought I would ever want another pair of Keds? They are shoes for kids... or are they? On a recent collab with Steven Alan, some pretty great designs have been produced and I would love to get my hands on some.

The blue and gray chambray (shown below) are great for their simplicity and contrasting rubber sole. But I think the other two (navajo inspired? and really, this navajo resurgence has been going on for a while now) are more up my alley...

But whether you prefer the simple or the colorful, these shoes are great for casual wear (and a casual price!)... check out Selectism with more info.

Things I Want: Canvas Sneakers from Australia

I know I recently posted about the Clae sneakers I ordered from Gilt (which have yet to arrive)... but I saw these canvas sneakers from Australia (being offered at Steven Alan) and I mean, they are so different from the green mesh pair I have coming. I can definitely do both!

I am digging the simplicity of these shoes, with the blue trim. But honestly what stood out to me is what seem like an exaggerated front toe. The rubber up there seems to be bulkier and it has an accentuated curve to it. Caught my eye!

Here's the link to buy them from Steven Alan (and check out his shirts while you are there): http://www.stevenalan.com/product.php?cat=1023&productid=17845.

But what led me to these shoes is a guy's summer shoe review by Refinery 29: http://www.refinery29.com/eight-summer-mens-shoes.php.

Happy reading!