Hi Joe:

I know that my boyfriend reads your website, and I was wondering if you had any ideas for Valentine’s Day gifts for the Dappered-enthused man.  I’m sure others would be interested too.  Thanks.

- Christina

How ’bout some burgundy, shell cordovan, cap toe boots by Alden?  No?  What… you love him, but you don’t six hundred dollars love him?  Kidding.

Here’s the thing about most of us guys.  Even though there are some of us who like and/or appreciate various style related things, most of us don’t usually skip around town shouting about what those things are.  That falls into the category of shopping.  It’s just not something that’s naturally real manly to do.  So buying for us can be a pain.  10 suggestions follow, all of which shouldn’t cause Christina, or someone like Christina to go broke.
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1. Tools to take care of his stuff:  B.B. Shoe Shine Valet – $128 | A.E. Shoe Bags – $10

This is not like him getting her a blender.

Guys like tools.  Even if they’re not always in the garage, grunting away Tim the Tool Man Taylor style.  If he loves to shine his shoes?  Consider some upgraded shoe shine supplies.  Like a horsehair brush, daubers, or go all the way with the slick shoe shine valet from Brooks Brothers (a less expensive alternative can be found here.)  If he’s got a favorite pair of shoes you’ve seen him wear time and time again (or, only on special occasions), consider the flannel shoe bags from Allen Edmonds.  He’ll think of you every time he gets out his favorite pair of oxfords.

2. A watch case:  Red Envelope Monogrammable Watch Case – $59.95

Black or brown. Engraving is an extra $10.

He’s given her jewelry, and she keeps it in her jewelry box.  He’s got a small collection of watches, and he… keeps them loose on top of a nightstand.  This does quite nicely.

3. His favorite brewers reserve series, or, an upscale craft version of his favorite beer.

Lots of 12oz or a bigger guy works.

Beer.  Yeah, it’s awesome.  If he’s got a favorite brewer, look into what kind of reserve series they offer.  The bigger bottle specialty brews can be incredible, and a great way to experiment.  If he’s more of a standard mega commercial pilsner/lager type, help him expand his horizons with a similar beer from a smaller brewery.  Above beers:  Anderson Valley Winter Solstice, and Full Sail Brewer’s Share ESB.  Dynamite.  Both of em.’

4. An Awfully nice money clip:  Tiffany Money Clip – $170.00

The cash to put in it is up to him...

So the Tiffany version is pretty expensive, but it’s timeless.  Something he can hand down to the next generation.  But  don’t bring that up if you’re new to dating him… he could think you’re bringing up having kids.  That, and you can order Tiffany stuff VERY late and still have it delivered in time for Valentine’s Day.  Deadline for Tuesday delivery is ordering by Noon ET on Monday.

5.  An accessory for his favorite gadget: iPad Atari Arcade – $60.00

Wait for it: Joy stick. You're snickering aren't you.

He has an iPad?  Awesome.  Is he over the age of 25?  Great.  Give him this, play some strip Centipede, and after the final round of… uh, Missile Command, then all I ask is you name the kid Joe come November.

6. Tickets to an event.  His favorite band/team/etc…

How romantic!

It’s up to the gift giver to read this situation correctly.  Most of us want to experience our favorite band or team with our significant other.  But if he’s got a buddy he’s been going to see the Steelers/Cubs/Gwar with since he was a kid… well then he should take him.

7. Tan Leather Gloves: All Gloves british tan nappa leather – $66.00 ($110)

Made in Italy too.

Black gloves.  We all have those.  Dark brown probably too.  But not many men have a pair of stand out, tan, ready to be worn till they fall apart gloves like these.  They’re a bit of a treat.  Cashmere lined too.

8. Favorite Sports Team Throwback: New York Knights Flannel Cap – $40.00

Or maybe his favorite actor is Robert Redford.

Most guys like sports.  Most guys who like sports have a team or two (or more) that they root for.  Hard.  A throwback allows him to still support his team, but avoid all the over-done slicked up logos of today.  Throwbacks have a real nostalgic feel to them.

9. His favorite movie’s throwback:  The Original Ocean’s 11 – $7.19

Plenty of movies have been remade again and again.  If his top flick of all time is one of these remakes, get him the original.  If that’s not the case but he’s a big fan of a series, get him some of the earliest incarnations.

10.  You, wearing something out of the ordinary in the bedroom

Wait a minute... Those aren't granny panties...

Giving a woman lingerie is more of a gift to the guy than the actual recipient.  So most of us won’t do that very often, if ever.  But for a woman to go out and pick up something she likes, fits her well, and is a little different from what she usually wears under her clothes?  Well that can be a very nice surprise.

Of course you guys have more suggestions.  To the comments with you.  All of you…
Concert Tickets Photo Credit: nzhamstar.  Lingerie Photo Credit: Emery Co Photo.  Top Cupid Photo Credit: RBerteig

“A lot of people say they’ll come back and buy it if they win a jackpot.  But I’ve never seen that happen.”  That’s what the real nice sales associate at the Tag Heuer flagship in Las Vegas said.  And sadly, no jackpot was had, so this is purely hypothetical, but say a jackpot did come your way.  Or, you’ve just been really successful.  Would you wear a timepiece that costs thousands of dollars?  Or is that just too showy, even if you have the cash?

The Case For Wearing an Expensive Watch:  Is driving an expensive car tacky?  What about living in a larger house?  Don’t most women walk around with a grand or two (or more) on their ring finger?  What about wearing a real nice suit?  If you’re responsible with your money, then there’s no reason not to spend it how you want.

The Case Against Wearing an Expensive Watch:  Watches are a bit different.  They’re just not as useful as a car, and unlike suits and homes they’ve got the brand name right there on them.  They’re just more showy.  Maybe it depends on the watch.  If it’s some flashy thing the size of a saucer, then yeah, it’s too much.  Like driving a Porsche or a Corvette around with obnoxious personalized plates.  Maybe it needs to blend in.  A stainless steel dive style won’t stand out.  But a Tag Heuer Monaco is sort of like fishing for inquiries and compliments.  Watches are great.  But they do serve a pretty simple purpose, and at what point does a watch get so expensive it becomes less of a good looking tool and more of a pure status symbol?  Besides, would you walk around with six grand in cash in your pocket?

If you could, would you?  Or is an expensive watch something you just wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing?
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Tag Heuer Monaco Steve McQueen Calibre 11 – Yours for a few grand more.

Players, coaches, and even part of the half time act have been cast in a sartorial light.  Will this help you figure out just who’s going to win this thing?  Maybe.  Okay, probably not.  But at least this way, if you don’t have a dog in this fight, you can root for your favorite shirt.  Or against a horrid accessory.  Let’s kick it off with the Golden Boy…
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Tom Brady:  Double Monk Straps – Antonio Maurizi Vincenzo Double Monk – $299.95

But does he own a pair?

Came out of seemingly nowhere a few years back and has been dominating ever since.  Maybe beginning to wind down.  Hugely popular yet absolutely hated by some.  Expensive.  Difficult to find affordable versions of.  (The cheaper version, of course, is the DSW house brand Mercantile Fiorentini.  Photo Credit: Keith Allison

Eli Manning: Levi’s Original 501 – $52.99

Not as complicated, but that's a strength.

The more expensive relative might get all the attention, but the quieter, cheaper option is a true foundation that quietly does what needs to be done and often excels at it.  Tougher than most.    Photo Credit: AJ Guel

The Giants “NASCAR” Front 4:  Navy Suit, Grey Suit, Charcoal Suit, Plaid/Check Suit

Osi, Tuck, JPP, & Mathias

Straight up mean looking.  Can dominate when execution is perfect.  Hard to ignore.  Suits from left:  Indochino Essential Navy, Banana Republic Tailored Fit, J.Crew Factory Thompson, Suit Supply Napoli 1/2.

The Patriots Defense: Tighty Whiteys – Fruit of the Loom 3 Pack – $8.06

Good enough to get this far.

Just kinda there.  Doesn’t cover much.  Also doesn’t get credit for getting the job done.  Photo Credit: deege

Ahmad Bradshaw & Brandon Jacobs: Tie Bar – $15.00 & Pocket Square – $30.00

Smaller, and much bigger.

Can make a huge impact.  Can also be a massive let down.  (Tie bar is from thetiebar.com  Pocket Square is from FifthandBrannan.com)  Photo Credit tedkerwin & Alexa

BenJarvus Green-Ellis:  Driving Gloves – All Gloves Brown Drivers – $84.00

No butterfingers here.

Exotic sounding.  Ridiculous grip.  No.  Seriously.  Holds on and won’t let go.  Photo Credit: Jeffrey Beal

Wes Welker: White Oxford Cloth Button Down – Lands’ End Canvas – $50.00

Ol' reliable

A favorite weapon.  Excels on the interior with other options surrounding.  Not real flashy.  Can take a solid beating.  White.  (The L.E.C. one is full price.  This or this option from Brooks Brothers are both a little funky, but cheaper and could be layered.)  Photo Credit: Brian J. McDermott

 

Victor Cruz:  Linen Suit – J. Crew Irish Linen Ludlow – $426.00

Impressive moves. Impressive suit.

At first, not high on the priority list for many.  But as soon as you experience it, you’re awfully glad to have it in your arsenal.  Excels when it comes to salsa dancing.  (Want a MUCH cheaper all cotton summer suit?  The L.L. Bean Signature New Traditional Twill is down to $125 total.  Review here.  Credit Alex K. for the tip.)  Victor Cruz Photo Credit

 

Rob Gronkowski:  Saddleback Leather Briefcase – $411.00

Gronk doesn't come with a 100yr warranty.

Not the most subtle thing in the world.  Can take a beating.  Viewed as unstoppable.  Can play a major role but can be replaced by something sleeker to mix it up.  Photo Credit: jdn

 

Vince Wilfork:  Saddleback Leather Duffel Bag – $744.00

Bit of a load.

Yup.  Photo Credit: Keith Allison

 

Chad Ochocinco: The Trucker Hat

15 catches this year. Total.

Loud.  Was everywhere.  Has since completely fallen off the face of the earth.  Photo Credit: Jeffrey Beal

 

Madonna:  Shutter Shades – $7.02

Halftime show = Bathroom break.

80s icon that… why the hell are we revisiting the 80s again?  Photo Credit: iShot71

 

Tom Coughlin:  A vintage pocket watch that runs five minutes fast

On time means you're late buster.

Old school.  A younger contemporary would struggle to seem natural.  Sometimes appears a little out of touch with the nuances of today, and continues to risk being thrown to the trash heap, but continues to survive and excel.

 

Bill Belichick:  A hooded sweatshirt – Gildan Heavy Blend Hoodie – $12.70

Ready for battle.

What.  Were you expecting a Tom Ford dinner jacket?  Belichick Photo Credit

Agreements, disagreements, additions, and predictions can all go in the comments below.  Top Photo Credit: hyku

Style

• Wearing a suit on the flight there – Yes
• Going tieless – Yes
• Wearing a suit at night – Yes
• Feeling out of place in a suit because even at the nice hotels plenty are in sweats and crocs – No
• Navy suit – Yes
• Light Grey suit – Yes
• Summer Suit – Well, in summer, yes.  It gets brutal there.
• Black suit – Not unless you want to look like a casino employee.
• Lighter brown lace ups – Yes.  All weekend.
• Black lace ups – Nah
• Dark denim – Yes
• Navy Cotton Sportcoat – Yes
• White, well tailored dress shirts to wear with just about everything – Yes
• Sweaters – No
• Wallet – No
• Card case/slim wallet & subtle money clip – Yes
• Wearing a suit on the flight home – No

The one pair of shoes you need in Las Vegas:  Comfortable brown lace ups.
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Travel and Accommodations

• Arriving on Friday and leaving on Sunday – No
• Arriving on Thursday and leaving on Monday – Yes
• Staying at a crappy hotel so you have more cash to gamble – No
• Staying somewhere nice and gambling much less than most – Yes
• Calling ahead to request a non-smoking room on a non-smoking floor – Hell yes
• Paying for your trip, minus expenses, up front in cash – Yes
• Having a cab budget, because that casino “just down the street” isn’t as close as you think – Yep
• Bellagio – Yes
• Aria – Yes
• Mandalay Bay – Yes
• Paris – No
• Imperial Palace – No (but it is centrally located with cheap tables)
• Cesar’s Palace – Nah
• MGM Grand – Yes
• Venetian – Yes
• The Flamingo – What, you a Donnie and Marie fan?

Part of the Bellagio decked out for Chinese New Year.  It’s well worth it to stay somewhere nice.
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Food/Drink

• Buying booze at the Casino bar – No
• Free Mixed Drinks while gambling – No
• Free liquor on the rocks / neat while gambling – Yes
• Tipping the cocktail waitress extra for bringing free top shelf stuff while gambling – Yes
• Pacing yourself with club soda / water while gambling – You better
• Buying/bringing a small bottle of favorite liquor for your room – Yes
• Bringing Apples/Bananas/Protein Bars/other snacks for your room – Yes
• Stumbling drunk into the weight sensor equipped mini/snack bar in your room – Aw crap.
• Buffets – No
• Basic sandwiches and salads from casino cafes – Yes
• Julian Serrano at Aria – Yes
• Del Monaco at the Venetian – Nope.
• Olives at the Bellagio – Yes
• Shibuya at MGM Grand – Yes
• Todd English P.U.B. – No.  Beer selection is decent though.
• Hash House A Go Go at the Imperial Palace – Yes

Skip the buffets.  Save your cash (and calories) for nice dinners in the different casinos.
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Gambling

• Craps – Yes (practicing for free can help.)
• Craps with a group of friends so you can take over half a table – Absolutely
• Blackjack – Maybe
• Slots – No
• Placing a reasonable wager at the Sports Book – Yes
• Watching your game and enjoying free drinks at the Sports Book – Maybe the best gambling value in Vegas.
• Poker Rooms – Not if you’re in Las Vegas with a date.
• Friendly $10 Craps table dealers – Yes
• Ornery $5 Craps table dealers – No
• Staying somewhere nice but spending a little time gambling somewhere cheaper – Yes
• Old Downtown Las Vegas / Freemont Street – Yes

Gambling.  Yes.  But do other things.  Many, many other things.
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Other Activities

• Bellagio Fountains set to Sinatra – Yes
• Bellagio Fountains set to Faith Hill – No
• Window shopping ridiculously expensive luxury brands – Yes
• Asking to try on a super expensive watch while window shopping – Yes
• Asking to try on a super expensive suit while window shopping – No
• Bottle Service at a club – No
• Bottle Service for a group in the below zero Vodka Vault at Red Square while wearing mink coats – It ain’t cheap, but yes
• Exploring the individual casinos – Yes
• Seeing a show – Yes
• Spending a good chunk of your time gambling – No.  There’s so much more to do.

At least make sure you’re dressed well when you walk in.

What else?  Most of us have been to Las Vegas a few times, with the 1st time being filled with mistakes, and subsequent trips being when we put what we learned to good use.  Leave all your Las Vegas knowledge below.

The hell is a February?  We’re a solid chunk through winter already, which means spring lines (yes, spring…) will be showing up in stores soon.  That means retailers like Ralph Lauren are looking to get rid of the stuff they’ve had on hand since Kyle Orton was still quarterbacking the Broncos.

No code is necessary for the extra 20% off here.  It is a select items sale though, so know that not everything gets that extra bonus treatment.  Picked items had at least a solid selection of sizes at post time.
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Lambswool Chalk-Stripe Italian Made Scarf – $31.20 ($55)

Lambswool with time left to wear it.

It seemed reasonable at $55, and now it’s on sale with an extra 20% off.  Sure it’s February.  But if you’re in the market, it’s tough to pass up.  Something awfully similar is available over at Nordstrom for less.  Free shipping through Nordstrom too.

Denim & Supply Ragg V-Neck – $31.99 ($85)

Thicker. Apparently pirate worthy.

Is this a sign that Ralph Lauren’s Denim & Supply line just isn’t working out?  One theory about why this one is on such a drastic sale:  You can’t see what it looks like thanks to Captain Jack Sparrow draping his arms, hair, and other accoutrements all over it.

Cotton Shawl Collar Pull Over – $47.99 ($115)

Wearable clear into spring, and then maybe cool summer nights.

Started out at $115.  Ouch.  Now down to under $50.  Not GAP sale prices or anything, but sometimes an extra detail like that stripe (or the bright red color) makes something stand out.  In a good way.

Black Label Satin Spots Tie & Barathea Dots Tie – $63.99 ($115)

Ties for tie guys.

Make no mistake.  Paying sixty bucks for a tie is a ton of cash.  But some guys out there appreciate well made ties more than others.  From the Ralph Lauren Black Label line.  Each is 3″ wide with a black background and white dots.  Both are made in Italy with some fancy pants details.

Nappa Lined Belted Gloves – $47.99 ($78)

The glove. Smell it.

No quilted tops on these, but the leather strap and brass tone strap at the wrist helps separate them from the crowds of isotoners.  The lighter “luggage” color is going fast.  Plenty of time left to use these, especially if you subscribe to that whole gloves + scarf instead of a light jacket thing.

Custom Fit Long Sleeve Cotton Polo – $39.99 ($89.50)

Lean towards earthtones.

Even with the extra 20% off they’re a bit pricey at $40, but there’s so many color options and there’s also plenty of decent sizes left.  That, and it’s their much trimmer “custom” fit.  If you’re in good shape, always look for that.  Otherwise, you risk swimming in just about anything that’s a regular fit from a Ralph Lauren line.

Richmond Quilted Vest – $87.99 ($225)

Not too life preserverish

The key to vests: keep them slim.  And don’t use it as a fashion piece (here’s looking at you big belt buckle.)  Just wear it as an alternative to a light jacket.  That means when you walk inside, and unless it’s unusually cold wherever you’re at, take it off.  The corduroy and suede accents on these help the look out quite a bit.

Canvas Duffle – $31.99 ($125) | Buffalo Plaid Duffle – $47.99 ($145)

And now even cheaper.

Cheap.  Damn cheap.  Again, from the “Denim & Supply” line which is seeing lots of deep mark downs.  Both claim to be around 1600 cubic inches.  So not massive by any stretch.

Shetland Button Mockneck – $79.99 ($185)

Carlton Banks called. He wants his shirt & tie back.

Wooden buttons, shetland and angora fabric, and a suede lined placket make this thing light-years ahead of some old cotton quarter zip.  90% merino.

No word when RL is going to yank the extra 20% off deal.  No code is necessary.  Prices show up in your cart.

You’re usually better off waiting for one of these extra 30% off sales at the Neiman Marcus online outlet LastCall.com.  They have them seemingly all the time, but the one drawback is stock can get awfully low and sizes can get real spotty the longer you wait.  It is an outlet after-all.

Only select cold weather gear has been marked down by an additional 50%, but aside from a few exceptions, the rest of the site has been marked down by at least 30%.  No code is needed for the discount and the new prices show up in your cart.  Know that the code FSANN3 should get you free shipping with no minimum.  Picks seen below have (for now) at least a somewhat decent range of sizes available.  And that’s not always the case with LastCall.com.
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John Varvatos Dress Chukka – $119.40 ($298)

Simple.

Appears to be the plain toe version of their medallion toe chukka over here.  Only this one is about a third of the price after an extra 40% gets taken off.

Hugo Boss Pasolini Navy Suit - $419.30 ($795)

Not super fitted.

A standard for suited guys that don’t mind getting a classic cut and then having it tailored in a bit.  Side vents on the jacket, two button, and a button stance that’s neither too high or old man low.

Neiman Marcus Trim Fit Shirts:  Full Spread Collar & Dobby Texture – $34.30

White Dress Shirts + one extra detail.

It’s awfully tough to go wrong with a bright white shirt.  And both of these are bright white shirts, with something extra.  The first is a full spread almost cutaway leaning collar, so you’ll need to tie a knot big enough to fill the space (and forget about going tieless.)  The second has a texture to the fabric that some guys like, while others stay away from.  Both are trim fits and now more than reasonable at around $34.

Neiman Marcus Croc Embossed Flask – $17.50 ($65)

Classier than a paper bag.

Perfect for those bottles of liquor you got from friends over the holidays.  Not a bad (and discreet) partner for an early evening walk in the cold.

J.D. Fisk Edgar Wingtip – $80.50 ($169)

An off the clock alternative.

J.D. Fisk shoes aren’t enormously high quality, but for $80.50 they should look and feel much, much better than other shoes in that price range.  An easy way to upgrade your away from work look is to wear some lace ups that look a little more dressed up than they need to be.  Don’t worry about keeping these in pristine condition.  Let them get dinged and beat up.  Description says “Imported.”  Probably imported from Mexico.  360 views available over at endless, where they have three colors instead of just one, faster shipping, but cost a few bucks more.

ShedRain Windpro Compact Umbrella – $22.40 ($48.00)

14 inches long. So, not Poppins-ish.

One of the few actually good looking compact sized umbrellas.  Nice looking curved wooden handle, a charcoal canopy, and a design that is supposed to make it stand up well in windy conditions.  For the fellas who can’t bring themselves to carry the much-loved but plenty long gentelman’s umbrella from totes.

Neiman Marcus Trim Fit Purple Check Dress Shirt – $34.30 ($89.50)

That's quite the shade of Barney.

A warning:  The vast, vast majority of us can’t pull this off.  Maybe it’ll be easier to wear once the weather starts to warm up and summer suits start to appear.  But a purple that’s this purple in a pattern that’s this bold just looks forced on a lot of people.  Trim fit.  If you can pull it off, more power to you.  Know that sizes are getting scarce.

Neiman Marcus Shave Kit – $28.00 ($156)

Toothpaste corral for your luggage

$156 is ridiculous.  $40 can still feel a little steep for a dopp kit.  $28 and free shipping for a cognac canvas colored one with leather accents like this might make you want to reconsider what you’re using now.

The Splurge:  Bruno Magli Suede Chelsea Boots – $255 ($595)

Yes. Those will do just fine.

You’ve got to be a pretty big shoe hog to be willing to drop $250 on a pair of suede boots.  But if you are?  They might as well be from Bruno Magli.  Available in black or brown.

The LastCall.com extra 30 – 50% off sale ends Tues. 1/17/11 at 8 a.m. CT.

There’s good news and there’s bad news.  The good news is that thanks to their recently changed shipping policy, everything ships and returns for free.  The bad news is… at first glance it just doesn’t seem like this one is as good of a half-yearly sale as we’ve seen from Nordstrom in the past.

This is an event that plenty look forward to.  But this time around, at least online, sizes seem short and the selection isn’t that great.  Here’s a few candidates for the best of the lot, and remember, this is Nordstrom not Kohl’s.  So even on sale, some items might be spendy.
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Penguin Suede Wingtips – $79.90 ($135)

Different but not weird.

This is about the right price for a pair of shoes from Original Penguin.  The brand pops up a lot on Gilt and sites like Gilt, and they usually run between $60 – $80 there.  Quality won’t blow your mind.  But they’ll look good and get the job done with reasonable care.  These would be a perfect way to dress up jeans.

Calibrate Plaid Sportcoat – $179.90 ($275)

Wool with a bit of spandex.

A big warning on sportcoats from Calibrate.  It seems like they’ve been chopping them awkwardly short this year.  There are plenty of us who appreciate a not quite traditional length blazer or jacket, but Calibrate seems to have taken the shorter tail trend to the extreme.  At least it ships and returns free.

Psycho Bunny Cashmere Scarf – $99.90 ($150)

Stripes = good. Very good.

Maybe one of the best looking scarves out there right now.  It’s cashmere, so you’ll pay for it.  Made in Scotland and get a load of the stripes.  Size is 10″ x 60″.

BOSS Black Donegal Tweed Wool/Cotton Suit – $599.90 ($895)

Dressed up with texture.

Consider this a bone thrown the way of the guys who can’t bring themselves to spend less than $400 on a suit.  Labeled as a trim fit, has that ticket pocket, and should (should) be a step up in quality.  At least it better be for $600.  The budget alternative would be the L.L. Bean Signature flannel.

Merrell Wilderness Canyon – $129.90 ($200)

Like a just washed 4x4.

These just came up the other day.  Style-wise they lean heavily towards a true hiking boot (because, y’know, they are…) and they won’t let you down on the trail.  Might be tougher to transition to dinner afterwards, but your feet will be comfortable and dry.  Plenty good looking for a true hiker too.

1901 Tweed Vest – $52.90 ($79.50)

Won't be mistaken for a life preserver

Might be worth a look to wear with those Merrells on a hike.  Vests are all about keeping the level of poofiness under control.  This one seems to do that.

Brooks Brothers Rugby Stripe Socks – $8.90 ($14.50)

And the postage is already paid.

The new Nordstrom everything-ships-free policy helps out a lot here.  Because if a pair of bold socks, like these, happen to catch your eye… you can get em’ shipped to you for free.  Made in the USA.

John Varvatos Star USA “Brookyln” overcoat – $299.90 ($495)

Not your average pea.

The name carries with it a premium price, but finding a longer, double breasted, and still trim fit coat isn’t the easiest thing in the world.  Wool/Poly/Cotton blend.  As cheesy as it sounds, “dashing” is probably the right word here.

Ralph Lauren Merino Knit Gloves – $44.90 ($68)

For when you can't find your leather pair.

Your backup pair.  Merino wool, the subtle logo at the wrist, and a nice use of bold, contrasting suede on the palms and trim.  Five colors available.

1901 Trim Fit Cashmere V-Neck Sweater – $65.90 ($99.50)

"Cheap" cashmere, but at least it's from Nordstrom.

From one of Nordstrom’s younger leaning house brands.  Raglan sleeves on this one too, so the shoulder stitching gives it a more athletic look.  Still plenty dressed up since they’re solid colors.  Trim fit.

Magnanni Roso Wingtip – $196.90 ($295)

A splurge.

The description says there’s a “subtle” vintage finish on these, so don’t expect them to look as clean as a regular dress shoe right out of the box.  Bologna construction and made of Italian calfskin.

Magnanni Santo Oxford – $219.90 ($335)

Those'll get noticed.

Meanwhile, in the cleaned up dress shoe category… Good Lord look at em’.  Bologna construction with rubber inserts in the sole.  Toe will probably be too pointy for some.  Made in Spain.

Calibrate Extra Slim Fit Dress Shirt – $38.90 ($59.50)

Not for most.

These would be only for the really slim guys who prefer their collars a bit on the smaller side.  Calibrate is a Nordstrom House brand, and there’s a difference between their Slim fit and “Trim” fit.  Trim is  well contoured and has a more substantial collar.  These slim fits are extra tight through the middle with more modern, smaller collars.

Ben Sherman Melton Wool Trench – $199.90 ($299)

Prepare for coat sales.

Longer and leaner than a boxy peacoat.  Does have epaulets, which some have a zero tolerance policy against.  Big front pockets too which might be a little much.

Armitron Nordstrom Exclusive Military – $38.90 ($65.00)

Good looks for a small cost.

Flight dial hands, big numbers, and a larger 44mm diameter which doesn’t look or feel too gigantic on the wrist.  Pretty lightweight.  Bell & Ross-ish.  Kinda.  Y’know, for under $40.

1901 Trim Fit Oxfords - $32.90 ($49.50)

Not bad for $30.

They are decently cut through the sides, but the fabric is pretty thin for oxford cloth.  It still has that extra weight and texture when compared to a pinpoint, but they aren’t super thick by any means.  For just over $30 shipped, they can still make a real good basic addition to your lineup.

Varvatos Star USA plaid wool trousers – $99.90 ($145)

For those stuck in the office.

Plaid but not too in your face.  Wool, and unhemmed so you can get your break where you want it.

Calibrate Suede Wingtip Boot – $65.90 ($99.95)

Solid for the price.

Did decently well when tested as part of the ongoing wingtip boot search.  The toe could be slimmed down a little.  If these aren’t cheap enough for you, Urban Outfitters has their version on sale for $40 (although they don’t look the same in person as they do on the UO website)

The Nordstrom half yearly sale for men launched Monday December 26th, 2011.

The extra 20% off will even come off stuff that was rotting (marinating?) in the clearance section.  Again, it’s pretty much all on sale, and the extra 20% off lasts only through today.  That extra 20% makes a difference.  For example:
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Calfskin Monk Strap Desert Boot – $118.80 ($198)

Your Clarks might get jealous?

Those are something.  Monk Straps slapped on a crepe sole desert boot.  Terrific lighter tan color and leather linings.  No reviews yet so these are a bit of an unknown.  Already on sale.

Linen and Cotton Chalk Stripe Sport Jacket – $99.20 ($248)

Nice crocodandies.

Already on clearance with oddly all sizes available (for now.)  Chalk stripe, pick stitching, un-constructed, and a linen/cotton blend woven in Ireland.  No word on the off the rack fit, so it’ll probably need to be tapered at the sides by your tailor.

Garment Dyed Unlined Sport Jacket – $79.20 ($198.00)

As casual as Brooks Brothers will get.

Like the striped sportcoat above, this one started out pricey but can now be had with the clearance + sale + extra 20% off trifecta for close to GAP pricing.  Lapels look trim, only available in black.  Most sizes seem available.

Chukka Boat Boots – $76.80 ($128)

Winterized.

Kind of like Sebago’s Beacon, on with more boat shoe influence.  Great color combo, and the price isn’t half bad.

Four Brooks Brothers Dress and/or Sport Shirts – $140 – $160ish

But will anyone buy four shirts at once?

Here’s how this works.  If you buy two shirts you get 25% off (plus the extra 20% off today.)  Buy four or more and you get 40% off plus that extra 20% off.  So you really have to be the buy-in-bulk type to get these down to around $35 a piece.  Most of us don’t purchase four shirts at once, but it’s worth noting.  Shirts from Left:  Blue Oxford, White Oxford, Medium Tattersall, Red Plaid Sport Shirt.  All regularly $79.50 except the tattersall which is usually $69.50.  All styles shown here are available in the maybe-you-won’t-need-tailoring extra-slim fit.

Pebble Card Case – $34.80 ($58.00)

Lotta class for the price.

For the same price of a glass smooth Calvin Klein card case, you can snag this Brooks Brothers pebbled card case.  That won’t happen all that often during the year.

Lambswool V-Neck Arm Stripe Sweater – $38.16 ($79.50)

Varsity look might be too much for some.

An in-person with the same sweater (bought through Park & Bond) left a little to be desired when it came to the fit.  Despite some glowing reviews saying it wasn’t boxy, it does seem to have a little more room in the sides and arms.  Might want to consider sizing down.

The Splurge:  Levi’s 501 Made in the USA for Brooks Brothers – $88.80 ($148)

Expensive, but a nice investment for some.

Plenty put a premium on Made in the USA.  And there’s a boat load of us who swear by the fit of a 501.

Ray-Ban Caravan – $75.00 ($125) | Ray-Ban New Wayfarer – $71.40 ($119)

Back down to 40% off pricing.

If you’ll notice they say this sale is “up to” 40% off.  These, with the extra 20% off, actually get them down to that 40% off wall.  They were the same price during the accessories sale earlier this month.  More on the New Wayfarer here.

Rib Knit Merino Winter Hat – $40.80 ($68)

Santa screw up your hat order?

Just like the sunglasses above, these are now back down to 40% off.  Rib, almost cable knit, merino wool, and a “water repellent Teflon finish.”

Made in the USA Cedar Shoe Valet – $76.80 ($128.00)

Helps. Big time.

The affordable luxury shoe shine valet, if there can be such a thing.  Just north of $75, but it’s made in the USA, comes with a couple of horse hair brushes, two daubers for applying the polish/creme, and a couple other essentials.  Shining your shoes is much, much easier with one of these setups.

Leather Moccasin Boots - $148.80 ($248)

An investment, but plenty tempting.

Stitching around the toe like this (sometimes called an “apron toe”) can be awfully hard to keep dressy and slim, but somehow this boot looks like it accomplishes just that.  All without losing their should-work-with-jeans look.  $100 off through today.  Goodyear welt construction.

Greyhound Walking Stick – $88.80 ($148)

Perfect for shaking at clouds.

You bet your kester this is happening when I hit 80.  Now get the hell off my lawn.

The Semi-Annual Brooks Brothers sale ends Wednesday January 4th, while the extra 20% off ends 12/26/11…

The graphics from J. Crew are a little misleading.  You’d think that extra 20% would only come off items marked FINAL sale.  Final sale items are the very ends, and the big catch is that you can’t return them.  But the code works on regular sale items as well as FACTORY.  As is always the case, these things are going to move fast.  But maybe not quite as fast as normal, since we’re only a few days before Christmas, this sale is online only,  and people have understandably given up on getting items shipped to them in time.  The code expires Wednesday 12/28…
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J. Crew 14-Wale Corduroy Sportcoat  in Ludlow Fit – $79.20 ($138)

Light enough that it can be worn deep into spring.

Nearing INC Cord Blazer pricing.  This is final sale, so you best be sure you want it.  No returns on this one.  It might need a little bit of tailoring at the waist, but overall it’s as good as it gets.  Zero shoulder padding.  Full review here.

J. Crew University Coat in Black or Navy – $103.99 ($235)

Also available in Charcoal, slim, and w/ thinsulate for more $

Say you’ve got a slick top coat for the work week.  But you want something more relaxed for the weekends.  For just over $100, there’s the J. Crew university coat.  Not everyone is a fan of single breasted pea-coat like outerwear.  But for the price?  Also a final sale.  No returns here.

J. Crew Beaumont Weekender – $174.40 ($228)

Nice, but there are other options.

Just about 2000 cubic inches of space inside.  Waxed canvas exterior with pebbled leather accents.  Nice, but for less you could get a simplified made in the USA alternative from Frost River, or, for $240 you can get an also made in the USA and  just as good looking as the J. Crew Duluth Pack sportsman’s duffel.

J. Crew Cotton braided Belt – $23.60 ($39.50)

Webbed for your pleasure.

Not a bad color to work into your Fridays and weekends.  1 1/4″ in width, so it’s far from some gigantic thing.  Sizes come in small-medium and large-extra large.

FACTORY Wool Sueded Gloves – $11.99 ($26.50)

Not mittens.

So you left a pair of gloves in a cab already this year huh?  These would be a nice backup pair.  Might want to check your local Army/Navy for even cheaper options, but for twelve bucks, it’s hard to go wrong.  Final sale.

J. Crew Ludlow fine-stripe cotton summer suit – $223.98 ($366)

Really not mittens.

Anyone in the mood to buy a light blue, striped, summer suit a few days before Christmas?  No?  That’s why it’s on sale.  Surprising that there are all sizes available though.  Not quite sure why they’re fully stocked at this point in the year.  As far as fit, cotton suits from J. Crew can be so-so… full review on a similar one over here.  Final sale.

The J. Crew extra 20% off sale code MUSTSHOP expires next Wednesday, 12/28/11

*You’ll need to use the code BOOTSALE at checkout to get this price from Endless.

These are not the bland hikers you wore in the Scouts.  Instead, they’re a blend of rugged enough for a short hike construction (maybe longer?) and drool worthy style details like that plaid around the top of the CH.

It’s hard to imagine that either pair would get you from Maine to Georgia on the Appalachian trail.  But if you’re the type who wants a pair of go-to, good looking boots worthy of pre-dinner hikes and relaxed trips to the mountains, then maybe these are worth a shot.

The Cole Haan is a recent addition to the CH lineup.  They’re made in India, and being that they’re on sale at Endless with the code BOOTSALE, they could be at your door before Christmas.

The Allen Edmonds look incredible.  Made in Italy, simple, and can be recrafted.  Marked down as part of the ongoing Allen Edmonds Holiday Select Styles Sale.

Time to choose.  If you had to pick one, which would you lace up and wear?  Or is it Gore-Tex or nothing for you?  Leave your take below…

Left:  The Cole Haan.  Also available in brown leather and grey suede.  Right:  The sole of the Allen Edmonds.