To quote Bart Scott, can’t wait.  After turning over every couch cushion and probably selling the Tin Man for scrap, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer pulled enough cash together to get the twenty third installment of the James Bond movie franchise made.  Javier Bardem is on board to play the villain.  Of course Dame Judi Dench is back as M.  And in his third movie, Daniel Craig looks to continue making life hell for whoever has the unlucky task of assuming the role of Bond once Craig’s turn is up.
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The Grey Striped Suit:  Hilfiger – $330 ($550) | Hickey Freeman – $359.40 ($1,500)

Striped, grey, and will need waist suppression.

The suit shown in the trailer happens to go against what’s favored at the moment in a few ways:

• Grey instead of navy.
• Three button instead of two, but it’s rolled to look like a two.
• And striped instead of solid or shadow plaid.

It’s also tailored incredibly close.  Enough so that the fit causes those lines/Xs/pulls that extend from the button.  That’ll give some traditionalists a heart attack.  Bottom line is this:  If you’re fit as hell, the suit is comfortable, and you can move just fine, then some of those lines are fine.  If the button is about to blow after lunch, it’s not.  That thing fits Craig like a glove.  And for those who think it’s too tight, feel free to ask your significant other how they think he looks in it.  Both of the affordable alternatives are two button.  The Hilfiger should drop down to the mid $200s during the next One Day Sale.  The Hickey Freeman is made in the US, cut a little more traditional, and now an extra 40% off through LastCall.com.  Sizes there are 40R and up.  Want a splurge?  Try this from J. Crew.

The Shirt + Tie:  Express 1MX French Cuff – $37.23 (if you buy 2) | DKNY – $35.70 ($59.50)

Bond is not on board with the bright colors thing.

A cool blue (leaning grey?), a point and not spread collar, and french cuffs  Not the easiest of all combinations to find for cheap.  So for this case go with the Express 1MX.  Available with a french cuff, they really do have a more traditional, point collar when buttoned up.  Just treat it carefully.  It’s a so-so sale, but Express is doing a $15 off $75 w/ code 1409 through Sunday, and with the buy one get one 1/2 off deal, that puts two of these at $74.45.  For the tie:  Bond’s looks surprisingly slim.  Dense dot pattern.  Your call on navy or black.  Ultra affordable TheTieBar option here.
UPDATE:  Or, if you just want one shirt, use code 1405 to get $15 off every $60 you spend.  Shirts are stubbornly $59.90 so you’ll have to tip the balance with something small to get the $15 off. 

The Overcoat: Scotch & Soda – $145 ($215) | Hart Schaffer Marx – $215 ($425)

Hey, the movie comes out in November...

May isn’t the best month for topcoat shopping.  Craig’s Bond seems to favor double breasted coats, but there’s no front view in the trailer.  It also moves a bit more like a single breasted topcoat, and if that’s the case, the long gone BR from this past winter would fit the bill.  The Scotch & Soda is limited in sizes but on sale and available.  Since we’re heading into summer, try the Cotton blend H.S.M. via Amazon for just over $200.

The Sweats:  Topman Indigo Marl Raglan Crew – $40.00

Hey, at least it looks fitted.

My God.  What have they done to Bond.  The man who’s hardly ever out of reach of his tuxedo has been put in sweats.  This has to be him being held against his will.  There’s no other explanation.  At least they haven’t put the word “Juicy” on the rear.  Anyway, notice the lack of a hood.  Well done.  No, there’s no matching pants for this sweatshirt from Topman, but you could always get this and this for a matching set.

The Tux:  Indochino Midnight Shawl – $379 | Hilfiger Shawl Collar – $319.99

Indochino pic shows notch, but shawl is available.

It’s a shawl (see 1:15 in the trailer) and it just might be a midnight blue.  Pretty much the only place to score one of those for an affordable price would be Indochino, and don’t forget to select the shawl collar during the customization process.  It also comes with a $75 re-tailoring alterations credit, so with that extra value, this is actually closer to the low $300s.  The Hilfiger Shawl comes in black, and while the pants are available through Macy’s, the jacket is short on sizes there.  The reverse is true on Amazon.  Buy one from each place and hope for the blacks to match?

The Watch:  Seiko 5 SNKE51 Blue Dial – $79.99

Downsizing for this film.

Rumors are it’ll be an Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra, with a blue dial, at the very subtle size of 38.5 mm.  That’s not big.  At all.  Neither is this one, and it’ll seem awfully dainty if you’re used to wearing something more substantial.  Automatic, blue dial, and cheap.

The Haircut:  Short, and embracing the power alleys.

"I ain't got time to apply product."

Anybody else get the feeling that they were trying to hide Daniel Craig’s hair loss in Quantum of Solace?  That’s not the case here.  Craig gets an even closer cut that would spit in Pierce Brosnan’s hair gel, if in fact a haircut could hock a loogie.  Probably a 3 or 4 clipper at the sides with a very short finger length scissors cut on top.

Lots of simple dark colors.  Your thoughts?  Is the minimalism terrific?  Or boring?  Hey, who knows, maybe he’ll wear a pair of pink chinos while sipping on his Heineken…  Leave it all in the comments.

These went fast, real fast during the Yoox sale.  Designed for the brand Alessi by Italian designer Piero Lissoni, these watches were a couple hundred bucks off, down to $89, and they’re now long gone through Yoox.  The only place you can seemingly find them is for full retail through the Museum of Modern Art’s online shop, or, direct through the brand.
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It’s unique for sure.  Freakishly light weight even for a quartz (read: scary light… not the most substantial feeling thing), the minute markers are printed on the underside of the crystal as opposed to the dial’s face, and that top sub dial measures 1/10ths of a second for the chronometer.  The leather band feels awfully flimsy and the watch could look and feel better with a heavier replacement.  The water resistance is a not very impressive 30m.  Which means it shouldn’t drown on you in a rainstorm, but you’re not going to want to wear it in the pool.

Country of origin is no secret as soon as you see the box.  There’s a big “made in China” sticker on it.  But y’know, the Timex weekenders that plenty have purchased aren’t exactly being made in Geneva.

Wears about 40mm, so it’s a medium to smaller sized chrono.  It’s awfully unique, but if it had to be compared to a brand most are more familiar with, this is a bit like wearing a Skagen, only thicker and somehow lighter.  There are plenty of watches out there that take stylistic influence from airplane dials.  This watch seems like it might have been pulled off the dash of some classic European sports car.  Or alternatively, off an oven from the 1950s.

Aside from being the discreet source for my first ever Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, the White Hen Pantry a few blocks from the middle school I attended was also a daily stop for a since long forgotten after-school snack.  The Little Debbie Swiss Roll.  They were insanely soft, had a pliable stretch that you noticed when separating first bite from the rest, and the sight of em’ made your salivary glands flow.  Wood & Faulk’s Passthrough Watch Strap is like wearing a Swiss Roll on your wrist, with none of the unfortunate smudging and stickiness of chocolate ganache and cake.

The resemblance to the Swiss cake rolls is uncanny.  Same color, same springyness, same texture on the sued side of the strap.  The pics on the Wood & Faulk site make it look like it’s going to be stiffer, and maybe they changed the leather they were using on these, but this leather is so soft you can twist it into a corkscrew with no problem (as seen below).

Double stitching of cream thread where the strap keepers attach is a dead on detail.  Tag says “Wear unforgivably to properly break-in” but it’s already there.  No break-in time needed whatsoever.  It’s so soft, one might be afraid to wear it while doing dishes or washing hands… at first.

A total splurge at $60, it costs twice as much as a standard Timex Weekender that you’d get at Target.  Maybe something to keep in mind for Father’s Day coming up.  Made in the USA, limited stock, 20mm wide and 10.75″ long.  They’re a small outfit and their leather goods are made to order, so allow 10 – 14 days for delivery.

Watch Shown:  An old 38mm Victorinox.  Shown on the wrist here.

Browsing the inventory at Yoox is insane.  There are 41,000 items… on sale.  And that’s just for the fellas.  Forget their regular-price inventory, they have more marked down items for guys in this sale than the city of Green Bay Wisconsin (go Pack go) has grown men.

They carry brands ranging from Ben Sherman to Zegna.  Free shipping doesn’t kick in until $200, and the steep $9.95 standard shipping (to the U.S.) isn’t the speediest in the world.  Returns will also cost you $6.00, so buying through them is far from risk free.  But again, the inventory is…um… ginormous.  Here’s a snapshot:
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Ciro Lendini Suede Loafers – $130.00 ($138)

Only eight bucks off? C'mon yoox.

And that right there looks to be the perfect loafer shape.  Not Bass Weejun stumpy (although the weejuns are classic) and not spear like either.  A trim shape with a smooth penny strap over the top.  Made in Italy by Ciro Lendini, which appears to be a Yoox exclusive brand.

Piero Lissoni for Alessi Chronograph – $89.00 ($230)

Really different, but not freakish.

Modern looking for sure, but that’s what you get when an Italian Architect who designs just about everything he can in this sort of minimalist style is tasked with making a line of timepieces.  By some weird coincidence, Mrs. Dappered and I met an architect last week, the guy happened to like Piero Lissoni, and he was wearing this watch.  It looks terrific in person, and the sub-dials certainly keep it from looking too blank or cold.  A steal at $89 when you consider the MoMA store is selling it for $290.

Gant Polo Shirt – $45.00 ($55)

Big name, bold look.

A splurge for a polo shirt, but the colors and stripes are terrific.  For those who are anti-logo, there might not be a logo on the left chest, but there is one on the sleeve.  So know that.  Jersey knit

Bruno Magli Bit Loafer – $160 ($225) Suede Wing – $170 ($234) Calf Wing – $165 ($235)

The Magli Yoox Spectrum

Can’t recall seeing Bruno Magli shoes dip this low into the $100s since the great CLAD fire sale of 2012.  Bit loafers aren’t for everyone, but $160 for a standard black pair like this seems more than fair.  Toe is going to be a little square for some.  No perforations on either the Suede or Calf wing, giving these made-in-Italy shoes a cleaner look.

Belstaff Nylon/Polymaid Bomber Jacket in Blue or Black – $225 ($315)

Not cheap, but has all the bells and whistles.

That’s a lot of money for a nylon jacket, but it’s from Belstaff, so it better be more substantial than some paper thin thing you could find on the clearance rack at Old Navy.  One thing about Yoox:  They often just throw garments on mannequins and shoot the photos.  These jackets are obviously getting that treatment.  Looks like along with the collar buckle and reinforced shoulders, these come with underarm vents to help keep your pits aired out.

Ben Sherman Cotton Jacket – $69.00 ($95)

Cheap.

Or, there’s this.  Description says it’s cotton, but it looks like it might have some kind of waxed or coated treatment applied to it?  Key word there is might.  All sizes available.

Ciro Lendini Brogue Cap Toe Lace-ups – $128.00 ($158)

Budget friendly Italian shoes.

First mentioned last week over here.  Leather looks a little glossy in the online pics, but the styling is dead on for a lot of us.  Again, made in Italy for this brand that only Yoox seems to carry.

Ben Sherman Wool Blend Plaid Blazer – $125.00 ($178)

Smalls and mediums are left.

40% wool, 40% poly, and 20% viscose.  Add the synthetic blend on top of the flannel like looking texture, and you’re probably going to have to wait awhile to wear this thing.  But $125 for a blazer in this pattern is pretty low.  Speaking of low, no word on how low the tail drops, so be warned that it might be chopped too short for many’s butt-covering tastes.  A 100% wool, more traditional looking sport coat complete with ticket pocket can be had over at Overstock for around $220.

Ciro Lendini Suede Double Monk – $145.00 ($155)

Well, 70% don't think monks are overrated.

Along with the DSW brand Mercanti Fiorentini (also made in Italy for reasonable prices), Ciro Lendini is the other brand that seems to make double monk strap loafers for under two hundred bucks.  Seen the grey version of these in person, and they’re well built.  Substantial feeling in your hands, and should hold up for awhile.  Hat tip to Double Monks for “only” picking up 30% during the recent what’s overrated style poll.

French Connection Cotton Shawl Cardigan – $115.00 ($125)

Points for the extremely light colored buttons.

Something to keep an eye on, since you’ve got to think it’ll get marked down further as the weeks go on.  Looks like a heavier shaker-style knit, but the description says “lightweight.”  Hm.  Gordon’s Fisherman + Runway Model = this.

Bruno Magli Textured Wallet – $69.00 ($78)

Bumpy.

Has that basket-weave/stamped kind of look that makes it way different than a standard billfold.  Does have that brand badge on it.  Could have easily been thrown into the mix with these other not-so-normal wallets.

Scotch & Soda Wool Mix Double Breasted Coat – $160 ($245)

Has that great above the knee length.

Only available in size medium, and you’re going to have to be one of those incredible planner-types to actually consider buying a winter coat in May… but it’s a looker and under $200.

Brooks Brothers Polo – $55.00 ($78)

Sorry Waldo. Not for $55.

Heyyyyy.  Found him.

The up to 30% off sale at Yoox is set to expire Wednesday 5/23/12.

1.  Target’s Merona Kensington Blazer in New Colors – $40 – $45

A spring workhorse, and... Capone?

Credit to Amogh for the style tip on how these are now available in grey or a navy pinstripe.  The pinstripe might be a little tough to pull off, since there’s zero structure to the thing.  Still, might be worth a shot.  The light grey is a hugely welcome addition.  More on the blazer over here.  Some guys didn’t like the fit and some guys did.  Off the rack fit seemed much, much better than average to me.

 

2.  Field Notes National Crop Edition Box Set – $24.00

"The grocery list? Check sorghum..."

Field Notes notebooks are certainly in the upscale-rugged wheelhouse.  These made in the USA notebooks take after the ones that used to go out with seed/agricultural equipment/etc. to American farmers.  Each crop themed notebook has just 48 light tan graph-paper pages, but that’s perfect for those of us who write small and don’t like lugging around one of those bulky, spiral bound “lil’ fat” books.  That, and at 3.5″x5.5″, they slide neatly into a sportcoat’s inside pocket without weighing it down.  And that’s perfect for having something to put ideas in when out and on the run, or out and sitting still.  Averages out to $4 per notebook, and you get the map and triangular patch as a bonus.  Ships free through Maxtonmen.com

 

3.  Aston Grey Textured “Ashland” Lace up – $69.94

The inexpensive odd duck.

The “compare at” $160 is eye-roll-worthy, but a lace up with texture like this is a good alternative to suede bucks.  More dressed up than boat shoes or drivers, and not as stuffy as your office shoes.  Suede bucks?  Sure, that’s the safer play.  More on how to wear a similar shoe, in black, over here.

 

4.  Seiko 5 Roman Numeral Automatic – $54.12

Et tu Seiko.

Credit to LG for the tip on this one.  Under seventy bucks, has a much loved Seiko 5 automatic movement, and has the much dressed up Roman Numerals.  Switching out for a leather strap shouldn’t be too difficult.  For the guys with smaller wrists, since it’s a small 38mm in diameter.  UPDATE:  Going for cheaper through Amazon.  Hat tip to Steve in the comments.

 

5.  Mint for Chewing (not chewing mint gum) – $2.00 – $4.00

Oribt and Trident can take a back seat.

So the Derby Party was a success, but you vastly overestimated how much mint you were going to need for the drinks.  Now what?  Simple answer:  Peel the leaves off the stems, tuck 4-6 of them in your cheek or between your teeth and lower lip, and let em’ sit.  Lots of us like chewing gum, but it can leave you bloated.  Sometimes the artificial flavors can leave an odd funk in your mouth (even the mint flavors).  Real, honest-to-goodness mint leaves don’t do that.  Don’t chomp away on them, just let em’ sit.  Re position from time to time.  It’ll leave you with a light, fresh, minty feel.  Probably has something to do with the fact that it’s actual, fresh mint.  When the flavor runs out, which takes a surprisingly long time, you won’t need to find a garbage can to spit em’ out.  Just chew em’ up.

 

6.  Lorenzo Uomo Gingham Neck & Sleeve Shirt – $28.79* ($39)

Son, lemme tell you about Wurkin Stiffs.

*You’ll need the 20% off code SAVE20MAY9 to get this price.  UPDATE:  Code expired yesterday.  Apologies for that fellas.  Spend another $10 somewhere and you can get $15 off your $50+ purchase with the code 15OFFMAY512.  That one expires 5/31.  Finding a bold gingham dress shirt that’s actually crisp instead of washed ain’t the easiest thing in the world.  This one is even a neck and sleeve measurement.  Substantial looking collar too.  Fit?  Not sure.  But for under $30, tailoring isn’t out of the question.

 

7.  Van Halen Stay Frosty – $0.99

Ice Cream Man Part II.  And friggin’ awesome.  Might even get the cold toes of a music snob tapping.  Eddie doesn’t look dead anymore, Diamond Dave still has the attitude (even if he does have a little less of the vocal chord range) Alex still thumps, and somehow Wolfgang does just fine with the bass and backup vocals.  The new album is much, much better than you’d expect.  “Tattoo” pulls this record with the locomotive on the front out of the station, and even though Dave starts to sound a little like a blue-haired caricature of his own self-made caricature on “She’s the Woman”, it’s forgivable.  The song is that good as a whole.  Rolling Stone gave the CD 3.5/5 stars.  Preview the Album on SoundCloud here.

 

8.  Club Monaco Cotton Naval Sweater – $49.00 ($98.50)

You're on your own for the bandana cowboy.

Thicker cotton sweaters can be anchor heavy and battleship wide.  This one has a chance to provide a little extra beef, without getting too bulky.  Cut in a slimmer fit, with some extras at the cuffs and hem.  $5 flat rate shipping under $175, and you’ll get dinged $5 for return shipping.  Returns free in store.

 

9.  Black Magic Tire Wet – $5.99

Shoe polish for your Goodyears

There’s a few of us who haven’t had our cars washed since, umm… October.  Well the sun is out now.  And if you’re lucky enough to have a car you like to drive, it’s time to get it clean.  Tire shine doesn’t make as big of a difference as a well shined pair of shoes does, but… it still makes a pretty big difference.  (Note:  Follow the instructions on this stuff.  Do NOT spray it on anything other than the sidewalls of your tires.  It’s slippery stuff.  And you don’t want slippery stuff on your tire tread.)

 

10.  Factory Long Sleeve Striped T-shirt – $29.50

Tony Marceau, at your service.

Lots of color.  Lots of stripes.  Throw it on one weekend and you just might feel grrrrrrrrrrrreat.

For other best bets under $75 from previous months, click here.

First it was the green dial.  Then the blackout came along.  Now, say hello to the orange version.

Citizen’s BM8475 watches all have the same basic setup.  Black plated matte stainless case, aviation style hands, big flight dial numbers at the quarter hours, textured crown, and they’re all powered by the easy to like Eco-Drive movement.  Even if you prefer automatics, it’s hard not to appreciate the fueled-by-light engine that’s in these things.

This new option stands out for the obvious, orange shaded reasons.  The orange numerals, hands, and hash marks look surprisingly good next to the cognac-leaning band.  It’s unique but it’s not obnoxious.  More important is the feel.  It’s a nice, medium weight and it feels like it could sustain getting roughed up.  The crystal is mineral, but with a setup like this, a few scratches will only add character.

Unlike the other two versions of this watch, Citizen put a leather band on this one.  And it’s surprisingly soft right out of the box.  Not a bit of stiffness in this band.  The polar opposite of the band on the Sturhling Tuskegee Skymaster.   Cream colored stitching is perfect, as is the squared off (not pointed) band end.

42mm in diameter but seems to wear slightly smaller.  It’ll look big on a smaller guy’s wrist, but it won’t look too big if you’re of average size or a larger human.  Easily one of the best looking, if not the best looking casual watch Citizen has on the market right now.

Code 15WTCH512 gets you 15% off watches plus free shipping.  15OFFMAY512 is good for $15 off orders over $50, SAVE20MAY9 gets you 20% off, but those lack free shipping ($6.99), and thus, aren’t the best deal.

Croton ain’t Cartier.  Hell, they aren’t Citizen.  But these two use Japanese quartz movements (the brand as a whole has used automatics from time to time) and they’re awfully classy looking at first glance.

But where’s the hour hand?  You thought reading a blackout watch wasn’t the easiest thing in the world.  These will take some getting used to.  As you’ve already figured out, the hour hand is on the top 24-hour subdial.

Subtle stripes to the dial and very slightly raised subdial cutouts are both nice touches.  The texture to the crown and the lizard-like embossing on the leather band (as opposed to the usual croc look) are also pluses.

But would you wear it if you were in the market for an ultra cheap dress watch?  Leave your take below.

Via the in-12-states-discount-store Loehmann’s, which offers free returns in store, but you pay for return shipping.

The Blazer: INC Linen Blend blazer – $63.99 – $79.99

Not seersucker, but you can wear it more often for sure.

This newest INC blazer hasn’t hit the web yet, so you’ll have to head in store.  Exterior is 55% linen, 45% ramie, which is a natural fiber.  See a close up on the fabric here.  It is lined in poly, but overall, it’s nice and light.  Could be a little trimmer at the waist, but plenty will be able to skate by without extra tailoring.  In-store prices will vary, but on-sale for $80 in some, and drops to $63.99 if you’ve got an extra 20% off coupon that the snail-mailing lists get from time to time.  Armholes are a little low, fit is a little wonky, but for sixty bucks you get a summer ready, real versatile blazer in a medium to pale grey which you can wear year-round.

 

The Pants: J. Crew Factory Sussex – $27.65  | Broken in Chino – $34.65 w/ MUSTSHOP

Colors are Canvas, and a true White.

If there’s ever a time to wear white pants, it’s now.  The Derby and the gatherings that surround it are borderline costume parties.  For those of us that don’t like dandyism, this is one of the few events during the year to dabble in that look a bit.  Some might want to put linen pants on the bottom too, but you want some contrast with a texture like linen.  It’d be like wearing a worsted wool suit jacket and pants together, only they’re from two separate suits.  Go with a chino.  Both of these come in the slim but not skinny “classic” J. Crew fit.  Part of a very quiet extra 30% off sale items sale.  Code MUSTSHOP expires today, 5/3/13.

The Shirt:  Old Navy Slim Fit Orange Stripe – $22.50 or Alfani RED light blue – $32.99

You can reach on color if you want.

Now the color.  The safest play is the light blue shirt you probably already have, but don’t be afraid of something different for the derby.  Or, stick with blue and still go different with that club collar you bought but never wear.  Steer clear of thicker oxford cloth shirts, and choose a lighter weight poplin.  (NOTE:  feel free to use wurkin’ stiffs and go tieless, but if you want a tie, keep it casual with a knit, cotton, or hell… why not a bow tie.)

The Shoes: Penguin Blucher – $69.00 ($115) | Florsheim by Duckie Brown – $141 ($235)

Penguin + Duckie. We're just some ROOS short of an Ark.

Both via LastCall.com which is doing an extra 40% off one item sale through today, 5/3.  You want something with a little extra character to it, and the perforations on the Penguin get it done.  The Florsheim by Duckie Brown line is all about extra character, and now, these saddles are down to a reasonable $141.  Free shipping kicks in at $75 with code LCMAY75.  Still going for the full price of $325 through the regular Neimann Marcus site where you can get a better look at them.

 

The Sunglasses: Fossil “Kevin” – $60.00

A little retro goes a long way in eyewear.

Skip the wire rimmed aviators on a day like Saturday, and favor instead acetate/plastic frames.  New Wayfarers are perfect, and these from Fossil have a just-different-enough shape to them.  Ships free through Fossil but you are on the hook for returns.

 

The Watch:  Timex Originals 1900s – $80.75 | Easy Reader – $55.25 w/ SPRING12

Originally $95 and $65.

There once was a time where horse racing, boxing, and baseball were the most followed sports in America.  And that was a lonnnng time ago.  The watch on the left is inspired by that period.  The one on the right is updated, but still has plenty of classic feel.  Both are 15% off with the code SPRING2012.

 

The Belt:  Goodale Fabric Surcingle – $19.99

A good price for the look.

Via JackThreads.  Going to be mainly leather towards the front, so unless you take your jacket off it’ll be tough to see anything other than the leather, but a summer staple none the less.  Twenty bucks plus shipping via JackThreads.

 

The Pocket Square:  Seersucker Pocket Square by The Tie Bar – $8.00

Give em' just a hint.

And here’s your seersucker.  Careful with this though.  If you’re wearing a striped shirt, it could get real messy, visually, real quick.  Plenty of colors to choose from too.

The Boutonniere:  Something small and simple.

A flower is a reach as it is. Keep it small.

This is really letting the dandy freak flag fly.  99% of us will skip this, and that is 100% okay.  The INC jacket at the top of the page doesn’t have a lapel buttonhole, but if you’re wearing a blazer that does have one, and it’s functional, consider throwing a small, bright white carnation in there.  The state flower of Kentucky is Goldenrod.  Here’s to keeping the pollen off your jacket.  More from Antonio from RealMenRealStyle.com here.  Goldenrod Photo Credit.  Carnation Photo Credit.

Of course, you could always splurge and go full seersucker.  Or, if you picked up the light blue J. Crew Factory Cotton suit when it was $156?  This Saturday is the day to wear it.  Very Top Photo Credit: Boboroshi

If you’re headed in-store, you’ll need a savings pass, which you can get here.  Warning… it’s a pdf.  Free shipping online kicks in at $99 after any codes have been applied.  Sale expires Monday 4/30/12

For a store that seems like it’s perpetually on sale, it can be tough to tell which one is better than the others.  This seems to be that one.  One Day Sales are usually the deepest markdowns you’ll see on the largest amount of inventory, but this extra 25% off regular price, clearance, and sale items Friends & Family sale w/ the code FRIEND is showing lower prices than their most recent O.D.S. events.

There are surprisingly few exclusions, and the vast majority of even the bigger name brands are up for the discount.  In parenthesis prices are what these goods were going for at “full retail.”  (Which doesn’t happen much at Macy’s.)
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Bar III Light Grey Texture Slim Blazer – $127.49 ($350)

Can it really be this slim?

Whoa.  There’s slim fit, and then there’s homeboy here who’s just some blue pigmented skin away from looking like an underfed Na’vi (Two letter review: No.)  Macy’s doesn’t make a lot of things that could potentially be TOO slim for those of us who aren’t skinny, but still fit… but this has a chance.  Maybe.  Haven’t seen it in store, but it’s from the already trim Bar III house line.  And that pic, I’m sure there’s some chip clips gathering the back or something, but it looks usually slim.  Wool.  Great color.  Ships free.

Tallia Slim Fit Large Check Cotton Blazer – $67.49 ($250)

Another loud but not loud (yet loud) blazer.

Hm.  Loud, but the contrast isn’t too out of control.  $250 is the full retail price.  Marked way down to $89.99, and then the extra 25% off gets tacked on.  Doesn’t ship free.  Looks to have a good amount of rumple if you zoom in.

Bulova Automatic Rectangle Case – $225.00 ($375)

Nice texture on the dial too.

Was going for just shy of $300 during the last one day sale, now down to a much more attainable price.  Still far from cheap, but for those who don’t like cut-out/skeleton windows on their dial, this one actually seems to work even for them.  Already on sale for $300, and the extra 25% off helps immensely.

Tallia Tan Linen Suit or  White Linen Suit  or – $149.99 ($260)

Potential Summer Wedding Lifesavers

Both are new arrivals and no word on the off the rack fit, armholes, shoulderpads, that kind of deal.  But, they are from Taillia Orange, which is a good brand that usually has good trim silhouettes.  Tan is the safe play.  A white linen suit isn’t the easiest thing to pull off.  Not many can do it, but if you’re not sure if you can wear a white shirt with a white linen suit… you sure can.  Just wear a tie with some contrast, and it never hurts to have the confidence and body structure it takes to dance your way through a laser field.

 

Polo RL Bienne Boat Shoes – $74.25 ($99)

Well reviewed too.

Boat shoes with a little less slop and flop.  White contrast soles, rawhide laces, and a nice bit of texture on the lacing panels.  The pre-code price nets you free shipping, but since Macy’s delivers free shipping at $99 AFTER any codes apply, you’re on the hook for shipping once you apply the code.  Which stinks.

 

Totes Wooden Stick Umbrella – $15.00 ($20.00)

Big enough for two to get cozy under.

The unquestionable champion of affordable umbrellas (who knew there was even a competition?).  Hell of a good looking umbrella.  Price has creeped up on this thing over the last year or so, but still, twenty at full retail is a deal.  $15 on sale, and maybe as a “get free shipping” tipping tool, it becomes extra nice.

 

Hilfiger Trim Fit Wool Dress Pants – $59.99 ($150)

Sheep kicks synthetic's tail. If synthetic had a tail.

Skip the microfiber stuff.  If you’re doing the dress pants to work thing as opposed to a suit, make sure they’re flat front, slim fitting, and wool.  These hit all three of those points for a decent price.  Sizes are all over the place.

 

Maui Jim 242 Dive Deep Polarized Sunglasses – $86.23 ($229.95)

Maui Jim fans... thoughts?

Started out at a really expensive $229.95 (but sit tight for another pair of really expensive sunglasses) and now… not bad for polarized at $86.23.  Seem to squat a little lower in the lens than new wayfarers.  Made in Italy.

 

Levi’s 501 in Dimensional Rigid – $41.24 ($74.00)

For once, Macy's might have the best price in this wash.

Cotton prices are still high, and jeans have jumped in price substantially.  This is the first time in a LONG time that Macy’s has had 501s for around $40.  Even if you tack on shipping (Macy’s doesn’t kick in free shipping till $99) they’re a little less than through Zappos.

 

Polo Ralph Lauren Custom Fit Striped Rugby in blue or red – $52.49 ($98.00)

RL's "custom" fit is a true slim fit.

It’s 100% understandable that some have a zero tolerance policy against any logos, and some feel an especially severe dislike for the ol’ polo player.  But these custom fit rugbys are incredibly fitted, feel terrific, and the extra quilting at the shoulders gives them a substantial feel that you don’t get with limp, thin rugby shirts.  Rarely this inexpensive in the custom fit.  A good hoodie upgrade for a night at home after work or hanging around the house on the weekend.

 

Bar III Wool Pindot Peak Lapel Slim Fit Suit – $299.99 ($595)

Seems like they got more sizes back in stock.

The most modern fitting of the Macy’s exclusive / house brand lines.  Rave reviews on Macys.com.  Wool, a great color, and smallish peak lapels for the guys who want some personality but not F-14 sized wings on their chest.

 

Alfani RED Grey Wool Blend Shawl Collar overcoat – $104.99 ($350)

Not going to get much use for awhile.

Different, distinguished, and 100% out of season.  But it ships free and returns free in-store.

 

Stacy Adams Telford Suede Wingtip – $47.24 ($70)

Hmmm.

If the suede is anywhere halfway decent, then these might be a real good find.  Stacy Adams shoes are far from brag-worthy quality.  Full retail is only $70 here.  But as a purely summer shoe, that’ll see some light work, under $50 pre shipping might be worth the risk.

 

The Ridiculous Splurge: Persol PO0714SM Folding Sunglasses – $270.00 ($365)

Pairs through Macy's have green or amber lenses.

When did Macy’s start carrying these?  They ship direct from the vender, but somehow the code still knocks 25% off.  Down to well under $300, which is rare.  Available in black or tortoise.  Ear pieces and nose bridge have hinges that allow these to fold up to shirt pocket size.  A warning:  These are NOT small, so if you have a smaller head, forget it.  Made in Italy.  NOTE:  The pair above have blue lenses.  Pairs available on Macy’s have green or amber lenses.  Blue lenses can be had over here in black, for $40 more.  Tortoise w/ blue will cost you the full $360.

The Macy’s extra 25% off Friends and Family code FRIEND expires 4/30.  Heading in-store?  Print up a savings pass before you go.  You can find it here as a PDF.  Prices/selection can vary greatly from store to store & online.

My workplace has a fairly business casual policy for most employees.  I just found out that I’ll be serving in an interim role that will raise my level of responsibility.  As a result, I’m thinking that I may need to adjust my style which leans more on the casual side of business-casual (Dress shirts, sweaters, Timex Weekender, Dockers D1s).   The higher-ups generally wear suits to work each day. 

However, I don’t want to suddenly start showing up in suits that would turn the heads of those who have worked with me for years.  What would be the key pieces for a “higher-level” style? I know just the dress shirt and tie look isn’t recommended, but that’s my initial thought for a middle ground.

- Luke

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Congrats to Luke for the promotion.  Here’s to hoping the situation is ripe for that “interim” tag getting removed once he shows his superiors how valuable he is handling the new responsibilities.

Luke makes a great point.  The cliche is “dress for the job you want,” but y’have situational awareness too.  Ike said: “Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.”  Fair or not, going from khakis & polo to three-piece power suit overnight might be off putting to those who didn’t get a promotion.  Here’s a few key options for Luke when it comes to ratcheting up his office style without going crazy.
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#1.  Non Plain White Dress Shirts + Casual Ties and Tie bars

Keep it relaxed.

You can still wear a shirt & tie but look casual and streamlined.  Leave the stark white dress shirts on the hangers, and stick with light blue, or better yet patterns like checks and gingham.  Try solid color knit ties.  Cotton or wool blend ties work too.  Steer clear from super glossy looking silk ties.  A tie bar keeps your tie in place and thus, your lines clean.  Make sure your shirts are tailored.  Roll your sleeves up the right way.  And see Adam Scott’s character Ben Wyatt on NBC’s Parks & Rec for the overall look.  He sticks with a lot of plaid, but it works.

#2.  Cotton Blazers + tieless:  B.R. Tailored Fit Cotton Blazer – $198 (but on sale a lot)

BR's new "sateen" blazer. Don't worry, it doesn't look shiny.

Jackets man.  They do wonders.  Skip anything wool and real formal, and opt instead for cleaned up cotton blazers and sportcoats.  You can wear these with a simple button up shirt and chinos (or dark denim if your workplace is that informal) till the cows come home.  Or Kingdom Come.  Or, well hell, whenever, but you’ll look good when it happens.  Why no link?  They were selling these online for, if memory serves, $198, and they had just been added not too long ago.  Plenty of sizes too.  But they’re gone.  They do seem to be carrying them in-store, so check there.  Why the sudden disappearance online?  Not sure.  It vexes me.  I’m terribly vexed.

#3.  A ridiculously clean, simple watch:  Bulova 96B104 – $77.95

Can't send a tweet. And that's a positive.

Why wear a watch when everyone has a cell in their pocket?  Because a watch says: “I have enough going on that I need to know what time it is, but I’m also not married to my phone.  You can’t get a hold of me whenever you damn well please.  Sometimes, people have to come find me.”  Facebook and Angry Birds can wait.  Smart phones are like cats.  Who owns who is always in question.  A watch like this, even for as cheap as it is, is all business.

#4.  The non messenger work bag:  Bosca Slim Brief – $196.90 ($395)

Italian leather, dead simple design.

Here’s the brutal truth.  Messenger bags, as convenient as they can be, often look like you’re transitioning between that Jansport you wore in middle school and an actual briefcase.  You want something with handles.  Not just a shoulder strap.  If you bike to work, then all bets are off.  Otherwise, get a briefcase.  Doesn’t have to be a hard sided attache, but you want something that doesn’t make you look like you’re about to hop on a segway and deliver a sandwich to some stoner holed up in his apartment.  Examples over here.

#5.  A once every three weeks haircut (or about there)

Barber or salon, just keep it maintained.

Everyone’s hair grows at a different rate, but you want a haircut schedule that prevents people from saying: “You got a HAIR cut!!” once you get back to the office.  A trim every three weeks should do it for most.  Once a month can be pushing it for many.  Keeping your hair from crawling down your neck/spilling over your ears makes a big difference.

Other suggestions for Luke?  Leave them in the comments section.  Barber Pole Photo Credit:  Ross Griff