Dappered » black

Express Microdot Slim Fit Suit

Joe — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 08:08:42 +0000

Express Microdot Slim Fit Suit – $195.30

This is the suit for a guy who knows he can pull off something that’s a little more unique than a standard two button notch lapel.

It has just one button on the front of the jacket and sports slim and restrained PEAK lapels. The fabric also breaks the norm with a pattern that’s not a stripe, but instead the sophisticated and highly underrated micro-dot.

It’s on sale for just under $200. And probably somewhat easy to find in your local Express store. It’s slim fit, so if you’re in somewhat-decent shape you might be able to get away with only minor alterations. Have your tailor bring the jacket sleeves up just enough to show a little less than 1/4 inch of shirt cuff when your arms are at your sides. If you’re more athletically built, you’ll need the jacket fully tailored but it should offer a great template.

Again, it’s under $200 and it makes a small, reserved statement. A great pickup if you’re two or three suits into your collection.

One Reminder: You’ll need to buy the jacket AND the pants.

The Esquire Color Quotient – BLACK 15%

Joe — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:59:55 +0000

The Esquire Color Quotient – BLACK 15%

Fratelli Cap Toe Oxford – $63.95

Black might not be the dominant color in your closet, but chances are it is the dominant color for most of your shoes and accessories.

Black shoes, belts, socks, watches, etc… even if you work at a job that never sees neckties or pants made of something other than denim, you still most likely have a pair of black lace ups to wear to weddings and other important events.

Shoes are one of those items that you might want to splurge on. If you make sure to shine them every once in awhile, and you put cedar shoe trees in when you’re not wearing them, a well made pair of shoes could last year a decade or more.

These aren’t a particularly well made pair of shoes, but, they’re affordable. I’ve had a pair of Fratellis for going on three years now. They look great. And they cost me less than $75.00.

Buying a pair of oxfords is a test in moderation. Don’t get square toes, but don’t get a super pointy pair either . Make sure they have a good natural shine to them, but stay the hell away from patent leather. And yeah some extra stitching can give your shoes a bit of extra character, but don’t buy a pair that looks like they were designed by Jackson Pollock’s cobbler cousin.

Keep em’ black, keep em’ simple, and keep em’ in good condition.

Triumph All Black Chronograph

Joe — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 11:23:03 +0000

Triumph All Black Chronograph 162.50

Sure it’d be nice to have $8800 lying around to drop on a new Triumph Bonneville, but if you’re like me… that might not be a possibility. So instead of buying a motorcycle from the famous British Brand, why not a watch?

Triumph’s updated-classic style translates perfectly to their collection of timepieces, and most of them cost less than $200.

For a watch, try the black on black leather strap chronograph . For a bike, it’s impossible to go wrong with a British Racing Green and off-white Bonneville.