Ultra Light Cotton Blazers – $23.99 – $59.99

The end of the year means it’s time to hand out some awards.  But calling these “the dappys” would just sound terrible.  Instead, we’ll stick with a highly generalized “best of…” strategy, with the very best from the past year being highlighted all this week.
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Probably the best of the lot.  The ultra relaxed micro gingham.  See the pattern here.

Completely unstructured with no lining, these are barely more than a shirt.  And that’s part of why they earned the top spot.  Of course you want your go-to sportcoat or blazer to have some structure to it.  But when it comes to stepping it up just a little when you don’t have to, these have become a dirt cheap secret weapon.

The price would also dip wildly low when they were still available.  At one point it bottomed out at $25.  At least three patterns were available (seen below) with the well contoured micro gingham pulling a lot of duty for many of us in the spring and summer.  A pair of not quite white chinos, lighter blue shirt, decent loafers and maybe a knit tie could get you on and off a real nice restaurant’s patio while looking just as good as the guy in the chino suit.

One of those items that when you first picked it up off the rack you just weren’t sure.  For most of us, it became an unexpected odd-ball favorite once we got it on.  Long gone for now, but maybe they’ll return in the spring.

The hot-weather micro gingham, and the any time glen plaid or pin stripe.

As always, it’s incredibly tough to peg when Macy’s will launch a One Day Sale.  Sometimes a month and a half will go by between them, sometimes only a few weeks will pass.  One thing is certain: These are sales worth paying attention to.  The one-day sale prices are some of the best mark downs in the retail industry.  Here’s some of the best from the One-Day-Sale which runs Tues. November 15 – Wed. November 16.  Items marked with a * are “Web Busters.” In store prices may or may not match up.  Selection on all items (especially shoes) in store can vary greatly.
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Ralph Lauren Shawl Collar Stripe Sweater – $59.99 ($115.00)

Stripes but not crazy

Still not cheap for a cotton sweater, but you pay for the pony in some regards.  Shawl collar and stripes at the cuffs and waist keep it from being boring.  Far from it.

Nautica Wool Mix Peacoat – $69.99* ($250)

Size shown: Medium.

Not incredibly thick but not flimsy either.  Closer at the sides than most Nautica stuff, but you can still sneak plenty of layers in underneath.  Quilted interior and that perfect mid thigh length.  Here’s an up close view.  Part of the best affordable outerwear feature, and it’s hard to imagine the $70 price tag getting any lower.

Tallia Wool & Cashmere Flannel Suit – $219.99 ($650)

Could be a total steal. Minus the shirt.

First, not for beginners or minimalists.  Second, that shirt on the model ain’t the best play.  Claims to be a wool/cashmere blend and flannel at that.  Could be very British looking if you lose the nuclear shirt.

Calvin Klein Warren Suede Chukka – $99.99* ($125)

Ships free and returns free in store.

Calvin Klein shoes are more form than function, but a few of us have pairs that continue to hold up well over time.  Available in a black suede, deep navy suede, and this hard not to like charcoal suede.

INC Slim Fit Cord Blazer – $59.99 ($99.50)

Also available in grey and black.

Macy’s and GAP must be taking a reverse psychology route when it comes to their online photos for their blazers.  They just drape these things over the models and they look lifeless.  This blazer from INC is a slim fit that might need only minor alterations if you’re in good shape.  A new favorite.

Club Room Merino V-Neck – $27.99 ($70.00)

So if you want a canary yellow sweater...

These are true Club Room, not “CR by Club Room” so the fit will be pretty boxy.  Closer to Alfani than Alfani Red for sure.  If you’re real slim leaning skinny, consider forgetting it despite the sub $30 price tag.  Head in store and try a size down if you can.  Tons of colors.

Dockers Alpha Khaki – $39.99 ($68.00)

Slim and different.

A warning on these: plenty have said that they fit real slim.  So if you’ve got bigger legs or any weight on you, might be best to stay away.  Under $40 is a price that even Dockers themselves couldn’t match during their Khaki event from a few weeks back.

Hilfiger Color Block Sweater & Ranger Crew Neck – $94.98 w/ TOMMY ($196)

Save another $25 when bought together.

Those are the prices if you buy both of them together.  The code TOMMY takes $25 off Hilfiger purchases over $100, and these two wool blend sweaters could easily be a well loved foundation to your casual sweater lineup.  No word on fit though, but they do return free in-store.  Barely shy of the $99 free shipping mark.  The color block sweater is just different enough without going full Fair Isle.  And more on Fair Isle tomorrow…

Bar III Elliot Stripe Tie – $26.99 ($39.50)

Limited colors + herringbone texture + stripes = well done.

Not to completely channel the Beach Boys, but wouldn’t it be nice to know the width of these things?  Bar III is a Macy’s house brand that leans pretty young.  So be careful here, they might be razor thin.

Club Room Estate Gingham Shirt - $12.99 ($39.50)

Cheap enough to spring for tailoring.

Description says it’s “oxford woven” but it looks awfully poplin-like from this end of the internet.  Dirt cheap.  Maybe worth picking up if you’re close to the free shipping threshold and don’t want to spring for the UPS man.

Tommy Hilfiger Tuxedo Jacket and Tuxedo Pant – $234.98 w/ TOMMY

Own it. Not rent.

If you’ve got some fancy black tie affair coming up during the holidays, now’s the time to strongly consider investing in your own tux.  That way, if you do decide to take the plunge and shed those awful rental tuxedos for the rest of your life, you’ll have plenty of time to get it tailored to your exact specifications.  The Hilfiger trim fit tux should have you looking 100x better than anyone in a rental.  An extra $25 off with the code TOMMY.  Also available in the more traditional peak lapel, as well as a shawl collar if that’s your thing.

Citizen Eco-Drive JZ1020-03 – $199.13 ($295)

One hell of a blend.

Can a watch with any sort of digital readout look refined?  Probably not, but this might be as close as it gets.  Eco drive power system means it never needs a battery, the white stitching on the band is a great touch, and it looks like it has all the options you could want or need.  Macy’s claims it’s an exclusive, and it sure seems to be.

This current Macy’s One Day Sale ends Wednesday 11/16.

1. Ratio Clothing Ogden Plaid – $73.00 w/ code DAPUNDER75 ($98)

And now it's under $75.

The new Ogden plaid shirt from ratio looks terrific, but at $98 it was too spendy to make the monthly list.  Talked with Eric over at ratio/clothing about this predicament and he provided a solution.  The code DAPUNDER75 is good for $25 off ANY one of their new plaids through November.  It’s a one time on one shirt per-customer, but you don’t have to be a first timer to use it.  The shirts are totally customizable so if you don’t want a full spread you can get a semi or button down.  Also made in the USA.  Full rundown on Ratio over here, and a huge thank you to Eric for the code.

2. L.L. Bean Signature Canvas Cloth Pant – $49.99 ($69.00)

Red, but not fire engine red.

Sturdier than a standard chino and a deep red color called “currant” that’s fall and winter appropriate.  A deep and dark tone like this is how those of us who prefer to (wait for it) stand out quietly wear color.  Ships free.  A black overcoat or peacoat over a checked dress shirt, wool tie, and maybe a tie bar would look pretty sharp here.

3. J. Crew Factory Laptop Bag – $64.50

Cheaper now that it's on the FACTORY side.

Wait… wasn’t there… but I thought… Well okay then.  Looks slightly different, but it’s basically the same thing.  Mine is holding up extremely well.  Ships free, no code required, but if you hang on for one of those once a month or so extra 30% off sales, it’ll dip to under $50.

4. Timex Oiled Leather Strap – $60.00

Looks incredible from all angles.

Black plated case with an oiled leather tan strap.  This is the stripped down version of their just released Intelligent Chronograph in the same color scheme.  42mm in diameter so it’s not tiny.  Ships and returns free through Nordstrom thanks to their newish shipping policy.

5. Lands’ End Canvas Tartan Pocket Square – $9.50

Ships free too.

Looks like it’d go more than well in the pocket of a light grey tweed blazer.  All LEC purchases (no minimum spend requirement) will ship free through October 31st with the code SIMPLE and pin 7059.  And that’s your reward for actually reading these things.

6. Banana Republic Merino Wool V-Neck – $44.63 ($59.50)

When on sale, it's the best for the price.

If $45 is still too steep, hang out for a 30% off sale.  Stay patient and maybe a 40% off could roll around.  At that point they’re a complete steal.  V isn’t as deep as the silk/cotton/cashmere.  A new favorite.

7. Fossil Black and Brown Vintage Briefcases – $55.00

Not fake old. Actual vintage.

For those who prefer their work bags more traditional than the soft sided canvas type.  Part of the “Fossil Finds” section, which has to be one of the more unique bits of retail on the web.  It’s a bit like Fossil’s own consignment store.  There’s only one of each, because they’re actual vintage cases that somebody found in Chicago.  Could you find something similar for cheaper at your local thrift store?  It’s worth a try.

8. Calibrate Cotton Sportcoat – $74.97 ($195) & INC Cord Blazer – $55.99 $79.60* ($99.50)

Sorry taller guys, no tall sizes available.

Both are trim fits and the Calibrate claims to be unstructured.  Haven’t seen the Calibrate in person yet, but it was going for almost $200 at Nordstrom.  That’s a lot.  Calibrate stuff seems to run a little short in length, so if you’re on the tall side it might be risky.  Free shipping and pre-paid returns though.  Praise for the INC over here.
*You’ll need the code PRESIDENT for an extra 20% off to get this price.  UPDATE:  The price just went back up.  Was down to $55.  Free shipping kicks in at $75, so, at least it ships free.  Might want to check in store.

9. Club Room Knot Cuff links – $16.00 (in store only)

Not a bad impulse buy.

Sure you can get more for less if you jump on Ebay, but if you don’t want to horse around with that, you might be able to catch these on sale in-store at Macy’s.  Gives you an opportunity to use your french cuff shirts a little more often, or, a good excuse to get your first french cuff shirt (and maybe a custom one?)

 

10. The Very Best of Ray Charles – $12.09

40 tracks for twelve bucks.

People who get bent out of shape when a restaurant carries Pepsi instead of Coke, and people who don’t like Ray Charles.  Can’t trust em’.  Invite some friends over for poker.  Maybe a beer sampling party.  Here’s your soundtrack for at least some of the evening.

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

Find the right coat though, and you’re likely to hear plenty of unsolicited compliments.  Usually that’s a great thing.  Sometimes it’s not.  For example, I had this conversation last week with a pretty, young cashier at a nicer retail store, who took notice of my favorite trench:

Her:  I have to say, I really like your coat.
Me:  Thank you.  Some people call it my Inspector Gadget coat.
Her:  (confused look on her face.)
Me:  Wow.  This is going to be the first time I’ve ever told someone that they might be too young to remember something from my childhood, but… you might be too young to remember Inspector Gadget.
Her:  (eyes widen up) Oh!  No, I was just a kid, but I remember.
Me:  Ah good, because I was about to feel really old…
Her:  Yeah, Matthew Broderick was great.
Me:  …..

You want your coat to look good but also be plenty functional.  It needs to keep you warm, dry, and repel snow, rain, and the occasional unintentional ageist slam that makes you feel like a pile of dinosaur bones.  Any of these should fulfill those requirements, all while looking sharp and coming in at a decent price:
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Schott Slim Fit Wool Peacoat – $250.00

Also comes in black and the all but sold out khaki.

An annual favorite.  Standby for a full in person on this one.  A legendary name that’s synonymous with quality and made in the USA (even though their slim fit is made in Canada.)  Also available in black, but one of the advantages a blue or grey coat will have over a black, is that brown shoes look equally as good as black shoes with a grey or blue coat.  Also comes in a standard fit that’s made in the USA.

Indochino Camel Coat – $349.00

Custom and less than J. Crew.

For $50 less than J. Crew’s Mayfair Topcoat, Indochino will build you a coat to your custom specs, ship it to you for free, and pick up the tab on up to $75 in final tailoring costs in case you want to get it extra dialed in on it’s arrival.  You also get to pick the color of the lining and the lapel style.  Ticket pocket is also up to you.  It’s an investment, but with a lack of camel coats so far this year, the Indochino delivers all the extras.

Express Water Resistant Wool Blend Peacoat – $278 (but can be had for $203)

Wait for a tiered sale and you can get it for $75 off.

Every year Express makes one or two simple coats.  This one hasn’t found its way into all of the brick and mortars yet, so an in-person hasn’t happened yet.  But, it sure looks like they nailed the mid-thigh length.  Double breasted and 60% wool with the rest of the synthetic blend offering some water resistance.  Button belted cuffs but no epaulets, which is actually a nice bit of detail restraint on the part of Express, since epaulets might have been a little much.

INC Double Breasted Glen Plaid – $79.60* ($99.50)

It's a Macy's house brand, so wait for a sale.

This one has potential, but needs some work.  It’s cotton so it won’t be all that warm, but there’s some good weight to it.  It fits a little boxy off the rack and could use some tapering by your tailor.  There’s a lot of details on it (too many?) between the epaulets and buttons on the front pockets.  Might be a great option for the shorter guys since it’s pretty short in the drop for those of us who are average height or taller.  *Use the code PRESIDENT for this price.  Ships free too since the code gets you free shipping over $75 (as well as 20% off) through 10/20

J. Crew Authentic Bayswater Peacoat – $255.00 – $295.00

No surprise, it's good.

It’s almost a cliche to praise a peacoat from J. Crew, but between the fabric, the tan lining, and the high armholes, this one is a step farther than pretty nice.  Couple of drawbacks:  It’s not going to be all that much longer than your sportcoat or suit jacket length, and it’s expensive.  Good news for the tall guys since they do offer this in tall sizes.  Great arms and shoulders.  Accentuates your V shape without going overboard.

Gap Wool Jacket – $98.00

I need to start bringing Windex.

If you’re set on a longer coat like a mid-thigh peacoat or topcoat, but want something shorter and more casual for after work and running around town on the weekends, it’ll be hard to beat this option from Gap.  The fit is surprisingly good.  Trim but not tight, and doesn’t look boxy.  There’s this odd ribbed back neck bib thing, but once you put the coat on it doesn’t look bad or feel bad.  The material is oddly nice for a jacket that can be had for $70 on sale.  A bargain bomber-style option for those that don’t want to shell out for a J. Crew University coat.

Nautica Wool Mix Peacoat – $119.99* ($250)

Was listed at one point for $100.

Hold out for a One Day Sale or another Men’s Wardrobe Sale, since this was listed in a catalog for $99.  Up close view here.  A 52% wool, 40% polyester, 5% rayon, 3% “other” blend.  Your guess is as good as mine as to what the “other” is.  Plutonium?  Mid-weight fabric, quilted interior, and a perfect length.  Made in the not so wintery Dominican Republic.  A solid budget option if you can get it for around $100.  *Use the code PRESIDENT for this price.  Ships free too since the code gets you free shipping over $75 (as well as 20% off) through 10/20
UPDATE:  These are over at Overstock for around $90.  Credit to Perry for sending in the style tip.

Tommy Hilfiger Performance Rain Trench – $119.99* ($250.00)

Size down in these. Size shown: Small.

Two things:  #1 SIZE DOWN.  I’m wearing a small in these pics and I would have been swimming in a Medium.  Hilfiger stuff is still, for the most part, running big.  And #2 DON’T PAY RETAIL.  It’s Macy’s, so always buy on sale.  A coat mainly for the guys in warmer climates who just won’t see snow, but maybe some rain and want to stay warm and dry.  Comes with a removable plaid lining.  It’s a single breasted mac that fits a little boxy, but doesn’t poof out too bad through the middle.  All poly, but leans much closer to waxed cotton then windbreaker nylon in texture.  *Use the code PRESIDENT for this price.  Ships free too.

Topman Light Grey Wool Mix Trench – $200.00

Authentic looking.

A love hate coat.  Not for everyone and requires more panache than most of us care to outwardly display in public.  Without the neck buttoned all the way up and, say, the belt tie at the back, it’ll just look like a longer light grey wool coat.  But certainly isn’t a standard peacoat.  63% wool and ships free.

Banana Republic Black Wool Top Coat – $187.50* ($250.00)

$175 when 30% off. Looks like a million bucks.

The best of the lot so far.  To put it in perspective, I’ve never been a fan of single breasted longer coats on myself.  I like my winter coats double breasted as much as I like my suits single breasted.  But this coat is nails.  Here’s why:

• It’s distinguished without being stuck up.
• It’s simple without being boring thanks to the angled chest pocket, slick ticket pocket, and striped lining.
• It has a good length without looking like you’re wearing a blanket.
• It’s fitted through the sides but has room to layer under.
• There aren’t any superfluous details like epaulets or zippers.

The covered placket means you don’t see the buttons when it’s closed, which makes a surprisingly big difference for its looks.  The open V dips lower than a peacoat, but that means you’ll get to wear a scarf all the time.  80% wool, 20% poly, and can be had for a song on sale.  *Use code BROCT25 for 25% off to get this price.
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Post Coat Purchase Final Thoughts

• Get a wide shouldered suit jacket hanger - Don’t just hang your new coat on a hook.  When possible, hang it on a wide shouldered hanger so the neck of your jacket doesn’t get messed up over time.
• Buy some lint rollers - With winter comes static & lint.  You’ll want to roll off before heading out for a big date.
• Make sure you have room – It has to be slightly bigger to accomodate your layered clothes underneath.  Most jackets are cut slightly larger for this purpose, so when possible avoid going a full size up.  Wear a blazer to the store.  You’ll need some space, but don’t want to look like a linebacker.
• When in doubt, go mid-thigh – Not covering your knees, but more than an inch past your blazer.
• Store it Properly in Spring - When spring comes back around, you’ll want to have your coat professionally cleaned, then store it an a moth-proof area with some cedar around it just in case.

It’s still somewhat early for heavy coats, but additions to the list are certainly welcome in the comments section .

The pictures of this blazer on Macys.com don’t do it any justice.  But it’s not like these cell phone pics seen here are going to make Annie Leibovitz jealous.  (C’mon now, this site makes heavy usage of MS paint.  You think we’ve got a professional photog budget?)

It comes in grey and black, but the deep blue version is what you’ll want to consider first.  It’s rich, has a little bit of a shine to it, but being that it’s noticeably corduroy you won’t suffer from any “velvet jacket dude” stereotyping.

The cut off the rack is superb.  Could be brought in a little at the waist if you’re slim leaning skinny.  A medium fit my build almost perfectly and the length isn’t cut too short.  Sure it gets a little wonky when an arm gets raised up to take a picture, but the shoulders are fine for a jacket that could dip to around $50 at some point.

Be warned.  There are patch pockets on this blazer.  Even the chest pocket is of the patch variety, but that’s no knock against it.  Sleeve buttons are non functioning like most INC jackets.  Center vent in the rear.

It’s not the quietest thing in the world, but this is the kind of jacket you wear to a holiday party where friends will be dressed up but still in jeans.  This is the kind of jacket you wear out for beers with some pals, only to have the cute bartender tell you out of nowhere: “I really like your blazer.”  This is the kind of jacket you don’t spend much money on but really like to wear.  A lot.

Same goes for tailored blazers.  Great looking sportcoats and blazers are the quarterback of your wardrobe.  Having a few on hand is almost unfair.  Especially now.  These options should help you get the upper hand:
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Banana Republic Tailored Cotton Pin-Dot Blazer – $138.60* ($198)

A bargain when 30% off.

Banana Republic is getting real good at sourcing incredible feeling Italian Fabrics, and then having them assembled somewhere else (in most cases China.)  This 100% cotton is no flimsy Chino.  It has a great weight but isn’t too heavy either.  Cut in their “Tailored” fit, be prepared to actually size up if you’re between sizes.  (Size shown:  40R)
*Use code BRSAVE30 for the 30% off price.  Code expires 11:59am ET on Mon. 9/26

Calibrate Trim Fit Herringbone – $112 ($225)

Sizes are very limited online. Size shown: Medium

Almost completely unstructured with only a hint of shoulder pads.  60% wool, 35% viscose, and 5% spandex you can feel stretch if you tug at the fabric.  Needs a bit of tailoring off the rack, and would be perfect if it was half an inch longer in the drop.  But if you prefer your jackets a little shorter (but not ultra short) then it’s a steal.

Banana Republic Tailored Button-Pocket Blazer – $175.00* ($250)

The lining is impressive. There's some chambray in there.

Not quite sure why this one is priced at $250 retail while the other BR Blazer is just under $200, but like the other blazer, this is made from some awfully nice Italian Fabric.  More often than not, visible buttons on the lower flap pockets can look like a train wreck.  These somehow don’t look too busy.  Has an updated British sporting feel to it.
*Use code BRSAVE30 for the 30% off price.  Code expires 11:59am ET on Mon. 9/26

Calvin Klein Plaid Blazer – $179.99 ($350)

Will need tailoring...

Office appropriate but could be dressed down if you’re careful.  Wool, and might take a few tries to get the sizing right.  Ships & returns free in store.  Might be worth sitting on until a One Day Sale.  Kind of Blackwatch-ish in pattern.

J. Crew Factory Tweed Sportcoat – $124.60* w/ SHOPNOW ($178)

Off the rack fit is spot on.

At first glance this looks similar to the Calibrate, but it’s not.  It’s got plenty more weight yet isn’t restrictive.  The wool is a more traditional rough tweed.  In-person review here.  *UPDATE:  Use the code SHOPNOW for the extra 30% off.  Credit Jethro for catching the code.

INC Navy Cord Blazer – $99.50

Blazer has potential. The outfit really doesn't.

Haven’t seen this in person yet but a couple of suggestions based on the model pic:  Wear it with something other than a t-shirt.  Keep it buttoned when you’re standing.  And since it’s Macy’s, never… ever… pay full retail.  This has to go on sale at some point.  Efforting an in-person review in the coming weeks.  Credit Don P. with the style tip.

Zara Removable Cheviot Blazer – $129.00

Unlike the model, take off the X that holds the vent closed.

And it’ll be removed, don’t worry.  Comes in two different colors.  Patch pockets on the front keep it casual, and you can bet that it’s shorter than a standard drop.  Zara uses a ton of synthetic, but at least this one is 25% wool.

Rugby All Cotton Waistcoat – $99.99 ($148)

Sleeves? Bah.

Check it out.  They do make stand alone vests without a shiny poly back.  All cotton on this one with a real nice fall ready front pattern.  Lower patch pockets on the front.  Real easy to dress up or down.

J. Crew Ludlow Cord Blazer – $138.00

Available in grey and brown.

These have been going on-sale in some brick and mortar stores for $108.  That’s better than pretty good for this coat.  Very minimal structure.  The wale isn’t thick or fluffy.  And the warm “dusty camel” color is far from 70′s brown.  Full in-person over here.  If somehow you find them on sale and have a casual blazer budget of around $200 for this year, strongly consider buying both.  They’re that good.

L.L. Bean Signature Tweed Blazer – $245.00

Trap shooting worthy.

Eats other tweed blazers for lunch.  If a blazer has the capability to be bad-ass, then this one possesses that particular quality.  One of the few, incredible looking three button blazers left on the planet.  Will need tailoring to get it to look as good as the pic on the left.  This is at least the second season it’s been available.

What was missed?  Have a favorite fall-ready sportcoat or blazer of all time?  It all goes in the comments.  After you’ve purchased a great looking sportcoat or blazer, know what to do with it.  See the 5 Point Post Purchase Checklist here.

1. Banana Republic San Marcos Wingtip – $78.75 w/code BRSUMMER25

Also available in brown

Not quite under $75, but they ship free and return to stores free, so… we’ll fudge it.  Not worth it at $140.  Still a little too much at over $100.  But with their 25% off purchases over $100 code BRSUMMER25, these now reduced to $105 shoes come down to a very fair eighty bucks.  Why is it fair?  Don’t expect much from the quality.  But, as a rotate em’ in every now and again pair, they look pretty good.

 

2. NFL Preseason live Subscription – $19.99

No cable, no problem.

Some will love this, some will hate it.  For those of us that ditched cable or satellite long ago, but still love sports, it’s getting harder and harder to find a game that you can kick back and watch.  The NFL is offering live streaming of every single preseason game for $19.99.  Some love preseason because all of these guys are out there fighting to make the team.  Some just don’t care for it.  But being able to watch any team, or any player (Tebow drama anyone?) for twenty bucks?  Awesome.

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3.  Bruno Magli Wallet – $42.00 (reg. $69.00)

Not quite a pair of shoes... but still.

Because it’s trim, has vertical card slots, and it’s as close as many of us will ever get to owning a pair of Bruno Magli shoes.  Take your socks off.  Drape it over your feet.  Okay, now that’s as close as many of us will ever get.

 

4. Ralph Lauren Custom-Fit Gingham Oxford – $43.99 (reg. $95.00)

Available in blue too, but you can wear pink.

Holy hell get a load of the regular price.  Almost $100.  Part of Ralph Lauren’s “Last Chance” Sale.  It’s the much slimmer “custom fit” which is absolutely key.  You’ve got plenty of time to wear this well into the fall.  Think black moleskin blazer on top, maybe a knit or wool tie of some kind, dark wash jeans, and some interesting lace ups.  Update:  Sizes are getting real limited, real fast with these.

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5. Timex Weekender Slip-Thru – $32.00 w/code SUMMER11

Three cheers for Timex.

The good-looks to cost ratio is re-damn-donkulous.  Seems like a few Targets out there have them as well.  Free shipping kicks in at $75, pre code, so you can get two of these, shipped free, for $64.00.  Update:  Amazon just got these in for a few cents less, and free super saver shipping even if you order just one watch.  So far the black, grey, and Burgundy stripe among others appear to be available.  Credit Ryan N. in the comments.

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6. A fine merino wool v-neck: Bloomingdale’s – $29.50 ($78) | Express – $69.50

Merino = tough to beat

It’ll be the first sweater you reach for when September shows up.  Fine knit merino is lightweight, durable, and easy to layer over and under anything.  Two points about the Express sweater:  1. wait for a sale, and 2. wear a shirt under it.

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7. The President is a Sick Man – $14.85

Or, the story of Grover's mouth tumor.

Summer reading that won’t leave you brain dead.  Comes with one of the best sub-headlines ever: “Wherein the Supposedly Virtuous Grover Cleveland Survives a Secret Surgery at Sea and Vilifies the Courageous Newspaperman Who Dared Expose the Truth.“  President gets a huge cancerous growth on the roof of his mouth.  Country is in the throws of a financial crisis.  Letting the world know could cause a financial panic.  So they end up digging the tumor out on a boat, then lie through their teeth when a reporter dares to tell the story.
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8.  Ron Zacapa 23 Dark Rum – $34.99 – $55.00

The affordable-ish 23 is on the left.

If you’re into sipping rums, this is one of the top, relatively affordable and attainable bottles out there.  A slight step above Zaya (but that’s just one opinion).  This isn’t the kind of rum you dump coke on top of.  On a couple big ice cubes now, neat when fall finally arrives.  Mapely, spicy, lots of caramel.  Less vanilla than Zaya, but it’s still there.

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9. INC Launch Plain Toe Chukka – $89.50 (but can easily be had for $67.13)

Also available in brown

Best bet?  Maybe not.  Slight risk with the highest potential?  Absolutely.  Haven’t seen these in person quite yet, but INC continues to move away from their over-embellished bad habits to embrace smoother and plain styles.  Wait for a sale on these.  $67.13 is 25% off.  We’re due for a One Day Sale anyway.

 

10. ratio/clothing Blue Windowpane dress shirt – $73.50 w/code DAPPERED

If you've got em', worth all 7500 cents.

Instantly became my own personal favorite shirt.  Fits better than any other shirt I’ve ever owned, the fabric is something else, and the pattern is nothing short of perfect.  Made in the USA.  Kinda like it.  Just a bit.  Yes, by chance it has been featured a lot.  (No, they’re not paying us to do so.)  If you don’t like it, go to Russia.
For other best bets under $75 from previous months, click here.

Best Suit:  L.L. Bean Signature New Tradition Twill – $124.98 ($194)

Hard to go wrong at $130

A predictable choice, but for $130 (ships free too) you can land yourself a cotton suit that’s so comfortable it wouldn’t be out of the question to take a lazy summer afternoon nap in it.  Sleeves can run a little long and it’s pretty casual thanks to the patch pockets, but the price is almost too good to be true.

Best Watch: The Timex Originals Series – $50 – $100 (if you can find them)

Throwbacks for dirt cheap.

Expecting the Seiko 5 SNZJ series?  That particular automatic sport watch might have converted many of us anti-stainless band folks to the dark (or in this case, shiny) side, but anyone can wear one of these incredible nostalgia inspired Timex Originals.  Hard to find, but sometimes they can go on sale via Nordstrom for just $50.  (Want a perfect blackout watch?  Here it is for $60.)

Best Dress Shoes: Allen Edmonds Weybridge Oxford – was $162.90 (sold out, reg. $325)

People will look at your feet.

Just risky enough, a true oxford with closed lacing, and made in the USA.  Dropped to a silly $160 during the aftermath of the Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale for Men.  Now they’re gone.   Not even available through the Allen Edmonds website.

Best Cheap Dress Shoes: Calvin Klein Gareth – $129.95 (dips to $100 often)

Wait for a 20% off Endless or Amazon sale.

The guys who love their dress shoes won’t be impressed.   But if you’re the type who wants a plain as can be, decent quality leather, leather sole black lace up to wear for real dressed up occasions?  These should do just fine.  Ignore the words “patent leather” in the description on Endless.  They’re not patent.  (Can’t wait for a sale to drop these to $100?   Try the Italian Made Mike Konos DSW lace-ups for around $140 instead.)

Best Casual Shoes: Mike Konos Suede Cap Toe – $99.94 (sold out)

Dear DSW: More of this.

Casual as well as perfectly at home when paired with a summer suit.  Keep an eye on the DSW made in Italy house brand Mike Konos.  As already mentioned, they’ve got a good looking dress shoe too.

Best Boots: Timberland Earthkeepers Side Zip – $170

Hikers, work boots, and dress boots all in one.

They’re back.  At least in the tan color via Timberland or on Nordstrom (albeit for $170).  Do they look as sleek as the grey brogues from Hudson that Urban Outfitters had recently for $90?  Nope.  Can they easily transition from the trail to a nice (but not incredibly dressed up) bar on a moment’s notice?   Indeed.

Best Blazer or Sportcoat: The INC Ultra Light Series – $25 – $70

Light, breezy, and can most likely skip the tailor.

Gone from the web but try your local Macy’s if you have one nearby.  These have no lining, no shoulder pads, nothing.   But they’re cut just right, come in a micro gingham, a glen plaid, and a few other options.

Best Pants:  Banana Republic Straight Fit 5-Pocket Canvas – $32.49 ($69.50)

Chinos for jeans addicts.

5 pocket styling like jeans, much lighter weight than denim, and come in three or four color options.  Might want to check in the BR store closest to you if you’ve got one.  Saw these on a rack for $24.99 with plenty of sizes left.  Sizes are scarce online, but use the code BRONGAP35 for the extra 35% off.  In depth review can be found over here.

Best Tie: Lands’ End Canvas Italian Silk Knit Tie – $12.50 (Sold Out)

Ties a close to perfect knot.

Kudos to you if you were able to snag one of these for around $10.  Made from Italian silk, (same with its purple and black striped brother) these have a tremendous weight to them and tie a solid knot.  Great for year round wear.

Best Cheap Accessory:  Lands’ End Canvas Chambray Pocket Square – $9.50 (sold out)

Gone, and for good reason.

These sold out extremely fast and for good reason.  The chambray is just dark enough, doesn’t look like denim, and those pinstripes go with almost any sort of casual or summer getup.  A newcomer that shows plenty of potential is this orange plaid pocket square from LEC.  Ships free with code DEFINED and pin 2514.  (Expires 7/15)

Best Drink:  Maker’s 46 – about $35 – $40

New incarnation, much different taste.

Some swear by classic Maker’s.  This isn’t classic Maker’s.  Tons of flavor, sweeter, easier to sip and relax with neat (unless you’re a hardcore original Maker’s fan.)  Just fine on it’s own or makes a hell of a mint julep.

Best Wallet:  Jack Spade Monza Single Fold Wallet – $35.00 ($50.00)

All kinds of different without being obnoxious.

The perforations are based on the steering wheel grips found on classic sports cars.  Still available in a unique British racing green.  Not quite a card case but far from a bulky billfold.

Best Card Case:  Chester Mox #52 Dual Side Wallet – $60.00

Reasonable price for made in the USA.

Made in the USA, Horween leather, and… well look at it.  No plastic covered ID windows, simple slots, and contrast stitching around the edge.  For an extra $10 you can get it personalized.

Best Work Bag / Briefcase:  Saddleback Leather Medium Thin Brief – $411.00

Weighs four pounds empty.

It’s a huge investment, but with that 100 year warranty it costs you just four bucks a year!  No?  Maybe our full review can convince you.  These cases are something.  Even if you live and work in a large city, the construction is so eye catching that you can easily get away with its rough style in a concrete jungle.

Best Weekend Bag:  Frost River Flight Duffle – $120 – $140

Available in two sizes too.

Remember Frost River?  Made in Minnesota, waxed canvas, and has a no nonsense design that’ll acquire one hell of a patina along your travels.  Inexpensive for what you’re getting.  Rugged & good looking at the same time.

Best Splurge: Tiffany & Co. Compact Wallet – $195.00

Expensive, but cheaper than diamonds.

No that’s not for you. Yes that’s for her.  Why?  Because sometimes it’s fun to spend a stupid amount of money on her (if she’s not the type to expect you to spend money on her at all.)   If you’re just dating, this is the kind of thing she’ll use for the rest of her life even if you break up.  She’ll lie to her eventual husband and tell him she bought it for herself forever ago.  If you’re married (or get married?) she’ll think of you (in a good way) every time she makes a purchase.

Best Sale:  Nordstrom’s Half Yearly Sale for Men

Absolutely worth the wait

Happens around the holidays and then again around the summer solstice.  Between the first and second round of markdowns, there’s hardly a better time to find a huge variety of great picks at pretty reasonable prices.

Best Debate:  Carry a $20 in your wallet at all times

Would you pay for a $2.00 coffee with plastic?

Talk about an unexpected firestorm.  Walking around with zero cash is an embarrassment for some of us.  Yet others expect the option to pay for the cheapest of stuff with plastic.  And if they can’t?  They won’t visit that business.

Best* Ridiculous Model Caption: Tie – MarkRenyoldssc & daliam

An actual Dolce & Gabbana advertisement.

“Idiota! You misunderstand me when I say Paolo is to sleep with the fishes.” – From caption contest 9
“Guess what else is blue.” – From caption contest 20
*And honestly there could be so many more.  Well done to everyone.

Any snubs?  Feel like something was missed?  Leave it all in the comments section below…

$22.49 UPDATE: $30.74 post code and pre-shipping.  (They just raised the price.)  Code expires Monday 5/2/2011  Credit to Marcus for sending in the style tip about the striped unlined blazers that are now available online.

Bad shoulder pads and lining with poor movement are often the downfall of inexpensive blazers.  The Macy’s house brand INC might have stumbled across a solution.  Strip the blazer of those troublesome shoulder pads and deconstruct it down to just over shirt-weight, and there’s less to screw up.

Plus they’re cheaper.  By quite a bit.

Their wrinkled gingham was the first version of these ultra-lights to break out of the gates, and it was popular enough that it’s still tough to find online.  A few more patterns in this same actual trim fit have now worked their way into Macy’s and onto Macys.com, and when combined with the Friends and Family code MACYSFF these sportcoats drop to $30 a piece pre-shipping.

The new ones aren’t wrinkled like the gingham, the fabric feels a touch more substantial, and they’re still pure, unstructured, featherweight sport coats.  Selection is limited online to just black or grey stripe versions, but in-store you might stumble across a Glen plaid or navy stripe.  Look for the tags that have the original price of $59.00.  Those should be them.

A Warning:  Some Macy’s are just fine with price matching Macys.com if you can show them the price from the web, but others just won’t.

The code MACYSFF is good for 25% off site wide with some exclusions.
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Same lapel width, button stance, and fit.

Was $29.99, now an extra 20% off on top of the sale.  Totals $33 – $35 shipped.  No code needed.  Credit to Simeon in the comments for noticing the extra 20% off select men’s purchase sale.  Thanks to Akshay for the style tip.

There’s light, there’s deconstructed, and then there’s ultra-thin.  This is the last one.  It’s Calista Flockhart thin.  Barely there.  It’s more shirt than sport-coat.  If the number of words in your standard Dappered review/feature were based on the amount of weight to the garment, this one would go something like this:

It’s shockingly nice.

And that’d be it.  But bear with me for a few more sentences.  The local brick and mortar Macy’s didn’t have it, so I got it off the web.  When it showed up and I pulled it out of the box, the first words out of my mouth were: “What the hell is this?”  There’s really nothing too it, and I thought there was no way it was going to look good.

Then I put it on.  Armholes are good and high.  Fit is nice and trim, but still airy for summer.  Micro gingham pattern looks great with jeans, and it’ll look good with chinos too.  The online description reads: “Cotton/nylon/polyester.”  That’s wrong.  Tag says 100% cotton and it certainly feels and breathes like it too.

Not everyone will love the second-shirt weight of this sport coat.  But many will.  I’m one of them.

See the pattern up close here.  Also, proof that the inside has little to no construction.