It is impossible to not pay attention to a Florence and the Machine album.  Easy-going Lillith Fair music this is not.  This is unreservedly rock and roll.  And on their latest album Ceremonials, they shake the walls and beat drums with wild abandon.  And Florence?  She roars.

Most Americans’ introduction to Florence Welch came at last February’s Grammy Awards ceremony.  Opening the show as part of a tribute to Aretha Franklin alongside Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, gospel singer Yolanda Adams and country superstar Martina McBride, Welch not only held her own amongst those established singers, her performance left people hungry for more.  She was impossible to miss, with her flaming red hair and cream chiffon dress, an entirely different presence amidst what one critic called a Diva jamboree.

I’ve got my theories why Florence has been embraced by American fans (both her debut release Lungs and Ceremonials have been big sellers here in the states).  Florence and the Machine make big music.  Florence is no shrinking violet.  She’s mysterious.  She’s exotic.  She’s demanding.  She’s absolutely beautiful.  She is, in a word, a siren.  That’s a pretty irresistible recipe for guys.  The thing is, the ladies love Florence for the same reasons.  In this regard, she is not without precedent: Stevie Nicks and Pat Benetar also stood apart from their peers and made rock and roll acceptable for strong women performers and the guys that love them.  I would also be called on the carpet for not acknowledging the influence of Kate Bush and Siouxie Sioux on Florence’s musical path.

Ceremonials is a more expansive album than Lungs.  It is stylistically diverse.  “Shake It Out” is a sonic exorcism, a call-to-action to move forward.  “No Light No Light” is carried along a cacophony of drums and percussion providing space for Florence’s other-worldy vocals.  There are moments where Florence’s vocals, and those of her backing choir are abashedly gospel oriented, providing a surreal sensual tension to the songs.  As a buddy admitted to me, were he in the business of seduction these days, “’Only If For A Night‘ would be the closer.  That’s a song you make big mistakes to.”  I can’t think of a bigger compliment for the allure of Ceremonials.  It’s also a perfect reminder why you should have this album on hand when in the company of the fairer sex.  You’ll get points for digging an enigmatic, empowered woman.  And for getting it, you might just, well…you know.  You win all around.

Tim Johnstone is a former Virgin Records Label Rep and current award winning Music Director, Assistant Program Director, and on-air host at FMQB’s AAA station of the year markets 50+.  He also writes a blog that’s a collection of the absolute best the internet has to offer.  It’s a must read.  And you can check it out here.

Top Photo: Danny Cinch via The Black Keys Facebook Page

The death of rock and roll has been a topic of discussion in music magazines and online sites for several years now.  Apparently there are a whole lot of people who demand something other than Nickelback when it comes to their rock music.  But with El Camino, the Black Keys, a guitar and drums duo from Akron, Ohio have made one of the best rock records in a very long time.

At it’s heart, this is a celebration of rock and roll through the ages.  El Camino offers up garage rock, blues, boogie, Motown, glam and even a bit of grunge into a fresh and seamless blast of music to get you from the gym to poker night and beyond.  Have you heard most of these elements before?  Absolutely.  But here’s the thing – you haven’t heard them assimilated into such a cohesive and singular sound.  Not even close.  This is an album bursting with swagger.

“Lonely Boy” is a declaration of intent that opens the album and serves as hint of things to come.  It’s an elemental blast of visceral music.  “Gold On The Ceiling” reverberates with 60’s fuzz organ and Auerbach’s guitar and bass work along with a vocal mix suitable to the ocean-sized hook.  “Little Black Submarines” manages to start off with the specter of misty mountain Zeppelin before breaking into a second half stuffed with flannel friendly guitar licks.  There is no filler on this album.

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Patrick Carney is quick to poke fun at his drumming skills, but the truth is, his work here anchors this album and provides the foundation for Auerbach’s guitar work and melodies.  Danger Mouse (of Gnarls Barkley and Broken Bells, among other projects and one of the best producers working today), who has worked with the Black Keys in the past, this time pulls from the guys performances beyond anything they’ve done to date.  Dan Auerbach, in an interview in the current edition of Rolling Stone, admits that he’s only recently focused on his songwriting.  If this is the sound of a band sharpening their skills, I can’t wait to hear what comes next.

Tim Johnstone is a former Virgin Records Label Rep and current award winning Music Director, Assistant Program Director, and on-air host at FMQB’s AAA station of the year markets 50+.  He also writes a blog that’s a collection of the absolute best the internet has to offer.  It’s a must read.  And you can check it out here.

1. GAP: Italian Moleskin Blazer – $55.99 w/ GAPCHEER ($118)

Sizes are selling quick...

Best blazer deal of the season.  If you’re still looking for a winter/holiday party ready sportcoat for cheap, this is it.  The fit is an honest trim, the Italian sourced fabric is something else, and it comes in chest specific sizes.  Size shown there is a 40R and usually I’m a 38 or 39.  Moleskin is a little like velvet, but with much shorter fibers and no sheen.  Cotton but still warm. Already on sale and with the extra 30% off code GAPCHEER it’s a complete steal.  Ships free.  Code expires today (12/20/11) and sizes are going fast.  Might be on sale in store if you can fight the crowds.

2. Neiman Marcus Dress Shirts: White – $38.50 ($88) | Pink Windowpane – $34.30 ($90)

The extra 30% off comes at checkout.

Everything on Lastcall.com is an extra 30% off through December 23rd.  The White is a full spread collar so that’s unique.  French cuffs too.  Might not be trim fit though, so tailoring might be necessary.  No iron finish on that one.  The Pink Windowpane isn’t a no-iron (which plenty prefer) but it is a trim fit with a perfect pattern.  Just enough pink without going overboard.

2. U.O. Hawkings McGill Suede Wingtip Boot – $54.99 ($78.00)

Ships and returns free too.

It appears the boots that get shipped by Urban Outfitters resemble these more than the rich chocolate suede version seen on their website.  There’s burnishing that when seen up close is a little too much, but once you put em’ on and stand up it’s just fine.  Full review here.  Part of the U.O. boot sale.  Ships and returns free since they’re over $50.

3. Buffalo Check Lambswool Scarf – $44.99 ($59.50)

Affordable luxury

Part of the ongoing Ralph Lauren Holiday sale.  A bold pattern, three color options, and an 80% wool 20% nylon blend.  Stack that on top of the made in Italy status and you’ve got a nice gift for you or someone else.  72″ long, and if ordered by 11:59pm ET today (Tuesday 12/20) standard ground shipping should get it to you in time for Christmas.

4. American Eagle Wool Blend Peacoat – $60.00 w/ code 39427841 ($129.50)

Size shown here is a large. I could use a medium.

With that 40% off code (which could expire any time now) this drops to a stupid $60.  It’s not hefty by any means, but not flimsy either.  The best coat you’ll find for $60, but when compared to the J. Crew Bayswater, the J. Crew wins and wins easily.  54% recycled wool.  Credit to Matt for sending in the style tip, and credit to Jessey D. who posted some pics of his coat in the comments over here.  One drawback:  The collar might be a little too big for some.

5. The Black Keys “El Camino” – $11.99

This would be a follow up from last month’s Most Wanted.  It’s out.  And these two dudes from Akron continue to carry the flag for most of the Rock genre.  When you’re good, everyone knows it.  When you’re great, even a guy like David Letterman can’t help but crack a sh*t eating grin at the end of your song.

6. 1901 Dot Pattern Wool Silk 3″ Tie – $24.90 ($39.50)

Available in black or navy.

Dots just don’t get enough love in the tie world.  They’re easily one of the best patterns out there as long as they don’t get too huge.  This one has well proportioned dots on a wool/silk tie that’s 3″ at it’s widest point.  That’s awfully close to neckwear perfection.  $25 and ships free.  Find the navy here (even though the pic is still the black one)

8. “Karma” necklace by Dogeared – $62.00

Pretty, affordable, and made in the USA.

Don’t forget about her.  At this point, you might be scrambling for ideas that’ll make her smile on Sunday morning.  Jewelery is a tough call, but this is about as safe and as good of a play as it gets.  Subtle, small, and something she can wear whenever.  Three rings are dipped in either 14k gold, rose gold, or silver, and represent the circular nature of karma.  Made in the USA too.

9. Zippo Antique Brass Lighter – $16.80 | Zippo Brushed Metal Money clip – $14.50

Only you can prevent empty money clips.

Kids, don’t smoke.  But sometimes you need to make fire.  Whether it’s for the BBQ, or your pal is showing you how to drink Sambuca (have that fire extinguisher ready) it’s nice to have a flame at the ready.  Zippo’s finished brass lighter looks a heck of a lot better than a book of matches from whatever dive bar you frequent.  And the money clip?  A lot of class for barely any cost.  Both ship free from Maxton Men.

10. Eggnog Ice Cream with a sidecar of Goslings Black Seal Rum

Could be the best thing in the history of things.

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

Grace Potter & The Nocturnals – “Naughty Naughty”

Vermont’s ascendant Queen of Rock and Roll delivers this gritty blues influenced barn-burner in a manner that suggests she knows a little something about being naughty.  Capable of thawing any brittle winter chill.  (From Christmas with Grace Potter and the Nocturnals)

Scott Weiland – The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

An irony-free squirm-inducing croontastic disaster.  Occasionally hilarious, always ridiculous, this instantly qualifies as one of the worst ideas ever.  The must give White Elephant gift of the holiday party season.

Michael Buble – Christmas

Because if there’s one time of the year when an old fashion crooner with a sense of humor and the levity needed to pull this sort of thing off is called for, it’s the holidays.  And Buble is the best at the moment.  This is the go-to holiday collection of the year, capable of winning over Grandmas and Grinches alike.

Lyle Lovett – “The Girl With The Holiday Smile”

Whereupon the former Mister Julia Roberts channels Randy Newman with this West Texas flavored ditty about a Christmas prostitute.  If you’re a Lyle Lovett fan, you know exactly what to expect and you’ll wonder why we haven’t heard this before now.

She & Him – A Very She & Him Christmas

The current It (New) Girl Zooey Deschanel elevates the profile of her indie rock retro-pop outfit (alongside M. Ward) with a holiday collection that is nothing if not brazenly cheerful.

Fitz & The Tantrums – Santa Stole My Old Lady

L.A.’s current ambassadors of flashback grooves and party vibes serve up a yuletide warning about the fat man in the red suit.  Yes, there are horns.

Various Artists – Noel! Noel!! Noel!!!

For the Francophile on your holiday list, this new collection from legendary pianist and arranger Michel Legrand features appropriately grandiose big band and swing versions of classic holiday songs with the help of Jamie Cullum, Madeleine Peyroux, Rufus Wainwright, Teddy Thompson, France’s first lady Carla Bruni, and Mika.  Oui!  Oh, and Iggy Pop on “Little Drummer Boy.”  You read that right.

The Killers – (RED) Christmas ep

The annual holiday singles from the band that seems to be ready made for stadiums have been gathered in this digital ep.  While this year’s “The Cowboy’s Christmas Ball” is uncomfortably hokey, “A Great Big Sled” remains one of those rare contemporary Christmas songs that is much bigger and better than the season that defines it.

Matisyahu – Miracle (ep)

NYC’s Hasidic Jewish reggae/hip hop/alternative rock star delivers a joyful and uplifiting celebration for Chanukah, six times over.

Annie Lennox – A Christmas Cornucopia

The former Eurythmic lead singer has one of the most radiant voices in music and this holiday collection lets that voice drape itself over often surprising arrangements.  A nice mix of traditional Noel selections and classic favorites.

Tim Johnstone is a former Virgin Records Label Rep and current award winning Music Director, Assistant Program Director, and on-air host at FMQB’s AAA station of the year markets 50+.  Additions you’d like to see added to this list should go in the comments section below.  Top Photo Credit:  Luca Sartoni

1. Timex Weekender Nubuck Strap – $33.05

Maybe the best weekender so far.

The latest edition to the wildly successful Timex weekender series, only this one does away with the slip-thru NATO style strap and tones down the case with a close to matte brushed stainless steel.  The tan nubuck leather strap looks and feels terrific.  Smallish at 39mm and obscenely good looking for the price.  The inner military time ring and outer tach ring keep it just busy enough.  Like a filled in version of the Easy Reader from last month’s Best Bets, only half the price.  Seems to be available at many Targets.  Comes with free super saver shipping through Amazon.

2. American Eagle Fisherman’s Sweater – $59.50

Yellow Rain Slicker + this = Gordon's?

Once upon a time, tough guys used to not be afraid of texture or collars that weren’t a standard crew.  Has an honest look to it.  Almost like you stumbled across it at a flea market.  Doesn’t appear to have a logo either.  Not something you’d expect from the awfully young and overly branded American Eagle.

3. Hugo Boss Hentor Lambskin nappa leather Gloves – $65.00

Standing out real quietly.

Right in the wheelhouse for small splurge price, and it’s hard not to love the small sliver of plaid at the cuff.  Wool on the interior with a tonal BOSS logo at the wrist.  Ships and returns free.

4. Made in Italy Fine Knit Wool Stripe Tie – $59.50

Bravo Italia

A bit of an investment, but made from Italian wool in the country where the wool was produced.  And c’mon, they could use a little cash right now.

5. 21st Amendment Fireside Chat winter spiced ale – $9.00 – $14.00 per 6 pack

FDR & 7.9 ABV

Maybe a little too dependent on the spices and cocoa nibs for beer snobs, but there’s a lot of friggin’ flavor in one of these 12 oz cans.  If you like your cold weather beers leaning more towards port than pinot, then this one will get you there.  Not delicate and too rich for some.  Much respect to 21st Amendment Brewery for putting their beer in cans.

6. iPhone Horn Amplifier – $12.00

iPhonograph

I don’t have an iPhone.  Might have to get one just to get this slick little piece of plastic.  Gives you 13 more decibels with no battery drain.  Works on the science of sound.  Ships free through Maxton Men.

7. Aston Grey Concord Suede Wingtip – $69.94 ($89.95)

Lots of looks for seventy bucks.

Made in China for the DSW house brand but feels better built than its $70 price tag.  Shape is nice and slim through the sides and the toe rounds off nicely.  Closed lacing and while there’s a little burnishing at the toe, it’s not as obvious in person/in-store as it is on DSW.com.  Feels like they might run a quarter to a half size big.  Decently comfortable too.  Ships free if you sign up for their email list (DSW rewards program) and use the code SHIPR.

8. Chester Mox Tan Brogue Wallet – $45.00

Made in the USA

Good heavens look at that thing.  Simple, just one pocket, and a hand punched brogue design on the exterior.  Personalization is available as well for an extra $10.  Santa’s gonna need to get his hands on a few of these this year.

9. Pardon the Interruption Podcast – Free

Does not stink. At all.

If you’re living in a world with no cable or satellite TV, and you like sports, download this.  Every day that it’s available.  I never understood Ralphie hauling it home to catch Little Orphan Annie.  Not only would I get a Mike Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser decoder ring, I’d drink the damn Ovaltine if they told me to.  These two have been on the air for a decade, and while at first you’ll miss the visuals if you watched them on TV at some point, the podcast really does hold up excellently on its own.  This, a dark beer, and a leather chair are a great way to spend 22 minutes.  On itunes too.

10. GAP Herringbone Wool Mix Blazer – $68.60 – $98.00

Size shown: 40R

During a 30% off sale it drops to under $70.  Ships free since it’s over $50.  Perfect for those that want a subtle herringbone blazer but don’t have a ton of money to shell out.  Good, not great construction, but for that price?  Tough to beat.  Fabric makeup is one hell of a casserole, but feels good enough.  Side vents, the drop isn’t too short like some other GAP blazers, and it’s a slim fit with some contouring at the sides.

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

Consider these to be power rankings.  Whether you’re looking for gift ideas or a quick upgrade for yourself, expect these to come around about once a month.  The best of the best, which you may or may not have seen already.  Agreements, disagreements, and additions are more than welcome in the comments section below.

Click here for the top 5 most wanted lists from previous months. Top Photo Credit
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5. L.L. Bean Signature Flannel Suit – $320.00

No singing occured in the rain.

There’s not a lot of  fall/winter suiting options that lean casual, but this one from L.L. Bean is like a cold weather version of their new traditional twill summer suit.  It’s dressed up but can also dressed down with a patterned shirt, sweater, and no tie.  This seems to have a better fit in the pants compared to the new traditional twill, and they replaced patch pockets for standard flaps on the jacket.  A little pricey, but the jacket can be worn with jeans and the pants will be perfect on their own.

 

4. Florsheim Gaffney – $96.00 w/ code link20 + Custom Soles – $45

Pic via Aaron L.

Credit to Aaron L. for coming up with the idea to change the sole.  These are his boots.  He wasn’t sure if he’d like the lug sole on the Gaffneys, and when they showed up he wasn’t thrilled.  The rest of the boot was more than fine.  So much so that he took them to his local cobbler, and they took the lug sole off and replaced it with a more traditional rubber sole.  As he mentioned in the comments over here, it “completely changed the look of the boot.“  Nice work.

 

3. Synovia Cedar Shoe Valet – $59.95

Not bad for an all in one package.

Shining shoes can be an odd balancing act without the help of a shoe valet and its support stand.  For sixty shipped you get a cedar shoe valet with a sliding top so you can store your shoe care gear inside, and they throw in plenty of essentials to get you started if you don’t have any.  Made in the USA too.

 

2. The Black Keys – El Camino (available December 6th)

The Black Keys have a new album coming out in early December.  Our music correspondent Tim Johnstone sent along the new single via email, in which the subject was only “this is all kinds of awesome, this is.”  8 seconds in and you know Tim’s dead on.  Head this way for more on the star of the video for their first single “Lonely Boy.”

 

1. Timex Blue Q-Dial - $76.00* ($95) | Timex Intelligent Chrono – $165

Timex continues to roll.

Hot damn the blue Q-Dial is back.  The code FALL2011 will get you 20% off through Timex.com too.  Ships free as well.  The chronograph doesn’t seem to be on Timex.com but does ship (and return) free through Amazon or Nordstrom.  No word on when the Timex.com code expires.

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.

But you won’t be getting ready in total silence.   You’ll need some music.  And not the kind of music that’ll put you to sleep, or alternatively, make you want to run through a brick wall.  You want a playlist that’ll get you ready for your date, as well as be plenty fine for when your date gets in the car.  Maybe something like this:
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………………………………….

Your turn guys.  Song suggestions for a pre-date playlist are certainly welcome down in the comments section below.

Sure it’s just stuff.  But stuff can make life easier, more enjoyable, etc…  Every so often we ask one of our favorite people to rattle off their five favorite things.  This is the stuff they’d grab if the house was burning down.

Eric Powell is the owner, CEO, head guy, & top dog at custom shirt maker ratio/clothing.  They’re one of many made to order menswear start-ups, but one of the few (or only?) to make their shirts here in the United States.  Their custom sizing method hits the mark perfectly in-between too invasive and too dumbed down.  More on how it works over here.

As is always the case with our 5 Favorites series, nobody is paying to be here nd we determine who gets a spot.  To ratchet up the difficulty level on owners and designers, they’re allowed to pick only one item from their place of work.

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#1 Imogene & Willie Barton Rigid Selvage Denim

“I&W is a small label and shop out of Nashville, TN run by a husband and wife team that used to design for the likes of RRL and J Brand.  At $250, these are absurdly expensive and a rare splurge for me, but you can get your money’s worth since raw denim is best when you have one pair and wear them very frequently (like every day).  They’re made in the USA with Cone Mills denim, and if you buy them in the store, they will hem them up and do alterations on the spot.  I’m not quite a raw denim cultist just yet, but I’ve worn mine virtually every day for a year and they really just get better with age.”

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#2 Ratio Campus Oxford

“The Oxford Cloth Button-Down is just about as classic and timeless as it gets.  Ours are raw, untreated oxford cloth, which means that they start a little stiff, but break in and have more character as they age.  I practically live in mine, especially in the cooler months when they layer nicely with a merino wool sweater.”

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#3 Turntable.fm

“Turntable is a great streaming music service where users go to a virtual “room” and people take turns DJing. It’s a great way to discover new music that works a little like Pandora, except that you have real people (the “DJs”) curating music for you based on the intent of the room. I usually am in the “Indie While You Work” room while I’m at my desk.”

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#4 Chuck Taylors / Jack Purcells

“Ever since I stopped working in a corporate office every day, my Chuck Taylors are my go-to shoe.  I like a classic white because they look just as good beat up and dirty as they do new.  And, since they are fairly inexpensive, you can pick up a new pair once you’ve worn yours out.”

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#5 Evernote

“Like many people in my age range that grew up on a computer, my handwriting is positively worthless.  I use Evernote for everything.  It’s my digital filing cabinet, to-do list, bookmark system, and it’s great for taking notes on the go.  I’m constantly thinking of things I need or want to do while I’m out or driving and this is a great way to capture those little thoughts so that they aren’t lost.”

For more on ratio/clothing, see the Dappered in-person review, the ratio/clothing website, and find them on Facebook.  Random fact about Eric:  When not making custom shirts, he can apparently make a mean grilled cheese.

Very Top “5″ Photo Credit: Gunnar Bangsmoen

Summer just isn’t the best season for dressing well.  Mainly because it’s too damn hot to wear much.  Your fabrics and colors better be light, because if you’re living this side of Yellowknife, a charcoal wool suit will turn you into a puddle of sweat.  That doesn’t mean there’s still not plenty of opportunities to look and feel great.  These are a few of the best, not too expensive options that’ll help you survive the heat in style…
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The Versatile Loafer: Sebago Classic Penny in Dark Brown – $90.00 (reg. $135)

Could be the most comfortable shoes you'll own.

The dark brown, light brown, and sand color options are all built from mind-blowing soft leather.  Extremely well constructed too.  Sebago welt, leather sole, beef roll stitching, and made in the Dominican Republic.  More versatile than a boat shoe and just as comfortable if not more so.

The Lightweight Patterned Blazer: J. Crew – $149 | Banana Republic – $150

Both micro striped

Too bad they all can’t be as inexpensive as the pretty much extinct INC ultra light.  You want something that’s cotton, linen, or a blend of the two.  It should work with lighter chinos during the day, and jeans when the sun goes down.  Both of these have extremely fine stripes so they look solid from a distance.  A full review of the Banana Republic option to come post-tailoring.  Since it’s B.R. it’ll be on sale quite a bit.

 

The Album: Black Keys “Brothers” – $9.00

The fact that it took over a year to get Brothers on this website is a bit of a crime.  Here’s to hoping your pool party looks something like this.

 

The not quite white jean/chino hybrid: B.R. 5-Pocket pant – $69.50 (but goes on sale plenty)

Not quite many things. But can do it all.

Not nearly as heavy as denim but with more texture than a standard cotton chino.  Will work with everything from t-shirts to sport coats.  For those who want lighter colored non-khaki pants, but don’t like white jeans.

Non Staining Sunscreen:  Banana Boat Titanium Dioxide Sunscreen – $7.99 for three

Prevents clothing (and skin) damage.

Yes it’s kids sunscreen.  But what’s more important is what it says on the back of the bottle.  The sun ray blocking ingredient is good ol’ Titanium Dioxide.  Unlike the widespread sunscreen chemical Avobenzone (which goes by many names) Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide doesn’t turn to rust when washed in hard water.  And that means you have no excuse not to wear it.  Skin cancer isn’t anything to screw around with.  If you’re fair skinned and pale, embrace it.

The Stand Out Polo:  L.E.C. Jersey Stripe – $24.50 | Slub Contrast Placket – $39.50

Different enough.

Sure a well fitting solid polo is a can’t miss.  But having one or two that are just slightly different is a good way to break up the monotony.  Both are jersey (not pique) cotton, and both are from Lands’ End Canvas.  Which is odd considering one is almost twice the price of the other.

The Rubber Strap Watch: Victorinox – $274.90 ($550) | Seiko – $155.15

Orange. Tough to miss.

Striped watch bands are fun but a slick watch rubber strap watch is just as casual and can go from yard work to blazer + drinks on a restaurant patio in a snap.  Bright dials like these might be a bit tougher to wear, but they deliver the summer color punch easily.  Seiko Photo Credit

 

The Uber-Relaxed Summer Suit:  L.L. Bean Sig. New Twill – $129.98 ($194)

The best and one of the least expensive.

Our summer suit search is still ongoing, but it’s worth pointing out that a light cotton/linen summer suit won’t do you any good if it doesn’t move well.  A lot of the inexpensive options can feel stiff.  You want one you could feel great in while flopping down on a couch, or climbing into a hammock.  The L.L. Bean Signature New Twill is precisely one of those, and the jacket and pants just got a hefty discount.  Full review here.

The Meal:  Gruyere Turkey Burgers (Originally from Everyday Food)

The cheese is in. Not on.

Take a break from the beef.  These use the buttery, nutty white cheese Gruyere in the mix to bring the fat (and frankly, a lot more flavor).  Really let them sear up for a minute or two at the beginning then move to a not as red hot part of the grill.  Make em’ for your significant other.  They should be impressed.

The Vacation Duffel: Duluth Pack Large Duffle – $265.00

Canvas, Leather, and made in Minnesota.

Made in the USA and comes with a lifetime guarantee.  Available in eight different colors including this vintage luggage looking khaki.  Will at least triple the attractiveness of your car’s trunk.

The Sunglasses: Polo Ralph Lauren Cut Out Bridge Sunglasses – $112.00 ($140)

Slimmed down compared to Ray Ban

Just a bit sleeker than the still honestly preferred $75-$100 Ray Ban New Wayfarer.  The Key-hole cutout on these gives them a hint of retro-feel, but doesn’t go all the way to costumey googly lens levels.  Expensive even on sale.  Made in Italy.  Available in black too.