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

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

Lambswool with time left to wear it.

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

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

Thicker. Apparently pirate worthy.

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

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

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

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

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

Ties for tie guys.

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

Nappa Lined Belted Gloves – $47.99 ($78)

The glove. Smell it.

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

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

Lean towards earthtones.

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

Richmond Quilted Vest – $87.99 ($225)

Not too life preserverish

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

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

And now even cheaper.

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

Shetland Button Mockneck – $79.99 ($185)

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

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

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

Westford Suede Shoes – $62.99 ($120)

Mneh?

They’re not the sexiest things ever, but seeing that they are made in the USA (update… nope.  they’re not.  See comments from mixto down below.) and with the extra discount, they get dirt cheap.  A big, big warning here:  looks like the RL polo pony is on the back of the heel in a slightly contrasting color.

Black Chambray Newsboy Cap – $17.49 ($35.00)

Paging Christian Bale.

The vast majority of us can’t pull off hats, especially this one, without looking contrived.  But if you’re the type that can?  Lucky you.  Sizing says “one size” so that makes it a risk.

Custom Fit Double Stripe and Rugby Stripe Polos – $41.99 ($89.50)

Waiting for spring.

Ralph Lauren Polos are just flat out nasty expensive if you’re just fine with those $10 Mossimo athletic fit Target specials.  You’re paying for that pony in many ways.  But the RL Custom fit is a true trim fit, and these stripes are dead on.  Not real weather appropriate for just after New Years, but that’s why they’re on sale.

Buffalo Check Lambswool Scarf – $31.59 ($59.50)

Affordable luxury just got more affordable.

Made in Italy, 80% lambswool / 20% nylon, and with the late winter many are having, there’s plenty of use left for this thing.  The lowest price (so far) of the season.

Wallingford Ankle Boot – $69.99 ($149.00)

As simple as it gets.

Another made in the USA shoe for a real reasonable price.  Calfskin uppers and rubber soles.  Pretty simple looking, but again, nice price for it being born here in the states.  Also available in Suede which might be the best play.  Credit to Alex W. for the style tip on these.

Tartan Lined Card Case – $34.30 ($75.00)

The, uh, money shot?

Nice detail.  But $75 is asking a lot for what usually looks like a plain’ ol’ card case.  $35 is more like it.

Waterbury Ankle Boot – $69.99 ($149.00)

Also available in dark brown

Probably the best looking of the made in the USA cheap polo shoes trio.  None of them look all that sleek, but for under $70 these should go real well with jeans and an deconstructed blazer.

Canvas Duffle – $41.99 ($125) | Buffalo Plaid Duffle – $69.99 ($145)

Excellent for, y'know, holding stuff.

Both are from the new (and struggling?) sub line “Denim & Supply”.  Both claim to have the same 11″ x 16.5″ x 9″ dimensions.  But they look awfully different in the pics.  The canvas duffle does have some logoing on one corner.  Could make a great backup / upgraded gym bag.

No word on when the Extra 30% off Ralph Lauren sale expires.

The hood itself is rarely if ever used.  The cascading jersey cotton around the middle gives you a shape that’s half Jabba the Hut, half Mayan Pyramid.  It’s just not real sexy.  There are other, better looking ways to dress way down and stay warm and comfortable.  Here’s five pieces of affordable proof:
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1. Shawl Collar Cardigans: Old Navy Pocket Front Shawl Collar – $39.94

Nice front pockets.

This looks like something Woolrich would make, but in design and not fabric.  It’s a cotton poly blend, so it’s very much a smooth sweatshirt like material.  Great buttons, the shawl doesn’t dip too low, and those front pockets help and not hurt.  Quilt stitch patches of the same color and fabric are at the elbows.  They run a tad big but if you size down you might run out of room in the forearms.

2. Button Mock Neck Sweaters: L.E.C. Cable Sweater – $63.20* SHIPPED ($79.50)

Available in charcoal too.

Lose the ol’ 100% cotton 1/4 zip mock neck in favor of one of these more mountain ready looking things.  They seem to be magnets for women when you and her are on the same couch.  Over $60 even with a code, but sweaters have gotten real expensive everywhere.  Wool blend and hefty looking construction.  *Use the code DISCOVER and the pin 6956 to knock 25% off everything through Lands’ End & Lands’ End Canvas plus get free shipping.

3. Long Sleeve Polos: J. Crew Factory – $34.50, Charles Tyrwhitt Pima Polo – $69.00

Look for options with an extra detail or two.

Not quite a Rugby (which is a great option as long as it fits close) and not completely plain.  Options like these have a few extra details (stripes, cuff / collar lining) that make them more than just a plain pique polo with extended arms.

4. A Thrift Store Blazer – $5.00 – $15.00

Look for tweed. Kinda ugly is just fine.

One of the great things about a hooded sweat shirt is that you can spill a beer or hot sauce on it and it really isn’t a big deal.  Thrift store blazers are so cheap and so old that you can beat them to death and they’ll be all the better for it.  Splurge and get it tailored if it’s sailing out at the sides.

5. The crew neck sweatshirt / cheap button up combo:  Mossimo Fleece – $17.99

The hood has been molted.

Here’s the key.  Find some rumpled button down collar shirt at the thrift store (while scouting for blazers maybe?).  Old Navy shirts end up there all the time.  Doesn’t matter if it has a logo on it either.  That goes on underneath the crewneck.  You wouldn’t think it’d be possible to dress up a sweatshirt, but it is.  Feel free to leave it untucked as long as it’s not dress shirt long.  Size down in the sweatshirt if you can.

Other options?  Care to defend the hooded sweatshirt?  We’ve all got one.  Leave it all in the comments…

Works on BananaRepublic.com Gap.com and oldnavy.com  Expires Wed. 8/24/11

Gather ’round fells.  Allow Grandpa Joe to regale you with a thoroughly riveting story of retail:

Once upon a time, a Friends and Family sale was at least somewhat exclusive.  Those days are now over.
The End.

Some brands still attempt to keep a Friends and Family Sale quiet, and only let their mailing list know when it’s going to happen, but brands like GAP inc. just throw the code up on their websites.  You do have to wonder how many people don’t notice and end up overpaying at checkout.

The code THANKS gets you 30% off almost everything online through Banana Republic, GAP, and Old Navy.  It’s online only, but the good news is you can mix and match items in your shopping cart to get to the $50 free shipping threshold.  Returns in-store are free.  Here’s three picks from each of the three GAP inc brands:
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Banana Republic Classic Belted Trench – $138.60 ($225)

Looks just fine without the belt.

As good as it gets right now.  Finally saw it in store, and it’s a carbon copy of last year’s fantastic trench in silhouette and detail layout.  The only issue, which some might have a problem with, is that it’s 100% polyester.  Last year’s was a perfect cotton/nylon blend.  The poly will keep the rain off, it doesn’t feel stiff, and it moves incredibly well.  This is a great coat but know there’s just a very, VERY small hint of poly shine to it.

Banana Republic Rogue Wingtip – $78.40 ($140)

Sizes are going real fast.

It’s your choice of shoes between sneakers and dress shoes that can make a huge difference.  Yes these have a rubber sole and yes $140 is asking way too much.  But… already marked down, with the extra 30% off, AND they ship free?  That’ll work.  Sizes are getting real short.

Straight Fit 5-pocket pant – $41.65 ($69.50)

Back in stock and hugely versatile.

For the guys who love their jeans but just can’t bring themselves to love chinos.  Somewhere in-between those two.  Can absolutely be worn with a blazer, button up shirt, and knit tie.  Also available in subtle pinstripes which will look really good once it cools down.

GAP Nylon Jacket – $55.97 ($79.95)

Who sneezed on the mirror? (on the right)

Slim through the sides with just enough utility jacket styling.  A nice hybrid that’s made of thicker, better feeling/wearing material than a flimsy windbreaker.  The angled pockets aren’t a drawback and there are snaps at the cuffs.

GAP Contrast Collar Polo – $24.47 ($34.95)

More brooding colors from GAP

There were a lot more color options in-store (red, the black you see here, etc…) but online all they’ve got is grey.  Still, it’s a nice fitting polo and the collar and placket are reinforced with some extra material.  Rubberized buttons, and a drop that’s a little longer but not too long.

GAP Lightweight V-Neck – $27.97 ($39.95)

Not thick in the least.

As stated during a previous GAP sale… this won’t ward off frostbite.  But if you’re lean, you like to layer, and you abhor the bulk that usually comes with all cotton sweaters, here’s your thin as can be option.

Old Navy Oxford Button Down Shirt – $20.96 ($29.94)

Available in white as well.

Credit to Old Navy.  They seem to be trying to slim down their sizes.  It’s by no means a slim fit, but if worn under a slim sweater or well tailored blazer, the sides on these aren’t so bad that you couldn’t get away without tailoring.  The oxford cloth is far from thick, but it’s thicker than a poplin.  Not bad for $20.

Any Old Navy polo, but sized down one size – About $10

Size down for a good fit.

You can tell they’re winding down their summer gear.  The fitting room shot is almost certainly their jersey striped polos which are all but sold out online.  If you can find one you like in a size down from what you normally wear, they’re a decent way to get over a shipping threshold.

Old Navy Cotton V-Neck Sweater – $17.50 ($29.94)

A step in the right direction for sure.

Again, give em’ credit.  Their silhouettes are starting to get slightly more trim.  It’s a 100% cotton sweater that’s not overly thick and could be layered easily.  But it’s nowhere near as durable feeling as say, a Banana Republic silk blend.  If you’re on a serious budget, these are a better than average buy.

The Banana Republic, GAP, Old Navy Friends and Family online 30% off sale code THANKS expires 8/24/11

Free Shipping kicks in at $50.  Code Expires Monday August 8th

Somebody want to give GAP a hug?  Their models are starting to look… Topmanish.  ASOSy.  They’re getting dangerously close to becoming the emo middle child between the young, spunky, slightly obnoxious Old Navy, and the older more mature and successful Banana Republic.

Despite most of their color options now being stuck in the worlds of dark and dreary or light and pale, there’s more than a few items worth a look.  There’s also a few items that land in the realms of disappointing or downright laughable.  All three categories, the good, the bad, and the ugly, follow below…
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THE GOOD:  Slim V-neck Sweater – $27.97 (reg. $39.95)

Not a lot of depth to the fabric. Which some appreciate.

Think of these as the sweater version of the INC Ultra Light Blazers.  These ain’t gonna keep you warm.  But at the same time, if you like to layer a V-neck over a shirt and under a blazer but hate the bulk?  Try one.  They’re thin.  Too thin for anyone who wants any kind of weight to the sweater.  But a nice option for those who like to layer.

Pocket Nylon Jacket – $55.97 ($79.95)

Inexpensive, light, and casual. But not poofy.

Surprisingly well fitting through the sides, a little darker in person, and the barely noticeable slight angle of the chest pockets adds some interesting lines.  Hand pockets at the sides and good hardware too.

Basic Leather Belt - $20.97 (reg. $29.95)

An essential that's incredibly affordable.

GAP hasn’t changed the look or feel of their basic leather jeans belt in years.  You can absolutely wear these with chinos as well.  The two seen here are at least six or seven years old and show no signs of giving up any time soon.

Modern Trench Coat – $82.60 (reg. $118.00)

Maybe?

Haven’t seen it in store but it has potential.  Looks to be a little cropped but not drastically so?  Still might look a little goofy with a suit if it doesn’t drift at least a few inches past the drop of your jacket.  64% cotton 36% nylon is a win.  The Banana Republic taupe looks much better, but, haven’t seen that one in the flesh yet either.

Chambray Collar Polo – $20.97 (reg. $29.95)

Sides could come in a bit.

Not bad, but could be trimmer through the sides and it’s a little long in the tail.  If you’re a tall guy that’s not quite lanky enough to wear “tall” sizes, then maybe give the regular version of these a spin.  The collar doesn’t look like denim material.  It’s a chambray with a nice texture to it, but not Dad jeans in any way.

THE BAD:  Houndstooth Blazer – $68.60 (reg. $98.00)

Coulda, shoulda, isn't.

Had high hopes for this one.  I was anticipating it’d be closer to a cotton version of this and the web photo was just a poor representation.  The web photo is in fact a poor representation because it’s not that bad looking in person.  That is, until you put it on.  The button stance is pretty low, which can be okay, but it becomes a big problem because the jacket is really short.  Not just short, awkwardly short.  Like capris for your torso short.  Stopped 15% short too short.

THE UGLY:  GAP 1969 “Slim” Trouser Pants – $45.47 (reg. $64.95)

So... these are my thighs.

God help us, GAP is making Jeggings for men.  I could barely get the ends of the legs over my calves.  They might have spandex in them.  Being a huge fan of Levi’s 501s, seeing a pair of blue cotton pants with a button fly was worth a shot in the fitting room.  Good grief these are awful.  Horribly tight.  If your testicles are larger than raisins, then mark my words you’ll have issues.  Single file is not an organizational structure that should be applied inside your scrotum.

The code 30off expires today, Monday August 8th and 11:59pm ET.

In store too.  Click here to open the printable PDF coupon from Express.

Here’s more (potential) proof that costs and prices are going up.  It wasn’t all that long ago that an Express tiered sale would start out at $15 off $30 with the next level being $30 off $75.  Now?  $30 off $100.  A final cost of $45 vs. a final cost of $70 is a huge difference.  And there’s a big catch:

*Sale/Clearance Purchases aren’t eligible for the discount.

Yep.  So not only has the second level threshold gone up, you can’t use sale purchases towards it.  For example:
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Two Express Signature Polos – $23.99 TOTAL (after extra 40% off non code discount)

Sizes are still available for the lighter shades

So this in and of itself is a great deal.  Sizes are real tight on most of the colors, but just over $20 for two polos isn’t bad. You’d think this $23.99 would count towards the threshold.  Not so though…

One Express Italian Merino Wool V-Neck – $69.90

Great color. Desperately needs a shirt under it.

No doubt, it’s one of the better v-necks out there.  Tons of colors, the V dip isn’t too deep, they’re smooth, extremely easy to layer, and hold up pretty well over time.  But the real value would come in if you could get just over $100, knock $30 off, then get this for retail and the rest of your purchases basically as a bonus…

One Pair of Striped Express Socks – $9.90

Nice. But $9.50 nice?

Ten bucks for one pair of socks is a lot.  But it’s more of playing the game and getting this over the $100 threshold so you can drop it to $70 with the code 1605.  And you’d think we’ve done it (23.99 + 69.90 + 9.90 = $103.79) but…
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Just $15 was taken off the over $100 total.  Not $30.  The signature polos are on sale, and thus, not eligible for the discount.  So instead of about $73, you’re closer to $90.  Is that a great deal for two polos, a solid V-neck and a pair of socks?  Maybe for some.  But it’s certainly a shift away from how deep these tiered sales used to discount.

This most recent Express tiered sale and the code 1605 expires Sunday August 7th…

Deal available for purchase until 7/29/11. Voucher Expires 10/22/11

You will get specific instructions in your voucher email on how to redeem this purchase from the Bonobos website. NOTE: Voucher code should be entered as a “Gift Certificate” and not a “referral code.”

That’s the money line.  Right there.   Taken straight from the Daily Hookup’s website.  The deal they have for purchase right now is a spend-$60-get-$120 at Bonobos. You cash it in after you’ve applied any codes to your order.  Word is (so far) you can use a code and this deal at the same time.  For now.

They say you’ll get your gift certificate code within 48 hours.  The extra 30% off Sale code HEATWAVE is scheduled to expire on 7/31.   So that gives you time to use both.   There’s another code good on non-sale items floating around (more on that later) and then there’s always the new customer $50 off deal.   Lotta options.  Lots.  Let’s go to work:
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Bonobos Seersucker Jacket & Matching Pant – $140.20 total w/ code HEATWAVE ($410)

There's still August.

That’s just ridiculous.  Seersucker isn’t for everyone, but most are scared off by the bright blue.   Go with the Spanish Moss (which looks grey, not green) and you won’t stick out like a Southern Dandy north of the Mason Dixon.

Chino/Linen Blazer in Navy or Steel – $115 w/code HEATWAVE ($348)

No, you don't get both for $115. Just one.

Cotton & linen blend from the Italian mill Marzotto (sounds impressive, looks even better.  Check out the up close pics on the fabric.)  Just north of $100 with free shipping.  Could be a new favorite.  Watch out for that button stance though.  Might be a little high depending on your torso.

Grenson Tyler Medallion Lace-up – $192 w/ code DAPPER ($315)

Expensive even after the discounts.

Yep, that’s the word. Dapper (not Dappered). Came in via style tip and it seems to take 20% off any purchase.  Even non-sale items.   Don’t know when this expires.  When combined with the $60 for $120, it drops the shoes to under $200.  (Note… if the code expires, the new customer email code gets you $50 off making them $204)

V-Neck, Polo, and Personality Milano Tie – $57.60 w/ code HEATWAVE ($283)

Yes, you do get all three for $57.60.

Regular price on these was a wince worthy $283.  On sale these three are $168.  Use the extra 30% off code and they drop to $117.60.  Cut that in half thanks to the $60 for $120 deal.  Not bad for sixty bucks.  Tie is an Italian made cashmere/silk blend.

British Tan Duffel – $120 w/ code DAPPER ($225)

24" long = it's a decent size.

Not on sale but a new arrival instead.  One hell of a good looking traditionally shaped duffel.  Bonobos knows what they’re doing when it comes to simple, clean design.  Also available in red and navy.  (Note… if you’re a newbie, the new customer email code actually makes it $5 cheaper)

The Bonobos $60 for $120 deal is on sale through 7/29.  Vouchers expire 10/22.  Warning:  No word on how fast it takes to get your voucher emailed to you, so sizes and selection might be decimated if there’s a slow response time.  No word on when the code DAPPER expires either.  HEATWAVE expires 7/31.  Top image via TheDailyHookup

Free shipping kicks in at $50 POST code.  Expires 11:59pm Central on Monday 7/18/11
UPDATE:  SAVESUMMER & pin 4344 gets you free shipping no minimum.  Expires 7/19?  Thanks to EY.

It’s not much of a catch but there is a catch.  An extra 20% off L.E.C. sale items is a solid deal, but since a free shipping no minimum code expired on Friday, that extra 20% off might be a wash if you’re picking up one or two items.  Shipping starts around $6.  So the better deal on small purchases might have happened already.

Also know that the free shipping threshold is measured after the code is applied.  If your total is above $50, then you apply the code and your total drops under $50?  No free shipping for you.  Here’s one combination that just barely reaches the free shipping threshold and is completely made up of on sale items.  Let’s play The Feud.
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Striped Jersey Pocket Polo – $9.59 ($24.50)

Jersey fabric and slightly fitted.

LEC polos don’t fit as close as a Mossimo or Express Signature.  But they do come in these pretty slick stripes.  Jersey fabric has just enough snap-back to it.  Pocket is well proportioned (read: smaller than you’re used to.)

Wide Stripe Necktie - $13.59 ($39.50)

Might be time to pounce on this one.

2 3/4″ in width.  Almost positive this was one of the original items when LEC launched.  Many of us have had our eyes on this fat striped (but under 3″ wide) tie for awhile.  All silk.  Available in yellow/navy and red/navy too.

Heritage Stripe Oxford in Gull Grey Stripe – $15.99 ($49.50)

Perfect for layering.

Why the grey stripe is always on sale is beyond me.  It’s neutral enough to go with anything, and the heavier oxford cloth fabric is terrific under a v-neck for three season wear.

Heritage Straight Fit Jean – $11.99 ($49.50)

Go with the dark rinsed indigo

Just over $10 for jeans?  Know that these run a touch larger than 501s.  If you prefer your jean legs with a little more room (or you just flat out need more room due to thicker legs) then these might be for you.  Full review here w/ fit perspective chart.

Final cost post code: $51.16 A buck sixteen over the free shipping threshold, and shipping for these four items would normally run $10.95.  That’s 20% of the cost.  Without the code it’d be $78.75.  Almost $30 more.  Kaboom.

The LEC code SUMMERDEALS and pin 9324 expires at 11:59pm Central on Monday 7/18/11.

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 Friday July 15 – Saturday July 16th.  Items marked with a * are “Web Busters.” In store prices may match up, and may not.  Selection on all items (especially shoes) in store can vary greatly.
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Tallia Grey Stripe Sportcoat* - $139.99 (reg. $250)

Somebody get that guy a sweet tea.

Southern Style for sure and not for everyone.  Light in color but long on boldness.  Talia usually runs good and trim, but the pics online make the jacket look boxy (he’s also standing with it unbuttoned).  Haven’t seen it in store.  Ships free, returns free, still a bit of a risk.

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Club Room Khaki Slim Fit Suit Jacket & matching pant – $164.98* (reg. $350)

Good, not great. But good.

One of the first suits tested for the Summer Suit Search.  It’s labeled a slim fit, and there’s some contour through the sides, but it still needs serious work by a tailor if you’re athletic or slim.  Full review here.

 

Calvin Klein Carter Textured Laceup – $77.99 (reg. $140)

Sizes are getting scarce.

Surprisingly versatile.  The black options look to be completely sold out, but the grey “lead” color and dark brown are still available.  Full review on this shoe can be found right over here.

 

Alfani RED Grey Sharkskin Slim Fit Suit – $199.98* (reg. $450)

Get that guy a contrasting tie. And maybe some sweet tea too.

Was the same price during the last O.D.S. and not a bad suit for the price.  As always, the armholes on Alfani RED suits are just a little too low for most.  So know that going in.

Timberland Boat Shoes – $49.99* (reg. $75.00)

One of the better color combinations.

Black and brown can absolutely work together.  Timberland’s boat shoes prove it, and $50 isn’t a bad price at all.  Sizes are getting limited on these.

 

Tasso Elba Slim Fit Cotton/Linen Polo – $24.99 ($34.50)

Could have done without the collar piping.

There’s probably one or two too many retro stripes on these, but, give the Macy’s house brand Tasso Elba credit for slimming down the sides and going with a cotton linen blend.

 

Kenneth Cole First Squad Cap Toe – $109.99 (reg. $138.00)

Trim lines, modern look, par for KCNY's course.

Shoe hounds won’t be impressed.  But if you want a pair of modern, slim black laceups for close to $100 (free shipping too) these are a good option.  Yes the toe isn’t perfectly rounded off, but it’s not Frankenstein’s Monster chopped either.  Real simple cap toe.  Good feeling leather for the price.

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Kenneth Cole Reaction Textured Money Clip – $23.99* (reg. $35.00)

Solid style for little cost

Cheap money clips can be flat out hideous.  This is one of the rare exceptions.  Textured top, quiet & not easy to notice small logo on the underside.  Gets the job down well for a very small investment.

This current Macy’s One Day Sale ends Saturday 7/16.  And yes, it sure seems too convenient to be pure coincidence that Macy’s launches their One Day Sales whenever Nordstrom has their own sizable sale.

So much for the retail dog days of summer.  There’s more than a couple of incredibly solid sales going on right now.  With all that temptation it’s good to remind yourself that nothing is affordable if you’re broke, or, if the purchase will get you headed in that direction.

This is rare.  Sure Bonobos always has a sale section, but this is different.  A little more to pick from, sizable markdowns, and as always ships quick & returns free.  First time email signups get $50 off purchases of $100 or more.  Not going to work for you?  The code TELL25 takes $25 off purchases over $100.  Credit John B. for that tip.

UPDATE: The code DEMOCRACY will take $100 off a $300 order.  Exp. 7/15  Credit Frank with the tip.
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The Shorts:  Bonobos Bandstands & Cloudster – Potentially $55 Total

Checks and solids.

Here’s how this works.  Newbies, as previously mentioned, put an email address in over here.  That’ll get you $50 off your first order of $100 or more.  If you’re in the market for shorts, then these 7″ red plaid and 9″ chino shorts are good light options to balance out your dark polos.  Put both in your shopping cart and the total comes to $105.  Now use the code.  Ta-da.  Free pair of shorts.

The Wallet:  Jack Spade Monza Billholder – Potentially as little as $54 ($125)

Decent card, better wallet.

On sale, it’s $88.  $12 under the threshold you need to hit to use the $50 off new customer email code.  Curses, right?  Nobody panic.  Put a pair of $16 boxer briefs in your cart and that’ll push the total to a just over the line $104.  Use the code and you now get both for $54.  This is the billfold big brother to the smaller and slimmer Monza single fold.  Really slick checked interior.  Perforations inspired by sports car steering wheels.

The Chino Suit:  Bonobos Chino/Linen Jacket and Pants – $300* ($498)

Not cheap, even on sale.

Interesting.  The suit jacket is on sale, but the pants are not.  Regular price is a steep $500, but the 55% cotton 45% Italian Fabric should be pretty close to perfect.  *UPDATE:  Use the code DEMOCRACY to take $100 off $300.

The Seersucker Suit:  Bonobos Seersucker Jacket & Pants in Grey – $286* ($410)

With the textured CK Carter Laceup.

This particular color of stripe got hosed by either the lighting or the off white shirt that was paired with it on the Bonobos site.  It’s a grey stripe, not green.  Looks much, much better in person.  Full review here.  More on the shoes here.  *Reflects the $50 discount to those who supply a first time email.

The Trunks:  Bonobos 9″ Longboards and 5″ Shortboards – $45.00 ($65.00)

The surf, as they say, is still up.

Bonobos is the king of toned down swimwear that’s not completely boring.  It’s tough to call anything that comes in the color “citrus” toned down, but unlike the wild plaids found on every warm beach in the Northern Hemisphere, these keep it simple with just a few colors.  Nice detail on the 9″ longboards at the waist.

The Polos:  Bonobs Helmsman Polo in Navy or White – $45.00 ($65)

The t-shirt upgrade.

All hail the contrast placket.  Nothing crazy otherwise, and not spongy pique cotton either.  Athletic fit, good frame for your neck and face, and a nice way to dress up your downtime wardrobe.

Grenson Stanley Wingtip – $200* ($335)

UK stunners.

For the shoe hounds.  Dove grey leather uppers, Goodyear welt.  Bonobos suggests you size down since they tend to run a little large.  Still expensive but has plenty of curb appeal.  *Reflects the $50 discount to those who supply a first time email.

No word on when the Bonobos Summer Sale prices expire, or when the $25 off $100 code TELL25 goes dead.  DEMOCRACY expired 7/15.  Credit to Frank on that one.