Dappered

Affordable Men's Style

  • Start Here
  • Essentials Shop
  • Latest Deals
  • Style Scenarios
  • Reviews
  • Forum

10 Best Bets for $75 or Less – February 2012

February 14, 2012 By Joe | Heads up: Buying via our links may result in us getting a commission. Here's why.

Seventy Five dollars.  That’s a lot of money.  It’ll get you a couple pairs of Levi’s, a nice dinner out, or a couple months at your local gym.  Seventy Five dollars.  It is a lot of money, especially if you spend it right.  Ten picks follow, all under $75, and some of them are much, much less.
.

1. Herschel Supply Novel Duffel Bag – $78.00
Complete with a garage for your kicks.

Sure it’s a little north of $75, but everything from Maxton Men is under $100, and it all ships free.  More on Maxton Men here.  A little larger than their Ravine duffel.  Equipped with that nifty shoe compartment.  Available in three colors, including black and grey.

 

2. Brooks Brothers Cordovan Watchband – $37.50 ($75)
Moo? No. Neigh? Yes.

Cordovan is a little like Cashmere.  In a way.  It’s an upgraded material that some guys covet, and others just don’t care about.  Here’s a crash course on cordovan:  It comes from a horse instead of a cow.  It’s extremely tough, and some cordovan shoes will outlive their owners.  It’s extremely smooth and incredibly flexible.  Back to the watch band.  Word is it fits 24mm lugs, so, it’s made for larger watches.  Sterling silver buckle.  Price seems suspiciously low.

 

3. The Red Hook Cocktail – $7.00 – $12.00
With a real, unprocessed cherry. Pit and all.

Dark, inky, booze forward with a trailing bit of sweetness.  2 oz rye (or a little more…) 1/2 oz Punt E Mes, 1/4 oz – 1/2 oz maraschino (not related to the nuclear red cherries) dash or two of orange bitters.  A bit like a Manhattan.

 

4. Target Merona “Kensington” Cotton Two Button Sport Coat – $44.99
Button stance and off the rack fit are solid

Not being sold online just yet, but available in this navy and a khaki in plenty of Target brick and mortar stores.  This is the kind of sportcoat that turns someone into a sport coat addict.  Insanely cheap.  Wearable anywhere casual.  You might find yourself reaching for it on the weekend.  At home.  Might require some tailoring, and early word is that the sizing can be a little wonky between different blazers, even if they’re the same size and on the same rack.

 

5. GAP Tailored Glen Plaid Pant in Straight Fit – $59.50 ($41.65 at 30% off)
Trim but not suffocating

Haven’t seen these in person, but the glen plaid looks to be more of the medium grey on lighter grey, which is good because it’ll give them a little depth without getting old-manish and stark.  As always, hold out for a sale.

 

6.  The Blue Stones “Vain Vixens” Video – 4 minutes and 7 seconds of your life

Everyone’s favorite (well at least my favorite) band that actually reads Dappered is back.  For those that like their rock with some teeth, and their musicians well dressed, it’s hard not to like The Blue Stones.  Windsor Canada has produced two guys who can make one hell of a lot of sound between them, not to mention some terrific videos.  Major credit is due to Gavin Michael Booth who directed, shot and edited the video.  And someone buy the casting director a drink for picking the brunette.  Never met the two guys who make up the band, just heard their stuff and have been hooked ever since.  These guys seem to have a bright future.  Looking forward to more.  And, a heads up… not sure this is worthy of a NSFW, but just make sure no one is looking over your shoulder here.

 

7. Placing a bet at a Vegas Sports Book & watching the game there – $1 – $75
Only if this was your living room.

This just in… Las Vegas is very, very good at separating you from your money in a very short amount of time.  Losing $75 at a $10 blackjack or craps table can take only a few minutes.  Place $40, $50, or $75 on your favorite team (or a team that you know a little something about) then sit back in one of the big fat chairs that aren’t behind a velvet rope.  Cocktail waitresses will come around and get you free drinks just like you were at a table.  Maybe not quite as often, but they will.  Free drinks, sports, a few hours, and the possibility of actually winning.  Photo Credit: Chad Davis

 

8. Bonobos Oxfords in Pink Stripe and Turquoise – $49.60* | Check Shirt – $54.40*
The Bonobos sale section gets a boost.

Bonobos has been real quiet lately.  They recently put some more items in their sale section, but browsing that thing is like pulling teeth thanks to their new sizing drop down menu.  You click on a product, and you can’t tell if they have it in your size or not. You’ll need the code BETTERFIT for 20% off to get these prices.  Oxfords are made in the USA.

 

9. Half of this watch:  ESQ Chronicle – $154.42 ($295)
Which half? AM or PM?

All right, so, it’s cheating with the entire “under” $75 thing, but stick with me here.  It is a quartz, but it’s a solid brand, and it’s one looker for a sleek black dress watch.  Sub dial is a nice touch.  Here’s how to get the price:

  • Go to Overstock via this link
  • That’ll activate a 7% off new customer offer
  • That drops the current price of $166.04

Pic is via Macys where they’re selling it for full price.  Full marks to reader Rich for the find.

 

10. Stafford Wingtip Oxfords – $50.00
You'd never know they were only $50.

The pics online make them look like plastic, but in person they’re surprisingly good looking.  Soft leather that has some honest to goodness real leather give to it.  Pretty comfortable too.  True oxford closed lacing.  Feels true to size.  Might not accommodate a wide foot.  You’d think these would be clunky with a bulbous toe, but the toe shape is perfect.  Sole is synthetic, with a grip rubber insert.  Full credit to Andrew for the style tip on these.

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

Filed Under: Accessories, Clothing, Shoes, Watches Tagged With: Bag, best bets, Cordovan, duffel, ESQ, luggage, Sneakers, Stafford, wach band, Wingtips

Continue the Conversation …

Want to share your thoughts on this article? Send us a tweet, join the discussion on Facebook, or start a discussion on Dappered Threads, our forum!

Don’t Miss Anything

Subscribe via email to get articles in your inbox or add Dappered on Flipboard. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

New Here?

Well, welcome to Dappered. Here are what we consider the most useful posts on the site if you're looking to put a little more effort into your appearance. Just want to see our favorite menswear products? Shop our essentials here.

Steal(ish) Alert: Timex American Documents Series are 30% off

Steal(ish) Alert: Timex American Documents Series are 30% off

Nothing makes sense.

Monday Men’s Sales Tripod – Spier does Boots, Extra 30% off Bonobos Sale Items, & More

Monday Men’s Sales Tripod – Spier does Boots, Extra 30% off Bonobos Sale Items, & More

Plus Brooks Brothers has their 7 days of gifting underway, and DROP AE chukkas for $199.

Steal Alert: Stan Smiths at Nordstrom for $58.83

Steal Alert: Stan Smiths at Nordstrom for $58.83

*grabs sparkly microphone*

Follow Dappered on Instagram »

Comments

  1. Adam says

    February 14, 2012 at 4:19 AM

    I tried those target blazers on last night and was extremely impressed, especially for the price. Definitely a good value!

  2. Mike says

    February 14, 2012 at 6:51 AM

    Hey, nice tip on those Stafford Wingtips.  The synthetic sole is perfect for the weather right now.  That and the new everyday pricing angle might make me start checking out JCP a little more.

  3. Jordan Helton says

    February 14, 2012 at 7:29 AM

    I didnt care for the target blazer. Felt very cheaply made and not durable. I tried on the jcrew cotton blazer yesterday and really liked it, but i would need to take the arms up a bit. Im waiting for a jcrew sale….though that seems to not happen too often.

  4. Chris Wallwork says

    February 14, 2012 at 7:45 AM

    The wingtips look like they are sold out now

  5. Charlie says

    February 14, 2012 at 8:04 AM

    Warning —  Bonobos Oxfords have T-Rex armlength.

  6. pianomansam says

    February 14, 2012 at 8:23 AM

    I checked out the blazers on Saturday after seeing the last post on them. Definitely trim. I wear a 42R usually, but the Large was too big in the shoulders but too trim. Guess I’ll have to pass on these until my body catches up to my working out.

  7. Anonymous says

    February 14, 2012 at 8:30 AM

    I was playing around with the Bonobos codes the other day. I think they will only give you a max of $25 discount now. So anything over $125 will not get the discount. I guess you can make different purchases, but that might nix that code for your account from then on. 

  8. Hamsterdam says

    February 14, 2012 at 8:59 AM

    They fit me perfectly. Does this mean I have T-Rex arms.

    I’m sad now.

  9. Andrew says

    February 14, 2012 at 9:12 AM

    Gap is offering 20% off today with code GAPLOVESU.

    That brings those glen plaid trousers down a bit. 

  10. Jordan says

    February 14, 2012 at 9:19 AM

    I tried on the Target blazer the other day and my wife recoiled in horror.  She thought it looked insanely cheap.

  11. Jordan says

    February 14, 2012 at 9:20 AM

    I bought the Check Republic shirt (shown above) in a Medium and the arms are 2 to 3 inches too short.  I’m typically a 15.5/34.

  12. Dan Patrick Flores says

    February 14, 2012 at 9:53 AM

    It’s ok, here’s something to lift your spirits:

  13. Jordan Helton says

    February 14, 2012 at 9:53 AM

    For Maxton, use code FBLIKE for 15% off. I got the bag for $66.30 shipped.

  14. Jordan Helton says

    February 14, 2012 at 9:53 AM

    and the nice thing to do would be to like their page on Facebook since thats how I got the code.

  15. Timon says

    February 14, 2012 at 11:30 AM

    From our fearless leader Joe in regards to the new J. Crew Factory Cotton suit article today:

     Use code SHOPNOW to take 30% off all FACTORY and J. Crew Sale items.  Expires 2/17/12

  16. Jordan Helton says

    February 14, 2012 at 11:53 AM

    thanks, but the item im referring to isnt on sale, so code does not apply.

  17. Jordan Helton says

    February 14, 2012 at 11:56 AM

    I was about to say 34 is a long arm, then i remembered all coats i try on are about an inch too big for my 32/32.5 arms. 🙁

  18. Joe says

    February 14, 2012 at 2:00 PM

     Head in store.  My local JCP had plenty in stock. 

  19. Guest says

    February 15, 2012 at 6:16 AM

     The last time I tried GAP straight fit (6 months ago) the rise seemed kinda low

  20. Hutson RB says

    February 15, 2012 at 6:47 AM

    No love for the ESQ watch?  I bought it last week and its very nice for the $.  At the local store it is $295 and no discounts.  Larger size, stainless case and buckle, Ronda Swiss movement with the date and substantial leather band.  No cheap watch.  Hard to find a reputable Swiss watch at this price.  

  21. Kyle S says

    February 15, 2012 at 7:12 AM

    I bought those glen plaid pants on Monday from my local Gap store, but in slim fit (which is not available online, evidently). Unfortunately the clerk ripped a hole in the leg when removing the stupid magnetic anti-theft tag.

    I’ll be checking out both Target & JCP today …

  22. Mike Dehls says

    February 15, 2012 at 6:35 PM

    I want that Target blazer, but I know they will sit there on the racks until they go on sale.  Seems pointless to pay full price, even if the eventual discount will likely only be $10-12.

  23. Kyle S says

    February 15, 2012 at 11:28 PM

    Good tip on the Target blazer. Unfortunately the local JCP didn’t have those shoes – probably never carried them, in fact. But I might be able to get my sister on the other coast to pick me up a pair from the JCP by her, looks like they have some still in stock.

    I realized also when I went to return the ripped glen plaid pants to Gap today that they were actually straight fit, so the same as what’s online. They fit well.

  24. Googs185 says

    February 16, 2012 at 11:03 AM

    Good find on the wingtips! I have a friend who works at JCP and I got a display shoe so with all the discounts I snagged them for 35 with tax. Not bad at all!

  25. Joe, Esq. says

    February 24, 2012 at 1:10 AM

    Did the 7% coupon work for you?  I can’t seem to get it to work.

  26. Hutson RB says

    March 1, 2012 at 9:34 AM

    Yep.  I googled the coupon and it came up.  I typed it in and it worked.  Did you get one?

  27. Joe, Esq. says

    March 1, 2012 at 12:25 PM

    Since I couldn’t get the coupon to work, I went with an Orient Esteem (Black/Stainless) instead.  I plan on checking out the ESQ at a local Macy’s soon.  If I like it enough, I’ll return the Orient and get the ESQ off Ostock.  Thanks for replying.

  28. Josh Jensen says

    March 7, 2012 at 12:03 AM

    Trying to decide which color to go with on the target blazer. i wear mostly dark denim & button ups. Khaki?

    Thanks for your help!

  29. Peter says

    March 21, 2012 at 3:13 PM

     Excellent tip…the code still works, so I just ordered mine!

Men’s Fashion or Affordable Style?

Fashion is temporary and expensive. Style is timeless and affordable. Dappered® helps you work the retail system so that you can be comfortable, look sharp, and save money.

Want to share a great product? Email Us.
Continue the discussion at Dappered Threads.
For a fit perspective, see Joe's measurements.
Make sure to read our affiliate disclosure.

Connect with Dappered

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Most Popular on Dappered

  • Monday Men's Sales Tripod - Spier does Boots, Extra 30% off Bonobos Sale Items, & More
    Monday Men's Sales Tripod - Spier does Boots, Extra 30% off Bonobos Sale Items, & More
  • Steal(ish) Alert: Timex American Documents Series are 30% off
    Steal(ish) Alert: Timex American Documents Series are 30% off
  • Steal Alert: Stan Smiths at Nordstrom for $58.83
    Steal Alert: Stan Smiths at Nordstrom for $58.83
  • A Surprisingly Nice Allen Edmonds Sale, Extra 20% off Huckberry Clearance, & More – The Thurs. Men’s Sales Handful
    A Surprisingly Nice Allen Edmonds Sale, Extra 20% off Huckberry Clearance, & More – The Thurs. Men’s Sales Handful
  • The 2019 Dappered Holiday Gift Guide for Her: Stocking Stuffers ($25 and under)
    The 2019 Dappered Holiday Gift Guide for Her: Stocking Stuffers ($25 and under)
  • The Weekend Reset - Sugar & Booze and Gizmo and Scrooge.
    The Weekend Reset - Sugar & Booze and Gizmo and Scrooge.

Popular Topics

  • Best dress shirts to own
  • Best looking watches under $100
  • Best men’s dress shoes under $200
  • Nike Killshot sneaker alternatives
  • How to wear a suit without a tie
  • Suitsupply store review
  • Suitsupply Blue Line review
  • J. Crew Factory Thompson suit review
  • How much does it cost to tailor a suit?
  • Dopp kit essentials
  • Brown shoes with gray pants
  • Men’s style buying guide

RSS Latest on Dappered Threads

  • Opinions on orvis?
  • Jackets / Sweaters to keep warm in a cold office
  • Holiday Party Help
  • the huckberry flint and tinder Harrington jacket IS actually super nice
  • Rewards and cash back maximizing - How much of it do you do?

Copyright © 2019 Dappered.com | Dappered, LLC | Dappered® is a registered trademark of Dappered, LLC

Hat tip: Paul Olson, Magazine Pro Theme On Genesis Framework | Disclosures: Privacy and Affiliates, Gilt.com, FTC