Hooray for all those lovely things that warm weather brings, but we’re in the dog days now. And looking forward to fall is hard not to do. New designs are working their way online and in stores. Be warned: Much of these are full price for now, as well as excluded from codes & discounts since they’re new on the scene. 20 today, 20 tomorrow, and just think… in 40 days we’ll be breathing down the equinox.
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Banana Republic Olson “Wingtip” & Hyde Oxford – $140.00 (but $98 when 30% off)
That’s… not a wingtip. Now it is a brogue, but there’s no “wing” stitching there. But hey, let’s just move on. The Hyde Oxford in Bourbon looks like it could be one super smooth shoe, and BR has even added a a monk strap and will be adding a wingtip (yes wingtip) boot. Haven’t seen any of these in person. The blue suedes from this summer are still going strong, so there’s hopes for these on the quality side.
Banana Republic Tailored Black Cord Blazer – $198 (but $138.60 when 30% off)
A dark, fine wale corduroy blazer like this one walks right up to that velvet blazer line but emphatically stops short. It still has plenty of personality, but steers clear of the “player”-ness. 98% cotton, 2% spandex for some movement, and a new arrival. Give it some time and codes should eventually be applicable. Meanwhile, this is a cheaper alternative with potential, and should be on sale. A lot.
Orient Bambino Automatic – $182 w/ SUMMER2012 ($260)
Actually came out this summer, but one of Orient’s newest models, and now available in a couple of more case/dial options including rose gold. Classy. Simple. Domed crystal and a 21 jewel automatic movement. 40.5mm in diameter.
Johnston & Murphy Decatur Chukka – $185.00
Part of the 1850 footwear collection, made from Italian Calfskin, and dead simple. Kinda looks like a cleaned up road version of Timberland’s 6″ zip Earthkeepers boot. Wider tan laces are a real nice touch, and easy to replicate on a pair of brown boots of your own if you’d like to, y’know, get a similar look and not blow $185.
Target Merona Everyday Shirts – $22.99
If you don’t have arms that are unusually long, you can size down and end up with a super cheap do-anything poplin which comes in a dozen or so useable colors and patterns. Plain white, light blue, ginghams and bengal stripes. All for just north of $20 with a good sized collar that’ll sit well when layered under a sportcoat if you iron em’ up. Hard to believe it took Target this long. Seen already over here, but, these might end up being the long sleeve shirts of the fall.
Zara “Luxury” Travel Bag – $99.00
100% Polyurethane of course. Looks pretty damn good on the web. Sizeable too, at 2700 cubic inches.
J. Crew Three Button Utility Sportcoat in Ludlow Fit – $218.00
A (hopefully) tough, do anything, thicker sportcoat for us blazer addicts. Had high hopes for a somewhat similar looking GAP version of this style, but that one was a disappointment. This one’s made of yarn-dyed canvas, and if it takes some breaking in to soften up, that’ll be a good thing.
J. Crew Factory Cotton Cashmere Crewneck – $54.50 (but $38 when 30% off)
Crewnecks started to make a comeback against the standard V-neck last year, and expect more of the same this year. Especially when it comes to dressed down stuff (which is obviously where the crew neck is more at home.) SHOPNOW gets 30% off sale items and expires today.
Johnston & Murphy Tyndal Wingtip – $150.00
$150 isn’t dirt cheap, but it’s not break the bank for most either. It’s an investment, but if you’re looking for a shoe that occupies that area between your best lace ups and your sneakers, these might be worth a shot. Perforations and sweeping lines look fantastic. Great shape from above too. Ships and returns free through Nordstrom.
Fossil Ansel Chronograph (?) – $105.00
At 41mm it doesn’t overwhelm, and the styling leans awfully classic for Fossil. That’s good. Sometimes Fossil can get a little too young, trendy, and chunky. But is it a chronograph? Seems like it would be. Not sure though. Would certainly like to see more of this styling from the leans-young Fossil brand in the future.
Kenneth Cole Garment Dyed 5-Pocket Pant – $69.50
To quote Maximus: “Hold the line!” That’s a lot of money. Sit put. Kenneth Cole has plenty of site wide sales. Nice color though. Two other saturated colors too. Lots of color without getting crazy bright. Just hold off until they come down from the Bonobos price level.
Brooks Brothers Water Repellent Cotton Mariner Jacket – $298.00
Boy that’s expensive. Boy does it look perfect. Lined with linen on the top half and cotton on the bottom. Available in three shades. Self/tonal elbow patches and a detachable hood.
Brooks Brothers Ribbon Belt – $48.00
Almost fifty bucks. Man. But they’ve nailed the transition into deeper fall like colors while still remaining noticeable.
Wheelmen & Co Sebastian Slim Wallet in Honey Leather – $59.00
Another take on the minimalist card case / wallet, but the leather color and strikingly light canvas interior set this sucker apart. Made in the USA and it’s hard not to like the subtle Wheelmen & Co logo.
SuitSupply Wool/Silk Blazer – $349.00
Good heavens. $350 is more than plenty of us like to spend on a suit, but the wool/silk fabric from Loro Piana, the patch pockets, and the quality you get from Suit Supply makes this awfully tempting for those with the funds. Could be a jacket you’ll have a hard time not wearing three or four times in a week.
Hawkings McGill Wool Flannel Blend Varsity Jacket – $99.00
All the retro varsity jacket look, with none of the fake lettering/logos found on other jackets. That and it’s a wool blend. Synthetic leather arms of course, and wouldn’t really work for most as a first choice casual jacket, but cool to some none the less and under $100.
The Tie Bar Matte Black 1″ Tie Bar – $15.00 (now at Nordstrom)
So $15 at Nordstrom with free shipping (and returns), or $15 +$5.99 shipping through TheTieBar. I’m sure the numbers work out great for TheTieBar, for having their name all over Nordstrom. But… it’s Nordstrom for this purchase at least.
Christopher Ward C10 Aviator MK1 Automatic – $515.00
A new arrival for the Christopher Ward watch company. And a heads up. Going to be seeing one of these in person for a review… and… *cough* a giveaway sometime in the fall.
For Her: L.L. Bean Signature Merino/Cotton Turtleneck Dress – $99.00
Part II, aka, the next 20, to come tomorrow. Including items from L.E.C., which just launched their new fall line today.
Speaking of tie bars – has anyone been able to find a simple silver 2.5 inch one a la Archer?
i found some silver [toned] ones on ebay for a pretty good price, and shippings low/free because they can just send it over normal mail. but i cant [cant, or wont?] spring for an actual silver one yet.
I have Tyndall loafers and they’re nice. Got them for $99 I think.
The Chukkas are nice. Also, anyone got an alternative for the varsity jacket ? I can’t access UO site from QC. Stupid law.
What a note to end on.
Joe, I gotta say, some hits and misses here, but your hits are big. First: The dress, damn. might have to keep and eye on that next time I need to suck up to the girlfriend.
The chukkas, cord blazer, and BR Wingtips (brogues) all might have to find their way to my closet.
on the other hand… the varsity jacket – really? not a chance.
Some great choices here Joe. Holy smokes that dress is fantastic. I think this is a great time to share my favorite quote about fall (Gregg Easterbrook):
“Fall is what summer pretends to be, the best of seasons. Fall is as glorious as summer is tedious; as subtle as summer is obvious; as refreshing as summer is wearying. Crisp fall air blows as welcome as the day’s first smell of coffee. Fall’s brilliant colors remind us of the glory of nature and the multitude of things that are possible. Foremost among its qualities, fall is the season of romance. Take an informal poll, and you are nearly certain to find that a high percentage of the world’s precious supply of lasting relationships dates to the fall. Most people attribute this phenomenon to leaves falling, school starting and fireplaces being lit. The real reason is simpler. The real reason is sweaters. Everyone looks better in sweaters.”
I’ve been wearing those Target poplin shirts all summer long. They are great — light but they hold up well.
I have the Tyndal Wingtips and they are a definitely a comfy shoe. I usually wear them 10-12 hours a day with no problems. They did run about a half size too big though. Had to size down to a 9 from a 9.5.
Those br shoes look fantastic, especially for around a hundred. Also really digging the varsity jacket. Too bad we have about 2 or 3 months left before it starts to get cold here. A man can dream.
Been looking to step up my wrist game, scanning the landscape for a quality entry-level automatic for not too much coin. So I’m pulling the trigger on the Bambino. How’s that for cliches!??
Have you checked The Tie Bar?
What were the first 19 things again? I forgot already.
I’m surprised by that Fossil – much more sophisticated than their usual offerings. That varsity jacket is a bit tempting, as well.
Ugh tell me about it. I am in beautiful Montana now, where temps are gonna drop like a rock in a few weeks time, but by then I will have to go back to school in Colorado, where it’s going to probably take until mid-November for the slightest hint of cool weather. It will probably be Thanksgiving break before I can really take advantage of cold weather style.
Can’t use the current 30% off BR code (BRGOLD) on men’s shoes. Bummer
Actually wearing the Red Poplin shirt as we speak. Love it.
Targets shirts fit horribly, have a terribly thick feel to them, and don’t compliment a person’s body at all. Their tees are soft and comfortable, but stay away from the button fronts.
Couldn’t disagree with you more. You sure we’re trying on the same shirts? Did you size down? Height/Weight/Body type might differ too?
Remember, to each his own. I’m not sure I’m in love with the varsity jacket myself, but I could see some pulling it off real well. And take a look in the comments a few scrolls up. There’s already someone saying they like it.
But thanks for the kind words about the big hits. I think we can ALL agree on that dress. Yowza.
Yeah, I’m wearing one right now, and they are really lightweight. Must be a different shirt. By the way, you can order some very similar poplin ones online without a button-down collar, and I’d recommend the grey gingham one — it looks sharp. (Trewht/steel/elephant color)
http://www.target.com/p/merona-men-s-long-sleeve-poplin-shirt/-/A-13718591#?lnk=sc_qi_detaillink
Is anyone getting the JCREW coupon code “SHOPNOW” to work? I’ve been trying for the past 20 minutes and haven’t had any luck as I would like to purchase the striped navy sweater
Any reviews on that Zara travel bag? Looking to buy a weekender within a couple days.
Regarding the Tie Bar clip. You can also get the same one from Park and Bond shipped free using PBFREESHIP1. It’ll save you some tax versus the Nordstrom site- assuming P&B is tax free for everyone… http://www.parkandbond.com/products/search?q=THE+TIE+BAR
You should put together a “how to wear” post on that cord blazer. I’d be interested to see your take on what to wear with it.
can you do a post on peacoats/topcoats/fall outerwear?
Are those target shirts short enough to wear untucked? (I’m a college student in Silicon Valley. Untucked is acceptable lol)
In this crowd? You’ll have to queue up…
Joe, I don’t know if they’re everywhere yet, but Target introduced a line of slim-fit dress shirts recently (at least in my store in Southern California). The fit seems good, but the fabric is…almost papery. I was wondering if you had seen them yet, and what you thought?
I have that cord blazer. Best purchase of 2011 fits great and I must wear it at least once a week during the previous fall and spring.
Wear it w/ jeans, brown brogued wing tips, a pocket square and tie. Pair w/ a scarf, brown leather gloves, and umbrella for when it gets windy/rainy.
This combo has served me well for Fridays at work and afterwards at the bar -especially for those late Friday nights where I head out straight after work.
man am i ready for fall. i am over summer.
Usually do once it starts to get colder. A favorite to work on for sure.
LOL
They really are. I’ve been rocking the Target shirts all summer untucked (UC Davis, so near similar weather) and after a few washes the fabric becomes super soft and breathable. They’re almost perfect for the price.
Great job Joe, I’m looking forward to part 2 (and to payday). I like this belt from Club Monaco too, kinda reminds me of a 70’s camera strap/guitar strap: http://www.clubmonaco.com/product/index.jsp?productId=13015546&ab=int_070312_HP_JULY2012_SHOPMEN
Those Banana Republic oxfords look amazing…too amazing. I can’t help but think that’s some generous phototography, and the reality is that they’re probably much more plasticky in person. If I am wrong though…I’ll be a happy, happy man.
I enjoy a lot of the items shown here and on other blogs, but it seems many aren’t available to guys in my size, especially pants/jeans.
Anyone know a good place to find nice items like these for a guy that wheres a 32 waist x 36 inseam pant and medium tall shirts? I can find dress shirts (15.5 neck 34/35 sleeve) and sport coats (40 long) OK – but pants/jeans are rare as are more casual long sleeve shirts.
I can’t be the only too tall too skinny guy that wants to look sharp! Thanks in advance.
It is definitely not fair when it’s Jarah Mariano.
That is Jarah Mariano, right?
Those BR shoes look great in black or burgundy. Anybody have any thoughts on banana republic footwear quality? Price point around johnson & murphy, but I’m fearful that construction is likely southward of a Florsheim or cheap (had a bad experience where leather flaked off after day 2) Cole Haan. Anyone vouch or disclaim?
I think he did a review a while back comparing the slim fit to the regular, at the time if I recall the “slim fit” was inexplicably larger in midsection than standard fit but you’d have to look back a bit.
Unfortunately Dappered hooked me on AEs and so every other brand just feels cheap by comparison. I’ve never been “a shoe guy” but the quality and finish just can’t be beaten. I’d say save your money and buy 1 great pair of shoes, rather than several lesser pairs. It will serve you better in the long run.
I would buy unhemmed pants. Just as an example, the J. Crew urban slim fit chinos are sold in any size combo imaginable, but just in case, they are also sold in one inch waist increments and are available unhemmed from the website.
Just took the plunge so the Bambino is on it’s way. But I never considered the interplay of strap and buckle material on watches and belt, to say nothing of the shoe game. So looks l I’ll have to step up to the plate and raise my game on belts if I’m going to run with the big dogs.
I love the J. Crew striped sweater. I’m really bummed I missed that 30% off yesterday. I hope there will be another code/sale soon.
Also, I have the J&M Tyndall wingtips and I am in love with them. I wear them whenever I have the chance. Wore them to a wedding recently with my grey suit and received many compliments on them. Definitely worth the $150.
the varsity jacket is really cool but i don’t think i will find good usage of it in my wardrobe. so tempting though.
Sad but true. Also, according to BR customer service the Hyde is actually more of a cognac (not the tan in the fb picture or the brown on the site).
Another Aggie on Dappered
Love me some Asian women.
More on topic, I have a Hickey Freeman suit made from Loro Piana worsted wool/silk blend fabric. Texture and weight of the suit is phenomenal. Not to be overlooked.
Target has a new dress shirt in stores (I’m in Washington state). It’s the “Tailored Collection” trim fit. The price is 24.99 instead of the usual 22.99
Just got the shoes. They feel like $100 shoes, but look like a lot more. Leather and sole are thin. They look great though and are comfortable.