What are you going to wear? Sometimes it’s good to look at a few suggestions then add your own tweaks and ideas. That’s what these are for. Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and three scenarios (going out, staying in, and staying in solo) will be tackled. Just because you’re forgoing the Prix Fixe menus and overcrowded restaurants doesn’t mean you should mail it in when it comes to style. Dressing up a bit, even at home, earns you extra points. Plus, it can be a lot of fun.
The Blazer: Bonobos Nottingham English Wool Blazer – $198 FINAL ($398). Yep. A blazer at home. More of a sportcoat really, and the key here is that this option from Bonobos is lightly constructed. Barely any lining on the back at all. So you get the texture and look of an English wool, but more flexibility. Any laid back sportcoat (chino, cord) will do here. But putting on a jacket makes it feel more like a date, and not the average Tuesday night at home.
The Shirt: GAP Clean Chambray in Slate Grey – $59.95. It’s GAP, so expect a lighter weight material that won’t be confused with your denim jeans. A nice, light grey shade, that will easily sub in for an oxford. Always on sale.
The Jeans: Levi’s 505 in Tumbled Rigid – $39.99. Or whatever your favorite pair of dark denim happens to be.
The Shoes: Stafford Logan Wingtips – $59.99. A perfect shoe for this kind of outfit. Dress shoe silhouoette for sure, but easy enough to dress down since they’re a wingtip blucher. Great leather for the price. Review here.
The Belt: Brooks Brothers Green & Burgundy Striped Ribbon Belt –$24 ($48). Part of the BB clearance. Nice quality on these, the buckle holds its tension instead of sliding about all day, and this color palate works year round. They’re also… um… easy to take off.
The Watch: Timex T49905 Black Brass Case Chrono – $40.54. One of Timex’s better cheap models. Good weight to it, doesn’t seem to tick super loud (like the Weekenders) and the chrono function comes in handy if you’re cooking dinner with your date, and need to keep track of how long something has been on the stove/in the oven/on the grill.
The Movie: Casablanca – $12.99. How many guys assume, incorrectly, that Casablanca is a total “Chick Flick”? Rick’s a total man’s man. And along with the dialogue, chemistry, storytelling, etc… the clothes are excellent.
The Cozying Up Instigator: Faribault for Target USA Made Wool Throw $55.99. What happens under the blanket, stays under the blanket.
The Wine: Meiomi Pinot Noir – $18 – $22. A pinot that’ll please even those that don’t like pinot. Not watery. Not overly delicate. It can flex a bit, but won’t smash you across the face.
The Sparkly Gift: Tiffany Horseshoe Pendant in Rubedo – $225. In case your date happens to be a lady. Just think of all the cash you saved by staying in and not going out on the town for Valentine’s Day! No? Unconvinced? Fair enough, for something less destructive on the wallet, consider picking something up from either Gorjana or Dogeared. Both do nice quality for the price jewelry with a bit of personality.