Style Scenario: The First Day it Cools Off

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. It’s going to happen at some point. That first morning where you wake up, you throw open the windows, and… you’re not sweating. You want to work in some of your fall stuff, yet don’t want to boil over once the afternoon heats up. Here’s one way to find that balance. (Note: Items in the top photo are slightly different than the picks below.)

The Sportcoat: J. Crew Ludlow in Fine Striped Cotton – $90.99 w/ SHOPNOW ($168) Sure, it’s a summery shade, but let’s be honest… that first day it cools off really isn’t all that cool. It’ll warm up by the afternoon. And the light grey really can be worn year round if you so choose. Already marked down and the extra 30% off drops it to $91. Not final sale yet either. Decent size selection at post time.

The Shirt: Lands’ End Tailored Fit Poplin Dress Shirt – $14.99 ($39) Green gingham for a bit of color, tailored fit, and neck & sleeve measurements so you can dial it in to your frame. Yes, those checks are small, and they might clash a little with stripes, but the stripe on the sportcoat is REALLY small. That, and the rest of the outfit is dead simple, so you should be fine.

The Watch: Orient “Flight” Automatic Blue Dial – $159 ($295) A simple aviation inspired watch with a blue dial, automatic movement, and nice price. Sold on Amazon via a 3rd party seller.

The Sunglasses: Randolph Engineering Intruder – $79.97 ($159)  Not their standard aviator (which looks identical to the AO original Pilot), but instead the more angular Intruder. Made in the USA and eighty bucks through Nordstrom Rack.

The Bag: J. Crew Wallace & Barnes Laptop Bag – $153.99 w/ SHOPNOW ($268) Another item in the sale section that’s already heavily marked down and up for the extra 30% off. From their upgraded, higher quality line Wallace & Barnes. Lotta looks and great reviews.

The Shoes: Stacy Adams Kensington Suede Medallion Toe Blucher – $85.00. Cautiously optimistic about these things. They seems like they could either be terrific for the price, or just plain awful. Love the looks of the medallion at the toe, and the shape seems to be spot on? Stand by for a full in-person in the coming days.

The Jeans: Levi’s 505 in Tumbled Rigid – $39.99. Or, whatever your favorite pair of dark wash denim happens to be.

The Socks: SmartWool Double Insignia Socks – $12.95 ($20.95). Perfect for this time of year. Casual, well cushioned, but not wildly thick boot socks. And since they’re a merino blend, they’ll breathe extremely well. 2nds quality through STP, and should drop with extra codes.

The Belt: Everlane Single-Sided Belt – $45.00. Simple, clean, and not too wide at 1.25″. Made in the USA too.

The Card Case: Skagen “Torben” Two-Tone Case – $35.00. Black and blue. Slim and Subtle. Ships & returns free through Nordstrom.