Most Wanted Affordable Style – October 2015

Consider these to be power rankings. Whether you’re looking for gift ideas or a quick upgrade for yourself, expect these to come around about once a month. You’ll find new arrivals and old favorites, especially good deals, or maybe something pricey to keep an eye on for future sales. The potential best of the best, which you may or may not have seen already. Got a tip on something that deserves to end up in the monthly Most Wanted? Send those in here.

 

H&M / Beckham Wool Blend Sweater – $19.99 (sold out)

Not all that surprised that this sweater sold out almost as soon as it went live on the H&M site. Here’s to hoping they get more back in stock. Fabric make-up isn’t too bad for a twenty dollar sweater either: 41% acrylic, 26% nylon, 18% alpaca, 12% wool, 3% spandex. Of course, stick David Beckham in just about anything and it’ll do the garment a lot of good (for example, this was a disappointment when it wasn’t on Becks). More on the latest H&M / Beckham partnership over here.

 

Suitsupply Suede Single Monk Straps – $249

The single monk deserves more praise than it gets. And these sleek, Italian made, medium brown suede monk straps should see a lot of use with dark wash jeans, cords, and light grey suits this fall. Great placement of the buckle too. Really cleans up the lines. Blake stitched. Ships and returns free since they’re sold by Suitsupply.

 

Banana Republic Slim Traveler Denim – $118 (& what about straight fit?)

Currently only available in BR’s slim fit. They’re super stretchy, but not super roomy. So if you’ve got a thicker lower body (ahem…) even with all that stretch, the “slim” fits might get a little too tight. For guys with a bit more mass on their legs, this fabric in a straight cut would be ideal. One can hope. But in the meantime, for everyone else? Now that we’re all back into denim, consider saving up. They’re that good. Does go on sale, but rarely.

 

Target Merona Coated 4-Pocket Field Jacket – $49.99

Not a bad take on the field jacket. Sorta blends the traditional M-65 look with a bit of moto style thanks to the reinforced shoulders and collar. Coated with a water-resistant finish. According to reader Ryan B., who caught these in store, the fit and feel were impressive for the price. A little more matte in person too. Zip out hood in the collar. Could make for an excellent basic for the fall/early winter. Also available in brown.

 

J. Crew Factory Checkered Shawl Collar Cardigan – $70ish

The above image got posted to the top of J. Crew Factory’s “New Arrivals” section last week… yet at the time that sweater was nowhere to be found. BUT, a few days passed, and there it finally appeared. Back ordered for now. Red and grey buffalo check. Description says its cotton? Was thinking it’d be lamsbwool. But still, looks like a fantastic extra layer. UPDATE: Word from the J. Crew People is that it is, in fact, all lamsbwool. Not cotton, and they’ll be updating the description.

 

BONUS: Orient “Adventurer” Power Reserve / GMT – $375.50*

Hey now.  A brand new model from Orient, the “Adventurer” seems like a simplified version of their “Explorer.” Maybe a little sporty, sure, but also symmetrical enough that it should do well with suits & sportcoats. Just enough functions, but nothing too over the top. GMT outer ring, and a 40 hour power reserve indicator at noon. Power reserve indicators are immensely appreciated by some. Always good to know how much juice your automatic/manual has left. Availalable in three different color schemes, but that eggshell white dial, grey (?) hands/indices, and black strap is mighty smart. Would also look outstanding on a warm brown or burgundy strap. *Note: To get this price, you’ll need one of the many 30% off codes that float around for Orient. DAPPERED30 is just one of them, but don’t feel obligated to use it.

Want more most wanted? Click here for the top 5 most wanted lists from previous months.