Most Wanted Affordable Style – December 2016

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.

 

Calibrate Cusano Double Monk – $130 | J.W.N. Rieti Cap Toe – $225

If you’re looking to add some richness to your shoe collection, without going broke in the process, a sleek pair of suede shoes is the way to go. Suede costs less than smooth leather, and you can often find high quality suede shoes for a reasonable price. Both of these are produced by in house Nordstrom brands. The Rieti cap toe is even made in Italy. Jeans? Yes. Suits? Sure thing. Why not.

 

Gustin Made in the USA Waxed Harrington – $145 (exp.)

Currently unavailable, but these appeared to do well enough the first go-round that you’d think they’d bring em’ back. Just like their regular Harrington, with that perfect stand up collar, only with a waxed canvas body. Made in the USA since it’s Gustin.

 

Crown Royale XO – $50ish

Yes, we’re all getting walloped over the head with commercials for Crown’s Vanilla and Apple (woof, here’s the only way to use a bottle of that apple stuff) this time of year. And if you’re a whiskey drinker, you probably recoil in horror every time they try to “flavor” a spirit. But this stuff isn’t injected with something out of a candy store aisle. They select certain batches of their whiskey, then age it in cognac barrels. The result is the opposite of the flavored junk. Subtle. Clean instead of cloying. And that easy, earthy hint of residual cognac sugars in this Canadian whiskey makes for a perfect holiday pour. A little spice, a little dried fruit. Pretty much says the holidays right there. Makes a great gift for the guy with a sweet tooth who might be looking to expand beyond Captain and Cokes and the like.

 

Bertucci A-2T Highpolish 40mm – $107.98 ($180)

A subtle beast of a field watch. Assembled in the USA. Swiss movement. Horween leather band. 40mm diameter is wearable for just about everyone. Do know that the case is a high polish, not matte, which actually is a nice contrast against the ruggedness of that slip-thru leather band. Ships and returns for free since it’s sold via Nordstrom. UPDATE: And it’s gone. Pretty sure there was only one or two of these left, since it was in stock, then out of stock, then in stock at post time, and now out of stock. Kudos to whoever snapped it up.

 

Old Navy Cotton/Nylon/Wool Striped Crew – $44.94

Haven’t caught these in person yet so be aware that you might (might) have to size down if you’re in-between sizes. Some strategically placed stripes can help your chest and shoulders look a bit broader, or, visually give you the credit you deserve for taking care of your fitness. Cotton/Nylon/Wool blend might make for an interesting (as in good) mix. Big fan of that off-white option. Almost always on sale, and another better looking alternative to wearing a hooded sweatshirt. Currently… not on sale. So, wait for one.

 

BONUS: Schott Made in the USA Wool Officer’s Trench – $395

Dead simple. Doesn’t even have lapels. Available in either camel or navy. Made in the USA by folks who know a thing or two about building outerwear that’s made to last and last. Vertical slash pockets are much, much easier to get into/more comfortable for keeping your hands warm when compared to horizontally placed pockets. Big thanks to Daniel P. for the tip!

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