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. First we went dressed up. Then it was somewhere in between. Now it’s time for a dressed down, but still stylish look for those get-togethers that are more beer, cookies, & board-games, and less cocktails, appetizers, and schmoozing. (Top photo credit)
The Sweater: Lands’ End Fine Gauge Cashmere V in Charcoal Heather – $89.50 w/ TOASTY & 1733 ($179). Spendy, but the cashmere really is a step above. Super fine knit. Strong. Soft without any of the greasy feeling that cheap cashmere can have. Not crazy slim but not overly boxy either. If $90 for a single sweater makes you wince, then just wear whatever finer knit merino sweater you have on hand. Half off through today thanks to the 50% off one item deal they’re running.
The Shirt: JCF Slim Fit End on End Button Down – $27. Sure, it’s a casual party. But it’s still the holidays. So a shirt with a collar isn’t gonna look out of place. Especially one that’s made from end-on-end cotton. That slight texture gives it more of a workwear/casual look.
The Watch: Armogan Le Mans Bespoke Post Exclusive – $220. Their newest design, in a black sub-dial “Panda” setup. Wouldn’t it be neat if you could win one of these this week? Boy. That’d be neat. *cough* FRIDAY *cough*
The Coat: J. Crew Sporting Quilted Jacket – $119.99 w/ GETGIFTS ($268). The kind of coat you reach for when the nicer topcoat stays in the closet. Quilted. Insulated. Cotton/Nylon exterior should have a bit of a matte look to it. Recently made its way into the sale section.
The Hat: Everlane Wool/Cashmere Beanie in White/Navy Stripe – $40. 92% merino, 8% cashmere blend comes from Italy. Nice stripes.
The Gloves: Franklin Tailored Nappa Leather Snap Glove – $30 – $50. From Amazon’s house fashion line for men. Nice quality. Prices can be all over the place though, depending on demand.
The Socks: Kirkland Signature Merino Wool Trail Socks – $21.51 (2 pack). You never know when you’re going to end up in a “no shoes inside” situation. Warm, hole-free socks would be mighty welcome should it be requested you leave your boots by the door.
The Belt: GAP Center Bar Belt in Dark Brown – $39.95. A good look for jeans. Not a dress belt. Has been going on sale with all the holiday sales and promos.
The Boots: Red Wing 6″ Round Toe – $149.97 ($260). A mighty discount on these American Made, Goodyear Welted classics. Sale event ends at Hautelook soon.
The Jeans: Levi’s 541 Athletic Fit Jean in “The Rich” – $46.99. Or, whatever straight or athletic fit jeans you prefer. Leave the skinny stuff in the drawer. Super slim jeans with substantial boots, like the Red Wings suggested, can make a guy look weirdly unbalanced. The 541 is a solid, affordable option for guys with quads and calves99% cotton and 1% elastane, but the blend does feel much more comfortable than you’d expect. Extra room for bootyliciousness and thunder-thighs.
The Host/Hostess Gift: 21st Amendment Brewing “Fireside Chat” Ale. Tis the season for winter warmers. This one is a deep red color, has plenty of malt and spice characteristics, and comes in handy, easy to transport cans.