(Imitation) Vintage
05-7-2012JeffI was especially excited to run across this jacket (for $5!) at Goodwill yesterday. It’s a heavy tweed number from Ralph Lauren’s earliest Polo collections, probably from the ’70s. But … Continue reading
Patience
05-4-2012JeffThey say good things come to those who wait. It’s never more true than in thrifting. I’ve been wanting a suit in this pattern, called a nailhead, for probably four … Continue reading
Cuffs
02-2-2012JeffCuffs on trousers are an oft-neglected point in most men’s wardrobes. Whether they’re present on your trousers or not is a matter of taste, but if they’re there they should … Continue reading
Sack
01-26-2012JeffOne term I’ve used in connection with the classic American style of dress I prefer, but haven’t defined, is sack. A sack suit or sportcoat is one where the jacket … Continue reading
Drape
01-26-2012JeffIf you look closely at the sides of the chest of this suit, near the armpits, you’ll see little vertical ripples of extra fabric. That’s called “drape,” and it was … Continue reading
Surface Interest
01-14-2012JeffI have a love affair with flannel suitings, wool ties, and other fabrics and items that have texture. It’s one of the reasons I love fall and winter clothing so … Continue reading
Bright Colors, Dim Day
01-12-2012JeffNothing like a brightly colored jacket to brighten up a dull, dreary, rainy day. As we’ve discussed before, when you have one especially bold item in your outfit, tone down … Continue reading
The Natural Shoulder
01-11-2012JeffOne of the hallmarks of traditional American style, especially the Ivy League look popularized by Brooks Brothers, J. Press, etc., is the natural-shouldered jacket. It’s referred to as a natural … Continue reading
Not Too Perfect
01-10-2012JeffThere are different schools of thought regarding how pocket squares should be displayed, and I go back and forth between them. The main thing is that, with the exception of … Continue reading
Shiny
01-5-2012JeffNever underestimate the importance of a good shoe shine. Suit: Southwick, thrifted, $30 Shirt: Brioni, consignment store, $20 Tie: Kountz & Rider, swapped with a friend, $0 Pocket Square: thetiebar.com, … Continue reading