...Neversofew...

10 Essentials: April Edition

GQ does a weekly slideshow about 10 essential items suggested by a top designer, ie: 10 items the designer uses/needs in his or her daily routine. Once a month I’m going to post my ten essential items/things that I’m found with throughout my day with a brief description. In no particular order:

1. Wingtip Shoes: 

Regardless if they’re boots or oxfords, what’s not to like exactly? They have the capability of being worn in dressier occasions as well as casual ones. If you feel a bit too dressed up with these on, remember; it’s always better to be overdressed rather than under-dressed. What I really enjoy about a nice pair of dark wingtips is how well they’re accentuated with a pair of dark/indigo denim jeans. For example:

2 & 3. Seersucker and Gingham Short Sleeve Shirts:

Seersucker

Gingham 

It’s Spring, and Summer’s just around the corner; these are two classic patterns that should be worn up until Autumn. They can be worn with relatively anything; rolled jeans and sneakers, khakis and boat shoes. Regardless of what you choose to pair these with; you’re going to look dapper in doing so. Both these patterns can be found in a number of places; they’re available through American Apparel for $52.00 each, and we’ve just received them a few weeks ago at J.Crew. Although they haven’t been added to J. Crew’s website, you can more than likely find them at your nearest location. The prices for shirts will be around $59.00 I believe, but without sounding like I’m up-selling my employer too much; the quality of the clothing is going to be much better, it’s going to last longer and the cut is going to fit you better than the two available through AA. I would suggest rolling the sleeves at least once to achieve a classic 50’s appearance. Also, if you decide to go with the J. Crew version, size down.

4. Topman Brown Skinny Sunglasses:


I ripped these straight out of GQ, and I couldn’t agree more with what they had to say. If you’re in search for fantastic looking sunglasses without having to drop $100+ then look no further. Not everyone can afford (or wants to shell out for) a pair of Ray Ban Clubmaster’s or some McQueen-esq Persol’s (see below), and that’s okay, these are your perfect substitute. For a grand total of $28, these are a wonderful pick up. Although I look forward to the day when Warby Parker begins producing sunglasses, until then I’m stuck with my rotation of Tom Ford’s. 


5. One Pair of Hemmed Jeans or Pants:


Chances are not a single pair of your denim or pants are going to fall onto your boots like this, that’s just the nature of the beast when it comes to inseams. I don’t own a pair of jeans that aren’t cuffed, and even though I feel it’s a great “care free” look, it can also be a bit messy at times, which brings us here: regardless if they’re jeans or pants get one pair hemmed so that they end right in the middle on the ball of your ankle. The reason behind this is pretty simple; it’s going to make you look more put together. It’s a nice addition to throw into the mix every once in a while. Depending on where you live/where you go; it shouldn’t cost more than $15 to get done. 

6. Chambray Authentic Vans:
 

Maybe I’m on a chambray kick, I don’t really know; but the combination of the fabric, the colors, and the eyelets does it for me. I know I’ve said it a million times before but cuff, cuff, cuff your jeans with these and you’re good to go. They’re available in four colors: Navy, Grey, Red, and Black. My personal picks reside with navy and grey, the black aren’t as noticeable and the red ones almost come off as pink, which makes them more difficult to wear and pair. 
 

7. Wax-Cotton Spring Jacket:

J. Crew Winslow ($168.00)

Penfield Lockwood ($150.00)

April showers bring May flowers….wait, did I really just type that? Either way, despite how lame I now am for regurgitating that time old line from my grandmother, this style of jacket is going to keep you dry without overheating and leaving you uncomfortably sweaty. The fact that it has a small coating of wax is going to help bead and whisk away anything mother nature decides to throw your way, keep in mind though these aren’t completely waterproof, so don’t expect anything from these that you might get from a North Face.

8. Long Sleeve Henley:

Perfect Spring shirt; long sleeves, but breathable. I have two of these via Alternative Apparel and they’re absolutely wonderful. Extremely soft, and comfortable, though a bit on the pricey side ($50.00). They run a little large so if you do decide to order your regular size I’d suggest washing in hot water and drying on high. 

9. Invest In a Nice Camera:

I’m not suggesting you go out and drop a cool $1,200 on a camera, but get something that you’re going to get a lot of use out of and one that’s going to give you plenty of longevity. Besides holidays, Spring and Summer seem to be the prime times for photography, regardless if it’s because of nature or for social reasons. This is something I’ve been needing to do for years, and my recent trip to Puerto Rico proved it to be true. Even if you’re not capturing memorable times with friends, it’s fun to catch people in their natural settings doing everyday things (as creepy as that may sound) ie: The Satorialist. 
 Taken on 2/25/2011, Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

10. Read a book by Cormac McCarthy:
 
No Country For Old Men, and The Road have been two of my favorite films in recent years; both written by Cormac McCarthy. His novels are gritty and violent, and incredibly immersing. Read at least one novel of his and thank me later. 

Thanks for reading, I appreciate your time regardless of what your opinion on my 10 picks are. If you have any ideas or suggestions toss them into my ask box. Have a good one.