Howard Yount Tailored Goods 2.0

No one doubted the value of Howard Yount's tailored goods when they launched last fall.  However, fit was an issue.  The jackets were on the short side and looked awkward on customers that were not hobbits - anyone who frequents StyleForum can attest to that.  Never a brand to shy away from constructive criticism, Howard Yount went back to the drawing board for S/S 2011.  All the great details, fabrics and construction is back, but now with a new and improved longer jacket.  With the kinks worked out, HY is redefining what it means to offer a true value in the realm of tailored goods.  In fact, I got an email from an industry buddy and tailoring enthusiast this afternoon who was quick to call this new crop of jackets "the best deal in tailored clothing."  High praise no doubt, but you would to be hard pressed to find a better jacket for a better price.  HY's made in Italy sportcoats are soft/lightly constructed, half-canvassed and feature considerable hand stitching.  Tailored gang, throw your set up.

-L.A.S

Howard Yount Tailored Goods

I must have missed these when they dropped, but I am sure as hell happy I came across them today.  Howard Yount is now selling tailored goods in the same vein as their neckwear and trousers - incredible quality at reasonable pricepoints.  F/W 2010's additions include a navy wool and cashmere twill jacket and a gray flannel suit.  Both unconstructed jackets are Italian made and despite lacking body lining (the sleeves are lined) are of substantial weight.  The key for me, outside of Howard Yount's stellar track record, are the details.  Both jackets are pretty much damn near perfect in my eyes - unconstructed, darted, patch pockets, two button, side vents and substantial lapels.  This wholly Italian style is not for everyone (our sack wearing friends stopped reading this post a few sentences back), but for my money it doesn't get much better.  I can only hope a double breasted version pops up sooner rather than later.

-L.A.S

Keep Warm And Keep Moving

Do you own a scarf?  Do you wear a scarf?  These questions are pretty subjective for the American male.  For such a simple and functional item I'm often very surprised at just how polarizing the idea of wearing scarfs can be.  Ultimately, I think it's something you should seriously consider if you haven't already.  Why? Because just like I said earlier, it's all about simplicity and functionality.  When it comes to menswear that's pretty much all you need.  If you find the right scarf and figure out how you want to wear it there shouldn't be any issues.  For my money I prefer something luxurious, which in the case of scarves means cashmere.  They're warm, comfortable and are probably the easiest way to class up a kit made up primarily of sportswear.  Yes, a cashmere scarf will probably run you double the cost of a wool or silk number, but in my eyes one great scarf is all you need.  Howard Yount continues to smash out F/W 2010 and their new made in Italy scarves that just arrived this weekend are killer.  They've got enough paisley, plaid, stripes and solids to last you 50 winters so don't worry about not finding the right scarf for you.  There are even a few joints on sale from last year including some double-sided scarves, which is a lot of bang for your buck if you want to go the frugal route.  You can go with something subdued or do your best Italian impression and get something that makes 'em look twice.  Whatever.  Just keep that neck of yours warm and keep moving.

-L.A.S

Howard Yount F/W 2010

If you're a regular reader of Sart Inc you know that I have a few brands I support through and through. One of those brands is Howard Yount.  Created by a StyleForum member, Howard Yount aims to offer incredibly well made goods at a fraction of the price they are normally found at.  Their attention to detail and understanding of a very niche consumer makes them one of the best brands in the business.  HY specializes in accessories and trousers, but have added some killer knits this season.  The cashmere v-necks complete with suede elbow patches look next level and, knowing Howard Yount's affinity for some of the finest fabric and construction (made in Scotland) in the world, are surely just that.  As per usual, the bread and butter of the collection is the neckwear (hand made/finished in Italy).  The silk and wool ties, in all your favorite tartans and stripes, are must haves for the upcoming season and the easiest way to upgrade on a budget.  Howard Yount is the real deal - I think that's the rare statement everyone who reads this blog can agree upon.

-L.A.S

Lusting After: Howard Yount Wide Silk Knit

Piggy-backing off of my call to "fatten up", Mister Crew was kind enough to draw my attention to the granddaddy of them all - the Rick Ross of ties.  Howard Yount is currently selling a 3.5" black knit tie that pretty much trumps everything I talked about in my post.  It's a whole lotta style for $55, especially for a tie that's 100% silk and made in Italy.  This joint is extra long too, so be prepared for some big ol' double four-in-hand knots.  Anything but cutaway collars need not apply. 

-L.A.S

Per-suede-sion Pt. II

After geeking out hardcore over Matt Singer's incredible suede tipped belts I've been on the hunt for some full suede numbers to rock when the standard ribbon and leather gets a tad tired.  All matchy-matchy lameness aside it might be real nice to finally have a belt tailor made for that growing collection of Clarks Originals you're stock piling.  There is some stuff floating around out there, but when messing with suede things gets real expensive real quick.  Luckily Howard Yount continues to step in and offer up luxury goods at prices most of us can stomach.  Their suede belts are made in Spain and at $60 are a serious steal.  When it comes to something like a suede belt that might only get a few wears a month coming in at under 100 bones is probably the most crucial factor in my own purchasing decision.  Forget what you're hearing on talk radio - here at Sart Inc consumer confidence is at an all time high baby.

-L.A.S

Howard Yount Summer Pants

The same guy who makes the best knit ties on the internet is also peddling a variety of summer pants so good your raw denim should be afraid - very afraid.  No matter what your fabric preference you should be covered as Howard Yount has linen, cotton and super 100s wool on lock.  The pants are all made in Italy, feature a flat front and classic slim fit.  The only issue I have with these is that even the finished pants have a standard 35.5" inseam so factor in a trip to the tailors when pulling the trigger.  HY's gear is so on point because the guy is just like you and me.  He's a clothing enthusiast who eventually took matters into his own hands and has since built a cult favorite (check StyleForum) who a ton of people can vouch for.  The focus here is not on turning a quick buck, but crafting timeless garments from some of the best fabrics using the best techniques.  This right here is the real deal especially if you've taken my advice and finally snatched up that pair of double monks.

-L.A.S

Howard Yount

Thanks to BadScene I was tipped off to Howard Yount, a brand I was not yet familiar with.  Apparently created by a StyleForum poster, the goods are fairly priced and come in a variety of dandy fabrics and patterns.  With everyone getting their S/S gear right it's good to update your ties accordingly and Howard Yount has all the good looking knits, linens and silks you need for this time of year.  Something like a linen tie is a good look especially for the guy who is fond of wearing oxford shirting year round.  By adding the linen neckwear you can take your year round uniform and instantly add a dash of spring with the warm weather fabric.  I'm particularly fond of the knits though, which come in some pretty unique stripes and colors - a bunch of really great numbers are on sale as we speak (be on the look out for the rarer classically shaped knits I was talking about yesterday).  You can check out everything, including pocket squares, pants and socks, here.  Keep in mind the tie width trends towards trad (3 3/8", knits are 2.5") and all ties are made in Italy (many are hand finished).

-L.A.S