A Scholar and a Gentleman

[Pictured: Andrew Jackson, a southern gent by way of New Orleans.  In DAM's own words, "several parallels [exist between AJ and myself]; he's from TN, I went to high school in TN, [he] fought and won the battle of New Orleans, I grew up there and then [he] lived in DC as president and where I now call home.]

In honor of his beloved Saints absolutely crushing my own beloved G-Men, I'd like to shout out fellow blogger DAM or Dickie to those who know him.  All losing bets aside, I thought it appropriate to give him some facetime and respect here at Sartorially Inclined.  Since the day this whole thing launched I've counted DAM as both a supporter and a friend.  Always the consumate gentleman, he has served as my liason to all things tailgating, hunting and wholly New Orleans.  His blog, Southern Gent, is a wonderful little corner of the internet which I am pleased to call a home away from home.  I could spend all day paising such a kindered spirit, but I'd rather you just go check everything out for youself.  If you've got a free minute, head over and let him know what you think.  I'm confident you'll become an ardent fan much like I did.

-L.A.S

[update: Follow DAM and Southern Gent on Twitter.]

Billy Reid and Southern Essentials

I am currently nursing some strange hangover/swine flu hybrid from a decidedly awesome Labor Day weekend, but have decided to blog anyway. My trip to the "deep" south didn't yield any real post worthy material though I guess at the end of the day my weekend did serve as southern style fodder so it wasn't a complete wash.



This theme of southern style was perfectly timed with a great feature from men.style.com. Every so often the website gets together with someone connected to fashion (i.e. designers, celebs, brand managers, etc.) and asks them to talk about their 10 essentials. The most recent is from designer Billy Reid, who happens to be one of my favorite designers. I have gone to his shop in Charlotte a few times, and if there happens to be a good sale it is not uncommon to see me reaching deep into my pockets (I am already planning ahead so that I can get a pair of his handmade Italian leather shoes). Billy expertly blends many elements in his collections, which despite their forward thinking never lose their southern edge. Billy's 10 essentials tell you a good deal about his vision and fashion sensibility. His designs are rugged, American and understand that the best inspiration is often found in the past. Southern, American style is understated and elegant and he knows this.



When I think of Billy's clothes and his vision my mind often wanders to Kings of Leon. These guys are not only fantastic musicians but can out-dress almost anyone in music right now. Their rockstar style (leather, jewelery, shades), much like their music, is grounded in their southern upbringing. I wish I could look as cool as these dudes and pull off the whole devil may care, yet expertly styled look. Maybe if I keep spending money at Billy Reid I just might(aint nothing wrong with being poor and looking good) or I guess I could just become a rockstar.

-L.A.S