Dream Team Follow Up

It's been a minute since we last checked in with the "Miami Heat of this menswear shit".  StyleCaster has us covered.  Read and see more here.



-L.A.S

Debate: The Rise Of Gilt Manual

I ran this quick piece on my Tumblr earlier this week, but I wanted to repost it here.  The moves Gilt, and subsequently their editorial site, is making are down right impressive and I wanted to see if anyone had any insight or thoughts to add to the discussion...

"Word just broke that Josh Peskowitz has jumped ship from Esquire and has joined the already impressive staff over at Gilt Manual.  He joins Andy Comer, formerly of GQ, and Jared Flint, formerly of Antenna, as the newest members of Editorial Director Tyler Thoreson’s dream team.  With each passing week Gilt Manual’s masthead seems to grow with the best and brightest talent in menswear journalism.  One can only imagine the stock options being thrown at these guys [Editor's note: gross speculation] and once Gilt Groupe goes public there are gonna be a lot of 'rich, former menswear editors' as a friend put it.  Gilt Manual is quickly becoming the Miami Heat of this menswear shit.

Josh Peskowitz joins a lineup already flush with household names.  Seriously, Gilt Manual’s masthead reads like a menswear nerd’s fantasy blog team:

-Tyler Thoreson
-Andy Comer
-Jared Flint
-Gay Talese
-Mordechai Rubenstein
-Joshua David Stein
-Michael Williams
-Jake Davis"

We haven't had a lively discussion around these parts in a while so have at it.  Do you read Gilt Manual?  Where does Esquire go from here?  Is this definitive proof that menswear print media in the USA is dead?  Is this all part of Gilt's masterplan to take over the blogosphere ala Bloggercon 2010?

-L.A.S

Attn: Brooks Brothers x Gilt

When a few people inquired about an exclusive Brooks Brothers collection for Gilt over at my Tumblr I cried foul.  I brushed the news off as most likely a copy error on Gilt's behalf (i.e. mislabeling Woolrich Woolen Mills as Woolrich, etc.).  Well, today GQ has confirmed what I originally thought smelled like bullshit - noon marks the debut of a new Brooks Brothers line for the online retailer.  Apparently the collection is "a younger, slimmer spin on BB staples like cotton chinos, prep-schoolish cardigans...and repp ties" separate from BB's Black Fleece line and the brand's recent foray into slimmer fitting gear.  Word has it that the new collection for Gilt will be available exclusively online until August when the collection hits select BB locations.  Based on the looks below it appears as if things are staying pretty conservative (much more so than Black Fleece) with the only update being fit.  If this is something that interests you sign up for Gilt here, but be aware that by using my invitation you hook me up with $25 worth of credit after your first purchase.  So, you know, if you think I suck you might want to holler at someone else.  Is this the future of Brooks Brothers?  Will this be the big ticket many think the brand needs?  Can this new collection excel where Black Fleece failed? I have absolutely no idea, but ask me again around lunch time.

-L.A.S

[Editor's Note: Looks like they're calling this stuff Brooks Brothers Heritage - as if that should be a surprise to anyone.]

Don't Call It A Comeback

Or maybe we should - you tell me.  Gilt's recent descent into wackness is not something that has gone unnoticed around these parts.  I'm almost at the point where I can't remember the last time I felt compelled to spend be it my own money, credit or otherwise.  Hopefully this week can be a tipping point - that comeback some of us are desperately hoping for.  Don't get your hopes up for the RRL jeans sale on Friday as Gilt has proven that their RRL buys are really just jazzed up, western Ed Hardy accessories.  No, I am looking towards Billykirk to right the ship.  The preview looks promising and BK doesn't make bad stuff so that also helps.  So gear up for tomorrow and get your wallet/bag/belt game tight.  For all my pessimists out there, this could also be a doomsday scenario in which this is the last passable sale we see in a while so take that into account as well.  I'm not sure how many people reading this are up on Gilt, but if you need an invitation holler atcha boy.  Keep in mind, however, that if you hate my guts you should probably apply for membership another way since after your first purchase I do receive a $25 referral credit - dude's gotta eat somehow.

-L.A.S

The Week On Gilt

After a sub-par few weeks Gilt Man brings the heat with some serious standouts.  With S/S approaching fast it's time to man-up your closet.  Now is the perfect time of year to get some staples on the cheap so you're not kicking yourself later for spending tons of cash on that new gingham shirt.  If you don't already have a Gilt account set up head over to get your sh- tight or use the Sart Inc invite (keep in mind that by doing so you send a $25 credit into my pocket after your first of many purchases).  Here is what I will be spending my money on next week:

Monday: Gant (not the head exploding Bastian stuff, but classic American sportswear at its finest)
Tuesday: Hickey (personal favorite that is now shutting its doors for good), Warriors of Radness (get your light jackets right)
Wednesday: Trovata, Dunhill, Jack Spade (get your new beach bag before the temperature rises)
Thursday: Ralph Lauren (don't know much about the guy, but I hear he is pretty good)

Gant Buyer's Picks

Warriors of Radness Buyer's Picks

-L.A.S

Gilt Man Helps You Spend Your Holiday Monies

[Pictured: Gilt Man's Woolrich buyer's picks.]

Assuming you have generous friends and family you may have some holiday monies already burning a hole in your pocket, myself included.  No worries as Gilt Man has some nice sales to help with such a problem not to mention their best in the business shipping could insure some new wears come NYE 2009.

Monday sees sales from Grenson, Jean Shop and Calvin Klein Collection.  If you are in the process of "man-ing up" your wardrobe all of these brands makes some good stuff to help you get grown.  Gilt Man has yet to step their shoe game up so hopefully Grenson comes through with some brogue boots (fingers crossed) and various loafers to help top off whatever you're currently working with.  On Tuesday Woolrich comes through for the second time in a month or so, which is good news for all the white collar/blue collar cats out there.  Though it is not explicitly mentioned, this stuff is Woolrich Woolen Mills so don't fret on issues of fit.  I cleaned up last time WWM was on Gilt and I can't speak highly enough of the brand and their gear.  Take one look at any pics from my mini holiday vacation at home and you'll see I wore my WWM old school cargo pants nonstop.  RRL accessories round out the goodness on Wednesday and since this is the only time any of this kind of exclusive stuff falls into my lap/price range it is surely something I recommend checking out.  Head over to Gilt to sign up and check out the remainder of this weeks sales (also including Property of...) or just holler at my invitation (requisite blogger transparency yields disclosure on my end that I get credit after your first purchase...hopefully that's cool especially after all the big words I just used).

-L.A.S

Gilt Man Continues To Impress

The launch of Gilt Man seems to really be hitting it's stride lately and hopefully it's not just because of the holidays.  The expansion into its own brand is benefiting the menswear consumer and a definite attention to detail is at work.  This week, while not as flush with style as last week, is shaping up quite nicely with tons of more brands for you to blow your money on.  I won't be doing much shopping as I'm rocking a fresh post holiday gift buying hangover (my fam gets hooked up), but if I was I'd be getting ready as we speak.  Highlights this week include Ted Baker,  Shipley + Halmos, Company of We (their great toggle coat will be sold out in 5 seconds for sure), Brooks Brothers Black Fleece and Penfield.  Whether for yourself or for loved ones, these sales will surely be helping some folks get real stylish real quick.  Head over to Gilt to request an invitation or use the Sart Inc invite (requisite honest blogger transparency = I get credit after your first purchase).  Check out some of the buyer's picks...

Shipley + Halmos:

 Company of We:

-L.A.S

Attn: The Week Gilt Man Breaks The Blogosphere

I'm not sure if it's because of the holidays or what, but Gilt Man has the most impressive line-up I have seen from them yet planned for this week.  One glance at the screen shot above and you'll see that this week is absolutely stacked with some of the best menswear brands on the market.  I won't bore you to death by reviewing every single interesting brand here, but do yourself a favor and start planning out your strategy now because "when it comes to the showdown" it's every man for himself.  If you still need a Gilt invitation head to the website or feel free to use mine if you want to send some holiday cheer my way.  C'mon, even bloggers need to eat.  Check out the ridiculous weekly breakdown below.

Monday: Tretorn, Patrik Ervell

Tuesday: Trovata

Wednesday: Jack Spade, Tim Hamilton (hopefully non of his fashion forward stuff), Ralph Lauren Purple Label, American Apparel (just kidding...unless you need some new Lycra unitards in various neon colors)

Thursday: Hickey (personal favorite), Steven Alan (enough said)

Friday: Rogan

Check out some of the Steven Alan "buyer picks" for further convincing that both your browser and your bank account are in for a crashing...

-L.A.S

Attn: Alexander Olch Sale On Gilt

Yesterday in the comments section of "Throwin' Bows" Don mentioned Alexander Olch.  While the bow ties I posted on yesterday are all fantastic options, Alexander Olch is in a catergory all its own.  This guy has the ability, much like Don said, to take some of the most obscure, upscale fabrics and craft beautiful neckwear.  Most people don't usually put a tie on in the morning and feel better about themselves, but with Alexander Olch there is no way to not feel like a million bucks.  I can't speak too much about what the Gilt sale has in store, but from the "Buyer's Picks" we're talking heavy weight fabrics for some awesome cold weather options.  This is one of the can't miss Gilt sales of the season and if you ever needed a reason to sign up this is it.  You can use my personal invitation or, if you'd rather not send a referral my way, sign up on the website.  Regardless, check out the sale this Wednesday at noon for some of, if not the, best ties on the planet.

Attn: Gant Sale on Gilt

This Friday at noon get yourself ready for some serious American heritage.  Yes, I realize I throw those words around quite a bit, but they have never been more appropriate.  Sweden (relax), by way of New Haven, CT, Gant is the definition of all-American.  You may have heard a bit about them recently with the launch of their Rugger collection, but their main line is just as good.  My brother just picked up a Gant oxford recently at Epaulet and I can vouch for quality and fit.  If you are in the market for some casual essentials this is your one stop shop.  Just preppy enough, Gant specializes in all the staples: Oxfords, neckwear, sweaters, etc.  If you still need a Gilt invitation feel free to use mine, but in the interest of being transparent be aware I do get a $25 credit after your first purchase.  The east coast prep coutdown begins...

-L.A.S

Pre-Game Warmup: Woolrich Woolen Mills

Three Woolrich posts in 24 hours may seem like overkill, but with the Gilt sale tomorrow I figured what better way to get into the right mindset then highlight some of my favorite pieces.  Since the actually products going up tomorrow are still shrouded in typical Gilt mystery fashion I am going to go out on a limb and assume were talking Woolrich Woolen Mills exclusively.  Don't quote me on this, but if this is the case we are all sure in for a treat.  WWM is some exclusive stuff that usually runs around the $200 mark at it's cheapest, so were probably looking at $60 and up.  Since WWM is too cool for a webstore, I checked the high end online haberdasheries looking for some the best F/W '09 gear.  For your own pre-game warm-up check out Woolrich W.M. at Odin NY, Context, My-Wardrobe and Oi Pollio.

Cruiser Shirt Chambray...$170

Maine Guide Jacket Black Melton Wool...$506.00

Field Jacket...$455.00

 

Navy and Green Check Detachable Hood Gilet...$429.00

Navy American Birdseye Crew Knit...$214.50

Moral of the story is that if you're looking for great fitting (thanks Japan), heritage pieces you should definitely stop by the Gilt sale tomorrow.  While the above items might not end up making the final cut, you should at least now know what you're getting yourself into.  I know this stuff is pricey, but you're paying a designer premium, getting great quality stuff and of course it's all about the details (just look at the pockets on the field jacket).   See you guys at noon.

-L.A.S

Attn: Woolrich On Gilt

Tomorrow at 12 noon Woolrich goes up on Gilt.  If you still need some outerwear for winter this is probably right up your alley.  As far as American outerwear goes, Woolrich is the bees knees.  Known for their quality and rugged design, Woolrich has been making the same great stuff since 1830.  While this sale seems to include one of Woolrich's "stylish" diffusion lines (Woolrich Woolen Mills), we probably won't know exactly whats being offered until tomorrow.  Standard Woolrich stuff does run a little "full" so you may want to size down accordingly if that is what ends up being on sale.  Gilt already put up a few buyer's picks from the sale and they look damn fine.  I know I'll be in the market for some rain wear so if you see a good looking slicker lay off, will ya?  Get your invitation here (in full disclosure, if you sign up using my link I will get a $25 credit after your first purchase).

-L.A.S

Attn: Jean Shop On Gilt

[Picture courtesy of ACL.]

Leave it to Gilt to put on one of the best denim sales in a long time.  If you aren't familiar, Jean shop makes some of the most intense and high quality denim on the market.  For anyone trying to upgrade the Levi's they've been wearing since highschool, look no further then what Gotham Magazine called, "The best denim...period."  It's not everyday that you can get your hands on arguably the best Japanese selvedge denim for damn near 70% off. If you've been ruminating on finally taking the plunge now is the time to do it.  Sign up for Gilt here and get a pair of these or these...or both.

p.s.- Since this blog is all about transparency and disclosure I will repeat that if you sign up using my invitation I get a $25 dollar credit after you make your first purchase.  Register at your own (and my closet's) risk.

-L.A.S

Attn: Black Fleece by Brooks Brothers Sale on Gilt

[Picture Courtesy of Brooks Brothers.]

Since I'm way to nice to horde all the good sales for myself, here is another reminder why you need to get your Gilt membership asap.  You should already know all about Thom Browne and his exclusive line for Brooks Brothers and how amazing it is so I'll spare you all that.  Do yourself a favor and sign up for Gilt here.  Sartorially Inclined is in the market for some great fall shirting (oxfords, plaids, etc.), so as long as you stay away from that we can still be friends.  Hope everyone had a great weekend and I'll be sure to see you tomorrow (today?) at 12 noon over at the virtual racks.  Cheers.

-L.A.S

Attn: Rogues Gallery Sample Sale on Gilt

[Pictured: Rogues Gallery Fall '09. My own words could not do this justice. Picture courtesy of Rogues Gallery.]

So the Rogues Gallery sale on Gilt goes live tomorrow @ 12 noon.  If you needed anymore of a reason to sign up here, this is it.  The F/W 09 stuff looks incredibly and nabbing even ONE piece would be totally worth it. 

In other Gilt news, Gilt Man debuts Oct. 19th...you can read all about it over at Prepidemic Magazine.  I personally like how they are streamlining the buying experience while increasing the range of products offered in the men's store.  Once again, Gilt is delivering in a big way.  I'll see you tomorrow at noon if you know what's good for you.

[update: I hope I didn't play this sale up too much (whoops) because, quite frankly, it was extremely disapointing.  Honestly, this has been the first time Gilt has ever let me down.  I did get a shawl collar sweatshirt, which I posted on here, so when that arrives I will post my thoughts.]

-L.A.S

Attn: Hickey Sample Sale On Gilt

[Pictured: Just another perfect ensemble from Hickey.]

Tomorrow at noon Gilt's Hickey sample sale goes live.  We love both Hickey and Gilt here at Sartorially Inclined (see: The Search for the Perfect Chinos) and will most surely be clicking away during tomorrow's lunch break.  If you need a Gilt invite click here or if you want to learn more about what they do click here.

p.s. Sorry about all the links.

-L.A.S

Gilt-free Shopping

Don't you hate it when you find that awesome piece of clothing that is way out of your price range? I love flipping through a new issue of GQ or reading a new post on the men.style.com blog and finding great clothes but more often than not these designer items are out of my league (fiscally speaking, of course). Enter Gilt Groupe the wallet friendly online home for sample sale deals. The men's section has offerings from great designers and new deals are added daily (a Gant sale happens tonight, and Billy Reid hits tomorrow at noon). The sales are first come first serve and the deals are topnotch (i.e. 70% off a Thom Borwne Suit). Gilt is by no means a scam and is actually featured on page 72 of this month's GQ in a section titled "High-Style Sites for Hard Times". Membership is required to shop, but it's free to sign yourself up for the waiting-list. Most requests are processed in a few weeks, but if you want in asap, email me/comment with your name and email and I will send an invite your way (thank you in advance for the $25 referral fee!). In these tough times great deals on great items are tough to come by and my purchasing M.O. is skewing heavily towards sample-sales and eBay. Happy hunting, but be warned... TOO many great deals will put your checking account to sleep quicker than a big plate of ribs...

-L.A.S.