B.D. Baggies F/W 2010

The blogosphere can be swift and deadly sometimes.  Meaning, one day you're reading 7 seperate posts about the revival of classic New York brand B.D. Baggies and then they're gone.  Not in the literal sense, of course, but things move so quick around these parts.  If it's not the latest and greatest thing, well, you're probably going to have to go looking for it yourself.  I am just as guilty of perpetuating this as the next blogger so consider this an observation and not a complaint - no whining.  So, let's talk about B.D. Baggies. Again.  Their F/W 2010 collection is out and it's solid.  Nothing mind-blowing by any stretch of the imagination, but simple, good looking gear.  Since it came back I've considered these guys a Save Khaki "diffusion line" more than anything else.  SK's  founder/designer David Mullen handles similar duties at BDB and both brands share virtually the exact same aesthetic - basic American sportswear staples.  The major difference is that SK focuses much more on American manufacturing (Save Khaki United specifically), while from my experience B.D. Baggies is made primarily overseas (what up, India).  I had never been hands on with B.D. Baggies up until this weekend.  At a Barney's outlet I got to try some stuff on and was particularly impressed with the shirts.  They are slim fitting (a tad bit more than Brooks Brothers' extra-slim fit), washed for supreme comfortability and have a very casual cut.  If you've ever owned a shirt from Gant Rugger or Lands End Canvas you know what I mean by casual cut.  You could tuck this shirt in if you really wanted to, but ultimately its purpose is best served untucked due to its shorter length.  Anyhow, check out the F/W 2010 collection below (fedora danger, Will Robinson!) and maybe pick up some casual basics if you see fit.

-L.A.S

Debate: Steven Alan for ACL & Co. vs. Save Khaki

The black oxford shirt is making a strong case for "shirt of the moment".  The two most prominent examples are current offerings from The ACL Shop and Save Khaki.  Interestingly enough, both also come clad with a flap pocket, which I personally think is a really cool detail.  Black shirts are tough to pull off, but if you are going to wear one oxford is the route best traveled.  Ultimately, price point isn't really an issue here (ACL = $168, SK = $150) so going purely off of aesthetics which one would you wear? Is this actually a "trad" vs. workwear argument? Could a black oxford shirt even pass as "trad"?

Steven Alan for ACL & Co. Flap Pocket Oxford

vs.

Save Khaki Black Oxford Work Shirt

-L.A.S

The Half Tuck

[Pictured (second from left): Save Khaki's David Mullen demonstrates how to properly rock "the half tuck" in the pages of GQ.]

To say the half tuck is complicated is an understatement.  When done right you are a styling chap with just the right amount of sprezzatura and when done even a tad bit wrong you're a living, breathing Old Navy mannequin.  I wish there were some concrete rules to this advanced sartorial move, but alas not a single one is firmly established.

The half tuck is truly a shot in the dark as far as I am concerned; sometimes it works and sometimes it fails...hard.  Someone may be able to tell you exactly why, but definitely not me.  I have found that the best way to go about half tucking to to give it a go and then to inspect the results before you head out the door (not too thoroughly because that would defeat the purpose.  In fact, maybe this entire post is defeating the purpose). If it works you will know and if it doesn't simply decide to go all in or all out.

Over time you may develop a Jedi like "feel" for the half tuck and who knows, it may even become natural someday.  Regardless, the whole "perfectly imperfect" thing is highly coveted by many stylish cats due in part to how tough it is to actually pull off correctly.  If you don't subscribe to the half tuck and prefer a look much more put together I don't blame you.  There truly is a time and a place for everything.  Maybe the half tuck's is when getting shot by The Sartorialist...

 

 

 

[Pictured (above and below): The half tuck's cousin, the front tuck]

-L.A.S

Wednesday Morning Inspiration: A Lesson as Classic as a Pair of Chinos

Unfortunately my location hinders a lot of "brand visits" or whatever you want to call them, but thankfully there are bloggers who can do what my geography hinders.  I've talked about Fred and his photography skills before and in his most recent post chronicling a visit to Save Khaki the goods are on display yet again.

Despite the fact that I don't currently own anything from Save Khaki, they are still one of my favorite brands.  A few years ago when my personal style was still forming (I guess it is a perpetually dynamic thing actually) I remember seeing Save Khaki featured in the pages of GQ.  I'm not sure if it was in a spread or an ad (most likely a spread now that I think of it), but the simple classic "American-ness" really spoke to me.  Since then I've kept tabs on the brand and David Mullen, Save Khaki's owner and designer.  Whether it's through his products or quotes, the guy is an inspiration.  What really makes the piece over at UP so enthralling and wonderful, though, is the post script in which Fred recounts David's assistance in a time of great need.  This selflessness and generosity is the most inspiring thing of all and proves just how down to earth and nice of a guy David truly is.  Thanks to Mr. Mullen, Mr. Castleberry and Save Khaki for this week's inspiration and, most importantly, a lesson in good faith and humility.

 

-L.A.S

Holiday Recommendations: Save Khaki Knit Cardigan

Since the general consensus is that (keyword: most) holiday gift guides are not only corny, but a way for bloggers to subvert actual content I'll refrain from doing something completely structured.  For the next few weeks I'll instead be sporadically posting various items (both sartorial and otherwise) I believe make great holiday gifts for both you and yours with the simple goal of highlighting attainable gift options.

First up is a shawl collar cardigan which is a must own and I won't retread ground broken by every single blogger (including myself) who has already talked about its merits.  My favorite option is from Save Khaki, one of the best no nonsense brands out.  Their knit cardigan, available at Barneys for $195, is a great snag for any guy including your dad.   What we have hear is a simple, well-proportioned winner.  It's got the details (ribbed, merino wool, front pockets) and a decent price point.  I'd personally grab it in navy and wear the hell out of it this winter and winters to come.  This is the only knit you need purchase this season.

p.s. Thanks to Dave @ Save Khaki for the picture.

-L.A.S