Universal

Universal Works' Bridlington shorts prove that you don't necessarily have to be "preppy" to wear some patchwork madras.  In this case the prep stable is reimagined for the workwear set through a myriad of details.  For starters the normal pastel colors are passed over in favor of a much darker and subdued group of deep blues, greens and reds.  This in combination with asymmetrically back pockets, waist drawstrings and button fly take the patch mad to a much more rugged place then we have typically seen.  While these shorts come as a surprising move from such a workwear focused brand I really like how they have taken an unfamiliar style (at least for them) and worked them into their brand's framework ultimately resulting in great looking, unforced effort.  I'm not the biggest fan of patchwork madras pants so shorts in this style are always on my radar - it's a less is more kinda thing in my eyes.  Not the cheapest shorts on the market by a long shot, but it usually costs a little extra to get something special.

-L.A.S

Tie One On For Nicer Days

One of the easiest and cheapest ways I've found to get any kit ready for S/S is to throw on some neckwear in your favorite warm weather fabric.  Unless you are really jonesin' for a wardrobe overhaul, all you need to do is pick up a few ties or bowties to get yourself ready for when that nice weather hits.  If you rock a white oxford and chinos on the reg. you're pretty much 90% of the way there already.  Tie on some madras, seersucker or gingham and your uniform is locked up for the next 6 months as far as I am concerned.

For the sartorial novice who isn't ready for some "go to hell" pants or shirting these kind of ties are a perfect introductory course in both fabric and color.  Everyone from the lowest common denominators (i.e. J. Crew) to the exclusive gear hubs stock up on S/S neckwear so all you have to do is find a price point you can run with.  Just remember to keep that tie width under 3" or under and you're set. Check out some options below (madras being my favorite of the bunch) complete with click through links because I work (blog?) hard for the money. Tie one on folks. Tie one on strong.

 

 

-L.A.S