Not Exactly A Penny, But...

...pretty cheap basics nonetheless.  This morning Valet did a quick write up on Penny Stock, a new brand available at Blackbird, UO and 80's Purple, specializing in cheap basics.  I'm not sure how many of you read the piece so I figured it might make sense to highlight these guys over here as well.  Penny Stock is a new west coast brand who has just launched on the back of affordable, classic menswear.  Chinos, oxfords, chambrays and polos are well represented, each coming in under the $100 mark.  It's great to see a new brand get support from stockists this early in the game and me thinks this is a positive sign pointing towards a brand we will be seeing much more of in the future.  Anytime someone decides to make well priced, year round classics (not to mention great detailing), tossing a little love their way is the least I can do.  And honestly, it doesn't get much better than tab front chinos - forget belts.

-L.A.S

What Am I Here For?

Today is one of those day's where everyone is doing my job for me, i.e. finding all the great stuff out there worth your hard earned money.  Just this morning I came across two items I would most definetely sign on the dotted line for. First up is this badass tee from Ready Amongst Willing courtesy of Mr. Fox over at 10 engines.  If you're feeling patriotic or just looking to set the record straight about your M.O. I think this will definitely get the job done.  After that you'll notice another, yes another, black face watch, which was featured over at Valet.  For under $200 this may be the best value watch out right now.  Every guy needs a watch...wait, scratch that, every guy needs this watch.

Ready Amongst Willing Loyalty Over Royalty T-Shirt...$25.00

Luminox Navy Seal Watch...$162.44

-L.A.S

Toggle Fever > Swine Flu

[Pictured: Company of We Moses Toggle Coat...$325]

Everyone, including Sartorially Inclined, is endorsing Duffle coats (or toggle coats) this fall.  Valet. Mag just did a great piece on them in their Fall Buying Guide '09 entitled "The Classic" so check it out for a neat primer on the must have coat for fall. 

These British coats trace their history back to WWI, where they were worn by the British Royal Navy and have since become synomous with American preppy/nautical style.  There are a ton of options/variations out there so browse around (def. check eBay) for a style and color that suits your fall look.  My personal favorite (see above) is the offering from Company of We. It comes in a great naval colorway with white roping fasteners, a beautifully designed collar and cool leather details.

Since moving to the south my need for such a heavy wool coat has diminished, but if I was anywhere above the Mason-Dixon line you'd bet your ass I would be purchasing one of these as we speak. Thanks to J. Crew I can still get my duffle fix thanks to their awesome toggle hoodie.  The hoodie is a fall standard much like the duffle coat, so this is a great hybrid take on two classics.  J. Crew's offering is made of superfine wool, so it should be good for those chilly days and nights, even down here in Charlotte.  It is a little pricey, but for those of us who don't need to buy a new coat, this is a reasonable alternative.  Swine Flu, eat your heart out, I've got toggle fever...

[Pictured: J. Crew Wool Toggle Hoodie...$188]

-L.A.S