Silk Regimental

Looks Good on You February 1

2012-02-01T06:14:00.000-08:00

Looks Good on You 12-28

2011-12-28T07:28:00.000-08:00

All photos are not mine.

84 days to Spring!

Looks Good on You 12-27 - (just a few more)

2011-12-27T11:47:00.000-08:00

All photos are not mine.

Looks Good on You 12-27

2011-12-27T10:47:00.000-08:00

All photos are not mine -

I've been out of "it" for over a month. Mid November I went up to New Haven for the Yale vs Harvard game - Harvard beat Yale with quite a trouncing - Came down with a cold that Monday which took a good two and half weeks to get rid of - Pretty sure I caught that bug on the plane. Soon after that I had appointments for foot and ankle specialist and general surgeon. I've developed osteoarthritis in my right food - and I've had couple of cortisone injections which helped a great deal. A week later I had a hernia repair - that that knocked me out for a good two weeks. I've added Endocet 5-325 and Cipro to my list of "crap drugs" - their side effects make them worthy of the status. Would you believe I was pestered with the HICCUPS for five days straight? - and finally threw in the towel for a GP appointment and an Rx that took care of that. Now hiccup-free!!! I blame that on the Endocet. With the new year comes (what seems like) a zero balance health insurance charge card -- so dental and other health-related appointments are being dialed as I speak (write).

With all that going on, I haven't been up to my usual posts - the best of the best, good-looking gear for you gents. With a bit more snap in my spirit - here are a few.

Merry Christmas to All!

2011-12-25T09:18:00.000-08:00

Sincerely,

=Paul

Looks Good on You 11-30

2011-11-30T07:40:00.000-08:00

These all have great color combinations - stand-out excellence in appearance.

JCW is lookin' very sharp here!

Killer tie!

Back from New Haven, Back on my Feet

2011-11-25T14:28:00.000-08:00

As you know, I headed up to New Haven to visit with family and friends and to attend the Yale vs. Harvard football game.

Harvard trounced Yale 45-7 and this view of the scoreboard is all I care to remember - and that's all we need to comment on here. Remember gentlemen, there will be another year, another season.

The game day did take on a din, as there was a terrible accident in Lot D of the Yale Bowl. One person died and two others injured early in the day. Officials and legal eagles are working things out, but still, a young woman from Massachusetts died, and it's a tragedy and I know everyone felt terribly bad about the incident.

Food was high on my agenda. There are some haunts I hover over whenever I'm in the New Haven area. Glenwood Drive In on Whitney Avenue in Hamden (Mt. Carmel area), The Modern Apizza on State Street in New Haven (alternate is Pepe's Apizza on Wooster Street), and Louis' Lunch on Crown Street in New Haven. All three should be on your list if ever you are in my (home) town.

Glenwood Drive In in Hamden for great (Hummel) hot dogs, onion rings and whole belly fried clams.

The famous Louis' Lunch where the hamburger was invented (I don't want to hear any arguments) - after all, anyone who'd want to slay you with a burger spatula for asking for ketchup - it's gotta be the original!!!

I tried to capture the maestro in the process of assembly ---

Note those 19th century gas grilles.

Then, it was off to Modern Apizza on State Street in New Haven for the best thin crust, wood-fired oven pizza. With my family and friends, we ordered six pizza with various meat and veg additions. The cheese pizza was sublime.

Those burned edges and burned bubbles -- incredible!!!

I came home Sunday evening, and felt the heavy drape of a nasty cold come over me. From Monday to Thursday I was down and out (not in Beverly Hills) -- sipping tea, coughing/sneezing/achy all over feeling. Today, I've finally come out of it.

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day.

Off to New Haven

2011-11-16T12:44:00.000-08:00

I'm off to New Haven for four days to indulge in a these:

Later.....

Looks Good on You 11-15

2011-11-15T09:49:00.000-08:00

Looks Good on You 11-10

2011-11-10T09:31:00.000-08:00

Tartan and crest looks great

Are reds still in season? This looks too good not to be.

Green/blue -- especially combined with gingham - amazing look

Gotta have it!

More reds - looks great.

Looks Good on You 11-08

2011-11-08T12:19:00.000-08:00

Looks Good on You 11-03

2011-11-03T06:29:00.000-07:00

A great casual outfit - look forward to Friday.

It's all in the details - great socks!

Blues details

Heather and grape - very nice!

Another great casual look

Looks Good on You 10-26

2011-10-26T05:26:00.000-07:00

Looks Good on You 10-20

2011-10-20T06:48:00.000-07:00

Looks Good on You 10-15

2011-10-15T15:54:00.000-07:00

Not much activity from me lately as I've been bogged down with work - major projects - in need of a vacation.

Kicked up the color on these.

Looks Good on You 9-21

2011-09-21T05:42:00.000-07:00

Most exerent - Excellent!

Handsome dude!

Looks Good on You 9-19

2011-09-19T05:13:00.000-07:00

Looks Good on You 9-15

2011-09-15T07:29:00.000-07:00

Looks Good on You - 9-14

2011-09-14T10:13:00.000-07:00

I hope book shops never go out of need.


keiljamespatrick

Gin and Tonic time

2011-08-29T06:06:00.000-07:00

Watched the development (or demise) if Irene with a few G&Ts.

Seersucker Days

2011-08-10T11:54:00.000-07:00

I feel the seersucker days passing too quickly. I love the look and the feel. I think it's a backdrop for colorful ties and belts. It defines southern classic and exudes New England casual.

Meet Marconi

2011-07-18T04:54:00.000-07:00

Yup - Marconi, as in Guglielmo Marconi the wireless pioneer.

Over the past week since we lost Sadie, our tri-color rough collie, our hearts were aching. We went on the search for another dog - and found this sable rough collie puppy. He's six months old, and needs lots of training. But we have a plan to get him educated. So far his biggest challenge has been the sliding glass door - can't understand what the "invisible shield" is all about. He's got lots of puppy ways about him - we'll just have to take one step at at time.

In response to a previous question

2011-07-15T05:16:00.000-07:00

Although I knew the answer --

Yes, they do!

J Press has additional savings

2011-07-15T04:15:00.000-07:00

Got an email flyer that J. Press is giving an additional 15% off already reduced items. Their stuff is always first rate!

Do dogs smile?

2011-07-11T16:31:00.000-07:00

Maybe this is a question that can only be answered by folks who own a dog. I'll bet if you are a "cat person" you might ask a similar question about felines. Either way, if you think about the question and why anyone would ask it, it's probably because you and your pet had moments of joy when you actually though your dog was laughing (or at least snickering).

Just as anyone who lives in a family environment, there are times of laughter and joy, times of sadness and sorrow, times of stress and anxiety, times of mirth and celebration. It all comes from living as a family and experiencing what families feel.

Right now I'm full of sadness. My collie Sadie passed away today at nine and a half years old. She was suffering from pancreatic cancer. The last four days were full of caring, sleeplessness, pampering, petting, a little bit of anger, crying, more and more petting, giving solace, and finally giving in to the ultimate care a dog owner can give - to let them go lovingly and painlessly.

I love dogs! I always have. They bring joy and life into a household.

Six years ago I met Sadie when we were looking for a house to buy. When my wife and I got to he house of what is now our current residence, there was a note taped to the front door indicating that there was "a very friendly dog out back on the Lanai, and let her in as you leave".

We and the Realtor looked over the house for a bit, but when I stepped out back to check out the lanai and the pool area, I found the friendly dog. A tri-color rough collie, tongue out and smiling. I went out into the yard, checked things out - stuff home-buyers usually do and the she came up to me with a flippy-flopper in her teeth - and asking me to "play".

I didn't know her name at the time, but she dropped the flippy-flopper by my feet, and spun around a couple of times (smiling) and begging me to play. I took up the game, and tossed the disc across the yard. She - bolted across the lawn - leaping about three feet into the air and snapped the flopper in mid air! I thought it was pretty cool.

We spent about forty minutes looking at the house and it's features. I spent twenty minutes of that time playing Flippy Flopper - and getting pulled into a man-dog relationship.

That evening we decided we wanted to buy the house so we asked our Realtor to draw up the offer to buy - and just kidding mind you, I said " and throw in the dog with the offer - just write it in on the margin of the form!"

The Realtor didn't actually do that, but about a month into the house buying process, we had an opportunity to go through the house once again, and look things over in greater detail. Actually, I think it was on the inspection day. The owners and Sadie were there and as I was getting information and advice from the inspector, the owner said to me: "So I hear you'd like to have Sadie with the house". I was a bit shocked, but I said "I'd fallen in love with her on our first visit". I looked down at Sadie - panting in front of me - she smiled! As time got closer to the closing date - we made arrangements for Sadie to say at the house as the previous owner left, and we'd see her in just a few hours as we stared to move in.

A month or two after moving in, we had visits from my sisters in Connecticut. They all had a chance to meet Sadie and she invoked whatever dog-magic she could and my sisters and families fell in love with her. My younger sister is a real dog-lover - and I think Sadie knew it. Sadie tried to crawl under her bed in the guest room to spend the night - we all laughed at her cunning move to sleep in with my sister. But that was Sadie - she was a smarty. Do dogs smile? I'm sure they grin.

Do dogs cry? Yes, they do. Whenever I was upset or angry, she'd come to me, whimper and put a paw up on my leg and try to console me. Sadie was afraid of thunder and lightning - she'd yelp and crawl on us to escape the bad storms.

Do dogs love children? Yes, they do. Although Sadie never had pups of her own, every time a new baby came into our family, she greeted it with love and tenderness. As the little ones grew, they'd all want to play flippy-flopper with her - and kids and Sadie running as a pack across the back lawn - all with smiles on their faces.

Everyday for the last six years Sadie has seen me off to work in the early morning and welcomed me back in the evening. I'd scratch behind her ears and rough up her coat and kiss her snout. (My wife asked me why I didn't give her the treatment == I said "grow a long snout and a black nose, lick my face and your wish will come true ;) ). I hope you get the humor!

We literally said good bye and hello to her every time we left the house and came back. We used to ask her if she "had any friends over while we were gone - that's not allowed you know!"

Over the last six weeks we finally came to understand that she suffered from pancreatic cancer. We made trips to the vet looking for the cause of her failing health. A blood test showed an irregularity with her pancreas, and so this weekend it all came to an end.

We spent these last days trying to get her to eat. She gave up on canned or dry dog food, and only liked boiled chicken breast. They Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, she didn't even want that. All I could do is feed her ice chips, cool water, and try to keep her body cool. Sunday she couldn't walk anymore, and I'd have to pick her up to try and get her outside to pee - and then that stopped too.

We called the vet at 8:00 AM sharp this morning, but they were completely booked until noon today. We put her in the back of the SUV and got to the vet just before noon. We had to have a stretcher in order to get her into the vets exam room. We all decided it was best to gently and lovingly let her go to Rainbow Bridge.

As the doctor administer the drug, we gently petted, and kissed her good bye - at 12:49 PM she passed on to what I hope is dog heaven - where all the dogs are smiling.

She's smiling at Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. Her bright eyes are intent; Her eager body quivers. Suddenly she begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, her legs carrying her faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

Photo

2011-07-06T05:25:00.000-07:00

Picked up this linen-herringbone jacket for a steal - couldn't wait to wear it.

Independence Day - 2011

2011-07-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

Have a wonderful Independence Day!

Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL

Lander Urquijo

rolls royce - winter park flowers - sartorial june

2011-06-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

Saw this rolls on park avenue this afternoon.

Lots of color - winter park does a wonderful job of flowering park avenue.

Some "i likes" from June

Kathryn Hepburn's former home on Fenwick Island, CT

This looks great!

TCPI = BAC - EV / BAC - AC

2011-06-22T16:44:00.000-07:00

TCPI = BAC - EV / BAC - AC
Bats and Cats are Cool - They Eat Vermin / Bats and Cats are Cool - Are Cool
(this is how I memorize crap that I hope I never have to remember again)

To some that know me, they know that I've been studying for a credentials exam for over six months. I've taken the exam twice, and I've failed it twice. I don't mind telling you that - (I'm an honest dude, and my life is pretty much an open book). Sometimes you use whatever your mind will allow to remember something important for the big test/event/presentation. In the title - we have the formula for TO COMPLETE PERFORMANCE INDEX. This is if you REALLY want to calculate your cost performance.

Now to my mind (and this could be why I failed the efff-ing exam twice), I remember a post that says:

But my professional (if there is such a thing) mind say I should remember that BATS and CATS are COOL (BAC), they eat vermin (EV) BATS and CATS are COOL ARE COOL. And if you really give a phuck you get your beloved TO COMPLETE PERFORMANCE INDEX (possibly calculates your level of performance while you are on Cialis(TM) !

I digress ----

What's really important is that BOWTIES are COOL no matter what the formula, the exam, or the occasion - getcha one.

Laundry Day

2011-06-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

I find that these watchbands can get a bit grimy. I put them in a plastic food container with a couple of drops of liquid laundry detergent - give them a good swoosh with my fingers for a minute - let them soak for a couple of hours - replace the sudsy water with clean/clear water to rinse - roll them up in a clean towel - then let them dry in the sun.

Emblematic Ties - J. Press New Haven

2011-06-08T17:06:00.000-07:00

Glengarry Sporting Club posted some emblematic ties from J. Press earlier today. This is the J. Press store in New Haven on York Street - In this photo, I can't be sure that they are the Irish Provinces, but note the 6th tie in from the left, front row under the paddle of the crewman's oar. Also on the round table at the right of the photo. It's a very "candy store" image for me. I took this on 6/28 last year on a visit to New Haven and Greenwich to visit my daughter, my sister, friends and family before heading to Cape Cod. I won't make it this year - but hopefully in the fall and the Yale-Harvard game with my son.

Click the photo for a better view.

Some other views of J. Press - New Haven

My daughter and the very friendly J. Press salesperson

Lots of summer tans, seersucker, and madras

Note the stash of schoolboy scarves and hats.

I love this place!

Reduce your CHI*

2011-06-05T12:03:00.000-07:00

*Crotch Heat Index - really! - check out the info link on their webpage. By these guys at Betabrand (as in Beta (B) Brand). Actually pretty cool looking horizontal cords - and the colors are right on with great lining. Remind me a bit of Bonobos corduroy pants - which I think are great.

My June 1st Blog Post

2011-06-01T03:59:00.000-07:00

I make it a point to post a blog entry on June 1st - for several reasons.

1. It's been 4 years since I quit smoking - and haven't lit up - not even once! I don't have any desire for a cigarette at all. But it all starts with desire - YOU HAVE TO WANT TO QUIT SMOKING. There's been a lot of news about Chanitx over the years surrounding side effects - but the fact is - it works! At least it worked for me.

2. It's the start of the Atlantic Hurricane season.

If you live on the east coast of the United States, you should renew your knowledge of safety and hurricane preparedness routines. Also, if you're interested, here's the list of hurricane storm names - hopefully, they will not be memorable:

Arlene
Bret
Cindy
Don
Emily
Franklin
Gert
Harvey
Irene
Jose
Katia
Lee
Maria
Nate
Ophelia
Philippe
Rina
Sean
Tammy
Vince
Whitney

3. Just general blogging BS - and a few photos of some "I likes"

Happy June 1st everyone!

The Season Has Started

2011-05-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

As far as I'm concerned, the warm weather seasons have started - we've had mid 90s weather for a couple of weeks - no rain, parched lawns already. To be totally honest, spring and summer gear came out of the back of the closet beginning of April.

These images scream relaxing summer fun, parties, dining, dating, weddings, vacations - It's all ahead of us. Enjoy yourself!

Enjoy the Memorial Day weekend - Live, Laugh, and Love.

BlueGreenBlackWednesday

2011-05-26T03:40:00.000-07:00

Young and stylish

2011-05-11T13:37:00.000-07:00

I saw a post this afternoon on tumblr regarding this paticular photo. The tumblr post took issue with this young man's hair style but praised the classic kit he is wearing.

I just had a VERY SIGNIFICANT BIRTHDAY this week, (and in retrospect) I would like to think this is how young men today will dress as they go about their work and social engagements. This is not a perfect world - I know that it won't be THIS perfect for all men, but still, I'd like to see more young men follow this model. I think the hair works well for this fellow, and is not for everyone.

Even at my ripe age - I may just pull this look together for Friday. (I'll check the YP for a wig store ;) )

Happy Mothers's Day

2011-05-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

To all Moms, Grandmothers, and those who took up the role and cared for us - Happy Mother's Day!

Lacoste belt

2011-05-07T18:50:00.000-07:00

Picked up this Lacoste belt today in Marshalls. I guess they really do get great items.

A madras accessory

2011-05-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

I picked up this madras jacket at Stein Mart a couple of weeks ago - it's got a nice combination of colors in the weave and it's very light. The weather here in central Florida is hot and humid already (my new lawn is taking a beating!). So I've decided it's searsucker and madras season no matter what the calendar reads.

While driving around town last week, I spotted this 1972 Triumph TR6. I used to own one (a red 1974), so I stopped and inquired about it. It's in great condition, very clean. I realized however this is not the kind of car you drive around Orlando in the summer - no A/C, just top down. It would be fun on evening rides (or at midnight) rather than daytime heat. It would probably be more fun to toul around during the cooler months - say November through March.

Me, the TR, and the new madras jacket (OK, wife and dog can come along too).

I do like it though ------

Wednesday Colors

2011-04-27T04:52:00.000-07:00

It feels more like summer than spring here in central FL. I walked out of the house at 5:15 this morning and the hot, humid air knocked the starch out of my blue gingham shirt. This calls for lighter gear and linen seems to fill the bill (but wish it didn't wrinkle so quickly).

Light and easy shirts, slacks, and jacket are the way to go in the sub tropics. How about these three?

WIWT 04-24-2011

2011-04-24T11:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter everyone!

I've had this particular combo in mind for what I would wear for Easter - so this is the inspiration:

And here's what I put together:

Linen jacket and slacks - Alan Flusser
Shirt - OCBD - Ralph Lauren
Mint green tie - Nautica
Shoes - Brass Boot tasseled slip ons

Crocodandies

2011-04-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

These pants are smokin! From Bonobos - go get 'em

7 AM

2011-04-20T04:10:00.000-07:00

Fooling with the camera on my Motorola Atrix -

Spring all around

2011-04-15T04:55:00.000-07:00

The weather has warmed up (in most places), The Masters has just finished up, lawns are getting nice and green (I just spend $1200 on a new front lawn), everywhere I look, I'm seeing images of madras and seersucker; bright silk knit ties - it's all good. Here's some spring:

Oh, and I just picked up one of these yesterday - still checking out all the bells and whistles - - - -

Kits that Pop!

2011-04-11T16:49:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I posted a "best, better, butter" post and kits that really slap you in the puss. So here are a few that I've snagged over the past couple of months. Credits where I can, and if I can't I'll gladly taken them off line.

Hope you enjoy these.

Sunday Kicks

2011-04-10T16:06:00.000-07:00

I like the Dividend

2011-04-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

High Cotton Ties

2011-03-24T04:37:00.000-07:00

High Cotton Ties has come out with an impressive cache of bow ties for spring. Take a look.

Belt Candy!

2011-03-22T04:46:00.000-07:00

Bonobos introduced there line of belts for spring and summer - and they're hot stuff! Got my eye on at least five of them. Take a gander:

March Madras

2011-03-17T10:15:00.000-07:00

A walk down Park Avenue in Winter Park this afternoon, spotted these madras shirts (on sale) - struck me as March Madras!

Enjoy ~

Things are warming up

2011-03-15T14:23:00.000-07:00

I know everyone can't wait to break out their spring duds - here's a taste from some of the locals on the net

From Brooks Bros.

One of Ethan Desu's famous photos

From Hackett

I want these Bonobos Crocodandies!!!

Check out Bonobos.com - great gear for men

It's All Good

2011-03-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

This month I'm seeing more and more Spring offerings - well I guess that just natural since most have been stuck in the doldrums of winter and all around yuckie weather. We're all chomping at the sartorial bit to move into lighter, more comfortable gear either for work or for pleasure.

I keep thinking, the summer sun and a balmy weather lends itself to parties and carefree gatherings all of which should have us dressed to the 9s!

Here's a preview

From Brooks Brothers

From Hackett

From RL (and a favorite by this blogger)

Ethan Desu has my vote for best men's fashion photographer on his continent, or any other !

And for the most smokin' kit in the Continental U. S.
our buddy Maxminimus

HOLY SMOKES!

(there's a story here!)

Watch Bands

2011-03-07T15:52:00.000-08:00

Thanks to our blog bud JRS over at Red Clay Soul, I was able to snag some great looking watch bands on the cheap at American Eagle Outfitters. The last time I bought one was last summer at J. Press and I paid $25 for it (from Smart Turnout). But these were $3.95 each. I paid $25 for 8 of them (one rang up at $1.95). I think they're pretty cool. They add color and contrast to your wrist and whatever shirt and jacket you're wearing.

After a few months of wearing a favorite, I find I need to wash it. I put the band in a plastic container, add warmish/hot water and a couple of drops of laundry detergent, make a few suds and let it sit for a day, then let it air dry on a towel somewhere.

Would you look at those gas prices!!! We really need to get back to something reasonable. This whole Libya things has got the oil and gas biz upside down.

The Indigo Linen Jacket

2011-03-06T14:32:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I mentioned I picked up a linen Flusser jacket at Stein Mart. Mind you this isn't the custom-made job that smacks of hundreds of dinero - it's a nice looking jacket that I paired up with a blue gingham dress shirt, and yellow silk tie. I've been looking for a nice yellow silk knit, but haven't spied one yet.

Anywhooo - here's the kit. What you don't see are the military tan Hilfiger dress slacks, Cole Haan kilty tassel moccasins.

Spring is coming soon ---

2011-03-04T10:48:00.000-08:00

Really it is. And some of the offerings and images make me yern for spring parties, cocktails with nice people in the spring air.

Hope you get the feeling too.

These Brooks Brothers for spring have nice soft colors and patterns but there's the pizzaz that makes them appealing:

These Brooks Brother pocket square look pretty cool. I like the casualness of them.

I like this chino jacket (which I believe is from Ethan Desu) - I saw one the other day on sale, nearly pounced until I noticed it was the wrong size. That coffee/black knit tie is classy!

Looks that POP

2011-02-25T05:43:00.000-08:00

I may have mention previously that I collect images from blogs of "looks" that I find appealing. In many cases it's a primer for me to put components together for a look that I'm attempting to duplicate. With that in mind here are a few "looks" that have that special pizzaz, maybe even sprezzatura (everytime I hear that word, I want to add a squeeze of lime to something!).

Here you go:

Our esteemed Elangantologist Chris

This photo by Ethan Desu should win an award in my opinion

Ralph Lauren - Friday Casual in my book

I like this - it goes back to my earlier post - A women feels safe in the company of a well-dressed, confident gentleman.

I like linen - even though it wrinkes so - I just bough a navy Alan Flusser linen blazer - I'll post later about that one.

How do you remove a "gel" ink stain?

2011-02-14T08:23:00.000-08:00

My wife bought me two nice-looking gingham shirts on Friday - one a nice mint green/white, the other orange/white.

I wore the orange one on Saturday, and toward the end of the afternoon, we noticed my pen stained the bottom of the shirt pocket.

Being in the IT industry, I learned a long time ago that you can get ink stains out of a shirt by spraying it with alchohol based hairspray, let it set a bit, then wash - and stain gone.

But gel pen ink seems to be another story. We've tried, hairspray, rubbing alcohol, OXY spray, dish soap - you name it - but the ink won't budge.

Any clues as to what to do? I've searched the internet, but most say to use hairspray. Otherwise I'll be cutting the shirt up for a nice gingham pocket square :(

Stained in Orlando.....

Spring is just around the corner - really!

2011-02-07T04:04:00.000-08:00

J. Press says so. They came out with their Spring, 2011 on-line catalogue - lots of nice stuff - here are just a few

Why Zippers Have YKK On Them

2011-02-06T14:42:00.000-08:00

Find out here

Making a good impression

2011-02-04T10:37:00.000-08:00

Most of us are taught not to judge people by their appearance. Many people think about how someone looks when considering potential friends, companions, employees and even doctors and attorneys. It should come as no surprise that the way a man presents himself - such as the clothes he wears - can influence his chances for jobs or promotions.

How one dresses when he's out in public acts as non-verbal communication. Wearing things you like and look good in can bridge the gap between what you're saying and how you project confidence and satisfaction.

These young men from Rollins College were lunching together and having quite a good time and I could see that their female companion was enjoying their company as well. People, especially women, enjoy the company of a well dressed man. You many not have thought of it this way, but women feel safe and protected when they are with a confident well-dressed gentlemen.

In these times we find all sort of fashion around us. Everything from snoop-droopy-drawers to guys in traditional business kits - all making a statement. In this case, it's a good statement.

If these men are looking for meaningful work in the business world - how they present themselves means a lot. Not everything is one's CV. Good taste and neatness is their calling card.

I hope I see them again on Park Avenue soon.

Outstanding looks -

2011-01-25T14:57:00.000-08:00

Taking a break from the studying -- I get charged when I come across the outstandingly good-looking wear. These are soaked in fine natural fibers and captivating color. You might say its sartorial profundity !!!!

I stopped at the local liquor store today (on the way home, not at lunch), and had the fellow behind the counter check my bi-weekly Lotto tickets - Boom, I won a whopping $25.50. My mind wanders - if I'd won "the big one" - I'd go shopping - yes, shopping!- and I'd go find this stuff!

Take a look ---

I've got a thing for pocket square lately -- I like cotton - patterned - nice stuff!

The grey and violet make this a great look. The white pocket square makes a huge difference.

There's something about black/grey and great contrast - it's the photography dude in me - black and white put drama in the image.

I'm looking for anything that kits up with gingham. The pocket square rocks!

Grey/red/blue/purple/gingham - understated elegance!

Did I say gingham rocks? The red (wine) waistcoat or cardigan kicks it up.

This guy has the best photographer in the business!

If its green - I like it!

The jacket/shirt/belt make this one

If it's in window pane pattern - I'm all for it. I think I have at least 15 pair of slacks and/or jackets in window pane pattern - It must be something in my genes. Maybe I yearn for order in my life - need to square-up my life. The grey/tan/white in this rig is perfect. (btw - it's been 43 months since I've had a cigarette!)

OK men -- I'm back to the books -- study, study, study!

Color at my desk - and - I've been pre-occupied

2011-01-25T05:41:00.000-08:00

I've got this thing about gingham lately - can't seem to get enough of it. From what I can tell from the spring and summer look books, gingham is going to be around a while - and I'm glad. It's clean and crisp - looks good with just about anything you have in your closet.

Turnbury Marino Wool V-neck sweater

Tommy Hilfiger gingham button down

Smart Turnout watch strap

I'm chained to my PC or laptop (depending on where I am) as I'm studying for my PMP exam. I seem to find time to look around at what my tradly blog friends are posting - but not too much time for my own photography and walkabouts.

You'll find me back in full force somewhere after February 25th.

Recent acquisitions

2011-01-09T14:21:00.000-08:00

Not going through an inventory of Christmas presents - I received a few gift cards so that I could go out and find things that tripped my "gotta-have-it-switch".

My daughter and her family came for the holidays and during a shopping expedition on Christmas Eve, I spotted this pair of Bass Buchanons - suede/leather with eraser soles. I like them.

On the way out of the store and working through our mission to finish our Christmas shopping, my daughter, (remember - this is the wonderful daughter who gifted me so generously at J. Press in New Haven this past summer) thought I should have gotten the blue suede babies that were perched next to them on display.

After Christmas, after the all the guests left for home and parts north, my wife went back to the store and picked up the Bass Brocktons.

Nice eh??

(flash photography makes these look lighter than they really are)

Somewhere in between Christmas and New Years - Dillards sent a shout out they were having a 50% off the already reduced prices on some great items. Carolyn works in the Ralph Lauren section of Dillard's in Altamonte Springs - next time you're in there, say hello to Carolyn -- she's a gem.

I spotted these Ralph Lauren "Professor's Pants" - I'd read about them earlier in the year - "Exuding timeless heritage and style, the Professor pant is tailored for a relaxed fit from timeworn cotton chino" -- and the selling aspect of these britches were the back-side tabs - When I was in high school - this style of chino was very popular. When the back tab was "dis-engaged" that meant you were not going steady - tab "engaged" meant you were taken/owned/going-steady/gettin' some. (any or all apply may apply)

Two things about these pants -- 1) the cotton is beautiful - its nicely washed and soft. 2) the belt loops are too small though - first thing I did was add a ribbon belt to these pants - and the loops would barely let the belt through. Otherwise - great chinos men - go get some - just get a narrow belt to go with them!

Here in Florida - Stein Mart is a popular place to shop. Mr. Stein makes it all the more appealing by sending me emails, taunting me with coupons for generous discount percentages (register at steinmart.com).

In the men's department there is plethora of Flusser-ware; all good looking, but certainly not top-of-the-line. I snagged some Flusser slacks - grey, nice looking and goes well with a lot of my inventory. Also snagged these two Nautica sport jackets -

Got a couple of ties and shirts to go with these - but I'm on the hunt for something special - and I'm moving toward orange, or peach (for the top jacket).

I know most people who read the style blog are keen on the high-end, bespoke kit-combos from the big men's style houses in New York, Milan, London, and other parts of the world (that I wish I could visit). I peruse the blogs and pretty much drool on my laptop at some of the candy I come across. Lately I've been keen on chino, or cotton blazers. On the break between Christmas and New Years as I was tripping through Dillard's, I came across this Daniel Cremieux chino jacket. Men, this jacket rocks! I think I've worn it almost everyday (to work) over the the past week. I love it!

I wore it with those "professors pants" and some new Levi's 501s. The weight is just a little heavy, but for Florida winters, it's perfect. It feels good, and looks good - the deep indigo blue goes with so much.

What's you're most comfortable piece of gear? What one special item makes you feel so good, you can take on the world? For me - it's this jacket.

Cheers Gentlemen!

In the New Year - Any Dream Will Do

2011-01-07T07:56:00.000-08:00

With the 2011 looming before us, fresh and new, may all your dreams come true and the year end with fulfillment.

From the concert in memory of Princess Diana - 2007

73 Days away

2011-01-05T04:59:00.000-08:00

Spring is 73 days away - and if you are somewhere in the sub tropics, then this handsome jacket might be just the ticket. Or it might add to a nifty rig for St. Patrick's Day which is only 69 days away. Either way - spring is coming!

Kiton

Resolve to smell better in the New Year and some great kit pics

2010-12-31T07:26:00.000-08:00

When I first smelled Lacoste Essential at the gentlemen's fragrance counter in Dillards - I put it on my Christmas wish list - and my lovely wife came through. It's got a great citrus fragrance very much like Royall Lime.

I'm also partial to Old Spice (really), and I was able to find Canoe at one of those mall kiosks selling fragrances named after rock stars.

You may fall head over heels for this "eau de toilette pour homme" - and you may not. But could I just ask one favor? - Like it or not, don't go overboard as this fellow did. Extreme anything isn't good!

Moving onward (as my friend ADG likes to say) - I came across some shots of some good-looking menswear via other blog posts - thanks to them, I'm reposting them here. (I'll take them down if I've offended the photographer or rights holder). These have that zazing factor I'm so fond of. Take a gander:

Happy New Year everyone!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T05:12:00.000-08:00

I hope that you all find joy and merriment this Christmas - God Bless You All!

=Paul

Time to Celebrate - the bar is open - Tom and Jerrys

2010-12-22T14:47:00.000-08:00

My wife is from (waaaay) upstate New York and in that area they make Tom and Jerrys in the period between Thanksgiving and New Years. There is a very old restaurant - The Crystal - in Watertown, NY that makes these delicious concoctions throughout the holidays.

This is the bar at The Crystal - nice, old wood bar with lots of mood!

Here is the recipe -

Note: If you are somewhere in the northern United States this weekend, freezing and snowing like mad -- this drink will have you mowing the lawn at 2 AM - ripe and ready to celebrate the season.

Enjoy, God Bless, and Merry Christmas from Silk Regimental

Ingredients

12 egg(s)
1 cup sugar
1 bottle brandy
Pinch of ground allspice
Pinch of ground cinnamon
Pinch of ground cloves
1 bottle dark rum
milk
nutmeg

Glass Type: mug

Instructions

Separate the eggs. Beat the whites until they form a stiff froth, and the yolks -- to which you have added the sugar -- "until they are as thin as water," as the professor advises, gradually adding 4 ounces brandy (spiceaholics will also add a pinch each of ground allspice, cinnamon, and cloves). Fold the whites into the yolks. When ready to serve, give it another stir and then put 1 tablespoon of this batter in a small mug or tumbler. Now add 1 ounce brandy (although some die-hard Dixiecrats prefer bourbon) and 1 ounce Jamaican rum, stirring constantly to avoid curdling. Fill to the top with hot milk and stir until you get foam. Sprinkle a little grated nutmeg on top. This one may require practice and a certain amount of fiddling, but it's well worth the effort. Note: Some people find the milk too rich and filling, so they use half hot milk, half boiling water.

Continuing the pics - all the right stuff

2010-12-19T09:54:00.000-08:00

A few more of the best sartorial combinations I've seen through the gentlemen's blogs that I follow.

ADG from Maxminimus steps up the pace with his new acquisitions in this shot. ADG really knows how to put a kit together - I rely on his advice.

A favor please . . .

2010-12-17T13:34:00.000-08:00

At this time of year many of us are involved with the joy of the season, the gift of friends and friendship, the even-more-golden gift of family, our parents-brothers-sisters-aunts-uncles-cousins-second cousins, and so on.

There are those gentle people out there that, for some reason, do not find this time of year joyous. They feel more hurt than joy; more tears than laughter, more pain than anything else; they have no sweet soothing thoughts of Christmas - that for whatever reason they don't feel as jolly as we do, please try to understand. These are graceful people who have lost the joy of the season - they hurt.

For all the graces this season of the year provides, I pray for those who just feel bad and hope that sometime soon, they find a way to live, love and be happy - perhaps it takes a friend to understand.

Blessings on you all!

=Paul

My pics for the week - These all look great!

2010-12-17T12:17:00.000-08:00

During the week I come across some great looking casual, dress, and formal combinations. They look great, they're traditional, but most of all, there's something special about each one - like a good recipe - they have that certain za-za-zing! Take a look.

I want this chair in my office!

Fantastic colors!

The Elegantologist

More tomorrow

Extra Ordinary

2010-12-09T07:24:00.000-08:00

From other fine bloggers - these I felt were particularly striking.

The tweeds have it!

I must copy this kit

2010-12-04T07:44:00.000-08:00

I swiped this from Modern Distinction. The whole package looks terrific. If anyone can tell me where the components were purchased, I 'd appreciate it.

Today's post from An Affordable Wardrobe is equally perfect - the simplicity is stunning!

Holiday Spirit

2010-12-02T04:51:00.000-08:00

It's time for Christmas parties with friends, relative, and office mates - these perfect holiday pants from Bonobos are just the ticket.

Royal Navy Scarf

2010-12-01T16:05:00.000-08:00

Smart and clean looking --- red/white/blue - it always looks good and sharp!

Great stuff from Smart Turnout --

Bonobos Golf

2010-11-24T05:25:00.000-08:00

Bonobos came out with a great set of golf slacks, shirts and belts. This combo is awesome -- I really want that belt!

Take A Look 11/17

2010-11-17T06:02:00.000-08:00

Eye catching --

Ledbury Shirts

2010-11-16T13:44:00.000-08:00

Some fine looking shirts from Ledbury -- take a look. As you might guess, I'm a sucker for gingham check - these folks do it very well!

Anatomy of a Ledbury Shirt

Jack Donnelly Khakis

2010-11-15T04:43:00.000-08:00

There's something about the khakis from Jack Donnelly. - These Dalton's look oh so comfortable!

Bello - Thursday 11/11

2010-11-11T05:04:00.000-08:00

Turkey Embroidery Pants from Bonobos

2010-11-08T12:27:00.000-08:00

Get out your knife and fork - these are cool. From BONOBOS.

Holiday pants! Good stuff!!

Navy Midweight Cords with Turkey Embroidery

I think this looks great! 11/6

2010-11-06T13:07:00.000-07:00

ADG over at Maxminimus

The six Bonds - 1- 5 and 6 - the best dressed (IMO)

Bonobos The Crocodandies

Blue/Blue --- where can I find this tie????

Formal, but with color

2010-11-06T12:51:00.000-07:00

A bit more on the Smart Turnout collection.

This formal attire is kicked up with the colors of the British Royal Marines. Looks great for the holidays. Very James Bond-ish I think, but the color adds the pop. The chap looks as though he's ordering a vodka martini, shaken, not stirred of course.

Smart Details - Smart Turnout

2010-11-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

Every since I came across some of Smart Turnout's wares this summer, I've had one eye on their marque. It's the colors and the way they partner fabric and color. Take these detail items. They look amazing, crisp, clean, collegiate. I get more comments on my Smart Turnout watch band (could be because I wear it all the time). Anyway, its the details that make up the whole kit. Smart details - love Smart Turnout.

These are all candy for Christmas!

La cultura del bello

2010-10-27T15:07:00.000-07:00

Since the early 1900s, Como, a 2,000-year-old Roman town on the shore of the lake of the same name, has been the heart of Italy's silk industry. Stanley Lewis had the good sense to source the heart of their products from this part of the world – and their offerings boast the results with the silkiest and softest of fabric and color. Just look at this silk lime green tie. It’s beautiful! I gauge my ties by the number of compliments I get. I got four “I love your tie” remarks the day I wore this one to work last week.

As I did some research on Italian Silk, I found it interesting that two Persian merchants disguised as priests smuggled silkworms out of China way back in the sixth century. They initiated the labor-intensive business of breeding silkworms and it spread to other parts of Italy and the Mediterranean area. It didn’t take long before master weavers were working in Florence and Venice making it a silk processing center for the entire region. Then in the 17th century Como became the country's largest producer.

I never knew this, but the silkworm will eat just about anything, but it will only produce silk when it eats mulberry.

World War II was the catalyst of many changes in Europe - and the work of cultivating the rapacious and picky silkworms left Italy after the war returning to China. For Italy though, the finishing end of silk production stayed and expanded. Today in Como and the surrounding foothills, there are some 800 companies engaged in the silk and textile trade—manufacturing, printing, dyeing, designing, and selling. More than 23,000 Comaschi, as Como residents are called, work in the business. In 2007 they turned out some 4,400 tons of silk fabric. (I find “tons” of silk to be mind-boggling, considering its weight).

Como’s physical setting—a palm-lined fjord with an improbable Mediterranean climate and snowy ridgelines in the near distance—may be unmatched in the world. Even its man-made attractions, especially the grand 16th- to 19th-century villas that dot its shores, suggest that adding to the sum of beauty on earth is what is supposed to happen here. And it does—in the silk, in the architecture and in the lifestyles. It’s called la cultura del bello,. "The culture of beauty".

Source and quote: Smithsonian Magazine

Amazing silk ties: Stanley Lewis

Pocket Squares

2010-10-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I found some good-looking 1/4 yd cotton to use a pocket squares (just cut to 18"x18"). I know it's customary to use silk, but I'm captivated by these cotton pieces. It's really the colors and patterns - They just look so good!

The Stanley Lewis tie is new and I'll post more about that later. The collies make great backdrops or props I think (not to mention I love collies)!

http://www.stanleygentlemen.com/

Classy Corduroy

2010-10-13T10:34:00.000-07:00

I saw this great-looking jacket (actually the whole kit) in front of Siegel's on Park Ave in Winter Park FL at lunch today.

I really like the rough tones of the jacket with the silky pocket square (I'm into pocket squares lately) - the shopkeepper did a great job of putting this together. The colors in the shirt were perfect.

The Look and Feel of Fall

2010-10-10T14:33:00.000-07:00

National Dog Week - was 9/19-25

2010-10-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

I didn't realize that I had missed National Dog Week. I love my dog and on her birthday we have a small dog-party. She's a great pooch - and the whole family loves her.

Check out Stanley Lewis

2010-09-26T08:11:00.000-07:00

He's got a great on-line store and his point of view is "inspired by the need for balance" Check it out

http://www.stanleygentlemen.com/

Bonobos and Gant are kickin' it up - Great looks!

2010-09-17T12:37:00.000-07:00

I love the whole Bonobos line - their chinos are terrific and the detail really puts it over the top. They've partnered with GANT Rugger(TM) and the details are even more engaging. I want this blazer!!

Blazer and shirt are perfect! Did you notice that belt?

Stripe detail collar

Check out that working button cuff - that's detail that makes a difference in your clothes.

You wear this good stuff to work, people are going to ask you where you got it -- Tell the Bonobos - different name - nice duds!

On Fenwick Island - CT

2010-09-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

My version of prep.

Your loyal host - this was taken a very long time ago on Fenwick Island off the Connecticut coast. My friends Freddy, Charlie and I took a ride in Fred's T-bird convertible. Charlie lived on Fenwick during the summer. It was also the summer residence of Katherine Hepburn. This actually was taken in winter - January, I think. My wife has always liked this photo.

I was wearing a white jeans (wheat actually), ocbd shirt, tennis sweater, and a wool shirt over it all.

When this was taken I was home on leave from the Air Force. This was from very early years when I first became interested in photography. I scanned this photo from an 8 X 10 that I printed in the base photo shop. A lot of was crap, but a few ended up in boxes that made it through all the moves - from home to home - north to south.

Here's another shot of the Air Force man on Fenwick.

My good friend Geary lived on Fountain Street in New Haven. His apartment building garage was a stable of luxury vehicles - this Fleetwood was the the ride of choice one night.

The suit was from Rosenberg's on York Street, New Haven. I'm sure the tie was stolen from my Dad's closet. I think I look a bit rakish here - eh?

OK -OK --- I had some request for an updated photo - so here you go - for better or worse -

Blue and Green

2010-09-11T15:56:00.000-07:00

What is it about blue and green - that almost clicks magic above one's head like a sorcerer? The image of the two colors together is euphoric. I wonder if anyone can come up with cocktail that this image?

I'm shooting for this rig - as I plan to make a trip north to New Haven with my son (if he'll go) November 13 Yale vs. Princeton at Yale.

As long as we're in New Haven - two food stops are mandatory - Glenwood Drive-In in Hamden/Mt. Carmel

and Modern Apizza on State Street.

Colorful Summer

2010-09-09T12:13:00.000-07:00

Starting with the trip to New England in June and July, I managed to kick things up a bit in the closet as far as color goes. Mostly knit ties and ribbon belts. I really like them, but I can see that the belts may only have a month or so life left in them before they look a bit out-of-place (even for Florida). The knit ties on the other hand - have some year-round opportunity in them - which makes them an even better bargain since I bought most of this catch on sale.

I did some tinkering with the photography -

L-R Macy's ClubRoom, J. Press, Daniel Cremieux, J. Press, Daniel Cremieux, Macy's Club Room

L-R Daniel Cremieux (2), J. Crew, J. Press, Daniel Cremieux (3)

I will host this party!

2010-09-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

Photo: BrendanOC

Gentlemen in great looking slacks and blazers (with our ladies in matching cocktail dresses - somewhere off camera) - this to me is the making of a fun party -

This image reinforces the power of the blue blazer (sounds like a cool blog title). Casual and elegant at the same time - some great cocktails - sure fire formula for a fun evening.

I don't remember where I got the photo, but if you want me to delete it, I will. Or I'll add your credit. I just think this sort of Saturday night get-together needs to fostered.

J. Press Blazer and raw silk tie

2010-09-08T07:24:00.000-07:00

I regularly wear this combination twice a month so as not to over do the image. The blazer is perfect, but the tie - I get no less than three compliments a day when I wear that tie. It adds that special POP of color. Gold pocket square gives the kit panache.

It's Here!

2010-09-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

9/1 - two days early! Cool!

Color that "Kicks the Door In!"

2010-08-29T13:04:00.000-07:00

Way over a year ago or so, Tintin commented on one of my photos over at Sorrentolens as "it has color that kick's the door in". I've never forgotten the compliment - and when I find something as colorful as some of these shirts presented by Eton Shirts - the phrase comes back to me like a streaming bullet. I wish they had an outlet here in Florida.

Eton Shirts from Sweden knows color. MR Magazine's Harry Sheff:

"Hot Brands: Eton Shirts

Nearly every retailer we spoke to agreed that Eton was hot. The Swedish dress shirt company, founded in 1928, still makes all of its shirts in its own Swedish factories. The price is right—around $220 to $275—and they’ve got a great in-stock program with 60,000 shirts in Sweden and more than 1,000 in the U.S. Add to that their patented wrinkle-free process and their depth of fabric patterns and colors, and retailers are very excited. It’s traditional with a twist—just what independents are looking for."

I wish I knew who they partnered with for those ties!

An Experiment in Pocket Squares

2010-08-21T17:05:00.000-07:00

(Dedicated to my friend – Geary Johnson – who used to say – “bring one for show and one for blow”)

There is a great pocket square influence out in the world that has me intrigued! I confess I’m new to this “square” scene – but I like what I see. I like the dash – the pop of color. From Mad Men to Maximinimus to The Elegantologist – pocket squares are a colorful mini explosion on the upper left quadrant of the well-dress guy.

I took a walk through Dillards and Macys here in Florida. All I found were solid color silk and poly squares. They were nice, I bought one pale blue one, but there was nothing fancy or eye-catching, so I just put the idea of pocket squares away.

Then, a few weeks ago I came across a blog posting by Giuseppe over at An Affordable Wardrobe and he had this fantastic idea of cutting a pocket square from an old shirt that he liked.

The idea stuck like glue - so I decided to try something – thinking “Why can’t I just get some remnant pieces of fabric from a fabric store and cut these squares out myself?”

My wife came along and gave me guidance on types of fabric. I was pretty much thinking I’d stick with cotton and see where that would lead, although silk was always in the back of my mind. I picked out a handful of “1/4 squares”

Basically, all I did was cut out the squares a quarter inch larger than the pocket square that I was using as a template. Since these were cotton fabric, I ironed them flat before cutting.

Here’s the set I came up with. I think the colors pop – and that’s what I was looking for.

As a test-bed, I tucked these colorful gems into this large window pane Flusser linen-cotton jacket I picked up at Stein Mart for next to nothing.

Colorful pocket squares on the cheap - what do you think?

See ya!

The Art of Manliness did a bog-post on how to fold a pocket square… check it out here.

Summer Loot

2010-08-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

I posted this photo on my other blog a few months ago. This was some of the goods I picked up on my trip north (3,427 miles r/t). I just like the colors, so I'm posting it again.

J. Crew cotton bd shirt
J. Press silk rep tie - my favorite colors (blue/green or green/blue depending on how you look at it).
J. Press silk knit tie - it absolutely fabulous! (ditto on the blue-green thing)
J. Press/Smart Turnout watch band
Madras belt - Bass Outlet
J. Crew grosgrain belt
J. Crew madras flip flops
Bass Outlet Green swordfish shorts
Nantucket Reds from Murray's
L L. Bean red chinos