I Want One

Just discovered on eBay. Not my size. Damn.

Wear While You Can

The days of wearing linen jackets and madras ties are coming to a close, but for the next month I'll be abusing all the bold and breezy fabrics my own eyes can stand.

These blazers were uncovered at a local thrift shop last month. $5.49 each. Given the lack of labels I can only assume they were made-to-measure, but fortunately the fit on me is almost perfect. (I always need the sleeves altered.)

The ties are all true Indian madras, from Lands' End, Gant, and Resilio. Though picked up at different times, each tie cost only one dollar. 

Given the absurd brightness of this stuff, I like to keep the rest of the gear simple. A white/light blue shirt paired with white/tan linen trousers, and burnished tan loafers.

I realize the more popular shoe choice would be white bucks, of which I own several pair, but for this type of outfit they blur the line between classic summer swagger and classically cheesy costume.

What's your go-to summer blazer? Seersucker, gingham, madras, solid linen?

New to the CKC Shoppe

For your sartorial pleasure are fifteen new ties in the CKC Shoppe. Also, enter CKC12 for an extra 12% off your order through July 23.

And Tied Down

Yes, a couple more solid pieces from American Eagle, in a cotton/linen blend. Around fifteen dollars each, the only better deal you'll find will come from eBay.

Socked Up

Early in my college days, all of four years ago, I wore a bit of American Eagle. You know, that shop you pass by at the mall, scoffing at how kids dress these days. But every once in awhile, the most convoluted companies get it right with the basics.

I never have and never will pay more than ten dollars for socks. To me, they're more of a utility than accessory. However, I wouldn't mind picking up these six styles to add extra pops of color to my summer gear. At $6.50 (or less with frequently-offered coupons available), such a slight investment could provide a large style payoff.

A couple more surprisingly great American Eagle pieces to follow.

Polo at Macy's and Belk

I've come upon a couple excellent deals lately, via Macy's and Belk.

So it seems I really can never have too many polos.

At least not with such perfect colors for the season.

Designed with 5-pocket jean styling, this particular pant has been my go-to chino for several years.

I was happy to find the added touch of oxford pockets in this year's model.

I'll keep telling myself I can never have too many button-downs either, having picked up this beautiful mint green shirt today. 

My second-favorite color combination, behind pink and green? Purple and green, of course.

Greens and Pinks on the Links

Today's dose of pink and green comes from English golfer, Luke Donald, at the 2011 Masters.

I also tend to dress brightly at the links.

This distracts onlookers from my dreadful game.

Pink, Green and Gingham in Between

Nothing like this classic color combination to stand out in summer. But if even a pastel pink seems too much, start with yellow or orange. The trick is matching tones and brightnesses, then keeping everything else simple.

Rugby Stoplight

Long-sleeve sport shirts are perfectly acceptable in summer, so why not long-sleeve rugbys? I'm not talking about the heavy twill variety, the ones used for actual rugby matches. Lightweight cotton jersey works on warm days, as long as you don't over-do it with your under-shirt. Stick to a simple tee, avoid even a polo for layering as extra heat will build, especially around your neck. Next, roll up your sleeves and lastly, never pop your collar unless evading some overbearing sunlight.

Enjoy the visual stoplight of some favorite jersey rugbys.

Happy Independence Day! I'll have an actual July 4th post up in the next day or two.

Patchwork Foulard Blazer

Seriously? This is too much for even me, but may God bless the bold bastard who picks up this Corbin blazer on eBay.

Would you wear this?