Spring Edge

The spring season has shaped up to be an interesting one thus far. A week of 80s and sun in the beginning of April, followed by cooler temps and May commencing with a week of rain and temperatures barely in the 60s. While spring fever has us all wanting to pull out our bright chinos and leave the jacket at home, sometimes you have to face the reality...or weather...outside!

I have found that if there is one thing that is worth investing in in your wardrobe, it is your collection of jackets. From blazers to traditional outerwear to more edgy pieces, I find that my jackets are what really completes an outfit aside from serving their functional purpose. With the "spring" chill still in the air, a jacket is certainly necessary when heading out for the day. It is the weather that calls for a great spring jacket, namely something that keeps you warm enough if you are wearing short sleeves underneath, but is not heavy like a wool or down piece.

I have been reaching for a piece that is certainly more edgy that some classic styles, however, I find that outerwear is easy to wear whether it fits into your "defined" style or not. This jacket is actually a linen/cotton blend so it is the perfect weight for cool mornings, and sunnier afternoons that transition into chilly cool nights at a happy hour. The leather patches bring a "cool" edge to the piece as well as the motorcycle styling. I paired it with a pair of jeans, a simple v-neck, and boots for an easy, chilly spring look.

Jacket: Ralph Lauren Black Label // T-Shirt: Gap // Jeans: Ralph Lauren Black Label // Shoes: John Varvatos

Spring Fever

Spring Fever is officially beginning to set in. With longer days, the clock change around the corner, and this week of warmer weather, I cannot help but daydream of sun, green trees, and summer a few months away.

It has certainly been a mild winter, so while I cannot complain in that regards, I am ready to ditch the wool sweaters and heavy coats in exchange for light jackets and cotton sweaters....and certainly brighter colors!

Depending on where you are located, spring is definitely about layering- a jacket is necessary in the morning but by the time the afternoon sun rolls around you are rolling up your sleeves...especially as we get into the later months of the season. I used the warmer weather here as an excuse to break out some brighter colors and lighten the mood around town.

It is certainly not time for linen or thin cotton fabrics, yet. With that in mind, I pulled a sport shirt that is crafted from a cotton/cashmere blend so it soft to the skin yet slightly heavier than traditional cotton. I paired it with go-to chinos. Note the use of cream instead of stark white...are you an avid believer in the no white before memorial day rule?

The center of this outfit was my Stubbs &  Wootton slippers. They make quite the statement and are such a classic style from the Palm Beach brand. I finished the look with a bracelet to tie back into the red of the shoes, a preppy belt, and simple aviators.

Shirt: Ralph Lauren Purple Label // Chinos: Jack Wills // Belt: Jack Spade // Bracelet: Miansai // Shoes: Stubbs & Wootton

An Unusually Warm Winter

The headlines have been saying it all...the weather this winter has been quite crazy across the entire country to say the least. If you live on the east coast, you are familiar with this very warm December that is quickly coming to an end. I believe in my area, there was one day in the entire month that came in average/below average. Christmas Eve day was 30 degrees above normal...shorts anyone?

With the warmer than normal weather, the heavy sweaters and jackets have stayed in the closet. Forget the big parka or ankle length coat, the weather calls for, perhaps, unconventional winter jackets. I am loving this quilted front, sweater back piece from Ralph Lauren Black Label. The piece is heavy enough for the 50-60 degree days we have been having, and the mixed media styling makes the piece fresh and modern.

While it may not be the normal coat that you will show up to a December meeting in, it certainly does fit the bill. I paired it with cotton pants (rather than wool) and classic suede chelsea boots. The modern Balenciaga bracelet adds of touch of interest while remaining subtle.

How are you adapting to the weather in your area?

Jacket: Ralph Lauren Black Label // Pants: Ralph Lauren Black Label // Bracelet: Balenciaga // Boots: John Varvatos

Men's Summer Essential: Statement Swimwear

Summer is finally right over the horizon, and I could not be more excited for the warm weather and sun-filled weekends. An upcoming trip to the French Riviera has me thinking of sunny beaches and turquoise waters...but what to wear? 

The summer season for me means bright colors and vibrant and lively prints. I have always had an extensive collection of printed capri trunks when Lilly used to make men's stuff, however, for my upcoming trip or any day you may be spending in a seaside town, statement swimwear makes for an easy, appropriate outfit.

I recently purchased Ralph Lauren Purple Label Swim Trunks (similar) that function perfectly as a short for strolls through beach towns and will be perfect for Nice and the Cote d'Azur. The vibrant floral print of the trunks makes a strong statement, and when paired with a simple white v-neck and great sandals, you can create an ideal look for an outdoor lunch or day party at a beach club. 

I completed the look with fun, novelty sandals by Ralph Lauren and a favorite pair of aviators from Randolph Engineering. 

Do you utilize great swimwear to make day outfits during hot summer days? What are some of your favorite statement swimwear pieces this season?

Very First Signs of Spring

After one of the most grueling winters I can recall, it seems like we are finally beginning to see some of the very first signs of spring. From longer days, chirping birds in the morning to warmer temperatures, I love the fresh start that spring brings.

I may be a little eager to break into my spring wardrobe and turn to lighter pieces, however, after this winter I think every one is! I know one thing is for certain- I am ditching the big winter parka. I put together a look that is perfect for the moderate temperature we have been having this week while still retaining some necessary elements for the slush on the ground.

The look is centered around the heavy canvas moto vest. I look the details on the vest and I think it brings a great, modern look to any outfit with which it might be paired. I layered the vest with a classic Burberry polo and wore moto jeans that tie back with the quilted details and zippers on the vest. Since there is still quite a bit of snow on the ground melting away, the slightly rugged work boots are a good medium for style and functionality for slushy streets.

I love fun accessories as a means to complete any look in a simple way, so for this particular outfit I added a few of my favorite bracelets and finished with a great fragrance. While this outfit is a departure from classic prep, it incorporates some great, modern elements to update a classic look.

Vest:  Ralph Lauren // Polo: Burberry // Denim: Ralph Lauren (similar) // Shoes: Ralph Lauren // Bracelets: Proenza Schouler & Miansai

Shearling Bomber: A Winter Essential

You may have gotten hit by Blizzard Juno, or it may have been in a bust in your area, however, many of us in the northeast will not disagree that it has been a quite cold winter. As a seasoned resident of this part of the country, it just seems like it never gets easier welcoming old man winter with the passing years.

Outerwear has always been one of my favorite things. A great jacket, whether fall, winter, or spring, is a must have piece for any wardrobe. I have numerous winter jackets and love to switch up my outerwear depending on my look or mood. One piece, however, is a winter essential if you are in a cold weather climate: a great shearling.

When shopping for a shearling, I opted to go with a modern, moto-inspired piece. The green color attracted me to this particular jacket as it was something different compared to the traditional black or tan styles. While a shearling bomber may not be the ideal choice for when the snow is falling, it is a great option for beating the cold after the storms. 

Given the modern edge of the jacket, I paired it with moto inspired denim that compliments the aspects of the jacket. I layered the bomber with a warm, merino wool sweater for added warmth. I finished this winter look by adding a warm pair of boots, perfect for walking over the snow covered sidewalks and streets of many of the cities in the northeast. 

Jacket: Ralph Lauren Black Label // Denim: Ralph Lauren Black Label // Boots: UGG

How are you staying warm this winter??

Christmas Day Outfit

It is hard to believe Christmas is just two days away. I do not know about you, but I have been so busy that I have not had a moment to stop and take in all the holiday spirit and cheer. I took a moment this morning to think about what I want to wear on the big day. Nothing says Christmas quite like a little tartan and suede. I will pull the outfit together with classic loafers and a few accessories. This outfit is easy and comfortable making it great whether you are crawling around the floor with your little relatives or helping mother in the kitchen.

Loafers: Ralph Lauren // Bracelet: Hermes // Card Case: Goyard // Fragrance: Tom Ford // Shirt: Ralph Lauren Purple Label

What will you be wearing to celebrate the holidays? Wishing you and yours a very merry!!

Transitioning

It might still be summer by the books (until September 22) but a lot of us are getting anxious for fall and making the transition from summer wardrobing to fall wardrobing. With the weather still feeling quite like summer, it can be hard to make the transition.

Transitioning into fall can be easy by incorporating some fall patterns or colors while still utilizing summer staples. I paired this madras sport coat by Ralph Lauren with kelly green summer weight chinos. To add a little more of a transitional feel, I paired the look with a navy polo versus a summer white or brighter, orange polo for example.

Look is still bright and preppy, but screams neither summer nor fall. The look was easily accessorized with an equestrian inspired belt by Knot Belt Co and classic brown loafer.

How are you incorporating elements of fall wardrobing into your daily outfits?

Fall Essential for Summer Nights

With Labor Day weekend impending, summer nights (and maybe some days) are becoming slightly cooler. I noticed this the other evening while enjoying a bonfire with friends. Out are the sticky July nights, and in are light knits perfect for these cool nights.

The rugby is a preppy staple that is iconic in the fall, however, a lightweight cotton option is perfect for transitional days and nights. To stay in the moment and not acknowledge the approaching end of summer, I selected an option with a nautical navy & white stripe that is slightly reminiscent of summer days passed. Pair with a sleek jean and accessorize with simple pieces like a classic belt and bracelet for an easy look that is perfect for a late summer's night bonfire or stroll on the boardwalk.

Rugby: Ralph Lauren Purple Label // Denim: Ralph Lauren Black Label // Bracelet: Miansai // Belt: Ralph Lauren

If a rugby is not your style, there are a lot of great options out that as we transition into the fall with cool nights. I also love the atlantic terry sweatshirts from Ralph Lauren- they are perfect after a long day on the beach and super comfortable. If you are going for something casual, the jersey hoodies from Lacoste are a great alternative.

Colorful Sandals Perfect for Summer

I recently discussed a great summer shoe option, the slip-on, and have another style that I live in during the summer months- the sandal. The sandal has evolved into a style that can be either dressed up or dressed down with prices ranging from $50 to upwards of $400 for a designer leather sandal. 

I love the bright colors available in a sandal such as this one that match well with all the chinos and shorts in any preppy summer wardrobe. I found a pair of orange leather sandals by Ralph Lauren that are infused with a European aesthetic which makes them not only interesting but more sophisticated and "dressy" in my opinion.

A bright color, such as orange, pairs well with printed shorts. Orange is always a compliment to a nautical color theme. Here, I paired it with anchor printed shorts by Lilly Pulitzer and added a navy and white Kiel James Patrick bracelet to contrast the bright orange of the sandal. The ultimate weekend preppy "uniform" in the summer whether in East Hampton or down the shore.