Dappered | Letters to the Editor: Milestone Watches, Moving on from a Backpack, How far we’ve Fallen, & More

[Dappered | Letters to the Editor: Milestone Watches, Moving on from a Backpack, How far we’ve Fallen, & More]() --------------------------------------------------------------- - [Letters to the Editor: Milestone Watches, Moving on from a Backpack, How far we’ve Fallen, & More](#1) - [Brooks Brothers up to 70% off Clearance Sale](#2) - [Most Wanted Affordable Style – April 2017](#3) [Letters to the Editor: Milestone Watches, Moving on from a Backpack, How far we’ve Fallen, & More](r/Dappered/~3/5l99lf8t5BE/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email) Posted: 04 Apr 2017 03:00 AM PDT If you’ve got a style tip, question, or anything else you’d like to pass along, [you can send those in to joe@dappered.com](mailto:joe@dappered.com?subject=Mail bag). If you’d rather your question not be featured in a future mailbag, just go ahead and say so in your email. Want more than one average Joe’s (HA!) opinion? Check out our forum, [Threads](. Q: Most versatile piece of spring outerwear? [Versatile Outerwear] Since it is now spring, many of us face a fairly wide array of temperatures and weather (speaking as an Englishman in Texas, it seems fairly volatile!), and I’m wondering what makes for a good, versatile, spring (and fall) piece of outerwear? I know topcoats get a good amount of play on the site but most are made for the colder temperatures of winter. -Tom B. I  know there’s a million options when it comes to shorter jackets (bombers, harringtons, truckers, quilted jackets, etc…) but if you really want a super versatile, do anything piece of outerwear for Spring and Fall? Get a mac. It’s the lighter weight cousin of the topcoat. More subtle than a classic trench (it with all its buttons, epaulets, and belt) and still easy to wear dressed way up or dressed way down. Plus, it’ll cover your suit jacket/sportcoat tail. And that’s not something a Harrington will do. So start first with a cotton, cotton blend, or lightweight wool mac. And then supplement with shorter stuff if you so choose. (Shown above is [the sadly sold out BR Wool mac](. But Suitsupply [sells something similar]( albeit spendy. Then [there’s the JCF cotton/nylon option]( or, [Old Navy carries one too](//oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=72305&vid=1&pid=437886002).) Q: Graduating from a backpack. What should I look for in a work bag? [What to look for in a good cheap briefcase] I’m attempting to shift away from the very-functional backpack to take to work and try to move toward a messenger bag or something. But… what should I be looking for? Any ideas? -Bennett W. I’d steer clear of a pure messenger since those can be seen as a little less than professional, depending on the work environment. Also, they can be a pain to carry around since without any top/grab handles, you’re stuck having to sling it over your head or shoulder every time you pick it up. Look for something that can be carried like a briefcase OR a messenger. One specific suggestion? [Try the Filson original brief]( that’s currently 20% off at Need Supply Co. with the code FAMANDFREN. They’re tough to get on sale, made in the USA, and built to last. Also, keep an eye on Gustin’s website and hope that they bring back their terrific, [made in the USA leather briefcases](. Q: I need a new navy blazer. Should I stick with the Legacy? [J. Crew Blazer] My J. Crew navy Ludlow blazer may be on its last hurrah. In the event I need to get a new investment wool blazer, do you think that J. Crew’s legacy blazers are still the way to go? The recently reviewed Spier & Mackay? Save up for a Brooks Brothers option? The new Lands’ End half-canvas blazer? Which would you pick? – John C. As much as I like the new [Brooks Brothers BrooksCool Regent fit](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Regent-Fit-BrooksCool%C2%AE-Blazer/MD00078,default,pd.html), if you’re a Ludlow body type? You should skip the Regent. It fits more like a Crosby. so that leaves you with either [the Ludlow Legacy in “American” wool]( [the Spier & Mackay in their trim fit]( (not the contemporary, that’ll still be too big on your frame), or [the new Lands’ End Italian wool](. I’m not too thrilled about the full lining in the LE option. So, if it were me, I think it would come down to the pockets style. You want patch pockets on the lower half? If so, then go with Spier. If you prefer regular flap pockets? Go with J. Crew. And cross your fingers for a sale. Those things rarely go on sale. Q: How do I wear/style a denim shirt? [Styling a denim shirt | Dappered.com] I’ve noticed some ads online as of late for the “perfect denim shirt.” I’m intrigued, but I just don’t know what pants to wear with them. Not jeans — I’m not into the 70’s aesthetic, so the head to toe denim look doesn’t work for me. Yet my wife says that a denim shirt with khakis would make me look like a Best Buy employee. What are your thoughts on how to wear a denim shirt? -Freddy I think it’s possible to wear a denim or chambray shirt with jeans, it’s just a matter of contrast and layering. Wearing the shirt under a sweater or a sportcoat really cuts down on the Canadian tux look. And remember to have some contrast between your torso and legs. Also, make sure your shirt is on the lighter weight side. A heavy denim classic-work-style shirt can get uncomfortable, quick. As far as wearing it with khakis? I actually think a denim or chambray shirt [looks great with a chino suit and dark knit tie](. More denim shirt wearing tips [can be found here](. Q. Are J. Crew Factory Thompson Suits now half canvas? [J. Crew Factory Half Canvas]( I was on the J Crew Factory site today, and came across this interesting statement about their Thompson Worsted Suits: “a sewn in canvas chest piece allows for better drape.” I don’t know if that’s a recent change but would seem to be a significant update, if true especially with the recent $199 sale. Have you heard anything about this? -Seth Hm. That’s confusing. So, I reached out to our contact at JCF, who in turn spoke to their design team. Here’s what that person had to say: “JCF’s suits and classic jackets have always had a high-quality chest piece. We have recently introduced a lighter, more modern chest piece and sleeve head developed for the Voyager suit (and use it for any style that would benefit from this lighter and more breathable construction). They are also fused like the vast majority of designer and better suiting: “fused” and “half/full canvas” (with no fusing) are opposite ends of the quality/price spectrum with the vast middle ground being largely misunderstood. Furthermore, the ‘make’ has improved over the years with factories who provide Retail-level quality and execution! And there’s more: our sleeve heads are also very high quality unlike competitors who might only use a cotton or foam strip to fill out the sleeve cap.” Bottom line: I don’t think they’re a true-half canvas suit. Even fused suits have a chest piece. Yet that doesn’t mean they’re a true half-canvas like more expensive/substantial feeling suits. There’s also a middle ground in terms of suit construction, and J. Crew Factory’s Thompson suits really do feel, fit, and wear better than other suits in the $200ish price range. Q. Milestone watch. Under $400. Keep it simple. [Orient] I just completed a major milestone for school and would like to celebrate it by getting another watch. I already have [the Orient Ray II](. Currently, I’m leaning towards either [the Hamilton Khaki King]( or the [Seiko Sarb033](. I want something as versatile as possible (can be worn with jeans to a suit). For that reason, the Sarb seems like the better option. Any thoughts? -Andy M. “[Leave the gun, take the cannoli.]( You’ve already got a workhorse watch in the Orient Ray (which can be worn with a suit by the way). So, consider something that’s more of a “Treat.” The Khaki King is a brilliant watch, but it’s too casual to wear with a suit. The Seiko? It’s pretty much a baby Rolex Oyster Perpetual. It’s dead simple though. And honestly, the Orient Ray can fill in where the Seiko would play 99% of the time. Gonna go off board here. Many will disagree, but I’m saying t[he Orient Polaris GMT]( is worth considering. It’s a watch that’s around the same price as the “Sarb,” but frankly, it’s a work of art. It’s the kind of watch that even Rolex wearers would see (for whatever this is worth) and stop in their tracks. And, as someone who hates surprises? The power reserve indicator is terrific. Let’s you know what’s up with the mainspring at a glance. Might feel a little dressy to wear with jeans at first, but it really is more versatile than many would think. Most importantly, congrats on the achievement. Q: Navy wool blazer with jeans? Really? [Blues] That [Spier & Mackay blazer]( looks nice, a little too dark to pair w/dark jeans. Looks like an improvised suit. I kinda like contrasting buttons on a blazer. -Erik P. via Twitter. [No one is trying to improvise a suit here](. If you’re trying to “improvise” a suit with denim, then you’re not good at improvising. The inverse of MacGyver. But, you do you. And in turn? I reserve the right to wear jeans while posing for absurd pictures in public. [10 Dos and Dont’s of Getting a New haircut.]( = Failure This article is a great example of how far this blog has fallen since 2009. -Wes C. via Facebook. Well let’s run the numbers. We launched in July of 2009. Let’s assume that Wes is implying that we were consistently on the rise during the latter half of 2009. And then, let’s assume, by his measure, we’ve been on a steady decline since. So that means, on average, (counts on fingers, tallies up total months, divides by number of months we existed in 2009, his barometer of success) we’ve been in decline for approximately 93.5% of our existence. Yet we’re still kicking! That’s amazing! The only reasonable conclusion one can draw from reconciling those two facts is that we’re invincible. We’re goddamned Highlanders. See you all at the quickening. Got a question, suggestion, or a style tip? [Send them to joe@dappered.com](mailto:joe@dappered.com?subject=style tip). ff/Dappered?a=5l99lf8t5BE:YSo5SUjiARY:yIl2AUoC8zA ff/Dappered?a=5l99lf8t5BE:YSo5SUjiARY:qj6IDK7rITs ff/Dappered?a=5l99lf8t5BE:YSo5SUjiARY:gIN9vFwOqvQ [Brooks Brothers up to 70% off Clearance Sale](r/Dappered/~3/rdLwBWBue_Y/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email) Posted: 03 Apr 2017 02:00 PM PDT [Brooks Brothers Clearance: Up to 70% off through 4/6](//www.brooksbrothers.com/sale/mens/Mens_sale_category,default,sc.html?pmin=1&srule=best-sellers&_omna=sort-by&view=viewAll) Not gonna lie. The Brooks Brothers clearance section is tough to keep track of. There’s just so much in there, and it feels like sometimes prices move on some items while they’re stuck on others. And that appears to be the case here. They launched this online clearance “event” this morning (Monday 4/3/17) and… the site promptly crashed. The two events probably aren’t connected, but, well that happened. Meanwhile, [the BCSP17 tiered code](? That just recently went kaput. So some of the more expensive items here could have been had for less last week. But that still doesn’t mean a deep dive into their clearance section isn’t warranted. Especially now that last year’s warm weather stuff is once again becoming relevant. Off we go now. [Regent Fit Garment-Dyed Sport Coat – $268.80](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Regent-Fit-Garment-Dyed-Sport-Coat/MM00577,default,pd.html?dwvar_MM00577_Color=NAVY&contentpos=366) ($448) [Brooks Brothers Regent Fit Garment-Dyed Sport Coat](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Regent-Fit-Garment-Dyed-Sport-Coat/MM00577,default,pd.html?dwvar_MM00577_Color=NAVY&contentpos=366) Garment dyed for softness. 97% cotton and 3% cashmere. Patch pockets on the lower half, along with the washed look, helps keep this thing casual. Just a yoke lining in the back. [Knit ties in Wool Melange](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Melange-Rugby-Stripe-Knit-Tie/MA02256,default,pd.html?dwvar_MA02256_Color=NAVY&contentpos=1412), [Italian Silk](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Framed-Stripe-Knit-Tie/MA02258,default,pd.html?dwvar_MA02258_Color=GREY&contentpos=1411), and [Italian Wool – $47.20](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Dot-Knit-Tie/MA02257,default,pd.html) ($79.50) [Brooks Brothers Knit Ties](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Dot-Knit-Tie/MA02257,default,pd.html) Need a nice tie for an upcoming warm weather wedding or other big event? Then a square ended knit tie is probably your best bet. Big fan of the dots on that Italian wool number. [Non-Iron Regent Fit Sport Shirts in Border Stripe](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Non-Iron-Regent-Fit-Border-Stripe-Sport-Shirt/MG01939,default,pd.html) + [Gingham](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Non-Iron-Regent-Fit-Gingham-Sport-Shirt/MG01922,default,pd.html) + [Windowpane = $159](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Non-Iron-BrooksCool%C2%AE-Regent-Fit-Windowpane-Sport-Shirt/MG01936,default,pd.html) for all 3 ($276) [Brooks Brothers Sport Shirts](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Non-Iron-Regent-Fit-Border-Stripe-Sport-Shirt/MG01939,default,pd.html) Yes indeed, they’re running a three select shirts for $159 promo once again. And while it is a “select” items sale, [some of the shirts they got in there](//www.brooksbrothers.com/3-for-%24159-Sport-Shirts/men-sport-shirt-sale,default,sc.html?lid=leftnav-menu) for the three-pack savings are pretty solid. Bold stripes, gingham, and a nice but not overly aggressive windowpane. Breaks down to $53 a shirt. That’s not UNIQLO cheap, but if you like Brooks Brothers non-iron button downs? Not a bad time to stock up. [Non-Iron Regent Fit Dress Shirts in Bengal](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Non-Iron-Regent-Fit-Bengal-Stripe-Dress-Shirt/ME02643,default,pd.html), [Pin](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Non-Iron-Regent-Fit-Pinstripe-Dress-Shirt/ME02596,default,pd.html), and [Bengal Stripe – $159](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Non-Iron-Regent-Fit-Bengal-Stripe-Dress-Shirt/ME02648,default,pd.html) for all 3 ($276) [Brooks Brothers Dress Shirts](//www.brooksbrothers.com/3-for-%24159-Dress-Shirts/men-shirt-sale,default,sc.html?lid=topnav-menu) And it’s not just sport shirts. [Select dress shirts are up for this bundle deal too](//www.brooksbrothers.com/3-for-%24159-Dress-Shirts/men-shirt-sale,default,sc.html?lid=topnav-menu). Plenty of styles and patterns to pick from. [Fitzgerald Fit Cotton/Linen Sport Coat – $268.80](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Sport-Coat/MM00595,default,pd.html) ($448) [Brooks Brothers Cotton/Linen Sportcoats](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Sport-Coat/MM00595,default,pd.html) A cotton linen blend that should be spot on for the upcoming warmer weather. And it looks like Brooks Brothers recently discontinued their Fitzgerald fit for sportcoats? Bummer. Looks like it might be lined in a lightweight cotton? Maybe? [Merino Wool Marled Stripe Crewneck Sweater – $56.65](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Marled-Stripe-Crewneck-Sweater/RS00083,default,pd.html) ($79.50) [Brooks Brothers Merino Sweater](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Marled-Stripe-Crewneck-Sweater/RS00083,default,pd.html) Italian merino wool, sporty rugby stripes, and made for their younger leaning/trimmer fitting red fleece collection. Could look great with some white chinos and a pair of canvas sneakers for a laid back but still put together cool spring/summer evening look. [1818 Suits in Fitz. Fit Windowpane Wool/Mohair](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Windowpane-1818-Suit/MK00676,default,pd.html), [Plaid Blue Wool](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Plaid-1818-Suit/MK00609,default,pd.html), or [Plaid Blue Wool – $599](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Plaid-1818-Suit/MK00648,default,pd.html) ($1198) [Brooks Brothers 1818 Suits](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Plaid-1818-Suit/MK00609,default,pd.html) Spendy? Yes. But the 1818 line is the real deal. Made in Italy from really nice fabrics. Of course the wheelhouse solids aren’t gonna make it to the clearance section, but a navy, subtle plaid? Why not? [Fitzgerald Fit Striped Linen Sportcoat  – $268.80](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Stripe-Linen-Sport-Coat/MM00542,default,pd.html) ($448) [Brooks Brothers Striped Linen Sportcoat](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Stripe-Linen-Sport-Coat/MM00542,default,pd.html) Still kicking about in the clearance section and still with plenty of sizes left. Nice lightweight linen that doesn’t feel flimsy. Stripes are on the thicker side, but the contrast isn’t over-cooked. [Saxxon Wool Cardigan – $50.40](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Saxxon-Wool-Cardigan/MS00638,default,pd.html) ($168) or [V-Neck Sweaters – $59.20](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Saxxon-Wool-V-Neck-Sweater/MS00722,default,pd.html) ($148) [Brooks Brothers Saxxon Wool Sweaters](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Saxxon-Wool-V-Neck-Sweater/MS00722,default,pd.html) Basics made in their own Saxxon wool. Good for year-round layering. Not from the Red Fleece line though, so expect a more classic cut on these things. Plenty of colors to pick from when it comes to the V-necks. [Vintage Tennis V-Neck Sweater – $48.65](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Vintage-Tennis-V-Neck-Sweater/RS00065,default,pd.html) ($69.50) [Brooks Brothers Vintage Tennis Sweater](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Vintage-Tennis-V-Neck-Sweater/RS00065,default,pd.html) Retro and then some. From the Red Fleece line so expect it to fit a bit closer. Not as in your face as the super bold/thick striped tennis sweaters more than a few brands are running with this year. The waffle knit is also a nice contemporary update when compared to the classic cable knits you’d usually see on a tennis sweater. [Fitzgerald Fit Plaid Sport Coat – $298.80](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Plaid-Sport-Coat/MM00519,default,pd.html) ($498) [Brooks Brothers Plaid Sportcoat](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Fitzgerald-Fit-Plaid-Sport-Coat/MM00519,default,pd.html) Another Fitzgerald fit sportcoat. Out of season? You bet. But that’s also why it’s on sale. Made from a wool/silk blend fabric that was woven in Italy. [Merino Wool Colorblock Glen Plaid Full-Zip Hoodie – $82.60](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Colorblock-Glen-Plaid-Full-Zip-Hoodie/RS00072,default,pd.html) ($118) [Brooks Brothers Hoodie](//www.brooksbrothers.com/Colorblock-Glen-Plaid-Full-Zip-Hoodie/RS00072,default,pd.html) Hoodies don’t get a ton of play on this here website, but this one? Merino wool with a glen-plaid front? Not bad. Another item from their Red Fleece line, so, it should fit a bit trimmer than stuff from the main line. Brooks Brothers is saying this clearance event “ends” on April 6th. What happens then? Who knows. In the past, some items have seen their prices go up a bit. But prices seem relatively stable on this one, for now. Maybe. ff/Dappered?a=rdLwBWBue_Y:HcZtCW40wxE:yIl2AUoC8zA ff/Dappered?a=rdLwBWBue_Y:HcZtCW40wxE:qj6IDK7rITs ff/Dappered?a=rdLwBWBue_Y:HcZtCW40wxE:gIN9vFwOqvQ [Most Wanted Affordable Style – April 2017](r/Dappered/~3/HxYSgkg7_jQ/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email) Posted: 03 Apr 2017 08:00 AM PDT Consider these to be power rankings. Whether you’re looking for gift ideas or a quick upgrade for yourself, expect these to come around about once a month. You’ll find new arrivals and old favorites, especially good deals, or maybe something pricey to keep an eye on for future sales. The potential best of the best, which you may or may not have seen already. Got a tip on something that deserves to end up in the monthly Most Wanted? [Send those in here](mailto:joe@dappered.com?subject=style%20tip). [H&M “Edition” Light Grey Suede Sneakers – $119]( [H&M "Edition" Light Grey Suede Sneakers ]( That’s quite the price jump from [the mid-grey sneakers that are now all but sold out]( but… maybe they’re made in Italy or something with some serious attention to detail? Might want to wait for a code to drop that can be applied on items over $100. Otherwise, if you prefer smooth leather to suede? Massdrop is selling [some Italian made full grain white leather sneakers for $90](. Final sale though, and since it’s Massdrop, you gotta wait a bit for delivery. [Made in the USA Gustin Horween #8 Duffel – $299]( [Made in the USA Gustin Horween #8 Duffel]( Travel season is just around the corner and this sucker should turn some heads. Crafted in CA from Horween’s pretty-much-perfect chromexcel #8 leather. Deep burgundy with tons of character. Not enormous, but 2,268 cubic inches of space should get the job done for more than a few (and also meet many airline requirements for carry on luggage). Shipping date is June. Too spendy but still want a USA made duffel? [Try the Filson Tin Cloth small field duffel](. That one goes for $150 and is a bit bigger in size. [Target Merona Chambray Cotton/Linen Bomber Jacket – $39.99]( [Target Merona Chambray Cotton/Linen Bomber Jacket]( 70% cotton and 30% linen chambray outer. Looks like it might be unlined as well (so, don’t expect it to be super warm). Athletic stripes give it a nice retro feel. And tough to beat the price. (But, don’t expect brilliant quality for forty bucks.) Big thanks to Ryan N. for the tip! [Christopher Ward C3 Malvern Chrono MK III – $400]( [Christopher Ward C3 Malvern Chrono MK III]( Four hundred bucks is not a small ask for a quartz, even if it’s a Swiss chrono… but boy does this thing look awfully good. Gotta say that I personally preferred the old Christoper Ward logo, but the new one sure seems to work just fine with this more minimalist dial. Great looking blue hands as well. 39mm in diameter is on trend with the less-is-more (in terms of size) watch trend. [J. Crew Linen Sportcoats in “Atlantic” – $348]( or [“Brilliant” Blue – $298]( [J. Crew Linen Sportcoats]( A blue, herringbone, 100% linen sportcoat is incredibly versatile from late spring to early fall. A bit more texture and pattern than a standard navy blazer, and a little more relaxed looking thanks to the naturally (and expected) occurring wrinkles. J. Crew smartly made both of these with just a half lining in the back in order to promote maximum airiness. Can easily wear with jeans on cooler days, but switch in some lightweight chinos on the warm and sunny days. It appears that the price difference is due to the source of the fabric? The darker blue option has fabric made in France. BONUS  Warm Weather Patio Happy Hours w/ Friends – (Price Varies) [Happy Hour | Dappered.com] There’s hardly a better reward for a solid week’s worth of work than cutting out a bit early and meeting some friends for a spot of sunshine and beers and/or cocktails. Just remember to hydrate (y’know, with plain ol’ water) if you’re sitting in the sun. Want more most wanted? [Click here]( for the top 5 most wanted lists from previous months. ff/Dappered?a=HxYSgkg7_jQ:Cuk03Fy0u_4:yIl2AUoC8zA ff/Dappered?a=HxYSgkg7_jQ:Cuk03Fy0u_4:qj6IDK7rITs ff/Dappered?a=HxYSgkg7_jQ:Cuk03Fy0u_4:gIN9vFwOqvQ You are subscribed to email updates from [Dappered Style Mail](). To stop receiving these emails, you may [unsubscribe now](. Email delivery powered by Google Google Inc., 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA 94043, United States