If Picasso had been a beach bum, I imagine he would have worn a shirt similar to this (because, apparently, that’s the kind of thing I imagine about) (imagine about?). The Type 409 Hand-Bleached Pullover Work Shirt from English brand Tender Co. is handcrafted in the UK using British-made Selvedge cotton calico. Inspired by vintage work-wear, the shirt boasts a handful of old-timey details, including cast aluminum buttons, cuff-less “rail worker” sleeves, puckered arm seams, and selvedge on the hem. Read More »

The sudden resurgence of winter weather here in the Midwest is making these (and the temperature for which they’re appropriate) all the more appealing right now. The Skinny Shorts from England’s Oliver Spencer are handcrafted in the United Kingdom from premium cotton seersucker (or premium cotton twill, depending on the pair). In typical Spencer fashion, the shorts nicely combine classic British materials and construction with a more modern fit and details (loving the painted wooden buttons). Read More »

I don’t actually need glasses. I’ve always had above 20/20. And I also don’t condone the wearing of glasses for purely fashion / aesthetic reasons. I mean, why not walk around with fake crutches too, while you’re at it? All that said, I can still appreciate a good pair, and, if my parents’ eyesight is any indication, that appreciation will most likely turn into need in the next 10 to 15 years. So, consider this post me planning ahead. England’s Anglo American Optical (not to be confused with America’s American Optical), have been churning out top quality eyeglass frames for over 120 years. Read More »

What’s on sale RIGHT NOW.

I think it’s safe to say I’m not the only guy who spent much of this past summer drooling over the English-made bucks by designer Mark McNairy. But – and again, I’m sure I’m not alone here – I just couldn’t bring myself to pull the near-$400-trigger on a pair. Thankfully, it’s looking like I won’t have to suffer the same longing next year, as Brooklyn’s Epaulet has just knocked 30% off their entire remaining McNairy stock. There are four styles in total (including those navy suede saddle shoes – you know the ones), and many sizes left. Read More »

When it comes to buying goods that are built to last a lifetime, I would argue the more understated the design the better. After all, what’s the point of spending the money it takes to procure an investment piece, if you’re not going to like how it looks after a year? That said, it doesn’t get much simpler – or more durable – than the Border Rucksack from England’s Chapman Bags. Painstakingly handcrafted (and I do mean handcrafted) by expert bag-makers in a centuries old factory, the elegantly simple BR is made from weatherproof bonded canvas, military grade cotton webbing and vegetable tanned bridle leather (all of which are sourced locally from low-impact facilities). Read More »

On the subject of drool-inducing autumn accessories: Folk has just received its first shipment of AW10 belts, and they are beautiful. As the brand tells it, “All our belts are made from fabric from an age old Italian webbing supplier… After we get the webbing back here, it’s sent off to a factory in Northampton to handmake the belts. The leathers we use also come from Italy [and are] veg tanned rather than chrome dyed.” Works for me. Read More »