Wardrobe Staple | The Engine-Turned Buckle

the thrifting find

the Tiffany splurge

Buckles like these are an enduring prep staple for a number of reasons. First, since the buckle can be used with a variety of different belt straps, it's practical! And thrifty. (The fact that the straps, usually gator, run upwards of $200... is disregarded.) Second, it allows the prep to showcase the only designer initials that should ever be worn: one's own. Third, the heirloom quality of the sterling means that with good care, it will last forever.

A truly resourceful prep will either pilfer one from his father or find one secondhand. The top buckle, 14K gold-plated sterling, has an inscription inside which reads: "From your friends in 29." Neat. The fact that the initials are "B.S." lends it a little irreverent charm. I think I paid something like $20 for it.

For those who'd prefer new, it's worth investing a little more to get the best. Mine's from Tiffany, where they run $215, not including engraving. Might as well splurge for the hand engraving for this piece ($30). Straps can be had at Brooks, Ralph, Paul Stuart, etc. in a variety of leathers: calf, suede, lizard, and gator.

And in case you're wondering, the initials don't stand for "Dapper Van Blog." A nice coincidence, perhaps.