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.
Tried this Black Fleece mac on at Brooks, and it's easily my favorite piece I've seen this spring. Fabric is spot on, the color is gorgeous (more of a British khaki than the photo suggests). Yes, it's a little pricey, but it's a steal considering a similar Burberry number would run you at least twice that. What's best is it's got that perfect fit without the extra helping of Thom Browne ... weird. 
We're currently in that sartorial in-between season, the purgatory between the tweeds and tartans of fall/winter and the linen and madras of spring/summer. It's still damned cold, but wide wale cords and blaze orange cableknits don't seem quite right either. So for right now, it's best to pick a neutral color palette and stick with it. I find J.Crew makes a terrific cashmere v-neck that is a good layering piece all year round. The fit is spot on, it comes in basic colors (gray, navy, black) as well as seasonal ones (purple, olive, seafoam), and the construction has improved significantly since they first partnered with Loro Piana for the yarn several years back. At $188, it may not be cheap, but it's on par quality-wise with sweaters twice its price (and with luck, you can even nab it on sale).
Posts
