As I sat at work today, I was secluded in my windowless cell, away from the apparently treacherous conditions that were hyped to leave New York paralyzed in a sea of white. Co-workers called out. Clients arrived, but rushed their work to skee-dattle before they were snowed in behind their desks. I was stuck there, alone, shouldering the responsibility because I chose to live in the city, and not some far off land, and had easy access to the office.
I have come to think that once you reach a certain age (my guess is early 30s), snow devolves from the wonderfully pure substance that elicits childlike awe to a form of anthrax that flutters from the heavens. Over-reations and hype are spewed out more than insults at roast. Not having immediate access to what was unfolding outside, my mind began to wander as to what I would face when I finally left. A friend had uploaded perfect wintery pics to his Picasa page of his snow shaped Brooklyn street and I was excited to head out and frolic (manly frolicing, of course). As the revolving door finished spinning, I was greeted with a grey, grimy Madison Ave, no different than if it had rained. Thanks again media - for setting me up and knocking me down. Snow storms are like blind dates. You hope... pray... wish that you arrive to a D-cup nympho ready to jump your bones, only to find a frumpy financial dame with the personality of wet dish rag.
But I digress... there is a point to be had. The (imaginary) snow had brought one blessing to the work day - peace and not so quite. When the co-workers are away, the iPod will play... loudly. The random shuffle brought a lot of glimmers of spring... some DMB (a great reminder of summer concerts), Jack Johnson's island cool and quite a bit of Vampire Weekend's eclectic beats. As a devotee to style and a self ascribed clothes whore, I meandered over to a few of my fashion sites during my lunch break to unwind.
My favorite ruggedly refined outfitter, J.Crew, has much in the way of exciting offerings for their spring line. The home page of the men's section features a video with head designer Frank Muytjens and stylist Jack O'Conner highlighting the inspiration and styling of their new collaborations and designs. I was happy to hear Jack comment on the attention to tailoring. I believe that fit, first and foremost, is the key to looking sharp and J. Crew only keeps getting better with their attention to detail in cut.
After watching the video, I was digging the shawl collar dinner jacket made of a lighter weight material for summer - a unique interpretation on a classic piece. I was also keen on the concept of a chambray shirt (classic rugged) with a tie and jacket (refined)... again, Mr. Crew, I think we are destine to work together. Additionally, take note of the relaxed gingham sport coat on one of the models, another refreshing take on a summer pattern staple.
Some other things I fancy from their "new arrivals":
Definitely on the "to buy" list:
I love the concept of a pocket square in a rugged material.
Navy Gingham Tie - perfect compliment to a khaki suit.
Piccolo Gingham Tie in Turquoise.
Seersucker Tie... is there a classier summer fabric?
*As a side note: Frank is also up for GQ's designer of the year award - which would be well deserved, in my humble opinion. All of the nominees are slated to be featured in the March issue of GQ.
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