The dapper man can be nothing short of a headache. He makes his opinions on Italian tailoring well known; he has a closet devoted to mid-weight coats; he owns jeans made from every single Japanese mill; he compares the patina of leather to a fine Bordeaux. This man appreciates quality of material and handsome construction, but that’s also the difficulty of purchasing him a gift. Those timeless, well-made pieces will definitely be a hit, but how to find them? To alleviate the guesswork, we put together a list of gifts that will make any stylish man happy, no matter his depth of wardrobe.
Paul Evans The Martin Wholecut Oxford
Made from a single piece of Italian calfskin leather, this oxford comes in a stately aged cognac finish that will complement your best blue and gray suits. Handmade in Italy, the oxford has blake stitch construction, a leather lining and sleek profile. And, because of Paul Evans’ direct business model, you’re saving hundreds on this quality shoe.
David Coggins Men and Style
David Coggins explores mens’ relationship to identity through clothing in Men and Style. His own essays sit next to interviews with notable men of style — reminiscing on memories of parents and laughing about style faux pas — and the imagined conversation between the men makes for a strong sense of fraternity. Not just your typical “what to wear” advice, Coggins’ book touches on the deeper questions relating to how we choose to dress.
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Adidas Originals NMD Runner
After a late 2015 release, the NMD Runner quickly became the it sneaker of 2016. A breathable mesh upper sits upon EVA inserts and boost cushioning. The NMD hugs the foot with a sleek silhouette, and features a durable rubber outsole to take on whatever the streets have to offer. New and stylish, this sneaker is a fledgling classic that will be around for years to come.
Smythson Panama Leather Notebook
Inspired by a portable diary created by Frank Smythson in 1908, this notebook has a cover made from flexible cross-grain leather that can be bent and rolled without losing shape. The paper is notably lightweight and finished with gold edges for a timeless, refined appearance. A journal is essential for most creative pursuits, and an upscaled one makes the perfect holiday gift.
COS Mélange Alpaca-Blend Sweater
A neutral sweater is one of the best cold-weather wardrobe investments. This gray alpaca-blend sweater from COS is definitely a sound one, with a simple crew neck, ribbed trims and a subtle texture. It pairs equally well under a parka for a weekend on the slopes as it does over an oxford for daily office wear. With its soft touch and versatility, this neutral sweater will easily become a favorite among your winter garments.
Salt Optics Pickford Sunglasses
Quality sunglasses are worth spending money on because they feel better, look better and are better for the wearer’s eyes. The Pickford Sunglasses from Salt Optics are made in Japan and feature polarized G-15 glass. The frames have a keyhole bridge that is flattering to a range of face shapes and come in a distinguished matte burlywood acetate colorway.
Deveaux Collection
The F/W 2016 Deveaux collection consists of a refined range of shirts, sweaters, jackets and pants, all made in America. Though each piece in the collection is a study in luxury, the Robe Coat ($3,995) made of Loro Piana cashmere, and the Bomber ($4,995) in black shearling stand above the rest. If understated luxury is your thing, Deveaux is a brand to keep a close eye on in the years ahead.
Drake’s Wool-and-Cashmere Blend Tie
Drake’s ties set the standard by which many other ties are measured. This wool-and-cashmere blend tie is a perfect illustration of why: it’s finished by hand with rolled edges in England, has as subtle texture and a tonal palette that works in a range of situations. Gray tie; gold standard.
KikaNY Oval Buckle Belt
Handmade in Brooklyn, New York, this belt features beautiful Italian leather and a solid brass buckle from England. The leather will age handsomely into the future and the unique buckle will develop a patina worthy of sharing with your children. A belt is worn every day, so you should invest in one that will stay with you for years.
Brooks Mott Holdall
For a unique take on the classic weekender bag, look to Brooks’ Mott Holdall bag. Made in Italy, the 40-liter bag is made from treated organic cotton, and has two vulcanized rubber straps. The bag features a quilted yellow lining for easy visibility of contents and a small external zippered pocket. On short business trips and weekends in the country, this bag’s style will stand apart from the masses.
Nau Nazca Alpaca Beanie
A 100 percent alpaca-wool beanie for under $50? That’s a deal too ridiculously good to pass up — get two if you can. This beanie is made from sustainable alpaca wool from Peru, and features subtle ribbing and a rolled hem. Soft and warm, minimal and sustainable, it’s an ideal winter accessory for all men.
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The Hill-Side Chambray Pocket Square
Add a rugged touch to your business wardrobe with this Japanese selvedge chambray pocket square from The Hill-Side. Made at the company’s NYC factory, the pocket square is cut from Japanese cotton chambray and includes a red-line selvedge edge. An alternative to silks and wools, this pocket square is a tasteful nod to workwear and a must for any denim lover.
Gear Patrol Magazine Three
Our latest issue is 320 pages of rich photography, thoughtful writing and, most importantly, gear. But for those with a particular hunger for fashion, we spent time talking with John Moore of Outerknown, Greg Chait of The Elder Statesmen and famed designer Greg Lauren, in addition to gathering style guides for hats, boots and more.
A.P.C. x Outdoor Voices Collection
Collaboration between fashion brands and athletic brands is nothing new; Nike’s Gyakusou collection and Adidas’ Y-3 collection are prime examples. But, both of those collections are quite bold. For something a little more understated and minimal, there’s the A.P.C. x Outdoor Voices collection. A simple, tailored anorak ($280) and a mock neck zip-up ($190) are clean, technical outerwear pieces, and the collection’s shorts and sweatpants are respectable for a range of uses. It’s the subtlest athleisure collab out there.
Canali Double-Faced Silk and Cashmere-Blend Scarf
This tie from Canali is a strong example of Italian luxury in a reasonably affordable package. This scarf, an incredibly soft blend of silk and cashmere, is features fringed ends and a double-faced color palette (gray on one side and midnight-blue on the other). While many scarves fit well into the casual space, this scarf is made to pair with your best suit and topcoat for that big sales meeting or a special dinner with your significant other.
Massimo Alba Austin Overcoat
This houndstooth wool overcoat from Massimo Alba brings an air of Italian nonchalance to winter outerwear. The coat is lined only through the sleeves for a lighter construction, and features a three-button front that is both classic and elegant. Pair it over your suit for the workweek, or over chinos and a sweater on the weekend. It’ll elevate your whole ensemble.
The Splurge
A Watch for a Lifetime
Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph
Versatile and unique, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas fits the bill for an elevated chronograph that does it all. First designed in 1977, the 42.5mm Overseas is water resistant and anti-magnetic, has a refined mechanical chronograph movement and a titanium bezel ring. On a steel band, this watch can go anywhere you go, from the boardroom to the beach, and is distinctive without being attention-grabbing. At $28,900, it’s definitely an investment, but more importantly, it’s the perfect upgrade to that ubiquitous Submariner.
