A Headlong Dive.

Alden for J.Crew continues to impress as these limited edition navy suede joints are certainly a thing of beauty. While I wasn’t a huge fan of Alden + J.Crew’s last effort of the chukka because of the plantation sole, these boast the flex construction leather outsoles which give them a slightly more formal feel.

Apparently they only made 20 pairs, so if you want to see them on your feet… run.

Get on ‘em at J.Crew.

- DJS

Sundek’s boardshort are the epitome of swimwear. Embraced by the west coast surfing culture of the 60′s, Sundek’s colorful yet minimalistic take on the swim short revolutionized the way all other trunks were made. And while you might not be a soul surfer, you should emulate their free and easy warm weather wear.

Make your way over to Sundek to check out their wide range of colors, just remember to stay away from all elastic waist action.

- DJS

Epaulet’s lightweight and colorful chinos are perfect for the guy who is looking to upgrade his pant game. Ranging from 7 to 12 oz, you’ll find their vibrant 7 oz variety the perfect lightweight trouser for summer, the 10 oz duck canvas a more durable and rigid pant that will soften with wear and the 12 oz the ideal thickness for A/W.

From Epaulet, “The Rivet Chino has a classic slim-straight fit that is by no means “skinny”. It features a medium-low rise and small leg opening that works well with dress shoes, boots, and trainers alike. Details include: tortoise-shell button-fly, hickory striped cotton pocket-bags, hidden front coin pocket sized to accommodate cards and cash, and a strip of natural cotton herringbone twill running down the inside of each leg to give the pants an extra punch when rolled up. A single-curtain cotton waistband helps to keep your shirt tucked in. Epaulet Rivet Chinos are proudly made in the U.S.A.”

Make your way over to Epaulet to scout the inventory.

- DJS

Not everyone is a tie kind of guy. And while I could make a sensible and lengthy argument why everyone should be a tie wearing man, I’ll save that for another day. What I will pontificate is that every man needs (at the very least) a small supply of neckwear for the periodic wedding, graduation or celebratory occasion that calls for more a dignified dress code exceeding one’s everyday attire. If you are in the market for such a unique accessory this summer season, which is often filled with events galore, go with Drake’s of London.

You’ll not only feel better in neckwear that sets you apart from other gents in attendance but the tie can act as a memento that marks the occasion and reminds you of your achievement every time you wear it. Furthermore, such events are always filled with photographic moments and you don’t want to be remembered through the ages as a classless schlub. Ok, I’ll admit that at this point I’m just making up reasons to buy a luxurious new tie.

From Mr. Porter, “Drake’s is the largest producer of handmade ties in England, and the quality of this flower-print version attests to the company’s investment in superior construction. Made from fine silk-twill and featuring a playful design, this piece has a refined presence. Allow the pattern to stand out by pairing it with a bright white shirt when you need to cut a dash in the boardroom.”

Get yours at Mr. Porter.

- DJS

I’ve never owned any APC footwear, so I can’t attest to their quality or durability but I can wholeheartedly say that these blue canard calfskin suede loafers get an A+ on the eye test. The low profile of the rubber sole and beef roll stitching gives them a leisurely look while the french blue hue of the suede further seals the informal deal.

Find them at Park & Bond.

- DJS

Love your Nike Free’s but miss wearing boat shoes? Waiting on Nike to create a Free 3.0 v4 iD penny loafer? Problem solved with these rubber and mesh loafers from Swims.

Get on ‘em at Mr. Porter.

Now if Swims will just make a long wing resembling the Air Jordan 11 Concords.

- DJS

As most menswear enthusiasts, I bend the knee for well constructed jackets that cost as much as my monthly mortgage. That being said, few folks can spare that kind of coin for a blazer. So unless you’re planning on rolling the dice with eBay or hitting the jackpot on a random Yoox sale, affordable alternatives can often be a breath of fresh air. If you’re in that camp, check out these options from General Assembly.

Don’t let the ill-fitting photos fool you, as these 100% cotton blazers would lend a serious hand for spring/summer and the $145 price tag would give you enough cash left over to spend your savings on alterations at your tailor and snatch up the matching trousers (navy and moss only) while you’re at it.

From Need Supply, “General Assembly works like this: Take a classic style, tear it apart and put it back together from memory. You’ll end up forgetting what isn’t necessary and playing around with what is; ultimately, you’ll end up with something both familiar and new. General Assembly is from Brooklyn, NY.”

Head over to Need Supply Co. to scout the inventory for yourself.

- DJS

It’s time to take inventory of your swimwear, as mid-May brings the hope of pool and beach weather and the plans of a summer vacation back into the picture. Regardless of what your zip code is, you’ll probably be needing a pair of swim shorts this summer, so why not get the jump on it and opt for a laid-back pair like these from Penfield.

Keep in mind that swimwear for an adult man should follow two simple rules. Rule #1. String tie or button snap waist closure. No one looks good in elastic waisted trunks. Rule #2. They hit above the knee, not on and not below. Let the kids keep the long board short look all to themselves.

As far as I can tell, these Penfield swim shorts satisfy both rules and boast some simple yet bright colors and a minimally designed small-scale left front pocket that gives them that extra flair that sets them apart from other characterless options.

Find them at Stag.

- DJS