wanted: the cardigan

Marled wool Shawl-Collar Cardigan
J. Crew, $138
I have a theory that J. Crew has gotten too expensive since it has received the Obama seal of approval (seriously, why does NOTHING go on sale at the men's shop on Broadway?), but I can't resist this cardigan. I don't know if it's age or the fact that I shopped a ton this year, but I can't think of too many things I want for Christmas, but this cardigan has shot to the top of the list. Boardgames and Moon Shoes just don't do it for any more. However, this cardigan with the marled black and white knit looks like something Steve McQueen might have worn next to a fireplace in his chalet après-ski on the set of "Le Mans" and in my constant quest to steal any drop of his cool factor and impeccable style, I must have it. I won't participate in Black Friday, but the link will quickly get forwarded to Santa (a.k.a. my parents).

jealous of an eight-year-old

Crewcuts by J. Crew
May 2009
I think swishy pants and shoes that lit up as you walked were big when I was in elementary school. If only I had Crewcuts at my disposal I could have been a young sartorial star like the "Mad Men" creator's son.

topsy turvy

Sutherland wool-cashmere topcoat
J. Crew, $388
I was in a Staples of all places the other day and saw a three quarter length topcoat on a fellow shopper and suddenly it all clicked. I need one as well. I'm tall and slim enough for it look just right. J. Crew, why must you insist on being so expensive during this economic crisis?

wanted: tie it on

I think of my style as being generally casual without being slovenly or forever clad in sweatpants and other loungewear, but lately I've wanted to throw on a tie for something a little rakish and unexpected. I wouldn't want to look too formal or ready for the office but a more casual sporty approach. I think owning a tie clip would be a definite impetus to own a solid tie collection that would look somewhat dapper without being stuffy or dull. Tie clips are insanely stylish and fit my ideal style period, the late 50s and early to mid 60s. Imagine: jeans, an untucked fitted shirt, and a tie-clip on my slim tie would be killer. Santa, please take notice:

Sterling silver tie clip, J. Crew $75

Ties to complete the look:
Brooks Brothers, Fields Tartan Tie $75
J. Crew, Solid Knit Skinny Tie $49.50
Band of Outsiders, Cashmere Bar Striped Tie $125

the shawl

Vintage fleece shawl-collar pullover, $69.50


I have been after a shawl-collar sweater for over a year now. There is something very Paul Newman circa 1968 about them that I think fits my aesthetic for Fall. I tried on the pullover pictured above at J. Crew today and I must say it's every bit as comfortable and effortless to wear as it looks. The price is a little steep for what is essentially a sweatshirt, but don't you believe in paying for what you get? When you get something as sharp and cool as what is pictured above you can't complain, right?*


*Don't worry, kids. I am not that financially irresponsible. Sixty-nine dollars is way too much for a sweatshirt. I asked the salesman to put it on hold until the price goes down a bit.