JKISSI : If you have grown tired of the standard lace up, such as we do from time to time, the loafer is a great starting point to change paths from your usual choices. The loafer isn’t the primary item of choice when you’re thinking of purchasing a pair of shoes over other designs, such as the oxford. The casual slip-on shoe originally made it’s way from Norway in the 1930s and was dispersed all over Europe and took the interest of American visitors. When discussing loafers I can’t help but think about the high-fashion luxury house Gucci expanding on the classic design by placing a gold emblem on the loafer. The loafer is still known as an American classic in footwear whether you choose to fancy the shoe, or rather stay as far away as possible from what some people label as “grandpa” shoes.

Timeline – Originated in 1876, Bass shoes have become an American standard for comfort, durability and their own unique style. The company’s formal name is GH Bass + Co. and was named for its founder, George Henry Bass. Everyone knows the Bass Weejun penny loafer, a company staple.

JKISSI – Brixton hat – Uniqlo turtleneck – TM 3/4 jacket – Dexter hand-sewn loafers

Fit Description – I should have probably formed a post on head wear prior to this post as I have been on the search for great selections to throw on top of my cerebrum. I came across Brixton, a brand I have known since their humble beginnings back in 2006 when their head wear couldn’t really fit into my then-street-wear-oriented outfits. Yes , I’m in white jeans after Labor Day. For me, this so-called “fashion crime” has polluted some people’s minds regarding what they can and can not wear depending on the season. As you can see, I disregard this traditional notion as it’s outdated. When you think about the loafer who doesn’t think of the late legend Michael Jackson known for his black loafers and white socks accompanied with cropped trousers.

Trav pictured above with tassel loafers from Sebago

The penny loafer has been a American staple and classic go-to for decades now. There seemed to be a time when every boy and teenager would wear penny loafers comparable to the sneaker game of today’s generation. It was interesting to learn about what the extra leather slit provided on the penny loafer; from money for the payphone back when dimes were enough to make a call to a simply stylish approach. Even my Dad was pretty convinced to give the penny loafer a chance and change up from his usual selection of oxford shoes. The penny loafer is versatile being the perfect medium between casual and formal.

JKISSI : When thinking of where to begin my leather jacket journey purchase the company Schott NYC came to mind instantly. People may label leather jackets as something trendy or popular, but the truth of the matter is they can never go out of style. The leather jacket is a American classic varying in different styles, colors and lengths. My earliest memory of my first leather jacket was a biker jacket from Vanson leathers which obviously became out of fit within years. Once again I faced the dilemma of purchasing another jacket even with all the information learned it was still a hesitant process. With a new breed of  quality leather jackets being made it can become expensive, but this life time purchase can be worth it in terms of longevity. Similar to a pair of raw denim jeans you would purchase this piece can last for a very long time.  I chose to go with a leather bomber with it’s thick knit wrist and neck bands to keep the body warm during the colder months.  It seems nothing is better than to have a full lineup when it comes outerwear during the fall and winter seasons.

Schott NYC (Schott Bros.) the first company to place zippers on jackets started back  in 1913 by two brothers Irving and Jack Schott in New York City.  The two brothers sought out to produce quality driven products with a function more than appealing to fashion and style world. The company produced garments for the US Military during World War II and continues to produce the classic naval pea coat for the US Navy.  Schott NYC is considered a American classic manufactured right here in the United States, it’s great to see a company withstand many years and still stay true to it’s roots.

JKISSI – Schott NYC Leather Bomber – Topman Gray Herringbone cap – GAP Flannel – A.P.C New Cures – Ralph Lauren Ranger Boot – David Z exclusive

Schott NYC were great enough to add a promo code just for Street Etiquette readers – Promo code: Street09 – 15% off reg. priced items – Take advantage guys

Fit Description : – : The Schott bomber was the perfect choice even in the midst of many jackets to choose from, I wanted to stray away from my usual  love for biker style jackets. The details on the jacket were vital to my decision the triple thick collar, multiple zippers on the front and hand warmer insulated pockets were perfect. When it comes to leathers it seems people are more comfortable to pick black, of course going with anything you pair it with. The brown also gives off a classic bomber feeling which I really thought would work well with what I had in mind. New Cures have just experienced their first treatment at the dry cleaners, faded beautifully. Classic Ralph Lauren ranger boots more known as ‘Cookies’ in gray a collaboration with Ronnie Fieg of David Z and Ralph Lauren. I recently wrote a short article on our Hypebeast blog about the Lo-Lifes in correlation with Ralph Lauren.  I know you guys are still awaiting that much anticipated Boot post we’re still working hard on that post.

Biker jackets are probably my favorite style of the leather jacket. Here are a few pictures which I think personify the jacket style.

Chosen Few Motorcycle Club – TheSelvedageYard

Trav : It’s always good to have some sort of knowledge about the patterns and fabrics that we constantly indulge ourselves in, whether it’s flannel, houndstooth, tweed or herringbone. Classic British style comes to mind when I think of a pattern such as houndstooth. The savvy yet tailored classic look from our brothers across the pond seems to be at the root of many patterns across the board.  Various houndstooth pieces I have seen were just too busy for my personal taste. I was however lucky enough to come across this beautiful Polo houndstooth wool shirt. Houndstooth is a duo tone textile pattern, characterized by broken checks or abstract four-pointed shapes. I particularly love this piece because it sticks to a more toned down classic look. The piece  almost has a sort of  ‘tweedish” look ( one of my favorite fabrics as of late). After Josh’s previous post about different patterns I felt it would be appropriate for me to follow suit on the topic. Patterns similar to this are just perfect for layering during the fall season.

Trav – Ralph Lauren Houndstooth shirt  | Uniqlo turtle neck | Nudies | L.L Bean Rubber Mocs

Fit Details: I’m wearing a Polo houndstooth wool shirt,  I actually purchased this shirt for next to nothing from a thrift store. I had to make a appointment with our tailor Pablo (Stanton Tailor Shop) to get the shirt taken in a bit for a more tapered slim look.  With the fall season comes relentless layering  calling for the cream Uniqlo turtleneck underneath a brown uniqlo v neck shirt. The bracelets are  produced by brothers and leather makers Billykirk. We recently stopped by their Jersey City studio and had the chance to spectate on how everything comes to fruition.   The shoes are L.L. Bean Rubber Mocs, they are definitely one of my favorites. The sizing on these bad boys are really off so if anyone is planning on purchasing size down two. I wear a 9.5-10 and an 8 fits perfectly.

* UPDATE * – To view how LL Bean boots are made click this link – very interesting *

JKISSI : The second edition to our ‘Accessories Are a Necessity’ category finally makes its way to completion with anticipation and emails from our readers. After the first post on ‘Wrist Ornaments’ we have been brainstorming on what would be best second edition.  The modest pocket square has been around for a long time before it’s current appeal to style and fashion. I have to be perfectly honest here admitting that I was unaware about the history of the pocket square, but to say the least it was interesting to learn about it’s origin. I think that’s one of the interesting aspects of this site even if you had prior knowledge of the pocket square, we like to accompany our readers on a journey with us.  The original use of the pocket square was purely hygienic such as blowing ones nose, wiping ones face and everything that comes with that. Originating from England the material from which they are made could differ according to their ability of absorption and the status of the owner, the more successful using silk material. It was not until the 19th century with the emergence of two piece suits, where pocket squares were viewed as something more decorative rather than functional.

Pictured on the right is my own personal collection of pocket squares that I have attained this far, which some of you have probably seen around the site in previous post. Although the pocket square no longer holds any functional connotations, I can’t help but think of my good friend photographer Mougabe who would use his handkerchief tied in a certain way to hold his camera. The pocket square brings versatility with your outfit provided different folding methods changing the look of your outfit. Depending on the look of the fit I would sometimes throw a pocket square in my shirt pocket to liven things up a bit during the more warmer months.  The great men’s site Art of Maniless provided a great video on how to fold the pocket square in various ways. Please gentlemen start to break in the stitching on those blazer pockets and start to go wild.

JKISSI – GAP Blazer | Uniqlo Corduroy Shirt | Uniqlo Knit Tie |  APC New Cure Jeans | J.Crew Bucks |  The Hill Side Selvage Chambray

Fit Description – I have had this suede GAP Blazer stashed in my closet for sometime from previous employment at the GAP. When purchasing the blazer I was unsure on it’s quality, but it has sustained up to this point. After seeing Trav’s’ well faded APC Petite standards I knew I had to wear my pair a lot more(lol). In this outfit I wanted to not only play with different color palettes as usual, but also play with different textures at hand. The corduroy, selvedge chambray, suede blazer, knit tie all contain different textures bringing something different. The selvage chambray piece is one of my favorites produced by Brooklyn based brand The Hill Side made right here in New York City. The brand has a whole slew of different designs and materials such as ties , scarves and many other workwear driven items.

I decided to give a brief collage list on some pocket squares favorites that I think are worth the price and quality. The Fine N Dandy shop known as the forefront  ‘accessories for dapper guys’ online pit stop was perfect. The shop has just debuted their fall/winter 2009 lookbook I would suggest browsing around the online shop, your sure to find some great accessories. Interesting enough all of these items pictured above are made in New York City.

1. The Hill-Side Selvedge Chambray Small Handkerchief (Pocket Sq.), Black – $39.00

2. Black & White Prince of Wales Handkerchief  – $15.00

3. The Hill-Side Selvedge Chambray Bandana – $44.00

4. Dark Blue Plaid Handkerchief   $15.00

5.  The Hill-Side Selvedge Chambray Plum Violet Pocket Square  – $37.00

JKISSI : The brand LL Bean is no stranger to our site here, even though it has been sometime since we have discussed any news concerning the brand.  Recently, the notable American lifestyle brand has dug into their old archives to reissue the ‘Norwegian sweater’ which is knitted in Norway just as the original. With the fall season now in effect a great piece of knitwear as this would be the perfect choice to layer with.  The beautiful weave texture design is what ideally caught my eye at first glance without any prior knowledge of the sweater’s riveting past. I thought it was very interesting to see the older audience from different blogs such as Max Wastler’s All Plaid Out identify with the sweater on a much more different level than myself. A first generation pusher myself  in this nation with a love for traditional prep intertwined with a urbanesque touch, I hope to pass this sweater on to my own children.

First appearing in LL Bean’s catalog in 1965 the sweater became the choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a functional yet stylish sweater. Through the years the sweater fell out of the company’s loop of regular production. Accompanied by various bloggers composing articles on the sweater, and the resurgence of American prep in fashion/style it has made it’s way back to the production in a robust fashion.

JKISSI – Topman Black Denim Vest - LL Bean Norwegian sweater – Clarks Desert Boots

Fit Description -  The black denim vest was the perfect layering piece. I have been on the search for a black denim jacket instead of the indigo one that I previously made by having my tailor cutting the sleeves off a jean jacket. Similar to what I said above the weave patterns on the Norwegian sweater is a interesting pattern to play with and layer. The sweater does a lot more than just look good,with the times came great technology to improve the production of the sweater now made out of 100% wool. The black beads are my favorite wrist ornaments right now giving the earth tone beads a bit of a rest from regular use. I decided to do something different and give the images a B&W touch which looks very appropriate with the feel of this post.

Trav: I’ve always had a fondness for items that sport the tag “MADE IN U.S.A” because with outsourcing now heavily at hand, there are not many things that are actually made in America. When i found this vintage LEE denim jacket on eBay I just had to get it, not only because it was surprisingly made in the America but also because there is a strong history behind the brand that frequently goes unrecognized. Check out the video below for some history on the classic brand. While preparing this post I couldn’t help to wonder where LEE is now, there is virtually no LEE products in stores that i come into contact with. Their U.S. online store carries very ordinary, bland items, clearly catering to the older, more traditional audience. The weird thing is that the apparel on their UK site caters more to younger, more trendy individuals. They actually have some pretty dope items on the UK online store and even a “coming soon” blog. Companies catering to different targets markets in different countries is surely not a new thing but that is a much bigger topic to be discussed. It would be interesting to know why there are such brimming differences between the two lines. Why not give Levi a run for their money here in the U.S.?

Fit Details- Vintage LEE denim jacket, Uniqlo oxford shirt, Nudies, Polo Boots. After wearing my black polo boots all last winter I got sort of bored with them so i cut the straps off and replaced the laces with some old timberland laces. I like them a whole lot more now.

Check out this very interesting time line video below that gives a nice rundown of the History behind the LEE brand.

Concept Animation: Nicola “DeeMo” Peressoni
Music: Stefano Calzolari Dan Mela
Agency: Sartoria.com
Client: Lee Europe

JKISSI : Specific textiles and materials are sometimes deemed more acceptable to wear in certain seasons.  The durable textile corduroy is one of my favorites by far compared to other materials. Corduroy is made up of twisted woven fibers aligned in a parallel pattern. I can even admit that I went as far as wearing corduroy pants rolled up during this summer just to fulfill my pre-fall corduroy crave.  The comfortable and soft fabric believed to be first produced in England shares a similar preppy connotation as madras, the previous  fabric that we touched on. The only obvious difference apart from texture is that madras is much more appropriate in warmer climates. For a long time corduroy was just known to be used on pants, but now it’s being used on everything from blazers to hats as the perfect fall/winter fabric.

JKISSI – Vintage WOOLRICH Hunting Plaid jacket |  Topman Black Shirt |  Uniqlo Tan Skinny Corduroys | Clarks Desert Boots

Fit Description – The woolrich jacket was purchased on my usual  thrifting sprees. It still holds up as a great wool jacket could definitely keep you warm on fall/winter days. I have been a fan of plaids and black/red is a color palette that always compliment each other nicely. The uniqlo  corduroys fit great and quality seems like it would hold up for a good amount of time. The new black beads I have are definitely my favorite right now, with a combination of different finishes such as matte and glossy.

I was forced to dig in our archives for one of my favorite post to date. It seemed my nephew was already on his way as far as having a great corduroy piece to play around with. To purchase a similar blazer the good people at J.crew released a perfect substitute to go with this fall and winter.  Corduroy provides the perfect versatility that can be worn in a more casual setting to even a more formal setting.  The rich fabric is now produced by many designers and retailers to now include a more slimmer cut from previous designs.  I was ultimately going to pass on doing a list of where to purchase different cords, but I felt it would eventually become beneficial to everyone including myself.

TOPS

1. Jcrew Corduroy workwear sportcoat – $158.00

2. Our Legacy Corduroy blazer – $358.00

3. BR Cotton corduroy two-button blazer – $198.00

4.  * Jcrew washed cord sportcoat – $98.00 *

(The best deal to go with if you are looking for a great sportscoat concerning price point /  quality)

5. Levis Cord Trucker – $89.50

BOTTOMS

1. RUGBY Corduroy jean – $89.50

2. Jcrew Classic fit cord- trouser – $49.50-69.50

3. RUGBY Slim pant Corduroy – $79.50

4. UNIQLO skinny stretch cords – $39.50