My closet is in a constant state of audit. I’m always rotating out items that are taking up space. Not that my style changes, but sometimes those fringe items that sounded good at the time aren’t pulling their weight. With that, I don’t’ like getting rid of good pieces – especially shirts – but what to do when I’ve run out of reasons to keep them in the rotation?
One option: add an embroidered monogram. Monograms, especially visible ones, have been the subject of great debate. Some see them as gaudy, and some (me) think they are just fine – if done tastefully. I believe they add a little punch – a ‘customized’ look. At the very least, they’ve kept these shirts not only in the rotation, but towards the top of the heap.
Here’s the stack. Top to bottom: Brooks Brothers, Austin Reed, Ascot Chang, Polo Golf, and J. Crew. All great shirts, but they aren’t pulling their weight for one reason or another. I brought them to The Monogram Shop at Lenox Square Mall in Buckhead. They offer about 25 different designs in about 100 different colors. $10 each. Here’s what I chose:
Fishtail initials in tonal blue on this Brooks Brothers shirt
Diamond Monogram in ‘Georgia Red’ on this black gingham Polo Golf shirt. Perfect for Athens.
Under the pocket script initials on the Ascot Chang. Details:
This green striped J. Crew saw no love until I added the small block initials (navy blue).
Austin Reed ‘Bespoke Fit’ in Navy/white hounds tooth – I added a diamond monogram in Navy.
Not too bad for $50 (IMHO).
Did anyone ever win the volunteer traditions giveaway for the SEC championship?
The Austin Reed and Ascot Chang are pure bangers, sir.
The block and diamond shaped monogram is my favorites!
Shirts that I find have “run out of the rotation” i take them to get converted into short sleeve so that they only come into rotation during the warmer months