With the holidays behind us, it’s time to re-focus on the year ahead. One thing that I can’t recommend enough is a monthly+ date night with your better half. Get it planned early. Go someplace nice (that requires more than joggers and Lulu). And DRESS UP. Events like this put a charge into a relationship that can’t be replaced.
January is fun because the weather is (at least it has been) all over the place. I like incorporating wool and layers. Good textures give interest, and darker hues with pops of blue and purple are great this time of year. Here’s how I like to do it:
From Top Left:
1. Holderness & Bourne Berwick Crewneck Wool Sweater: GREAT fitting sweater from my NY boys…and the price point is just right. This is a transitional sweater that works equally well on the golf course as it does out on the town.
2. Eton Slim Fit Dress Shirt: Best OTR dress shirts on the planet.
3. Valstar Suede Jacket: This is a bit of a stretch, but I love the look. The big front pockets give it a vintage motorcycle/military jacket feel (perfect for gloves), and the rich suede is a smart choice.
4. Peter Millar Excursionist Flex Alpine Wool 5-Pockets: 5-pockets are all the rage, but don’t sleep on wool ones. I have some amazing wool pants, and since I’ve added the 5-pocket version, it’s all I go for. DO NOT hem to a cuff – they are too sporty. Instead, go with NO break or just a whisper…
5. Jacob Hill Single-Piece American Alligator Belt: The top of the heap. More to come on these.
6. Rolex Datejust: Are we moving from heavy sport watches back to dress watches in 2026? I think so…
7. Boardroom Socks OTC Merino Wool Socks: Best value in the business from my friends up in North Carolina.
8. Alden Suede Tassel Loafers: I love that tassel loafers have never, and will never, go out of style.
What did I miss?
X2 on regular date nights. We made it a priority over the fall. As much as we love our children – two under 3 – it’s been great for both the Mrs and I to get some time to ourselves outside the house. Dressing up does yield some interesting looks at Little Caesar’s picking up a pizza for the kids and baby sitter…
Wearing natural wool/ cotton in public these days will automatically make you look more put together than 80% of the adult male population. Can’t go wrong with the grey/navy combo above. Leave the polyester pants and puffer vest/ jacket at home.
The brown suede bomber from Sid is something I covet badly. looks awesome dressed up and down.