Archive for March, 2010

The Art of Denim

03/26/10

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Nothing says relaxed more than a perfectly worn pair of jeans – it’s sacred, right? It’s a delicate balance between wash, distress, fit – when you put them on, you just know. So in the name of ultimate comfort (and yes, ultimate style) here’s our guide to denim this Spring.

Dark V. Light

Different washes for different dudes and different moods…it’s all a matter of personal preference. However, as a general rule a darker, less distressed pair is great for going out and dressing up.

Leg Room

Cut is key. Straight and simple is the way to go. Straight leg jeans are the style for now – can be classic or relaxed. Stay away from super baggy and flared boot cuts.

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Denim

There are a few great lines that are now offering Raw Denim (Nudie and Rag+Bone) – indigo-dyed and not washed or worn in. The idea here is that you do the work yourself. You’re a man – right? Wear them and wear them and wear them until they are broken in, in all the right places. As they become modeled to your body, they become uniquely yours.

Mr. Clean Jeans

Here’s where it can get a little dicey. For Raw Denim, it is best to wear them as much as possible before washing – 6 months even. For pre-washed denim – wash whenever, it will not effect the appearance as the work has already been done. However, if you prefer to keep the dark rich look you can have them dry cleaned which only removes the dirt but not the dye. Either way, turn your jeans inside out and hang them naturally to dry. When they are damp you can stretch the inseam as much as needed.

A Jean for all Seasons

You should consider having a several solid denim options to get you through a variety of occasions from dressed up to dressed down…from lighter and more relaxed for daytime to darker and more classic for evening and business casual. Denim is in a category all its own – it’s good to have a few good pairs. Not to mention there are some great lines – not too crazy, but super quality such as AG, Kasil, Rag + Bone and Nudie.

Nothing better than good jeans guys – so be true to your blue!

Game Time Decision

03/18/10

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Big week guys – big games, lots of hangin’ – all good. Here’s our official Haberdash round-up featuring our recommendations on all things hoop related.

Where To Catch ‘The Game’


The Fifty/50
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2047 W. Division St. - Chicago

Watch NCAA basketball games on 18 flat screens while sipping $3 Coors Light bottles and other drink specials.

Market -1113 W. Randolph St. - Chicago

March Madness. $12 Miller Lite and Coors Light buckets, $15 Heineken and Heineken Light buckets, bracket contest

Luxbar - 18 E. Bellevue Place – Chicago

March Madness. $3 Sam Adams and Peak Organic IPA drafts, bracket contest

Old Town Social - 455 West North Avenue – Chicago

Unassuming, timeless neighborhood spot with handcrafted cocktails and knock-out plasmas that drop down from the ceiling and up from the banquettes – really cool.

Where To Get ‘Great’ Bar Food

M Burger161 E. Huron St. - Chicago

New Streeterville burger and shake joint created by Lettuce Entertain You. M Burger is a mostly counter service spot where you can grab a hamburger, cheeseburger or chicken sandwich. Extras include fries, shakes (chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and a flavor-of-the-month) and a single vegetable sandwich.

Theory - 9 W. Hubbard St. – Chicago

This modern sports-focused lounge is one step above your standard sports bar. Comfy barstools and chairs are fit for extended game-watching, and the casual menu features American/Mexican eats.

Great home theater-like private dining den decked out with three screens is available for private events.

Gaslight - 2426 N. Racine Ave. - Chicago

Familiar neighborhood pub feel is complete with old nautical lights and a dark wood interior. There’s also nine plasma TVs – great for catching games. and DJs on the weekends. Expect popular menu items from the Schoolyard, like the Reuben rolls and skillet cookie, as well as heartier fare like Australian baby lamb chops and steaks.

Where To Get Real Time Scores

www.cbssportsline.com

www.espn.com

Have a great week guy and good luck with your brackets!

Kickin’ it Old School

03/09/10

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So if the suit makes the man, then the shoes round out the look, right? This season’s footwear could not be easier – no fuss, well-priced and uber-simple, yet totally hip with the kids. It’s your big chance to show how stylin’ you can be without heading too far out of your comfort zone.  To sum it up, this season’s footwear is decidedly clean, neutral, comfortable and easy to wear. Check it out…

 

Style Wise – think classic Americana, seaside chic and college prep. Familiar, like an old pair of shoes - penny loafers, bucks, plimsoles, canvas shoes, topsiders, slip-ons and docksiders, much of what your dad used to wear – only way cooler.

Brand Awareness - the most sought after shoes of the season are the tried and true lines that are making their way back – Seavees, Sperry, Converse and Sebago - all done in fresh, rich, neutral colors such as clay, grey, navy, brandy and brown.

Wear Em’ Out – spring footwear is totally versatile, easily incorporated, very wearable and perfectly paired with khakis, denim, shorts and beachy pants.

 

*Style tip – ditch the socks this season. Spring footwear is easy and stand alone – everyman and every foot for itself. If you absolutely must – wear a very short (practically invisible) footie – or short sock.

 

Here’s to spring in Chicago hopefully arriving asap – until then walk like a man!

 

Be Buttoned Up

03/02/10

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Back to school – it’s Shirts 101.  Whether you call them wovens, button-downs or button-ups, shirts are not only an essential ‘basic’ but can be a focal point for a stylish guy.  Whether stand alone or layered; the shirt can say a lot about the man.  Here are a few key guidelines you need to know when it comes to the shirt.

To Wear in or to Wear out?
Both are okay – but there are a few things you need to remember.  It’s cool to un-tuck for a casual night out or hanging with the guys.  Length is the key, make sure your shirt isn’t too long – don’t want to look like your wearing your girlfriend’s nightgown.  For business or for a more high-end occasion – start tucking.

It’s Hip to be Cheap (Save $$$ on dry cleaning)
Here’s the greatest tip of all time, check your label – as long as they don’t say ‘dry clean only,’ you can wash and go (just wash at home, hang it to dry) – you’ll end up with a great ‘worn in’ look without paying for dry cleaning.  You don’t even need to iron it – the wrinkled look is ‘in.’ It’s a win-win.  

Be Current
Know this season’s style and work it into your wardrobe.  We’re not talking about Seinfeld’s puffy shirt, we swear!  But, the shirt is the star, this spring’s look is all about - bright colors, rich plaids and wrinkled fabrics.  For casual shirts look for great items from Steven Alan, Gant, Gitman Vintage, John Varvatos Star USA, Rag & Bone and our own Haberdash brand.   For dress shirts: our Haberdash private label dress shirts made by Gitman Bros. in Ashland, PA, feature classic construction and a trim-fit.   Shop our great selection of shirts in stock or choose from over 100 swatches and create your own custom shirt.

Hope you’ve learned a little and gained some inspiration.  If that wasn’t enough, we’re just about giving you the shirts off our back with a great deal.  Now through March 3, receive a $25 gift card to the store with every casual or dress shirt you purchase.