Because with new collections being pumped out constantly, there are bound to be some great options. But for every good piece, there are generally at least twice as many bad ones. Luckily, a few fast fashion retailers have stepped up their game, and consistently release solid collections month after month.

So if you’re just starting to test the waters of the menswear scene, you might want to consider looking past your usual stops in favor of these minimalist menswear powerhouses.

Uniqlo

Uniqlo is one of our favorite places to shop, and their clothes have a place in almost anyone’s collection. Whether you’re just starting to develop your own sense of style or you’ve got an established wardrobe to add to, Uniqlo’s lineup offers consistent quality on a massive selection of styles.

We can’t think of anywhere else that has a better pair of basic black jeans for the price — especially considering how long they last. Their oxford cloth button down shirts come in a wide range of colors, fits, and styles, and they’re perfect for casual wear or for dressing up. From socks to rain jackets, Uniqlo’s impressive quality control keeps us coming back, and we’ve yet to be disappointed.

Muji

Muji’s minimal aesthetic and great value stem directly from the name. The brand started out under the name “Mujirushi Ryohin,” which translates to “no-brand” and “quality goods.” Today, they still stand by their mantra of “No brand branding” which gives their products a distinctive look, and minimal packaging, advertising, and marketing helps keep costs low. While Muji’s price point is a bit higher than Uniqlo, the higher-quality materials and unique shopping experience more than justify that jump in price.

Topman

Even if you’re not all that interested in fashion, chances are you’ve been inside or at least walked by a Topman/Topshop outlet at some point in your life, especially if you’re reading this from across the pond. While we’ve definitely come across some, shall we say, less desirable pieces at Topman, we’ve also found some gems.

We’d recommend stopping by Uniqlo for your basic tees, jeans, underwear and whatnot, but if you’re looking to add a little something extra to your repertoire we suggest you give Topman a chance. They make up for their lack of consistency with a wide selection of perfectly cut shirts and jackets in a variety of styles. From simple brown aviator jackets with classic fur collars to thick flannel over shirts in cozy fall tones, Topman is bound to have something interesting you can work into your closet without breaking the bank.

COS
The last brand we wanted to mention is a bit lesser-known than the rest. They go by the name of COS, which stands for Collection of Style. Launched in 2007 in London, COS is one of H&M’s five individual concept brands. Their minimal designs are inspired by architecture, graphics, and design. The style is defined by more timeless characteristics to stray away from the widespread on-trend inspiration seen in many popular labels.

That being said, they have recently collaborated with various artists and high fashion houses such as Donald Judd and Jil Sander. The seamless design at COS’s 139 stores is replicated in their repertoire of refined menswear classics like pleated pants, Mandarin-collared button downs and perfectly cut tee shirts.

Discover why you should not get your fashion and style advice from GQ.

The post Minimalist Men’s Clothing Shops With Prices to Match appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Varsity Jacket

A casual option that’s often overshadowed by the likes of bombers and MA-1’s, the varsity jacket is a clean jacket that’s suitable for almost any occasion. Inspired by the Letterman jackets worn by varsity athletes, they come in a wide variety of shapes and colors. Perfect for any occasion, varsity jackets and be dressed up or down.

Brands to consider: H&M, Zara, Golden Bear, Roots, A.P.C., Sandro, Saint Laurent

Bomber/MA-1

In recent years, bombers have become the go-to for anyone looking for a simple, light casual jacket. Characterized by the oversized and padded silhouette, bombers and MA-1s can be found in almost any fast fashion outlet. Bombers are a perfect casual option that won’t break the bank.

Brands to consider: H&M, Topman, Pull & Bear, Alpha Industries, Stone Island, ToJ

M65

One of the many military-inspired jackets, the M65’s iconic silhouette is defined by its boxy shape and four pocket design. While they can be found in a wide variety of colors and variations, the most common iteration is made of a water-repellent, olive-green fabric like waxed cotton.

Brands to Consider: Urban outfitters, Jack & Jones, Alpha Industries, WTAPS, Visvim

Double Rider Leather Jacket

Definitely one of the more popular leather jacket styles, the double rider gets its name and style from motorcycle culture. Often referred to as a perfecto, the style gained popularity after it’s release by Schott in 1928. Since then, many companies have created their own version of the jacket, so it’s up to you to decide which is the best.

Brands to Consider: Zara, Schott, Undercover, ToJ, Balmain, Blackmeans, Saint Laurent

Coach/Flight Jacket

The coach jacket comes in many shapes and forms, which led us to mention the flight jacket as part of this style. Coach jackets are about as simple as it gets; A collar, buttons up the middle, with two side pockets. Imagine a button down shirt in a thicker fabric and more structure. Flight jackets fall into the same category, but are often made of wool or heavy cotton, with a fur trim on the collar. While coach jackets are definitely a more casual style, flight jackets can be dressed up a little, and go great with a collared shirt and dress trousers.

Brands to consider: Asos, Topman, A.P.C., Supreme, Acne Studios, Undercover

Fishtail Parka

The jacket gets its name from the split-tail design that parallels the silhouette of the tail of a fish. The style was developed for use in the military, as the “tail” section could be tied up around your legs for warmth, or to keep you dry in wet weather. Traditionally seen in the same olive green as the M65, fishtail parkas also come in a variety of colors and materials. Many are waterproof and perfect for wet conditions, while others are lined with fur for use during the winter.

Brands to consider: Military Surplus, Zara, Alpha Industries x Ace Hotel, Sandro, Canada Goose

Trucker

The last style of our essential jacket collection is the trucker jacket. The style is timeless and has been around for decades, with Levi’s paving the way for many other brands. Often seen in denim, trucker jackets are more versatile than you’d think. Many brands have come up with their own versions of the jacket, in a wide variety of colors and fabrics. Any denim version is an informal choice that is perfect for everyday wear, whereas a suede version could be worn for a night on the town.

Brands to consider: Levi’s, Acne Studios, Levi’s, Saint Laurent, any designer collab with Levi’s

The post Never Be Boring: A Guide to Your Next Jacket Purchase appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

When it comes to budget dress watches, there are several that keep popping up on the multitude of horology blogs and forums. Here are the four watches that made my list:

• Seiko SARB065, aka Cocktail Time
• Hamilton Intra Matic 38mm
• Tissot Visodate
• Christopher Ward C5 Automatic Mark II

All four of these watches were well within my price range, but there was a problem with two of them. The Seiko and the Christopher Ward can only be ordered online, therefore, I wouldn’t be able to actually try them on to see if I liked them. While I’m no stranger to buying a watch without seeing it in person (I bought both of my Seiko dive watches that way), it’s always better to see how they look and feel on your wrist.

For several weeks I kept going over the choices in my head (talk about your first world problems!), but then one day I decided to visit the Orient USA website and noticed that they recently released a new version of their Bambino, a vintage style dress watch that is highly regarded by true watch geeks and has a retail price of $260, which is considerably less than the watches on my wish list. Thanks to solid reviews, a super reasonable retail price that was made even more reasonable thanks to a 30% discount, and Bauhaus-like style, the latest version of the Orient Bambino won me over immediately, and within a day of seeing it on the web, I had one on order.

In just under a week, the watch arrived on my doorstep, and once I opened up the packaging, the watch did not disappoint. I absolutely love the way that this watch looks and feels on my wrist. The domed crystal, deep blue finish of the face, minimalist hour and minute markers, and light weight all combine to create a watch that is super comfortable for all-day wear. And if all that weren’t enough, its in-house automatic movement has been incredibly accurate over the past month, i.e. +/- 15 seconds per week.

While I am incredibly pleased with my purchase, I do have a quibble or two..

• The strap that came with the watch wasn’t very good (stiff and kind of boring looking when compared to the quality of the watch itself), so I replaced it with a Vollmer mesh bracelet that I picked up at Long Island Watch for around $40. Adding the polished stainless steel bracelet was well worth the money because it makes the watch look much more expensive than it really is. The only issue with swapping out the watch band was due to the 21mm lug width on the Bambino which really limits your replacement strap options. The Vollmer mesh bracelet is 20mm which leaves a small gap on either end of the bracelet where it’s attached to the lugs.
• A sapphire crystal would have been nice for better scratch resistance, but given the price of the watch, the crystal that came with the watch is perfectly adequate.
• The movement can’t be hacked or hand wound. Again, given the price of the watch and it’s out of the box accuracy, this isn’t a big deal, but it is worth mentioning.

Quibbles aside, if you’re looking for an affordable dress watch with excellent build quality/accuracy, good looks, and supreme wearability, I highly recommend the Orient Bambino. I’ve had this watch for just over a month and find myself wearing it just about every day.

The post Looking at the Orient Blue Bambino appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

1.  The Bomber Jacket – A bomber jacket is a great transitional item for the season. It’s a great outerwear piece that offers a balance for those warm spring days and cool nights. Try: ASOS Bomber Jacket in Navy – $65.00USD

2. The Oxford White Shirt – A crisp white oxford shirt is definitely a must have for the spring. Oxfords are now made to make you look effortless as they are more relaxed in fit. Try:  Outclass – Oxford Dress Shirt – $120.00USD

3. The Dark Denim Jean – A pair of dark denim jeans will go with anything in your wardrobe. Whether if you want to dress it up or down, you should have at least one pair on hand. Try: Jean Shop Mick Slim-Fit Rinsed Selvedge Denim Jeans – $305.18USD

4. The Stripped Sweater – Is a perfect alternate option to a white oxford shirt. I love the look of a knit sweater, sometimes you don’t want the fuss of layering a look.  It’s simple and you will look sharp! Try: A.P.C. Sweater – Price unavailable

5. The Weekender– This might sound unconventional for you guys. But, bag options are not only a necessity for women. You have a life and your messenger bag (while essential) is not your weekend travel bag.  A weekender is a more stylish option than a plain old duffle bag. Try: M.R.K.T.– Ted Weekender – $135.00USD

6. Socks with Attitude –   It’s a bit out of the box. But adding a pair of socks with a bit of personality can be a refreshing addition to your wardrobe. You can play around with different prints, colors or a combination of both. Needless to say you will look dapper. Try: Soxy Socks – The Innovator Collection – $45.00USD

7. The Fresh White Kicks – A pair of fresh white kicks is universal and can be worn with any look. Sneakers have come a long way. Luxury footwear brands like CLAE are designing footwear that is functional and fashionable. Try: CLAE’s Bradley Sneakers $130.00 USD

The post Spring Style Essentials Guide for Men appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

During my commute to class, I felt quite comfortable and incredibly stable, even on a few more iced over inclines at the bus-stop. This level of versatility is nothing new from Ridgemont, yet is just as much of a pleasant surprise as the first time I came in contact with an Outfitters shoe: The Monty Hi. The Crest, in contrast, is significantly lighter, and although it offers comfortable ankle support, doesn’t quite match the level of the Monty – but then again, the Crest is a drastically lighter shoe that reminds more of the Southern California skate culture, and less so of the Colorado Rockies snow communities, the way the Monty does.

With Utah fitting right between the two, I took the liberty of introducing the Crests’ to some Utah habits to get a better understanding of their abilities: I stopped at home to drop by school backpack off, grabbed my board at the door, plugged my head into the newest Yeezy album, and went for a cruise. After blowing a few stop signs, sliding the board to a standstill to test the grip of the soles, and one or two emergency bails, I was sold this shoe could easily double as a quality skate shoe. As I boarded home and hopped on my motorcycle to study at the library, I continued to enjoy the Crest. It provided a rigid composite lasting board, combined with an Ortholite sole, making it stable enough for any hike, should you choose to throw one at it, but also comfortable after quite a few hours into the night studying at the library.

The Crest Hi is perfect for anyone needing improved ankle support and water proof grade construction, without having to sacrifice their steeze.

Under normal circumstances, you’d have to take your pick: active and capable but uncomfortable and uglier than your aunt’s Crocs, cool but only wearable during sunshine and blue skies, fashionable but flimsy, the list goes on an on of possible combinations that only sometimes are the right option.

With Ridgemont Outfitters, you’re able to find a shoe that meets all your needs without compromise, tailored to your particular style, that’s always the right option.

The post Ridgemont Outfitters Does it Again With the Crest appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

By concentrating with maniacal zeal on this mainstay of men’s clothing, Standard Shirt has honed and perfected their craft to offer an above average shirt at a below average price. With a modern cut, quality Xinjiang cotton, and reinforced collars, the Standard Shirt is clearly a cut above. Why pay the same for a mass-market box shirt when you can custom make your own for $59? You wouldn’t. And if you do, I don’t want to ever meet you.

The ordering process is dead simple – just pick your collar style, then your neck size, and choices for typical sleeve lengths for your neck size are automatically populated. And with that, you’ve got a plush white shirt on it’s way to your closet and then everywhere from weddings to boardrooms. Plenty of men’s clothiers, even custom manufacturers have popped up in the last few years. But none of them have the concentration of Standard Shirt, and as such their quality and ordering experience are all over the place. We’ve tested Standard’s predicted measurements, and their shirt out on the town, and are very pleased with both. It appears the crises of not having a viable white shirt for the evening is a thing of the past…

The post This is Your New Standard Shirt appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Korbata Bow Ties

It takes a certain kind of man to rock a bow tie. A confident man. A well dressed man. A man who knows what he’s doing. You are that man.  Korbata ties are clearly a new breed and won’t leave you looking like a middleschool science teacher. Their bold colors and modern fabrics combine to drag the bow tie into the 21st century and deserve a place on your neck this year. And they are handmade in Guatemala, so you can be sure what you are rocking is unique.

Neon Bandits Socks

Socks, like Hansel, are so hot right now. The look of bold socks has transitioned from business down to casual late last year. Now they are everywhere and Neon Bandits are bringing prime examples that walk the line between too boring and too loud. Their patterns and styles are equally at home for a day on the basketball court as they are for just lounging around the park. Leave your all white, or heaven forbid all black, socks at home and start wearing out something with a bit more flavor and sass. Your stinky shoes will thank you.

Ab Aetterno

While everyone is still fawning over fabric strapped watches, take a bolder direction by picking up one of Ab Aeterno’s wooden watches. These time pieces stand our on your wrist in the best way possible. I’ve gotten more complements on mine, and they almost always lead to conversations about the watch and how it is made. It’s a friend-maker and date-getter is what I’m saying…

Ray Ban Caravans

Leave round aviators to cops and old men living out their Top Gun fantasies. Ray Ban Caravans are where the real action is. These squared off aviators are pure style, and will set you apart from the pack. Protect your eyes and bring the fashion with Caravans or any number of their knockoffs.

Nose Piercings

Piercings are becoming more and more commonplace. A good piercing for guys? A simple nose piercing. The good news with these is that, as long as you have your piercing done by a reputable piercer and you keep it clean at all times, you can always change your mind and remove them without anything being too noticeable down the line. Find stylish nose piercing men and give some different styles a try!

The post 2015 Summer Accessory Roundup appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Warby Parker’s 2015 line of glasses shows this trend by pairing their retro designs with new materials and finishes that eschew vintage tortoise shells for clear plastic and iridescent sheens. Their Haskell Crystal will soon find a home on my dumb face, but damn if that turquoise isn’t tempting. But we’re not done beautifying your noggin yet…

The V-MODA XS line of headphones are the anti-Beats. First off, they actually sound great. Secondly, they are styled more interestingly than simple circles and domes. Lastly, all the materials and accessories are top-notch and they feel great whether around your ears or around your neck. These foldable headphones make a clear statement that you value audio fidelity just as much as you do high style – and the XS line aces both.

Railtek Belts might not look like anything next level on the outside, but their ratcheting system is all about bringing the future to the function of the belt rather than the form. Instead of relying upon misplaced holes that leave you muffin-topped or slacking, Railtek’s infinitely adjustable system allows you to dial in exactly the amount of cinch you need without cutting off any circulation.

Zeniick Watches are a favorite here on FactoryTwoFour, and they are looking good this year. Their modern, minimalist faces bury the over-complicated watches of the past and gives you exactly what you need to tell the time, and get on with your day. At $50 a pop, these watches don’t break the bank while pimping out your wrist. Zeniick was founded to give the modern gentleman a sleek and modern option outside the stodgy european brands, and they are succeeding at that in spades.

Accessories are the keystone to your look, and make the difference between having style and having your own personal style. Add in these pieces to your 2015 look, and you’ll be strutting right.

The post Your 2015 Accessories Have Arrived appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

You’ve seen your grandfather wear a watch every day of his life. It seems so effortless, yet you have no idea where to begin. The answer:Minus-8 watches. The Zone watch does an excellent job bridging the gap between casual and formal with their simple interface. The split case design resembling a time zone boundary adds an elegant twist on traditional minimalist interfaces. The silicon band is something I would normally advise against because they are often tacky, however, this band reaches the balance between casual and formal.

Formal watches will most often have a metal band and their design will be more complex. You can still use a minimalist watch like the Minus-8 Zone in a formal setting if you simply don’t have the funds, but a metal band always looks better with a suit. I highly recommend seeing a trusted jeweler when purchasing a high-tier, metal band watch because they know an infinite amount more about watches and the gadgetry involved than I do.

Watches are an investment. Did you notice how I didn’t mention a price range anywhere in here? That is because watches usually last a lifetime. I still wear a metal banded watch that was given to me when I was 12 and plan on wearing it for the rest of my life. And if you’re looking to invest in the watch game the Zone watch from Minus-8 offers a solid return on your investment.

The post Minus-8 Watches: The Perfect Business Casual appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

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Before even testing it out at the gym and other high sweat inducing areas, I thought why not try it out at my computer? My hands are always getting my mouse and keyboard all gross, so I gave it a shot. Much to my surprise, no sweat. After about thirty minutes, still no sweat. Even as I type this now post-workout there isn’t any sweat. Keep in mind my hands were rubbing against bars and machines and the powder still stayed effective!

What really attracted me to this powder was the smell. Most talcum powders have that weird baby powder smell that ends up meshing with your stink, making for a deadly combination. Super Powder has a subtle, manly smell that doesn’t clash with cologne or other deodorants keeping a clean smell for hours. Use this on date nights to keep you fresh for your significant other.

There is only one size you can purchase at $16, and based on my heavy usage for a few days it will last for a couple months. I plan on swapping this for my antiperspirant because unlike most of the antiperspirants I’ve tried, Super Powder is effective at blocking sweat for more than 6 hours. I would much rather pay a little extra for a product that works than a half-hearted antiperspirant.

I can honestly say that Grooming Lounge has a customer for life. Even after a few days of use, my body is comfortable with the reduced sweat. They promote no foul balls and there aren’t any on this guy. Don’t believe me? Try it out yourself here.

The post Avoid Awkward Body Sweat with Super Powder appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Suits are coming back. True, they’ve technically never gone anywhere, but more and more we’ve been seeing lines of affordable, good looking suits become available to the casual gentleman. Of these lines I’d have to say that my all time favorite is Bertolini. Though they’re not by any means famous (or for that matter, well known), Bertolini makes a hell of a suit for the price. Just this weekend, I picked up a beautiful three-piece in a slate blue with charcoal pinstripes for under $250. Now let me tell you, I have a hard time finding a suit that fits how I want it to; everything seems either boxy or incredibly tight. This suit, however, fit perfectly off the rack and all that was needed was to hem the pants. It tapers in the right places, it hangs well off the shoulders, and the kicker is that I have three other friends who bought the same suit (different sizes of course), and despite our wildly varying body shapes they fit each of us perfectly.

Bertolini is an Italian suit manufacturer, meaning the fit is going to be almost unbeatable; so why doesn’t it break the bank? Well while the materials come from Italy, and the designs are put together by professionals, the suits themselves are hand-made overseas. This gives one the feel and look of a high end Italian suit at a fraction of the cost, meaning it is affordable for almost everyone – even students like yours truly. This is the best wardrobe investment I’ve made in a long time, and encourage you to follow my example. Whether you’re on a budget, or just looking for a great suit at any price range, do yourself a favor and get into a Bertolini.

The post The Student’s Suit appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Nothing Fits Right

This is the absolute worst. You wake up, put on your favorite shirt and realize its just a bit too long. Nothing out of the ordinary. Most people wouldn’t even care. But you put the shirt back in the closet never to wear it again. What is the problem here? You’re starting to nitpick every minute detail, when most people could care less.

Something that was once your favorite has been thrown to the back of the closet. Now what? If you’re not getting paid to look good, this is just a hobby. A hobby is supposed to be fun. A creative outlet for most to express themselves. What you’re doing is tearing down your favorite pieces and over analyzing.

Wanting More Than You Need

Ever notice you want to buy something? When your wants list becomes too big for you to handle, it is time to take a step back. Wanting is human nature, but wanting can turn into lust. Keep your wants list to a maximum of 5 if you’re having trouble controlling your spending. Whenever you see something else you like, you have the choice to add it and delete something else. This will make you prioritize what you really want versus what you may regret buying later on.

How to Combat this Obsession

Stay off internet forums. These usually have the highest critique rate and ability to nitpick the smallest details. They also contribute to buying what you don’t need.

Have some leeway. When I would go to the grocery store, I used to go through the same dressing routine I went through when I went to a nice restaurant. Try wearing gym shorts out. Learn to realize dressing well isn’t that big of a deal. Odds are you live in an area where the majority of men have a woman do their clothes shopping.

What to take away

Remember, dressing well is a hobby. Something you do for fun, not for sport. Don’t compare yourself to others and use it as an outlet for your own creativity. And remember while fashion can get tiresome and turn into a chore, style is effortless and all about you.

The post Take a Break from Fashion appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

I sported these bad boys all last week, even reusing a pair day after day to see how they hold up to a possible walk of shame. You know, for science. I’m happy to report a good fit, ample support, and decent results in the oh-so-important “bulge-factor.” Medium is the right way to go if you’re more than 6′ or 150lbs.

The BR4SS design language is modern and playful, with big, loud patterns and accents. Probably the best feature of all is that these are a pair of boxer briefs that actually have a functional button-fly. Such a blessing.

I’m confident that most of us need an upgrade to our underwear drawer. And as long as you’re going to make a statement about yourself with your choice, it’s worth putting in a little extra effort to go beyond the expected Polo or CK. BR4SS definitely stands out, and stands up to daily use. They’re a good statement to make, and one that may see you sharing the view with others.

The post You Need Better Underwear appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

I tend to think I look good in a variety of pairs, because A: I hate my face and sunglasses cover a good majority of that mess of flesh, and B: because my beard also masks a lot of the imperfections so covering more square inches is always accepted. Make sense? Whenever I look for new ones I always try and go for a style I don’t have yet, or a frame color that might work with a certain look I’m going for (read: somewhat matching), or maybe a new lens material that cuts down glare without affecting what the image actually looks like. I take a lot of photos and sometimes polarized lenses can change the way an object looks, which is why I tend to keep the polarized lenses only for driving. It’s science.

So when I heard that there was a brand on the opposite side of the planet using a different type of lens material I haven’t tried and also some nicely styled pieces, I figured it was time to see (puns baby) for myself. I like Australia, or at least the idea of it, so I figured I’d give them a try as new headwear for my dome-piece.

Otis uses mineral glass—which has a high optical clarity and is also endlessly recyclable—that they tout as being some of the best in the world for scratch resistance and distortion free performance. Basically like the sea glass you’d find in a large body of saltwater (yes, the ocean). I’m not sure how they stack up against scratches, but each pair is polished and treated with chemical curing agents and thermal hardening, which can apparently take abuse. And for me that’s good, because even the name Reckless Abandon is fitting since as much as I try and train myself not to bend over when my sunglasses are in my chest pocket, it never a fails that they’ll fall out and come crashing to earth. I think my dog can be trained more efficiently. And at 9.8 meters/second, it happens fast, so having that piece of mind that they might survive the plunge without a forever eyesore on the lens, you can rest a little easier.

While Otis’ Reckless Abandons aren’t the cheapest glasses at $180 for non-polarized lenses, I don’t find them too bad because like I said I use them for photography when I want to keep my glasses on, and for normal street glasses it’s right in the wheelhouse of other high-end brands. They feel solid in the hands and the hinges have a nice steady action to them. You can’t open them up by flicking and you don’t have to muscle them closed; it’s a nice mix of tension. As for the visual cues, the logos, or lack thereof, are a refreshing change from some companies who feel the need to make sure the boldest and most in-your-face font is available for advertising. Honestly, that’s held me back from purchasing Smith glasses in the past.

I like wearing brands that aren’t “the norm” and haven’t had the foothold in the market for as long as established brands. So the fact that Otis is trying to come into a saturated sunglass market with some new tech and style, the Reckless Abandon glasses aren’t a bad place to start.

The post Otis Reckless Abandon Sunglasses appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Weiss doesn’t just source their components from a variety of manufacturers and then assemble them in America—sure the 17-jewel movement is made in Switzerland (some things you have to leave to the tried and true experts)—they design, engineerand use in-house manufacturing techniques to make their own cases, dials and even maintenance tools and birch boxes to decoratively house the watch. Dials made of brass with hand painted numerals and indices stand out among the contrasting dial (either in black or white).

The black Standard Issue Field Watch review unit we received had a hefty, but not overly wrist-degrading weight and size. At 42mm (think IWC Portuguese for comparison) it’s not too big or too small. Some watches out now have become laughingly big, and luckily this isn’t one of them. Simple to read layout with a minute and second hand offer hassle free operation and readability in literally seconds.

While automatic caliber movements are a nice, worry free addition to any timepiece, there’s an intrinsic value to a wound watch. Weiss uses a Caliber 1001 movement—hand-finished and assembled in Los Angeles—that feels much like an Omega Speedmaster in tactile feel and action. Waking up every morning and winding your watch is refreshing and harks back to the early days of watch making.

I remember when I used to wear my Mickey Mouse watch with moving hands, literally, and it was the coolest thing at the time (no pun intended!) I had in my arsenal of striped shorts, Indian Jones t-shirt and most likely Keds. And while the MM watch will always live in my memory as my first “timepiece”, my short-term memory thinks of the Standard Field Watch as a wristwatch that can earn the respect of the watch snobs (that you’re bound to run into) with a beautifully utilitarian 17-jewel Swiss movement enclosed in a clear caseback and a simplistic design. Weiss offers the experience of a much larger company, they offer the exclusivity and craftsmanship of a much smaller one.

Commoner & Co. Stingray Strap

Just under 3,000 miles away in a Brooklyn studio, Commoner & Co. is also redefining personal goods and accessories. While the Weiss does come with a canvas strap, we wanted to pair it with an equally beautiful stingray strap made with the same passion as their West Coast counterparts who are also making incredibly well rounded handmade products. Commoner was started because they were searching for a better product that would hold its own against life’s unexpected moments, and we sought out Commoner to make us a custom strap we felt would suit the watch equally. You gotta customize even the minute details, right?

Commoner uses military-grade thread, hand sewn and finished edges and kangaroo leather, which might be overkill, but if you’ve ever bought a strap from a “respected” company (I could name at least one but I won’t out of respect and decent customer service) expecting a quality product that will last, when your watch falls off in the middle of Manhattan because of a failure, there’s a need, and a want for a product that goes to 11.

While strap is extremely stiff at first, and I’m sure it will take months of wear to settle onto your wrist, it’s not uncomfortable; it’s just like a new baseball glove that needs to be worn in. Not a fan of shagreen? Don’t worry because like I said, Commoner & Co. will work with you on hundreds of leathers, exotic hides and thread color combinations guaranteed to make you a bespoke product to exacting specifications. Hey, they did it for me in less than a week.

For more information about Weiss Watch Company and their Standard Field Watch go to weisswatchcompany.com; and for Commoner and Co.’s bespoke offerings check out commonerco.com

This story by Michael Crenshaw was originally published by Scout.com.

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Sperry boat shoes have been a household name for decades. The man behind the shoe, Paul Sperry, came up with the idea when his dog was able to run over ice easily. Mr. Sperry used a method that was used on tires, called siping. By cutting thin slits in the rubber sole, the shoe was able to catch on slippery surfaces. The nonslip shoe made it ideal for boaters. Boat shoes are also famous for their moc-toe (think moccasin) with oiled leather to repel water.

Since these shoes are normally worn in wet and hot conditions, no socks are necessary. The no sock trend really picked up steam in the 60s with penny loafers and continued through the 80s when loafers with no socks was seen as preppy. Because yachting was a main reason people wore Sperrys, Top-Siders began to be associated with the wealthy.

Today, the shoe seems to be reserved for southern frat boys with salmon shorts and a too-tight polo. Personally, I like to think they are worn by so many Greek Life students because they are always in style. Sperrys have been considered a modern fashion trend for quite some years and it doesn’t look like they are going anywhere. At this point, they are really less of a fashion trendvand more of a style icon.

When purchasing a boat shoe, think simple. A complicated, half tennis-half boat is not something you want. This is known as a hybrid shoe that they try to do too much with one design. This design is generally clunky, has too many clashing materials, and is an overall visually unappealing shoe. Meanwhile, a classic one-material boat shoe is simple, sleek, and only uses leather for the top of the shoe. Colors like Oatmeal, Sahara, and Tan are safe classics. Avoid colors like black, gray, and any leathers that are grained. Whatever company you choose, if you’re looking for one shoe to wear throughout this summer, the boat shoe is it.

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In recent trends, loud prints like floral and paisley have been emerging through high end designers, trickling down to fast fashion retailers, such as Uniqlo or H&M. These loud prints have always been lurking on tourists and your parents, but as the fashion scene switches to “dadcore,” Birkenstocks are becoming more common.

Dadcore is simply described as things dads wear. Dadcore is coming back on the scene in part from movies with older movie stars like Liam Nesson and Bruce Willis. Seeing this older generation go crazy on the bad guys all while looking masculine and scoring the girl have popularized dadcore. Light wash jeans, shorter shorts, and New Balance fall into dadcore amongst a variety of others. Usually these clothing choices are ugly by itself and beautiful when paired correctly. Alright, enough about dadcore and onto the reason you’re reading: Are Birkenstocks cool?

The verdict: A courageous “yes.” If you’ve just started trying to dress better, don’t even think about trying them. I usually tell folks to stay away from sandals if you’re new at caring how you look and go with the safe option of boat shoes. Maybe you’re bored with white sneakers or Sperry’s and want to get adventurous. Well then, Birkenstock’s Arizona or Boston models are for you. Arizona has the classic double strap with metal clasps, giving your feet plenty of air if it gets too hot. The Boston model is less conventional and is more of a clog. My favorite is to wear them with wool socks. As an added bonus, they will be some of the most comfortable footwear you will ever have the pleasure of wearing. Dads are known for their laid back, casual style with comfort at the highest priority, so take a page from their book and get comfy.

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The reason I mention this rule is to apply to my short’s length; my first third is my shoes, second third is my bare legs, and the final third is my shorts. Shorts that are too long make you look shorter because the thirds are at an imbalance. Anything past your knee is generally too long. Shorts that are too short, well, you better have Victoria Secret model legs if you’re wearing shorts too short.

Maybe you don’t like showing that much leg or don’t feel comfortable in shorts that end above the knee. For the everyday man, 11” shorts hit right in the middle of the knee or slightly above are perfectly acceptable. I generally reserve this for the people just starting in the fashion game or older men where it is less acceptable to be extreme in clothing choices.

The 7” shorts usually fall in the two inch above the knee category. Reserved for the people who are comfortable with their body and know what looks good. Don’t be shocked if you get people wondering why you’re wearing short shorts. You’re not; they’re just jealous they don’t have the muchachos to pull them off.

Yeah, I squat bro! Ah, the infamous 5” shorts. Reserved for the people with muscular legs or the risk takers. I don’t recommend them, but if you can pull them off, kudos. You really have to be comfortable with your body to wear these.

As with most of my articles, don’t take these tips as rules, take them as recommendations. Height is dependent on how the shorts will fit you. If you’re a 6’6” guy, the 11” shorts will probably fit like the 7” and if you’re 5’4” the 7” will fit like the 11”. Go experiment and find out what looks good on you.

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Fast food enjoyed it’s heyday, then saw the angry backlash of the slow food movement that went mainstream so quickly that many consumers never even heard of slow food. Every Whole Foods or Chipotle you pass, you can slow food for creating – even if much of their wares are a complete bastardization of the slow food movement. Consumers are now happy to pay a little more for their food if they can feel good about how it was cultivated and prepared. Likewise, the price of clothing is readying to increase, yet the quality we currently see will remain the same.

Raw materials will cost more, wages for workers will go up, and the infrastructure needed to produce items at the right quality standards will be costly—all of which will be passed on to you the consumer. In China, manufacturing wages have increased by 71% since 2008 and are projected to rise by 10% this year. Manufacturers the world over are searching for other production locations with cheaper labor, but wages are rising in just about every countries.

While low-cost “fast fashion” appeals to the consumer wallet, more consumers now associate this low-cost, season specific clothing with the ethical issues of low wages and poor working conditions. So what should shoppers do when faced with rising costs and the ethical dilemmas of cheap clothing?

One option is to reconsider our approach to clothing by taking a cue from Europeans who have historically been more focused on quality rather than simply quantity. Consider your own wardrobe—think about how many items of clothing you own and how often you wear each of those items. I’m willing to guess that most of you wear about 20% of our clothing 80% of the time.

More awareness of the ethical issues related to this disposable fashion culture are coming to the forefront with the increasing momentum of the slow fashion movement and the development of organizations like the Ethical Fashion Forum, which aims to support and promote sustainable fashion practices related to the social and environmental practices within the fashion industry.

The slow fashion movement making its way across our shores can already been seen in the demand for raw denim pants and vintage crafted overcoats. With its dependence on classics, it is no wonder that men’s fashion was the first beachhead for slow fashion. The real test will be to see how women’s style welcomes the idea of downsized closets and a few high-quality basics. Whatever the outcome for the opposite sex, now is a great time to pick up items for your wardrobe that have a high probability of being passed down to your grandchildren.

A version of this story originally appeared on Quartz

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