"Invest in GOLD"

During these mild (according to my professor) yet still pervasive economic hardships, it is important that those of us just beginning to embark on our real world journeys spend our hard earned cash wisely. Apparently the men of the past were on to something- GOLD. If I have learned anything in my business courses, it is that investing in gold is a wise and almost always safe decision.

That being said, the chunky gold watch is definitely something worth investing in. Of course, a pure gold watch would cost the equivalent to mercedes downpayment. Thus, I bring you some of my favorites that are a bit more attainable for the hourly payed intern such as myself.



Nixon "The Time Teller"



Nixon "The Cannon"



Michael Kors "Large Gold Runway Watch"


Obviously, purchasing a fashion gold plated watch is not the financially sound equivalent as investing in a long term asset such as gold. However, it will look damn good on your wrist this spring.

Cuff Love

At 5'7, a cuff is normally not advised for someone of my stature. However, this spring/at this very moment, I am addicted to casually rolling up my raw denim and exposing the slightest bit of ankle. Many of the spring 2011 runway shows had models gliding down the catwalks in sexy skinny jeans and patterned pants casually rolled up, exposing the peak of the ankle bone (fibula, for those of you interested in anatomy).

I can't control this addiction. I roll up my jeans with canvas sneakers, TOMS, bucks, deck shoes, and even driving mocs. I can't get enough of this carefree, no fuss look. Pair it with a nicely fitted double pocket shirt and I'm sold. Tomorrow I'm doing this look with slim khaki trousers, khaki canvas slip ons (monochromatic anyone?) and a nicely broken in denim shirt. Who's excited? This cowboy is.

Bespoken Spring 2011




Buckler Spring 2011


Woolrich John Rich & Bros. Spring 2011



Iceberg Spring 2011



And now for my favorite two looks....

Gilded Age Spring 2011



Let's just say if there was a flood, my pants would be safe. Seriously.

Marching Towards Monochromatics

Technically it is still winter season; However, I cannot help but begin to prepare my closet for my favorite season- SPRING. I have wasted countless hours - scratch that- hours have been rightfully utilized clicking away at spring 2011 fashion shows. Allergies aside, spring weather allows one to vary his or her wardrobe from day to day, hour to hour. One day might call for a simple, but well fitting, t-shirt and jeans while the next might call for a slouchy cardigan and boots. Regardless, one thing that will for sure be happening this spring: Monochromatics. More specifically for men- various shades of gray and camel.

Canali Spring 2011


Hermes Spring 2011




Iceberg Spring 2011



I am loving this for spring. I appreciate that monochromatics are relevant even when mixing patterns and texture. As a side note, while an all camel outfit can look expensive and modern, it can also look like you are a Dixie cup of spiked fruit punch away from joining a cult. Wear with caution.

Trust me, I'm an expert.

As a lover of fashion, my style has definitely changed over the years. Having an appreciation of an eclectic array of designers makes it difficult to maintain a consistent look. However, one philosophy set forth by my father can keep it simple: stick to what you know.

I know Ray-ban makes excellent, stylish, quality eyewear. Ralph Lauren is the king of a good polo. You want a modern shoe with a European edge? Aldo is your place to go. Looking for a trench for this rainy slump Texas has fallen into? Burberry is the godfather of trenches. From Gant to Falconable, men's dress shirts are more than covered by masters of this craft.

But what about denim? Almost every label and designer has a line of denim making it impossible and at times overwhelming for a buyer. The solution? Stick with what you know. While nothing may have gotten between Brook Shields and her Calvin's, my denim budget only budges for Levi's.

The American icon has revamped itself over the past decade making it more stylish, modern, and relevant than the iPad. The best part? Every look you could ever want, Levi's produces. From the modern skinny jean to the classic and updated Levi 501 my father has worn for 50 years, this brand covers it all, and oh-so beautifully. Any color, any cut, Levi's has it. Levi's can take you from a busy chaotic day in style and lead you into an elegant and sophisticated night out in GQ fashion.


Levi's Jeans classic 501


Levi's Jeans 559 Relaxed


Levi's 514 Slim Straight


And my favorite right now...

Levi's Jeans 510 Skinny Jean


However you like your denim, Levi's Jeans are the expert and my personal go to for all my denim goods. Levi's Jeans are definitely sticking to what they know best-creating perfect jeans.

JDP Reviews: Cole Haan 'Air Grant'

I'll be honest, I was a little put off by the "Nike Air" tab on the side of the moc. Don't get me wrong, I like Nike, but something about it on my leather mocs just kind of cheapens them for me. But who's getting that close to my feet, anyway?

After wearing these sinfully attractive shoes for a full day I must say, any wariness I had due to the Nike Air logo was completely trumped by how incredibly comfortable these shoes are. Every step just feels better and better. Not to mention how good they look. A man even approached me to inquire as to who they were by and where he could pick up a pair.

Cole Haan Air Grant- because top siders have become WAY too common.

JDP Reviews: Vineyard Vines Polos

After years of pridefully sporting our beloved pony over my heart, I decided it was time I branched off and allowed a new friend into my collection:



I mean really, how can you deny that modest smile? When I had first heard of VV I promised myself I would never partake in the east coast trend that would soon die out. What respect did this Whale deserve? Who was he, to come literally diving into our world and take the stage our pony and croc had spent decades creating?

Nonetheless, it has occurred to me that times are changing and our friendly Whale has comfortably established himself in our homes.

I'll get to the point. The VV classic pique polo wears incredibly well. It is loose and roomy but by no means sloppy. The placket stays stiff and doesn't curl up like other brands. Tucked in or out, Shep and Ian know how to make a polo look damn good.

Whale of a Time

To be honest, I never really go "shopping" for myself. But sometimes, you just cant pass up a good deal. So, this past weekend, while accompanying a friend to Nordstrom, I found these:


I figured it was time to replace my old Cole Haan Gunnisons. After all, they do have a hole in the heel from wearing them so much.

Later after a Central Market lunch we found ourselves at St. Bernards Sports store where I purchased my first series of these:


Sans popped collar, of course. We leave that to our friends above the Dixie.

And lastly, I purchased a replacement pair of the classics:


Reviews to come.