The Style Guy

ACL recently posted an interview with Glenn O'Brien, GQ's Style Guy. Glenn has been around the block and he knows what he's talking about. Personally, I'm a fan of his column and read it every month. In his interview with David Coggins, Mr. O'Brien talks about the evolution of his advice column, where he is finding good ties, and what he's working on now. I've highlighted a portion of the interview below:

DC: How long have you been writing Style Guy?

GO: I think it’s 10 years. And I was in Details for 6 or 8 years before that.

DC: Do you really get questions from readers or are they fed to you by editorial interns?

GO: They’re genuine.

DC: How have the questions changed over the years?

GO: The GQ readers are pretty young and they just want to know basic things—and it might not be such a good idea for them to listen to their father.

DC: Are there still pillars of wisdom that should be adhered to or are we at a point where anything goes and you make your own laws?

GO: I think it’s about common sense. A lot of people don’t have that. The rules are made to be broken but you have to know them to do it right. Supposedly you’re not supposed to wear black and brown together. It looks like you’re doing that right now.

DC: I’m a rule breaker.

GO: Vincent Gallo does that spectacularly, he wears black pants and brown shoes. Anybody who’s really stylish breaks the rules.

DC: Is giving advice different now?

GO: I think it’s gotten more sophisticated. In the beginning it was a lot about what color socks should I wear with a blue suit. Or should I wear black shoes with a blue suit. One of the funny things that happened as a result of it was that I was asked to write an advice column for Italian Vanity Fair, which I’ve done for a long time and write weekly.

DC: What about this new attention towards American craftsmanship and clothes made closer to home?

GO: Did you see that documentary on HBO called Schmatte? It’s really good. It’s about the collapse of the American garment industry. In 1960 90% of the clothes Americans wore were made in America and now it’s 10%.

You can read the full interview here.

Wish List: Polos

I am in serious need of a few new polos. I have about 6 polos in my closet, and half of them are from Old Navy. That is almost embarrassing to admit. I typically succumb - completely overlooking the quality and cheap material - because the prices are so ridiculously good. A polo for $8? You can't beat that.

They would be great if they didn't shrink 2 sizes in the wash, or stretch out in weird places like the collar. I think the prize goes to the fake Abercrombie & Fitch polo my brother got me in Indonesia which I've been wearing for about 2 years now. That or the forest green, striped polo with the collar that turns up on one side I got on the sale rack at Old Navy 6 years ago. Both have seen better days. Wow, I'm just now realizing the severity of my situation.

I think it's time for an upgrade, whether it be J.Crew or Banana Republic or some other label. I just need something new. Something with a nice slim fit that isn't too long or too short. I'm thinking solid colors that I can use for formal and casual occasions. Something that retails for between $30-40 (that I could possibly find discounted elsewhere... of course).

Any suggestions?

Speaking of Silk Scarves...

What a great mix of color and patterns.

(Photo c/o The Sartorialist)

Blue & Red

I really like the shot of red here. If only I was brave enough to wear a red silk scarf.

I would totally rock this get-up walking my dog on a crisp fall day... with a driver cap on my head and a pipe in my mouth.

(Photo c/o A Suitable Wardrobe)

Textures

Winter Essential: The Tweed Sports Coat

I used to think tweed was for old men. That was before I bought my first tweed sports coat (3 weeks ago). Tweed is a great material for fall and winter. I'm no expert on tweed so I will leave it at that.

I bought this jacket from Banana Republic during one of their '40% Off One Item' sales this season. Looking at this photo, you'll have to excuse my stylist who failed to notice my pocket flap was partially tucked in. Doh!

SALE: Allen Edmonds Shoe Polish $1

Allen Edmonds Premium Shoe Polish is only $1 when you use the coupon code HOLIDAYPOLISH1208 with free shipping.

Winter Essential: Rugged Boots

I remember wearing canvas Vans and Converse Chucks everyday in the city my first winter here, like it was no big deal. I remember accidentally stepping in pot holes full of water and slush as I crossed the street. And I vividly recall my shoes and socks getting wet on the way to work and having to deal with cold feet all day at the office. I didn't wear boots back then because boots weren't cool. But it seems as if there has been a resurgence of the old American work boot over the last couple years. I took note of this last winter and decided it was time to jump on the bandwagon.

I purchased the Timberland Men's Earthkeeper 6 in. Leather Boots from a small shop in the Financial District because they were $30 less than any other shop.

It took a few days to get acclimated to wearing lace up boots, but what a relief it has been. My days of tip-toeing around the city in wet canvas shoes are over. Now I walk where I want, when I want, never taking no for an answer.

If you are shopping around for winter boots, a few good options include the Frye Dakota, the Red Wing Classic Lifestyle, and the Wolverine Burton boot.

And don't forget to winterize your new pair of boots. Click here for the How To.

Quote of the Day

"Flaunting new labels, or any labels for that matter, gives the impression of insecurity."

-G. Bruce Boyer, fashion writer and editor

Trend Spot: Flipping the Bill

SALE: Macy's 25% Off

Macy's Friends & Family sale is going on through 12/7.

Receive 25% off online purchases (restrictions apply) using coupon code MACYSFF* and receive free shipping on orders over $99.

Receive 25% off in-store using the printable coupon found here.

*I've also seen code MACYSFRIEND

Don't Forget About the Pants

The importance of having pants tailored to the proper length is often overlooked by men. Don't settle for this:

'What's the big deal?' you might ask.

It's sloppy. It's careless. It's lazy.

I think it's safe to say that when a man dresses in a suit, he wants to look good, feel good, and, perhaps most importantly, make a good impression. If that is your goal, do yourself a favor, pay the $10 and go get those new slacks adjusted. It just looks better.

There is often debate regarding how big or small the break in the pant should be. I think it's a matter of personal preference. For a smaller man like me, I prefer a smaller break (below) for the same reason I prefer a slimmer cut suit - I don't appear to be quite as small. For a taller man, a bigger break might be appropriate.

Be very specific with your tailor and double check their work. I often have to tell them to 'bring it up a little more'. Make sure your pants are sitting on your waist where you like them when you are being measured. And if you don't feel good about the job they do, don't be afraid to tell them to fix it.

(Photos by GQ & Suits4Men)

An Early Christmas for Me

Christmas comes early for me. I found this Ben Sherman Twill Weekend bag for $99 (originally $199) at Filene's Basement on 79th St last weekend. Yesterday I sealed the deal after a few days of deliberation. What ultimately pushed me over the edge was the 20% off coupon I received in my inbox - exactly what I was hoping for after becoming a fan on the Filene's Basement website.

I first started shopping around for a nice weekend bag after longtime friend Paul Lambon came to visit in June sporting his own, a bag made completely from recycled leather. It had serious character and, in my opinion, gave the already stylish Paul some serious class. I coveted it, and decided I needed to get one for myself. So, I believe a shout out to Paul is in order for getting the wheels turning in my head. Thanks buddy.

With What Color Suit Should One Start?

Martin Greenfield, America's greatest (and oldest) living tailor, said this:

"One gray suit and one navy suit. You could go to London for a month with just that. Wear the navy jacket with the gray pants; keep changing your shirt and tie. I don't care where you go, you'll look elegant everyday."

-GQ

SALE: Banana Republic 40% Off

40% off one item in-store this Wednesday (Dec 2). Mark your calendar.

Warning: They may or may not ask you for a hard copy of the coupon. Annoying, I know, but I'm usually pretty good at persuading them to give me the discount anyway. In fact, during an identical sale 2 weeks ago, I was able to get TWO items for 40% off.

Winter Essential: The Wool Tie

If you don't have one, think about it...

Polo Ralph Lauren

J.Crew

Gap

Of course, I would advise anyone to be patient and wait for an item like a tie to go on sale. At this point in my life, I will not pay more than $20 for a tie.

Trend spot: Adidas Gazelle

The Adidas Gazelle. Simple. Sporty. Comfortable. Classic.

I've been seeing these shoes all over the city. They're back. Or maybe they were never gone...

Funny story. I was shopping around for these online the other night. The next day, I showed up to work and my co-worker Mark was wearing the exact pair I almost bought. I couldn't believe it. He mentioned he'd seen them in a few tabloid magazines and decided to purchase them at Bloomingdale's a few days prior. I'm telling you, these are hot. I even saw these shoes on Finn in Glee the other night. So, believe it!

Give It a Rest

In the November issue of GQ, Bally designer Brian Atwood said this:

"One nice pair of lace-ups isn't enough - the leather needs a break from the heat and moisture of your feet. Keep two or tree in rotation and they'll all last five times longer."

Interesting tip. Perhaps a justifiable excuse to go buy more shoes...? I'll say yes.

Paul Frank Smart Patrol Watch

On January 22 of this year, my Paul Frank watch (pictured above) arrived at my office. I purchased it online from Whiskey Militia for just $39 + shipping. I confess, this was somewhat of an impulse buy. When I saw this watch online, however, I figured it was a great deal, read a few encouraging reviews and ultimately sealed the deal with my credit card. Since then, I've grown to really appreciate watches and the ability to look down at my wrist and see the time (as opposed to pulling my cell phone out of my pocket).

I like this watch because it's low-profile. It's modest and doesn't make a big statement. It has a clean leather band and a simple face (which in my opinion, is the perfect size, 44mm diameter). Personally, I don't think the big, oversized watches with all the bells and whistles match my personality or my style.

I am now shopping around for a watch with a brown leather band. It's at the top of my Xmas list this year. Any suggestions?

The Way My Brain Works

12 ft. long Subway sandwiches = 1 new pair of Aldo wingtips

245 cans of Sprite = new Calvin Klein wool suit
5 Chipotle burritos = new grey cardigan

3 meals from Shake Shack = new pair of UNIQLO cords

4 frozen yogurts from 40 carrots = new DKNY tie from Filene's Basement

This is how my brain works. And, to the chagrin of my girlfriend, one reason I hate spending money on food.

Paragon Sports Close Out Sale

On September 19, I was walking with my girlfriend in Union Square. We walked past Paragon Sports and noticed "40 - 60% OFF" signs. I didn't really need anything in the way of outdoor gear/sporting equipment, but my curiosity got the best of me. It's almost impossible for me to walk past such a sale without digging around a little bit. And good thing I did, because (after searching through the snowboard outerwear rack a dozen times) I found a cool new pair of Hurley board shorts - an item I've been wanting to buy since the start of summer. Originally $59, I got these bad boys for $16 and some change.

I love the bright colors and the length is just right (just above the knees). But the best part about this suit is the material, Hurley's PHANTOM fabric. Apparently, it is 'the most technologically advanced boardshop material available'. It's lightweight, surprisingly soft and ultra stretchy.

Look out for Paragon's close out sale next year in September. I'll be there.

ALDO

Since moving to New York City, I've found a great place to shop for shoes is Aldo. They have almost a dozen locations throughout Manhattan. While I will not agree with the assertion that Aldo sells "high-quality fashion footwear" as the website claims, I will say that they do a decent job of balancing quality and affordable prices. Most of their dress shoes are $100 or less.

My most recent discovery was stumbling upon the clearance section of Aldo's online store. You can find it here. Some of the listed shoes are 40-50% off the retail price. On top of that, if you spend more than $125*, your order ships free. AND if you don't like what you get in the mail, you can return your order to the closest store, no questions asked.

I have ordered shoes from their website twice now. Both times I ordered 3 pairs in order to get free shipping. Of course, I picked my favorite pair out of each batch and then returned the other two. C'mon now, I can't be spending all my paycheck on shoes!

Give it a shot.

*Note: I've found that this amount changes.

Purpose of The Canny Dandy

Welcome to my blog The Canny Dandy.

The purpose of this blog is three-fold:

1. To highlight current trends and personal observations in the world of fashion, specifically within New York City.

2. To post and comment on my recent wardrobe purchases as a personal record.

3. To help people save money on fashion. With markups as high as they are, no one should pay full price for anything. I hope to highlight current deals and promotions, helpful websites, and my tricks of the trade. Everyone loves a good deal, especially me.

DW