The Big Announcement – HODINKEE
In Blog

The Big Announcement – HODINKEE

Well, here is the big announcement: I have signed on as associate editor at HODINKEE. Click through to read more about HODINKEE’s relaunch, what you can expect to see from me over there, and what the future looks like for Simply Refined.

From Russia (and Cleverley) With Love

From Russia (and Cleverley) With Love

Posted by: on Aug 26, 2011 | No Comments

One of the things that makes high-quality artisan goods so exciting is the stories they carry with them.  And boy do these carry a story.  They might even be more Indiana Jones than the Indy Boot…

Tie Knots: Not All Created Equal

Tie Knots: Not All Created Equal

Posted by: on Aug 22, 2011 | 2 Comments

A suit has its lapels, a shoe its waist, and a tie its knot.  Each is the point on which the rest of the object relies.  An otherwise great suit with mediocre lapels is just that, mediocre.  Likewise, no matter now fine a silk twill your tie is cut from, if it doesn’t knot beautifully the whole affair is a waste.

To Catch A Gray Blazer

To Catch A Gray Blazer

Posted by: on Aug 19, 2011 | No Comments

We all know about the blue blazer.  In fact, its being blue is often why we call it a blazer in the first place.  But its cousin the gray blazer offers an elegant alternative to what might be the most worn sport coat these days.  Cary Grant’s not a half-bad endorsement either.

Simplicity of Form

Simplicity of Form

Posted by: on Aug 17, 2011 | 3 Comments

There are two basic reasons to wear clothes: utility and ornamentation.  I know I’m oversimplifying a bit, but stay with me.  Some clothing you wouldn’t wear if you didn’t’ have to and other things you’d wear every day if you could.  The best clothes and effects though balance form and function, and the best of these approach perfection in their simplicity.

Allen Edmonds Recrafting – Wear In, Ship Out

Allen Edmonds Recrafting – Wear In, Ship Out

Posted by: on Aug 15, 2011 | 4 Comments

One of the great things about investing in high-quality classics is the prospect of having them for years to come.  Most serious shoe-makers do their bit to help and offer in-house repair and recraft services to keep your hooves in tip-top shape.  I just got a pair back from Allen Edmonds, and here are my thoughts.