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Am I on an Italian kick?! I think the answer is yes.

Sartoria Partenopea continues to remind me that texture and variety is what makes an outfit stand out. It’s not a big flashy label though those DO standout (just in a bad way) *cough* polo horse cough*

It doesn’t need to be complicated, a simple houndstooth jacket, a green repp tie on a plaid shirt. Match that up with a pair of grey trousers and you’re set.

Notice cargo pants are in full swing with SP this year. Take note folks! Cargos are here to stay, just slim fitting and casual. Here’s hoping I can find a few more pairs myself soon.

Now, about affording SP–it’s not the cheapest …

I like backpacks…that’s pretty much a given.

Rarely do I come across a backpack that I like this much…The Cocoon Backpack by Ignoble is my new favorite.

It’s sleek, unique and is waaaay cheaper than that Visvim backpack you all seem to be saving for.

Made in the USA– the backpacks are hand assembled in small runs by a military-grade soft goods production facility, constructed from ultra-durable 230t nylon. Made with YKK zipper closures and herringbone trim. Top that off with some nice comfy padded airmesh shoulder straps and back. Dang son!

Not a bad deal for $220…So, go get yourself one already.

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Why are Italians so cool?

Maybe it’s because of the boldness, the whole “sprezzatura” or “I just don’t really care what you think look”.

Either way, you gotta give the Italians credit.

They’re the kings of pulling off what you want to pull off but, can’t because you think you can’t…y’know? (ha)

A prime example is the white popped polo collar.

Italians do a great job of it!

We (Americans) on the other hand well–do not.

Why?

Probably because his look isn’t simple, it’s not tailored, it’s overkill, and it just looks bad.

Another Example

Good Idea…

Bad Idea

Get it?

So now what?

Do I recommend that we all buy white polo’s and walk around with the collars popped?

Honestly? …

If you could only have one jacket for the Winter, let this be it. The “Wool Coat” by Enrico Mandelli

Made with a blend of cashmere and wool, this is the perfect coat. Worn over a knit, sport coat, or down vest this is the perfect final layering piece for your wardrobe.

It’s a sport coat but it isn’t, it’s a jacket but it isn’t. It’s well a wool coat.

Go find one of these now if you still can.

Whew…

Update…thanks to some wonderful readers, this jacket has been located at Pocket’s in Dallas Texas.

They’ve even sent another picture of the famed coat.…

What can be found an estate sale…

I mean I guess you could guess right? You’re more than likely to find an old Hermes watch than a piece of lunar rock.

Did I buy this?

No, I probably should’ve. My Mom deserves it but, knowing her she would rather have a new pair of running shoes.

This watch is from 1930′s. Wait the what?!

Is this like Nucky Thompson’s watch? Or that weird French lady that runs the shop that doesn’t really have a French accent?

It’s amazing how long quality can last. (It still amazes me that Hermes is family and privately owned.)

Anyone care to guess how much this was going for?

Good guess…$200 I know I’m …

Belvest has always been one of the lesser talked about Italian brands. I don’t really know why, I mean they make the majority of the suiting for Prada, and Hermes.

Yes, Prada and Hermes, you’ve heard of those brands right?

Well, they also do their own line, they kind of have been for a while.

Belvest is an old, reputable company that tailors out of Venice (still to this day). They used to be the top of the line suits for Neiman Marcus back in the past as well.

Their quality is quite good! True, it’s no Kiton but what is?

This season they follow the Italian trend (who isn’t) of a sleek silhouette with hiking boots (why yes I’m …

Very few places on earth know how to sell the simple, elegant, classic, scarf like J. Press.

Made from lambswool in a variety of tartans. The J. Press scarf has been a classic staple for years. No, I’m not going to make some cheesy Ivy reference but, I will make a reference in that this is a frigging legit scarf.

The thing with J.Press scarves are how affordable they are for the quality you get. So, go get one.

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A while back I had the wonderful opportunity to talk to Yuki Matsuda of Yuketen. I’ve always been a huge admirer of his designs, especially Monitaly. Yuketen has really paved the way for the resurgence of Made in the USA footwear and continues to remind folks that there is still great stuff made here (sorry American Apparel).

I spoke with him a bit about his vision and ideas for Fall/Winter 2010. Here’s what he had to say…

What motivated you to start Yuketen and become a company who manufactures in the USA when few companies were?

What motivated me was the desire to become involved with design and manufacturing of made in USA products because I love classic made in USA product design and ingenuity.  …