Threads For Thought: Short Sleeve Shirts

If it weren't for the polar vortex reawakening for a summer cool down, I could have introduced this post with a "Ain't it hot out there? Need a top that give you the look, without overheating." Regardless, the humble people of the south don't know what cold is and for you northerners, the polar vortex won't be permanent, so when it leaves, be prepared.

Channing Tatum does them like rock star.

Short sleeve shirts are exactly what the name implies and are a great summer alternative to your traditional shirts. Unless you're just wearing the shirt, they will give you the same look under a blazer or lightweight cardigan. Even without something over it, the short sleeve and tie look gives a pleasant ode to mid-century style, which happens to be trending if you forgot.

Russell Westbrook does them like a big nerd.

With short sleeve shirts, fit is everything, so make sure to try on what you're looking to get. Pattern is the next crucial factor and I encourage getting something playful being that it is more casual, but if you do plan on wearing it with a tie, then opt for something that can play dress and casual equally well; if you find a perfect pattern but in long sleeve, you can always take it to a tailor to be hemmed up. Alongside that, if you have any long sleeve shirts that you haven't worn in a while or have thought about throwing away, try folding the sleeve in half and cutting them to make it short sleeve; just remember to roll the sleeve 3-4 times.

Jack Spade: $128

Club Monaco: $90

J. Crew: $80

Check in tomorrow for this weeks edition of Friday Faux Pas and next Thursday for another piece that deserves your consideration!

Wardrobe Essentials: The Needlepoint Belt

Accessories are a key part of your daily garb, but some are overlooked or under thunk when it comes to including them in an outfit. None is more so true than the belt, an item that is typically cast to match the color or your shoes (which I agree with), but should be looked at as an opportunity to express yourself.

That is where the needlepoint belt comes into play! Essentially just an embroidered canvas belt, needlepoint belts are known for having unique details and remarkable durability for a cotton belt; the interwoven stitching creates a steadfast construction that holds strong for years and years. Another great characteristic of the construction is that the belt fades in a manner that is unique to the owner, so if the patterns weren't enough personalization for you, the fade to go with it should help.

There's no rule saying that these should or shouldn't be worn during any particular season, but my feeling is that this belt should be worn sparingly during the winter. The choices are out there, but be prepared to spend a pretty penny for yours due to the amount of work that goes into creating each belt. Just make sure to stick to your roots and get something that reflects your lifestyle in some way, whether it be a hobby, favorite sports team, etc.

Smathers & Branson: $165

Tucker Blair: $115

Ralph Lauren: $54

Check in tomorrow for a fashion piece that deserves your consideration and next Wednesday for another edition of Wardrobe Essentials!

Tech Tuesday: Life-Proof Shirts by Evalino

There are a number of products out there to keep your clothes from getting stained, wet, dirty, etc. the only problem is you end up with a starchy feel (Scotchgard) or some manner of discoloration. Evalino is a new company in the funding phase that is looking to tackle this problem on a nano-scale; Go science! Instead of surface treating a garment, their process focuses on a,tearing the molecular make-up of each individual strand to give you a product that feels as soft as any other shirt, but with a built in stain defense system. The company is looking to raise $50,000 for the release of 3 different patterns in dress and casual shirts that are available in three different fits (Regular, Slim, and Extra Slim). In my opinion, the silhouettes look great and the patterns are quite trendy, jump on their KickStarter campaign ASAP!

Check in tomorrow for a style piece that needs to be in your wardrobe and next Tuesday for more exciting tech!