Recession Proof

As I've noted before, my real love for the blogging world came from Giuseppe at An Affordable Wardrobe. I've tried contacting him a few times to no avail, but for those who haven't kept up with him the man is seriously a genius. Like many, I always confused fashion and style, while the first can be bought, the latter is priceless. Without him, I would've continued making trendy purchases each season, rather than building a classic wardrobe through hard work and dedication. Speaking of which, I'd love to make it to Boston for the next Top Shelf Market.

Today was one of the many days I walked out the house feeling like a million bucks, all while outfitted in nearly all thrift store gems. Up top, it was a RL Golf Polo with a wool J. Crew sweater thrown over it. The two ran me a combined $5 on a recent trip to a local honey hole. I still splurge every once a while, but even splurging involves deep discounts, landing this Timex for 40% off.

I kept it calm on the bottom with a pair of slim brown cords found recently at Target (another helpful hint from Giuseppe). The socks are one of my treasure, bought many years ago at H&M in NYC, I don't know how much longer they'll last, but I dread to see them go. Finally, I've featured these shoes many times, but never explained them fully. Johnston and Murphy Kilties, that seems nearly molded to fit my feet, for only $3. The lady friend has accompanied me on a few shopping trips, but is yet to experience the true joy of finding a diamond in the rough...

On a non-sartorial note, being thrifty is one of the foundations of the prep lifestyle. It's nice to find clothing on the cheap, but there are other ways save as well. Our economy is terrible, and gas has long been a problem, which is why it's almost unbelievable I took this photo just yesterday. For those unaware, as I was until a few days ago, Kroger has a monthly rewards program that accumulates points for dollars spent in groceries, which can be cashed in for up to $1.00 off per gallon. To be honest, I can't remember the last time I filled the F150 up for under $75, it felt like they were giving it away....


Thank you for your time, JBH

From The Desk of Southern Demotrad

I was always a fan on this series on A Continuous Lean, and while I'm still holding it down each day in terms of fashion, I thought I'd give you guys a look at the area I've been spending most of my time at lately.

The desk itself is old, really old actually. Put it and the antique bankers lamp together, and I've probably got close to 100 years sitting there. I didn't want to show too close a look at the inspiration board, as I keep some pretty touchy things up there. Hey, I live alone, and seeing these things each day keep me hungry and ready to hustle. I'm big on notes, hence the post-its, ranging from phone numbers, quotes, questions, hell you name and I've probably had something up there about it before. While you can't see too closely, my pipe is on there as well. I wish it belonged to my great-grandfather, but I picked it up at an estate sale, nonetheless it's still pretty damn old. The cookies and milk aren't there every night, but the mason jar is. An absolute southern-staple, who needs fancy china? I sometimes wish it were a bit bigger, but then it again it helps me keep from letting useless stacks pile up. From scheming, to blogging, to becoming a lawyer, it's all happening at this desk. Just imagine hearing southern rock Pandora, smelling the luscious black cherry Cavendish, and the taste of something a little strong coming out of the mason jar. It may not be for everyone, but it'll do for me...

Thank you for your time, JBH

A Worthy Cause

His blog is definitely worth checking out, and the belt design is fully American with a bit of personal style, what more can a true gentleman be? He's patriotic, a golfer, and a fan of the SEC, let's help the guy out...

Thank you for your time, JBH

Until Next Year..

While one can never really be sure about the season in Kentucky (hence 75º December days), fall is nearly here in the bluegrass. It goes without saying that seersucker and white have been retired until spring, but there are a few other things I put up over winter and just can't wait to break back into the following year...

 I love madras, as it provides the ability to be a step above every other man in tshirts and sloppy polos during summer outings.

 For those who live on a beach, I see nothing wrong with corona as a year round option, but when the temperature begins winding down I prefer moving along to something that provides  little more "blanket" as we like to call it.

Although I see them fit for nothing more than the beach and the lake, it's sad to put the rainbows up, as you know it means it'll be a while before the beach or lake calls your name again. But just like an old friend, they'll be there waiting on you when you really need them for an improptu trip to Cabo in a few months..

No matter how old I get, it's always sad to see summer fade away, as I can't help but wonder if another good one will come my way. Yet the beauty of the great state of Kentucky is the fact that it's a very seasonal state, meaning just when the fruits of one season have exhausted, the completely different and unknown pleasures of another await as you close the closet door..

Thank you for your time, JBH

Something to Agree On..

It may have just been the way I was raised, but questioning anothers political views is simply a no-win situation. It's unfortunate to think about the political turmoil in America and have to endure the constant bickering across the aisles each day, but last night during the President's job speech, I finally noticed a somewhat cohesive agreement between the parties:Vineyard Vines.

While paying attention to his usual skeptical-I'd-rather-be-golfing glance, I noticed that Speaker Boehner was sporting a Vineyard Vines tie. This exact tie to be specific. And although Biden's purple silk wasn't from VV, I was positive I'd seen him in one before, so it was time to put my ever-developing research skills to the test...

Turns out my hunch was right, as the dapper Vice President can often be found in VV. Although Obama spent the week pre-Irene in Martha's Vineyard, I doubt we'll see him donning the whale anytime soon. But in the meantime, members of both parties can often be seen adding a little color and character to Capitol Hill..

Boehner once again, no pun intended through this photo, it's just the most revealing tie shot I could find.

While I believe Boehner has reached the pinnacle of his career, it's not beyond reach for the whale to make its way into the White House, as John Kerry nearly proved in 2004.

It could perhaps be sooner than we think, as Mitt Romney would love to prove.

Being that our politicians may not agree on much these days, it's nice to see them on the same page for a change. Although a beautiful necktie from Shep and Ian isn't going to fix the deficit or fight terrorism, it can be viewed as a message that although our parties differ vastly in many ways, a nice tie can make even a politician look good.

Thank you for your time, JBH

Labor Day Fun

With Labor Day here once again it is always sad to retire the seersucker and other fun items of summer, but today's 65 degree weather in Louisville couldn't have had me any more excited for fall...

I was fortunate enough to spend this morning walking 9 with one of my classmates at Cherokee Park, needless to say the legal studies have taken a toll on my game, but just getting the chance to play these days makes me realize how truly beautiful the game is. Also, notice the putter sticking out of my bag up top, it's the magic wand. I felt inspired after the Bradley's PGA heroics, we will see how it works out.

It was a nice change going from 100 degree days to wearing a pair of slacks on the course, and the DryJoys remain classic, I just can't get myself into the hype surrounding "athletic" golf attire.

To cap the day off, this was the view I witnessed walking out of the coffee shop/ my office this evening, needless to say the  Derby City is beginning to grow on me.


Thank you for your time, JBH

Not Quite Fall

Before I felt today's near record temperature, I decided that yesterday would be another good opportunity to wear another fall classic. It felt amazing on the morning commute, but as the  afternoon blistered away I was unpleasantly reminded that those pleasant days are still a few weeks away.

1. J. Crew Slim Fit Khakis
2. Vintage Florsheim Loafers
3. RL OCBD
4. No-Name watch on AE Band
5. J. Crew Bracelet
6. Custom Needled Belt

Thank you for your time, JBH

WIWT: Uniform

Although the temperature is still jumping back and forth, I've began moving into my fall wardrobe. Chance are if you see me in the fall, it'll be some sort of combination with the newly purchased Gap jeans, button down, and a pair of brown shoes. Not only is it classic, but paired with a sweater or blazer when the weather cools down, it can handle essentially any casual atmosphere, from a night out to tailgating the next day. Today's version consisted of the following:

1. Brooks Brothers Non-Iron Sport Shirt
2. Gap 1969 Selvedge Straight
3. Argyle Socks via Target
4. Vintage Dexter Suede Bucs
5. Timex Retrograde

Thank you for your time, JBH

Joining The Crowd

For some reason or another, I'd never gotten around to watching the Talented Mr. Ripley. Being a big fan of both Jude Law and Matt Damon, I can't believe I let it evade for me this long. The style throughout the film is simply amazing, for more on that check out the folks at GQ.

 I purchased my first pair of Gap jeans last year, and while they were great at first, they expanded to the point were a belt would barely hold them, forcing them to be washed. In this year's pair I opted for 2 sizes down both in waist and length. They're currently a bit tight, but I'm excited to break them in and monitor how they progress. The Gap denim sale continue through Wednesday, making these hard to pass up at $54.50.

 For those who aren't aware, it's college football season again. Tailgates, upsets, long days and even longer nights are upon us. This letter began this months Southern Living, oh how sweet it is...

Thank you for your time, JBH

Much Needed Island Vacation

Okay so it wasn't really a vacation, but for those of you who have been fortunate to see Jimmy Buffett live, then you know what I'm talking about. It was a much needed break from law school, and an absolutely beautiful summer evening to spend down on the river in Cincinnati.

 I spent the better part of the night enjoying myself and the beautiful JMC, dancing the night away to what I feel is undoubtedly the best beach music ever played. Unfortunately I didn't take many pictures, but this one should give you an idea.

 

While Buffet is filled with tropical shirts galore, I was able to dress boldly while still having a little class about myself. Of course, by the end of the evening nobody could see my custom needled belt, and the RL madras was undone a button or two. 

Once again it's back to the grind, although tonight I was able to enjoy a nice meal (notice PowerPoint slides close by my plate). I've dined at many great restaurants in many cities, and regardless of it being a chain, I'm a firm believer that for the low price of just under 10 bucks, the Outback special may be the best bang for your buck in America.

Thank you for your time, JBH

HOLY MOLE! and a Seersucker Surprise

I've been wanting to try a local food truck for a while now, and while driving down Bardstown yesterday I probably pissed a few people off when I locked it up at the sight of the big green truck.

Holy Mole, adequately named, is a texmex style taco truck founded this summer by two close friends. They focus their creations around locally grown products, just another example of Louisville's ever-expanding green culture.

I opted for the day's special, a Barbacoa, featuring brisket from Stone Cross Farms in Taylorsville, topped with deliciously fresh pickled onions and queso fresco. The homemade tortillas are simply amazing, and my only regret is not getting seconds! For more information or upcoming locations, check them out on Twitter @holymoletruck or via Facebook.

And last, but certainly not least, what a surprise it was on the first day of Torts for our professor to walk in sporting a double-breasted seersucker suit. His pink silk pocket-square hung out effortlessly, and the purple and pink rep tie complimented the white oxford nicely. Regardless of how demanding the class may be, I'll never question anything about the man...

Thank you for your time, JBH

Helping Out

With orientation wrapped up our final project was do help out the community, and I chose to work with the Environmental Law Society in historic Cherokee Park.

 Should've went with bean boots, although the 993's held up well as always.

 Our mission for the day was to find and eliminate Japanese Honeysuckle, a plant foreign to the area that is stealing nutrients all throughout the park.

 This limestone fountain is over 150 years old, and originally a source of water for horses built high so riders wouldn't have to dismount.

Altogether it was a beautiful morning spent doing helping out the community and mother nature, I for one think we could all benefit from helping out here and there. But if you're gonna be in the hills, WEAR BEAN BOOTS!

Thank you for your time, JBH

Wheels, Tears, and Radicals

The move has been a bit time consuming lately, as I have constantly been back and forth between the big city and eastern Kentucky. I hope to use this blog and others as my outlet to escape the pressures of learning to become a barrister.  As the price of fuel continues to soar I've continuing to enjoy the urban lifestyle, particularly thanks to my newest ride..

While I've quickly learned that riding a bike in the middle of summer can be a bit tough on ones clothing, I'm enjoying the early morning rides and unlimited miles per gallon. It's not vintage or rugged by any means, but when a few items move in the store I have some upgrades in mind.

Speaking of energy, this RED, WHITE, and BLUE sticker caught my eye while in EKY over the weekend. It certainly has a good point, as those who are quick to criticize coal often don't understand what keeps their homes chilled on these hot summer days. I refuse to let my politics take over this lovely blog, and by no way endorse the more racy sticker, although it does give one an idea of the place I for many years called home.

Finally, on a more relative note, I was very disappointed when I noticed my belt sagging from the side of my recently purchased J. Crew chinos. I'm typically not one to mind a tear or slight blemish in clothing, as I generally don't have too much invested. Unfortunately for me, I bought these pants retail and have misplaced the receipt, meaning of course that the folks at J. Crew will have nothing to do with me. Chinos are one of the more available items to be found on the cheap, but my wish for a more "Urban" fit has backfired. Although torn, they'll still make for an excellent pair of lightweight summer khakis to pair with an undone polo or tee shirt.


Thank you for your time, JBH

Urban Prep

While chinos and shorts are necessities for surviving the summer heat,  I can't help but feel sorry for the denim that serves me so well in almost every occasion. In switching the uniform up a bit today I felt a bit more urban while still maintaining the all-American look I've become known for.

I paired my well worn 514's with a vintage cotton madras shirt from Gitman Bros, thus being able to breathe a bit up top while smothering away down below while pedaling my bike on this 96 degree Louisville day. I held things together nicely with the brown florsheim belt I found earlier this week for a a buck and a half.

My high school days saw me wearing 511's, but eventually comfort took precedent and I left the super-skinny thing to hollywood and rockers. While the fit of my jeans has transformed along the years, this pair of Vans has remained the same, just a pair of classic white Authentics that have traveled the globe with me and aged nicely into the beat-all-to-hell look. It was nice wearing the jeans out today, although I clearly jumped the gun a bit, but that's alright, fall's just around the corner after all.


Thank you for your time, JBH

Coversation Pieces

Throughout many homes there are various items and treasures that remind us of where we have been and the things we have enjoyed in life. From trophy bucks to hole-in-one balls, it never gets old telling the retelling the stories to guests and reminiscing on just how special these events were. I think I've made it clear on here that fashion, golf, and politics are my main hobbies in life, thus my coffee table reading material should come as no surprise.

Sea Island is no question my favorite place on earth. The service is southern hospitality at its finest, and the Seaside Course gives me all I can handle every time I tee it up. Being the golf nut that I am, I simply had to purchase this table book to help share with others the little slice of heaven I've found in southern Georgia.

For those who hadn't guessed by now, I'm loyal to the democratic party, and for me, JFK is the mecca of American men. From style, to women, to knowledge, he had it all, and although this vintage piece is falling apart, it still provides an excellent look at Jack from the prospective of his family members.

Finally, the Flusser book is a simple must for any connoisseur of mens fashion. While it isn't so much a how to guide, it does provide a detailed history of many of the classic pieces that make up the traditional American wardrobe.


Note: I decided to stick with my grandfather's antique trunk rather than purchasing a coffee table, and please excuse my light chocolate carpet, I hope to have a lovely antique rug in here in the next week or so.

Thank you for your time, JBH

Treasure Hunting

Although I'm not certain as to what the first blog I ever read was, I can damn sure remember the first one that mattered. The first time I recall going in a thrift store was my sophomore year in high school, and since that day nearly a decade ago, I'd say 90 percent of my wardrobe has come from these amazing shops. Needless to say, the first time I stumbled upon An Affordable Wardrobe I was hooked. I thought I had to be the only person in the world trying to be dapper on a very limited budget, then I came across Giuseppe and couldn't leave the computer until I'd combed through every post he'd ever made. So Mr. Timore, thank you for giving me the inspiration to keep going.

With that being said, my recent move to Louisville has been majorly self-funded, and for a recent college graduate who spent the majority of the summer working odd jobs to support traveling, money is rather tight. Now, most people have no idea that my wardrobe at one point belonged to someone else, so this past week I scoured some 20 thrift and vintage shops for the some furniture to outfit the new headquarters.

 The living room is pretty small, and this picture is pretty bad, but this table and lamp I found earlier today in nearly the same shade of cedar, finish the room off nicely. The table has to be around 30 years old and I really appreciate the scuffs and marks put on its octagonal top. Not a bad combo for $14, eat your heart out Ikea.

 Constantly reading about the Navy and the Kennedy family has led to an almost childlike curiosity about the northeast, and I simply couldn't pass up this vintage cardboard map of Newport. While I'm still working out the technicalities of a trip to see an old college golf buddy in Boston this winter, this picture will have to for now, and at only $7  my daily trips will cost much less than seeing the cape in real life.

Sticking to the nautical theme, I've been looking for a model sailboat all summer, as I knew it would be the perfect piece to finish my bookshelf. I'd nearly given up and was about to head to a home goods store and shell out 50 bucks, but just when I was ready to wave the white flag I found this beauty at a yard sale on my way home. She's a bit smaller than I'd imagined, but for $6 the S.S. Southern Demotrad will be just fine for now!!


Thank you for your time, JBH

Chasing The Dream

As I've stated on here a few times, I one day hope to take my fashion sense to the court room and be the dapper lawyer I've pictured myself as since childhood. I've finally began moving into my new home in Louisville. Although funds are tight and the current government situation isn't looking favorable for students, Giuseppe at An Affordable Wardrobe is the perfect example that being frugal doesn't mean one can't be stylish in all aspects of life. I'll have an update soon with the ongoing process of outfitting my apartment as both elegant and cheap as possible...

Thank you for your time, JBH

Good Eats of the Lowcountry

Although I prefer homecooking or my own grilling over any other food in the world, perhaps my favorite part of traveling is trying local restaurants and hidden dives. Our recent trip to Charleston was no different, as JMC and I were able to experience some exceptional cuisine.

 
First up was The Beacon Drive-In, located only a few miles off of I-26 in Spartanburg. Although the Beacon Burger-A Plenty with a large Peach Tea takes a few weeks off my lifespan each time I stop in, I simply can't pass through Spartanburg without dropping in.

Perhaps my best meal of the week came at Station 22 on Sullivan's Island, even if it was a questionable decision at the time. As everyone ordered crab cakes and the Mahi-Mahi special, I couldn't get over the fact that such a seafood establishment had meatloaf on the menu, and the Kentucky in me had to give it a try. Smothered in fried onions and paired with fresh green beans, I didn't even have time to snap a photo before it was all gone.

Although dinner on our final night was the first place all week to have crab legs, I opted for shrimp and low country fried grits. Their Fire Roasted Sweet Red Pepper Bisque was one of the better soups I've ever had, but it still didn't make up for waiting 30 minutes longer than the hostess predicted after we'd called ahead.

Last but certainly not least, the Sea Biscuit Cafe on Isle of Palms is perhaps the most charming little diner I've ever seen. It's open only for breakfast and lunch on Tue-Sat, and if you want breakfast I'd recommend getting there early as there are only about 15 tables. Although my country ham and eggs was absolutely delicious, I'd recommend the Brown Sugar French Toast, as it may be the greatest thing I've ever tasted.
Thank you for your time, JBH

Back Home, for now

After a few rounds of golf and a very relaxing week in the low country I'm finally back in the mountains, although it won't be for long as law school begins in just a few weeks.

First and foremost, I was very pleased with the climactic ending to the Harry Potter series. Although I never read past the fourth book, I felt a certain attachment to these characters I essentially grew up with them. While the film was certainly the darkest and most action packed of the series, the highlight for me came at the end in seeing the trio grown up, particularly the image of the always dapper Harry in a well fitting cardigan and oxford.

It may not have been the best strategic decision to see a midnight film with an 8 A.M tee time the following morning, but the game was actually very solid all around with one hiccup on the 15th hole keeping me from qualifying by a single shot. It stung at first, but the following morning we were off to the low-country and needless to say all my pains were healed. With much unpacking and organizing still left to be done, I'll try to expand on the trip a little more this evening!


Thank you for your time, JBH

Open Championship Week

While most will pick the Masters or our National Open as their favorite golf event, The Open Championship is far and away my most fancied week of the year. It probably has something to do with it falling right around my birthday every year, but I simply love waking up early each morning to watch the high winds and natural beauty torment the worlds best players.  This is also a golf significant week in another way, as tomorrow morning I'll attempt to qualify for the 92nd Kentucky Open. The site for my qualifier is the historic Bellefonte Country Club in Ashland, KY, a classic layout that I would have to rank among the hardest 6,000 yard courses in America.

With nearly every hole tree lined and the widest fairway measuring a measly 25 yards, it is a course that requires and rewards precisely hit tee shots.

The scorecard got a bit wrinkled during the round, but as my notes imply many of the holes will certainly see the driver being left in the bag.  I haven't attempted the Open since 2008, which saw a 72 get me into the field at Audubon Country Club. Although I don't believe the narrow fairways and tricky greens will be all that troublesome, my biggest fear is the affect that taking the lady friend to tonight's midnight showing of the conclusion to the Harry Potter series will have!!

Regardless of what happens on the course, it will certainly be a great weekend. Saturday morning will see the lady and I heading down to Charleston for a week of R&R and my birthday celebration, not to mention waking up early Sunday to see who can become the Champion Golfer of the Year.


Thank you for your time, JBH