Big Black Book for Spring

Spring is here, and for some of us that marks the anticipated release of another fantastic semi-annual style resource from Esquire magazine. The Big Black Book for Spring 2010 is finally here, and available on newstands everywhere. I was pleased to see that even some grocery stores are carrying The B.B.B this year, as last year I really only saw it at bookstores. I hope that means that demand has been high, as I don't want to see these fine volumes go extinct anytime soon.

Esquire, we hope you'll keep up the good work (and yes, although I've entered a contest that Esquire sponsors, this write-up is completely non-biased)!

Features include (but are not limited to) the fine art of wearing white, selecting good-looking and durable luggage, choosing the summer business suit, and spotlights on designers that are bringing bold new ideas to mainstay brands such L.L. Bean, Bass, and Gant. There is even a handy table that provides the carry-on weight and size limit for all the major airlines. Good info to have, if you ask me. As infrequently as I fly, I find myself surprised everytime I do at the new laws and restrictions that seem to pop up anew with each airport visit.

There is an article on the style-world's rekindled obsession with "trad" wear, a detailed focus on watches, and one of the coolest pictures of Keith Richards I've ever seen. Run out, and get yourself a copy of the current Black Book. It may even tide you over until the Fall issue comes out. The Big Black Book is available at newstands or through Esquire for $9.95.

Cheers,

-Paul

A Tight-Knit Community

Hello, all! I must apologize effusively for the unannounced hiatus. There has been a lot going on for me, though it's not worth rambling on about here. Today I wanted to mention an accessory that has been making a huge reemergence in recent years, and the fact that the current season is promoting this item as well leads me to believe that the presence of the silk knit tie is indefinite.

Though obviously available in many colors, I think the first color worth adding to one's wardrobe is the navy blue knit tie. Simple and versatile, this was the tie worn by Sean Connery's James Bond with a beautifully tailored suit, and the texture of the tie also makes it perfect for dressing up a much more casual ensemble (perhaps even one that includes a jet-pack). I like the knit tie in predominantly solid colors. The tactile texture of the tie needs to be balanced with a sparse pallet and too many colors in the tie are distracting.

One of the nice elements of the knit tie is that any season can make the tie look at home. In colder months, the added bulk of the tie implies warmth, but in warmer seasons, the lightness of the silk and looseness of the weave looks comfortable and cool. Wool ties, for example, really work only in the fall and winter months.

One thing that I like to do with textures, and the knit tie is a perfect example, is to pair a visual texture wih a tactile texture for a nice balance. In the pictured example (photo 1), the tactile texture of the knit tie is paired with the visual texture of the shirt's Glen Plaid weave. This shows contrast and at the same time, blends the knit's bulk into the shirt's supporting backdrop.

If the knit tie is not for you, I understand. The squared-off bottom and sock-like appearance are not attractive to some. I myself used to find knit ties tacky looking, partially because when I was younger they seemed so dated to me. Now, however, due to their resurgence, I consider my navy knit tie a staple in my wardrobe. It's one thing that defininitely has a place in my closet's tight-knit community.

Until next time,

Cheers!

-Paul