As I was thinking about an in between clean piece of outerwear, my brain immediately draws towards a Harrington Jacket. Having one for my spring/summer go to, I wanted something very similar but for colder weather. While browsing around looking for something along those lines, I stumbled upon the Valstar “Valstarino”. It hit me, a wool blouson; how perfect. Doing more research, I fell in love with their dyed garment version, as well as the grey wool version offered by C’H'C’M; but I wanted something with a little more character. After a few days I see a post by The Armoury, featured their own Ring Jacket A1 Bomber Jacket. If you have not heard of The Armoury… you must be new here, which is perfectly fine. The coveted Hong Kong based shop with gentleman such as Ethan Newton and Alan See, know what they’re doing and we all love that, don’t we? One of the main brands they carry are Ring Jacket. A Japanese based company known for their amazing fabrics and wonderful cuts on mens clothing.
Made of 100% wool in a brown/beige houndstooth and horn buttons, I started geeking; fast. Featuring a ribbed hem, cuff and superb collar I knew I really wanted one. Shoulders are minimally lined with taped seams and the front of the jacket has two decently sized pockets.
My favorite detail of this bomber jacket is the superb collar. Compared to the Valstarino, the Ring Jacket stands taller and more prominent. It’s the little things right?
Here’s a better example of myself wearing it, showing how the collar sits/stands; perfect.
On our way to 
There’s just something about suede and especially this lovely moss green suede, that is so adaptable. In the daytime, this green jumps; not to much, but just enough to make me smile every time I look down. And in the evening, they almost adjust; it’s like navy’s weird step brother. The one you never thought about, the one you never hung out with, but when given the chance; he will shine. He doesn’t want to be the center of attention or the favorite, he’s just happy with being a part of something. Green suede, the weird step brother.
A few nights ago I went to Billy Reid here in Nashville. It was a normal night here in town, but not at the store; it was “Whiskey Wednesday”. My friend Clay and I went up there to see fellow friend Joey, one of the employees there. After saying hello to some old friends and meeting new ones, we went and grabbed some bourbon from the mini bar they had setup in the back.
As we were about to leave I saw this silk floral tie hanging on a rack. I picked it up assuming it was linen, only to find out it was 100% silk (Made in Italy); which was not was I was looking for. But something stood out for me with this tie. From afar it seems to be a dot/square patterned tie, but the closer you get, you start to notice the petals on the flowers. I would say the width on this tie is perfect for my taste, 3.25 inches at the widest point. Personally, the most slim I go is 2.5 inches; but 2 inches on a knit tie. With the right light, this material would reveal a warm navy; and as light falls away, it seems a dark blue.
Also with everything in the store for 25% off, except for custom made pieces; I couldn’t leave without it this tie. I was thoroughly impressed with everything in the store, and I had an good time with everyone there. If you are in Nashville, Charleston, Dallas, Houston and of course New York; look them up and be sure to stop by. Thanks again Joey.
