The Obtainer - 10/7/22, Friday
↦ An Entire Outfit for Less Than $200
Friday, October 7th Edition
Who says you have to spend a lot to look good? See how I ball out on a budget. And then let me hop across the pond to highlight a brand that makes one of my favorite pair of shoes at the moment.
- Leon Hedgepeth, Shopping Editor ⋯ @leonhedgepeth
WhatWe’reWearing
The Sub-$200 Fit
At Valet. we endorse well-made items that are affordable and accessible. It's our belief that you don't always have to buy an expensive jacket or jeans to be the best-dressed guy in the room. Whether you have plenty of disposable income or are balling on a budget, your shopping habits should revolve around the same questions: How does it fit, will I wear this often, and is it too trendy, etc.? Now that the chill in the air is here for good, we will set you up with a foolproof outfit that won't break the bank, plus you'll be able to mix these pieces into your current wardrobe.
A solid navy sweatshirt will always be essential for any kit and season. Piece of advice: Keep one in the backseat of your car because you never know when the chill may hit. A nice-fitting tee will take you places—layer underneath the sweatshirt or wear it with a button-down to keep your core extra warm whenever the temps dip below freezing. We've already busted the myth about wearing white after Labor Day—whenever you wear it in the colder months, it's a way to hit the stunt button. Dressing in neutral colors allows you to mix your outfits, and you never look too trendy. Subtlety is always a smart move, especially when you're buying on a budget. You want to be more interesting than your clothes and not the other way around. This outfit rings up just below $200, so grab a coffee with your remaining funds.
Your Budget-Friendly Fit
Clockwise, from top left:
Classic cuff beanie, $18 by Los Angeles ApparelFrench terry sweatshirt, $49 by ARKETHEATTECH soft pile socks, $7.90 by UNIQLO501 jean, $65 by Levi'sAuthentic low-top, $60 / $29.95 by VansRegular-fit T-shirt, $25 by COS
Making the Case for ...
Solovair’s Single Monk Shoes
I was introduced to the Solovair footwear brand back in 2019 when I saw a pair of their single buckle monks in Noah’s Fall/Winter lookbook. They were styled on the more casual side, giving the shoes a dual purpose. I snagged a pair for my birthday later that year. The brand began in the 1960s, and the name comes from “Sole of Air.” The British footwear manufacturer was founded by five men in the village of Wollaston, Northamptonshire, and they still use the same machinery today that was used to make the original boots and shoes from over 140 years ago.
To the untrained eye, you may think these look like Dr. Martens. That's because the two brands share a storied history. According to Stridewise, Solovair was the manufacturer of Dr. Martens for decades until Dr. Martens moved their production to Asia. Before the two went their separate ways, Solovair sold under the license “Dr. Martens of Solovair.” Because Solovair still uses the original manufacturing facilities, in my opinion, that gives them a leg up on how well the shoes are crafted.
I’ve had these shoes for about three years now, and they’ve gotten better with each wear. Constructed from a 100% leather upper and Goodyear welted with Solovair’s patent soft suspension classic sole, the shoes are extremely comfortable from the jump. The leather is durable in rain or snow and is an easy clean-up for dirt and scuffs. The outsole is one that you would see on a pair of rain-resistant boots, so don’t be afraid to take these out in the elements. Also, an important note on sizing. I typically wear a size 10 in Nike and 9.5 in adidas, but I got a size 41 (8) in these, and they fit perfectly.
Since buying the single monk, I’ve also purchased another pair in the chukka boot style. Personally, I believe these shoes are responsible for bringing back the single-monk Alden that was in J.Crew’s latest lookbook. I mean Brendon Babenzien oversees both Noah and J.Crew—a coincidence? Maybe not. If you’re feeling the Solovair single monk, they’re almost sold out on the company’s website, but Noah keeps them in stock year-round.
Single buckle monk, $220 by Solovair
The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.
This puffer vest is built to endure all fall weather conditions. Sustainably made with a recycled-nylon shell, it’s filled with a lightweight insulation made entirely from plastic bottles.
$198 / $118.80 (w/code SHOPFALL) by J.Crew
It's officially beanie season. This one, from Stan Ray, has a great shape with a small patch detail. And for this price, you can purchase a couple in different colors.
$34 / $29 by Stan Ray
This sweatshirt is based on an archival 1930s design, comes in three colors, and the brushed fleece is soft enough that you'll actually want to sleep in it.
$165 / $115.50 by Levi's Vintage Clothing
The three best stories from around the web.
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Created and co-written by friends Mickey Down and Konrad Kay, what sets Industry apart from other pieces of media that depict the world of finance is that the pair, who met at university, actually lived it.”
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From snow-blanched mountains to tropical beaches, the Japanese archipelago features some of the most diverse topography in the world, which makes it ideal for outdoor pursuits.”
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When I was coming up, we couldn’t even get them on the phone. Matter of fact, we didn’t even try. They got on board after we told the story.”
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Feeling like the Pixar lamp every time I step out of the house with my hat on.
September 21