The Obtainer - 5/10/23, Wednesday
↦ Crochet Polos: Save or Splurge
Wednesday, May 10th Edition
Get your yarn, stitch markers and crochet hook together—this isn’t what your great-grandparents are used to.
- Leon Hedgepeth, Shopping Editor ⋯ @leonhedgepeth
Good/Better/Best
Crochet Polos
Crochet is definitely hot right now, and watching people crochet is one of TikTok's trendiest (and calming) categories, it seems. You might've seen that we recently spoke with Calvin Lee, who's making some sought-after crochet cardigans and beanies. But just in case this is all new to you, let's just say this is not your grandma's crochet style—this is lot more laidback and sexy. Which is why that open, breezy weave is actually perfect for this time of year. And that's why you're about to see it worn everywhere from summer weddings to poolside barbecues.One of the best (and simplest) ways to wear the crocheted look is in the familiar polo shirt. They come in a range of colors and even eye-catching patterns, but we love them in an understated ivory shade. Unlike the chunkier blankets, these crocheted polos have smaller holes and create an airy, relaxed silhouette that feels great underneath a blazer or paired with swim shorts by the water. For such a specific look, they're actually super versatile—wear it fitted to show off the summer physique or slightly relaxed and unbuttoned over a tank. Of course, for a trendy piece like this you've got a choice: Do you invest in a quality, luxury version or keep it more affordable to test the waters? That decision is entirely up to you, but we'll compare a couple of styles to help you decide.
Full button-down placket with minor camp collar detailing
Not 100% cotton, but made of a slightly silky cotton-viscose blend
The thinnest material and most relaxed silhouette out of the three
At less than $100, it can be purchased in multiple colors
Crochet sweater polo, $80 by Abercrombie & Fitch
Made in Portugal from 100% cotton jacquard knit
No button placket, just an open collar
Will have more structure and be less flimsy compared to the Abercrombie & Fitch one because of the knitting technique
This one can't be worn open
Yuma crochet polo, $195 by Knickerbocker
Entirely crocheted from soft cotton yarn, even the collar
Fits oversized, but will lay nicely against your skin
Pattern on the pocket, gives the polo more texture compared to the other two options
Slightly ribbed finish on the sleeves and hemline for a more flattering look
Ryan crochet polo, $295 by NN07
Stuff We Swear by
The Playful Watch With Serious Design
I've never considered myself a watch person. But after I saw my dad's new timepiece, it got the gears spinning, if you will. He was wearing Shinola's Vinton watch—a gift from a previous employer celebrating a project he was a part of—with a commemorative message inscribed on the back. The simple, small watch face drew me in, and I loved the sleek look. I always told myself that I would leave my wrist empty until I could afford a watch like a Rolex or Omega. But maybe I was being too rigid. There are plenty of other excellent watches on the market today.
And the Detrola from Shinola is one of them. I recently received it as a birthday gift from my parents and, honestly, I haven't taken it off since. It's part of a fairly new collection from the brand marrying premium craftsmanship with playful twists on classic designs. The watches are built with quality, durable components and thoughtful engineering. Although I'm not deep into the watch world, I think I have a good pulse on what looks good and what I'll wear. The watch face is 43mm, which fits my wrist nicely, but I wouldn't go any bigger than this size. The face also displays the date, and the black strap is made from silicone, but can easily be swapped out with a leather or nylon strap thanks to the quick-release hinge.But enough about the looks, let's look under the hood. This model features an Argonite 705 quartz movement, hand-assembled in Detroit with Swiss components. The matte case material is made of a sturdy TR90 resin, so don't worry about being too precious while wearing it. The watch boasts a two-year battery life and enough water resistance to take it in the shower and swimming. There aren't too many watches that I know of that are this high in quality for the price. And right now, it's even more affordable. Shinola is offering 25% off for a Ten-Year Appreciation Event through May 14, so grab the Detrola for under $300 right now. This is a watch I'll keep forever because of who it came from, how accessible it is to maintain, and the look is timeless.
Detrola Model D 43mm watch,$395 / $296.25 by Shinola
The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.
Shorts with an elasticated waist are perfect for summer. These are made of 100% cotton twill, so wear them all season, and at nearly half off, consider snagging another pair.
$98 / $58.80 (w/code NORTHEAST) by Noah
This large tote from MAKR is made in the U.S.A. from heavy cotton duck canvas and finished with Horween leather straps and a double-layered bottom, so you don't have to be too precious with it.
$145 / $116 (w/code MOM) by MAKR
You probably need to refresh your T-shirts for warm weather. This olive option is excellent if you already have your neutrals covered.
$38 / $15by Ask Finlayson
This beautiful 3-pint enamelware is ideal for beverages or showing off a flower arrangement. Mother's Day is only four days away, and I'm sure some moms would love this.
$53 / $42.40 byFalcon Enamelware
Have too many clothes and need a secondary rack? This sophisticated option has a powder-coated steel shelf and rail with an ash wood A-frame that holds up to 110 lbs.
$470 / $375by Unison Home
A clean candle with a burn time of up to 45 hours and fragrance notes of cypress and char. Once you're done with the candle, save the reusable glass vessel for desk storage.
$38 / $34 by Yield
The three best stories from around the web.
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For a man who seems to be in perpetual motion, Tieghi-Walker has carved out an enviable and singular niche within the shifting worlds of art, commerce and cuisine.”
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There’s a texture and life to everything and an approachability that I gravitate towards in how I dress.”
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Forget who’s going to succeed titan-of-industry Logan Roy as the next CEO of Waystar Royco. Who’s going to outdo the Swedish tech edgelord’s inexplicable outerwear?”
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Jim for YMC EarthModular by design and produced in wearable neutral shades, Earth allows pieces to be flexibly styled together or as a base for our seasonal collections.
March 22