The Obtainer - 7/24/23, Monday
↦ Sharp Dressers Need a Good Dresser
Monday, July 24th Edition
I’ve been watching the Women’s FIFA World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, which have opposite seasons from us. And it’s got me ready for outerwear again. Man, what I would do for a mid-layer jacket right now …
- Leon Hedgepeth, Shopping Editor ⋯ @leonhedgepeth
BuyingGuide
Upgrade Your Bedroom With a Proper Dresser
Even if you have an impressive walk-in closet, you’re probably going to want a dresser. They make for the ideal out-of-the-way storage spot, stashing socks, underwear, undershirts and other basics. Plus, they add a handsome design element to a bedroom—a place to showcase some framed photos and other mementos, or pull double-duty as a TV console. Hang a mirror or a painting over it and you've got a genuine focal point that makes your bedroom look a whole lot better.In short, you don't want to be without a dresser. Trust me. I've lived without one for far too long. As a long-term renter, I've either had to hang everything or tuck items away into small totes just to stay organized. A dresser was low on our priority list because we knew we didn't have the space, and it would have been one extra thing we had to lug from apartment to apartment. But we've recently moved into a new house and are now in the market for a well-made piece of furniture to anchor our bedroom.What makes for a reliable dresser, anyway? The configuration? Definitely. The depth of the drawer and the ease with which it slides? Those are important, too. But then, much like your wardrobe, you've got to decide the color and silhouette the fits your personal style. Because there's a whole lot out there. For me, the ideal dresser is neutral and adaptable, with a timeless design that can work in a multitude of rooms and homes. Currently, I'm into all-white walls and warm, hardwood floors so I'm looking for furnishings in natural oak to make a relaxed and inviting space. A sleek six-drawer dresser in white oak would complement our bedrooms well. You may ask, why six drawers? Well, we need all the available storage we can get, and symmetry is always eye-catching for interior design. The good news is that there are some really good options out there, no matter your budget. Of course, they're worth the investment because they should last you years—even decades, if you treat it right. Sure, it may cost you your sanity to assemble, but we've selected a few here that require zero tools and come with white glove delivery. After all, what's an extra delivery charge when it comes to staying organized?
Our Picks
This low six-drawer dresser is constructed from oak veneer and has been engineered for tranquility. The premium soft-close glides prevent noisy slams, and an elevated lip around the edges prevents things from accidentally sliding off. The peekaboo handles make for an easy grip and give the piece a nice vintage vibe. The brand has also even built secure anti-tip hardware into the frame so you don't have to attach it to the wall for added security.
Prospect six-drawer dresser, $1,899 / $1,609 by Burrow
This beautiful mid-century modern style dresser is minimal yet spacious with a distinct natural wood grain, so no two pieces are alike. The sleek, tapered legs and discreet drawer handles are all made of solid oak and the drawers feature smooth soft-close functionality. This dresser's depth also provides a roomy top for additional interior inspiration: like coffee table books or Scandinavian lamps.
Lenia six-drawer dresser, $1,299 by Article
Floyd's dresser system can be placed in any order on their dresser base and is modular and customizable. Each dresser is made with high-quality materials like sustainably-sourced maple (not oak) veneer wood, and the powder-coated steel is scratch-resistant. If you don't want the usual drawers, you can customize them as doors or open shelves. The legs or base (whichever you select) also feature integrated levelers for added stability.
Three unit dresser, $3,725 by Floyd
Thuma's modular dresser is designed to move and also fit any space. Each furniture piece is made of 100% upcycled wood—there are no wooden veneers here. Like the other brands, anti-tipping hardware is included; however, Thuma designed the bottom drawer to act as an anti-tip feature—whenever open, it stops the dresser from falling over. The curvature of the drawers creates clean lines and no tools are necessary for assembly. The best feature is the generous sub-set tray in the top drawer that doubles as a nice drop spot for all your daily essentials.
Upcycled six-drawer dresser, $2,345 by Thuma
Summer means swamp ass. What’s the best underwear to combat this very serious problem?
- Harrison
The first step is avoiding talc at all costs. Talcum powder is made of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen—a known carcinogen asbestos and if breathed in, can cause cancer or inflammation of the lungs. As you might’ve read, we’ve got some good options for keeping your junk nice and dry. Besides a great grooming product, make sure you manscape to keep it lean down under and the correct material for boxer briefs is a necessity. This pair from Jockey ($18) is almost like your favorite pair of compression shorts, but a whole lot more breathable. The stretch fabric doesn’t bunch up, even in hot, humid weather and has added moisture-wicking qualities, which not only keep you dry but helps with odor protection. I hope these help, and remember—we’re only 60 days away from fall.
⋆ Have a style question you'd like answered? Ask The Obtainer
I dislike toaster ovens because they take too long to warm up, the toast setting never has accurate timing and why wouldn’t we just use the oven to reheat? I love a refined and pared-down straight-to-the-point toaster, and HAY and designer George Sowden were able to achieve just this.
First, I love the simplistic look and design of the toaster. You can control the level of toasting with a simple turn of a knob, there is a stop lever that also doubles as indicator the toaster is on, and it's large enough to fit two slices of bread at once. Second, we use this damn thing nearly every morning, from bagels to brioche buns, and I even throw in my toddler's frozen PB&Js.
My favorite function is that the toaster top is designed to function as a warming tray, so for baked goods like cookies or biscuits, place them on top and you can instantly warm them. The integrated crumb catcher slides right out and is easy enough to keep clean with a damp cloth. Lastly, the concealed cord management ensures no unsightly cords pooling on your countertop. My only complaint is that the ejection mechanism could be a little stronger so I’m not having to fetch my toast with a butter knife or fork (yes I unplugged it).
Toaster,$125 by HAY x Sowden
The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.
This lightweight shirt is made of all recyclable materials, and the quick-drying fabric makes it an easy choice to beat the heat.
$130 / $78 byHoudini Sportswear
Upton is having a big sale on all their ceramics, and this beautiful vase will add elegance to any living room. It's excellent for storing a bouquet or standing alone as a statement piece.
$119 / $48by Upton
Cargos are the most rugged out of all the short options. Ostrya's are stylish for wearing in the city and durable enough to take on hikes. Made of abrasion-resistant duck canvas, don't go too easy on these.
$223 / $134by Ostrya
The three best stories from around the web.
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I have a problem with collecting, I spend far too much money on art books.”
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Indeed, far from an expression of vanity, the pursuit of self-betterment can be considered a moral imperative.”
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Antiques came from both sides of the family, but my father’s father was a lover of history and a lover of old things.”
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Kyme from 327 Canal St wears his own Drake’s Made to Order suit in navy-blue cotton drill, along with the Jules sunglasses crafted from pure Italian acetate, and silk tie featuring a refined paisley print sourced from the Drake’s archive.
June 5
