The Obtainer - 8/22/22, Monday
↦ Your Most Practical Pants
Monday,August 22nd Edition
Cargo pants and chukka boots? I think we’re heading for a 2.0 version of the “F#ck Yeah Menswear” era. Frankly, I’m not mad it and I hope you’re not either.
- Leon Hedgepeth, Shopping Editor ⋯ @leonhedgepeth
BuyingGuide
Your MostPractical Pants
The ultimate military-inspired pants are back. Of course, they never really left. Since last season, we've started seeing wider more relaxed silhouettes, and this year even more brands are embracing the trend. Until recently, cargo pants didn't occupy much room in my closet, but I've come to appreciate their comfort and utility. I recently picked up a pair, cut from ripstop fabric that also have the cinch option towards the ankle. For me, they are perfect. I style them the same as I would chinos—denim shirt, maybe a grey hoodie, and I'll even cinch at the ankle with a boot like these.
One catalyst that helped bring back cargo pants is the workwear revival that keeps picking up steam. Another reason this type of pant is “it” right now is the second-hand shopping trend. Plus, designers have always found inspiration from utilitarian military pieces that are made to stand the test of time. These items always look better with more wear—case in point, cargo pants.
While there have been many iterations with updated silhouettes, we find that sticking with a straight or relaxed-fit with your cargos will give you the most authentic feel. Also, look for a pant that has a high rise, hefty fabric and spacious pockets. Fabrics like herringbone, ripstop and a heavy twill are perfect to wear for pretty much all seasons. We've rounded up a few that can be worn now or in the dead of winter. Take your pick.
4 of Our Favorites
Referencing archival military pants, these feature some serious pockets with bellows for ample room. Other utility details include back patch pockets and reinforced belt loops for added durability.
$255 byNorse Projects
Constructed from a lightweight cotton ripstop fabric that's been rinsed for added comfort without compromising its durability, these are as easy to wear as sweats.
$165 / $83by Carhartt WIP
An all-season pant with twice the amount of pockets. Feel free to wear without a jacket since you can put all your belongings in your pants.
$160 byStüssy
A cargo pant that's designed for the outdoors in a nice roomy fit. Cinch at the bottom with adjustable buttons if the terrain is too much to handle.
$205 byPilgrim Surf + Supply
5 Stylish Items to Buy This Week
You don't have to smoke to appreciate a good ashtray. Despite smoking's inherent danger, ashtrays themselves remain pretty cool among lovers of design. Perhaps it's because they're tied to this verboten behavior—it gives these little receptacles an air of danger. This oversized circular tray ($90) features a vintage-inspired dimple pattern for a modern take on a classic piece. Handmade in Turkey from pure, lead-free crystalline glass, it's a solid item that will also work nicely as a coffee table trinket or entry table catch-all.
Test Drive
The Hefty Chukka Boot
Heading into fall, I’m always on the hunt for a new pair of boots. It may sound crazy because the best part of wearing boots is the patina, but there’s no better feeling for me than getting a fresh pair to kick of the colder months. I love a leather lace-up boot that you can wear to death, but also a rich-colored durable suede is something you shouldn’t shy away from either. And I think I just found a boot that marries the two perfectly.
They’re from Grant Stone, and I’ve already broken them in before fall officially arrives. Their chukka boot offers three eyelets to secure the instep, sturdy Goodyear-welt construction, and smooth calf suede and vegetable-tanned leather throughout the soles. I’d consider the price of the boot to be an amazing buy because there are some companies out there using the same high-quality materials, but are charging double. Plus, the warm sand color and crepe sole make this boot a perfectly versatile year-round option to worn with everything from jeans to a cozy Harris Tweed suit.
I’ve mentioned before that I have a weird foot when it comes to boots or even dress shoes. In sneakers, I’m between a 9.5-10, and in boots and dress shoes, I’m around a size 8. One of the best parts of purchasing shoes from Grant Stone is that a dedicated team member will reach out to you to ask questions about your sizing. The person helping me correctly picked up that I have a narrow foot and suggested that I size down by half a size and try a 7.5D. Did it sound a little crazy? Yes. But he also mentioned that I shouldn't feel any “hot spots” or uncomfortable pressure when I tried them on. So just keep that in mind whenever buying.
Sure enough, the boots fit perfectly for me—didn’t even have to add an extra insole or anything. What I love about the Great Stone boot is that it has a definite heft to it that your normal chukka style doesn’t. If you’re looking for a light Clarks-esque desert boot then these may be a bit too heavy for your liking. But if you’re in the market for a substantial shoe that you can wear now because of the comfortable crepe sole and will also be able to survive harsh weather conditions ahead, then you’ll like these as much as I do. Also, I should mention there is a short break-in period—but not as much as previous Red Wings or Aldens that I’ve worn. After about three wears, they will be uniquely yours, comfortably snug and ready for years of wear.
Chukka, $328 by Grant Stone
The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.
These handsome glazed ceramic cups are on sale for over half the price. The deal is so good just buy two pairs for an even set of four.
$60 / $22 by MENU
This is a simple long-sleeve polo, but the tonal colorway, tailored details and corozo button placket make it look incredibly luxe.
$88 / $35 by Flint and Tinder
A portable light that also includes a long-lasting rechargeable battery, this light source is the perfect desk companion. Available in six colors.
$99 / $84.15by HAY
The three best stories from around the web.
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Obviously when it becomes fall, we need outerwear. Hence, we are able to enjoy the coordination of layering.”
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A decade on and this business model, of selling stylish prescription glasses directly to consumers at lower prices, has completely changed the market.”
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When I started Wooden Sleepers in 2010, the vision was clear: a greatest hits of vintage American menswear. For me, that was a cross section of military, outdoors, Ivy and workwear.”
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Wait, *who* was in Paris?
August 19