The Obtainer - 9/8/23, Friday
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Friday, September 8th Edition
We’re taking a deep dive into the “Godfather” of the NBA’s style and why he’s the best-dressed American coach of all time. It’s one small step to petition coaches to get dressed again and throw away their dry-fit quarter zip and ill-fitting khaki slacks.
- Leon Hedgepeth, Shopping Editor ⋯ @leonhedgepeth
20 Under $20
You may have the retail itch in your wallet, and we’re here to help scratch that. I’ve been told I’m a bad influence whenever it comes to retail therapy, but we all need a treat sometimes, right? But who said that to find something nice you have to spend a lot? We’ve rounded up a few items that are budget approved and all under 20 bucks. These cost-conscious picks will have you smelling good and feeling good while keeping plenty of money in your pocket.
Our Picks
Striped quarter crew sock, $10 by Line of Trade
Rain and stain waterproof spray, $11 by Merrell
Italian bergamot body wash, $10.99 by Cremo
Tote bag, $15 by Porter Road
Nylon utility short, $59.95 / $15 by Gap
Garment-dyed pocket tee, $36.50 / $19.50 by J.Crew
Get the Look
NBA Legend Pat Riley
As a hardcore basketball fan, I've been heavily invested in the Max series, Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty. While season one lays out the foundation of the Lakers capturing their first title under new owner Dr. Jerry Buss, season two shows the highs and lows of what it takes to maintain a winning mentality—especially with a burgeoning superstar like Ervin “Magic” Johnson. But, to me, the best storyline is how Pat Riley (played by Adrian Brody) arrived as head coach of the Showtime Lakers.
Riley's path to becoming the Purple and Gold's head coach was anything but smooth. He played for the Lakers in the early ’70s, but retired by 1976. After that, he was in limbo and took a sportscasting gig with broadcasting legend Chick Hearn (who makes some funny cameos in the show). Riley wasn't the best broadcaster, so he joined the team as an assistant in 1980. In the ’81-’82 NBA season, he was officially announced as the Lakers head coach in one of the most bizarre press conferences in sports history. The players may’ve called him “Riles” whenever he was an assistant, but he officially earns the title “Coach” in episode five of season two.
While Riley certainly knew the Xs and Os of the game, you might say he was even better at looking good while coaching. He represented the glitz and glam of L.A. at the time, and it’s why he’s considered one of the best-dressed American coaches of any sport. From Saville Row suits to relaxed Armani blazers—he was smooth. Players envied his style, and women checked his hangtags to learn who the latest designers were.
This look of him in 1988 is why we preach on the essentials. His pleated khakis are relaxed yet crisp, but the real eye-catcher is that four-button polo, complete with custom chain-stitched detailing. You may have to scour the second-hand internet market for hours or have your tailor stitch in your favorite team on a worn-in polo. His glasses, watch and leather-bound binder complement the look perfectly. Coaches currently on the sidelines or bench or in the dugout could learn a lot from “The Godfather of the NBA”.
(Lead Photo: Andrew D. Bernstein/Getty Images)
Oxford polo, $118 / $109 by Todd Snyder x FootjoyLeather belt, $129 by MORJASBallpoint pen, $27 by Caran D’AcheVintage Datejust, $4,995 by RolexExecutive leather 1” ring binder, $165 by Royce New YorkTapered pleated twill chino, $120 by COSNilos glasses, $424 by Oliver Peoples
Big Moves
Chris Echevarria, the founder of Blackstock & Weber, has been making waves in the footwear space since he launched his line of loafers in 2017. His style got the attention of Sperry, who just named him creative director of a new line of limited-edition shoes handcrafted in the United States. This is a first for the legendary boat shoe brand—they’ve partnered with designers but Sperry has never brought in a guest creative director before. We can’t wait to see what Echevarria brings to the iconic slip-ons.
H&M announced a “long-term partnership” with the designer Heron Preston in the form of a new platform dubbed H2. He will serve as its Creative Menswear Advisor and preside over design advisory, special collections, talent curation and fashion innovation with environmental initiatives. Details are still scarce, but Preston is set to release his debut 40-piece collection with H&M next year.
The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.
Beach season is coming to a close, but that doesn't mean you have to stow away your portable speakers. This pocket-sized Bluetooth speaker is fully waterproof, and plays for five hours on a single two-hour charge.
$40 / $25by BoomPods
These rugged cargo pants from Everlane have streamlined pockets and are cut from vintage-looking herringbone cotton. And they’re a steal at 50% off.
$128 / $64by Everlane
This training backpack is ideal for accommodating gym sessions or taking on hikes. Made from a durable woven nylon so your bag doesn't get smelly, the spacious interior is excellent for sneakers, towels, earphones and pre-workout supplements.
$38 / $19.95by Asics
The three best stories from around the web.
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Just days after his much-publicized split from Supreme, Tremaine Emory has lifted the lid on some major moves for Denim Tears, the label he founded in 2019.”
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I kinda have my own theory on the matter, which is that humans are hard-wired to recognise something that has been made with love and care.”
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Locker loops were used in collegiate locker rooms, but as the style became more popular, the loop took on another purpose off the hook.”
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@demischdanant in the room
August 3
