Spring to it

With February coming to a close and the vernal equinox fastly approaching the time has come to leave the comfort of flannel and wool behind and bask in the rays of the sun. For me, living in Southern California, the transition is gradual. A change in garb is purely sartorial. But in preparation of the aforementioned changes, steps must taken to ensure that everything is ready to wear. This is where I encounter my first obstacle. Since last year I have committed myself to getting in peak physical form and in the process I have managed to lose 25 pounds. Which translates to a lot of loose fitting clothes, some of which will be put out to pasture, starting with anything worn out or dated. Articles that are worth saving (i.e. pants, sports jackets, or anything new) will need to be tailored. For this part of my elaborate plan I'm actually going to need a tailor. I have not lived here long enough to know of any by reputation so I put out the feelers. I turn to my local tobacconist shop, and seek council from those who are in the know. Every man should have a strong network of friends and associates that he can turn to when he's not in the know. Learn from them and reciprocate. The information turns out to be invaluable although I am still pending results.

The rest is fairly simple, keep it clean, pressed and be prepared to extend the days outing well into the night. For nights that refuse to end I always bring along a linen sports jacket or zip up cardigan. Turning my jeans and tshirt from casual to a more dressed up look. Shoes can also be used to make that transition. In the colder months my footwear collection is made up of several dress casual boots in a variety of styles and colors. But when the weather gets warmer loafers and white sneakers take over the rotation. Just like your clothes, shoes require proper care and maintenance to ensure you'll get years of trusted service from them. After that, all that is left to do is put up your feet and enjoy the good life.