Neckwear: Calabrese
There’s no shortage of neck ties or their makers, but it’s debatable that there is a shortage of good neck ties. Chances are if you’ve purchased a tie that was Made in Italy from any credible American retailer, then you’re probably wearing a product of Calabrese. Sitting in the center of Naples is the Calabrese workshop, where I paid a visit to see where they’ve been making their ties for the last four generations. And although there were some hints of who their American clientele includes (see. Ralph, Brooks, JP, and others), true to Napoli character, omerta reigned true. But even without hints, rolls of identifiable fabrics line the floors and shelves as well as a few unmistakable finished product.
Walking through the facility, everything is staged out and arranged in practical assembly line format, beginning with your fabrics and cuts. Orders for either domestic or international clients lay in bundles, with a few custom orders sprinkled into the mix. After touring the floor, I quickly realized how much more went into the tie making process than I originally thought. From lined, to unlined, to folded, coupled with any number of different fabric combinations it’s easy to see how complexities can add up. And even with all this, Calabrese still manages to churn out an impressive volume of product with a relatively low head count. As every tie passes through no less than four to five sets of human hands, no detail is ignored, yet steady volume continues. This attention to detail and personal touch is exactly why you’re likely wearing one of their ties and why they’ll likely be making them for another four generations. [Calabrese]
Dockers F/W
Dockers has been somewhat of a sleeping giant for a while, but it’s definitely safe to say they’ve come out swinging with their last several collections. I paid a visit to the showroom to check out what they have in store for this Fall and to see first hand the direction the brand is headed. Right out of the gate it’s clear that the entire image and line has received a face lift. Fitted cuts, good fabrics and wearable patterns line the floor. While I’m partial to the Alpha Khaki, the company has definitely expanded from their khaki roots and presented a solid collection from head to toe. Keep an eye out for more from Dockers. [Dockers]
Captains Quarters: Maison La Minervetta
While traveling through Italy last month, our finish line was Sorrento and its safe to say we saved the best for last. We checked into Maison La Minervetta which sits just across the harbor from Naples and was the perfect place to digress after almost a month on the road. Perched on the cliffs that surround Sorrento and the Amalfi coast, La Minervetta encompasses everything that you’d expect from Southern Italy. Directly across from Mt. Vesuvius, the entire hotel is flooded with light, perfect views, fresh air, fresh food, and some of the nicest and most welcoming people. The owners of the hotel live on the first floor and make a point to see that every guest enjoys their room as well as their experience. With only 12 (unique) rooms it’s easy to feel at home, and I’m not just saying this because the place happens to be fitted out with boats and maritime paraphernalia. Even with Naples only a 45 minute boat ride away, it was hard to leave.
Everything about this hotel was on point, and if you’re headed to Sorrento, I’d definitely say Maison La Minervetta should be your spot. Stop by Mr. & Mrs. Smith for the full scoop and booking details.
An Indian in Italy
When it comes to classic American made motorcycles, Indian falls at or near the top of the list. With roots that date back to 1901, Indian was formerly based in Springfield Mass., where they held residence until the early 50’s. During that tenure, they created some of the world’s most quality and best-selling motorcycles, competing only with their American cousin, Harley Davidson. The Scout and Chief ranked amongst the most popular and on several occasions were used by the United States military and Police Departments around the country. During WWI Indians were exclusively used by servicemen, but would later share the spotlight with Harley Davidson during the second war. Unfortunately, they discontinued production and went under in 1953.
Last month, while I was in Biella visiting the fine folks from Camo, we also made a brief pit stop at a local auto garage. Initially attracted by the vintage Vespas parked in front, we paid a visit for a quick photo. Not long after arriving, the owner kindly invited us in to see what else he had in store. Inside, posters of rally cars lined the walls and a few cars were up on lifts, while spare parts filled nearly every available space. At first glance, most of the line up was Italian fare, Fiat, Piaggio, etc. That was until we reached the back of the garage where an old Indian Scout proudly sat awaiting finishing touches and assembly. I noticed the unmistakable deep red from across the room and moved in for a closer look.
Indian’s American roots and background are something I appreciate, but the bikes themselves are definitely one of the most aesthetically pleasing out there. Although there’s still a good crop of Indians on the street, I’ve only seen a few in person and was pretty excited when I saw this Scout perched on blocks. However, as one of my favorite motorcycle companies, the last place I’d expect to find one was in a random garage in northern Italy.
Further Afield
The full story behind Tudor and why the poor man’s Rolex is more than an affordable alternative. [Hodinkee]
Learn how to wear army green after this Saturday’s binge drinking exercises. [William Brown Project]
Moleskin + Pea Coat + Good Things = Todd Snyder [Kempt]
For those of you who have grown tired of The Ace, The Nomad offers a whole new reason to traverse into the bowels of 28th & Broadway. [T Magazine]
To catch other real-time activities check out @stndardedition on twitter and @thestandardedition on instagram.
Airline Friendly Footwear
When it comes to traveling through the airport, nothing is more annoying that having to remove your shoes, regardless of how they’re affixed to your foot. For this reason, I almost always wear a loafer or easily removable sneaker. Never a full lace-up boot, or stubborn oxford. My goal is to get through the process as quickly and in-evasively as possible.
As annoying as the whole process is, it’s not going away so you’re better off trying to make the experience relatively painless. This same footwear-logic can be applied to your time on the plane as well.
If you’re going to be sitting on a flight for four hours or less, just scroll down and skip what I’m about to say next. That being said, if you have a long haul in your plans, your inflight footwear preference can have the same impact as it does during security. Kicking off your shoes in this scenario is absolutely necessary, I don’t care what anyone tells you. It will not only make comfort exponentially better, it’s also why airlines give (or at least used to) each passenger a pair of extra stocking in their dopp kits. These are great and far better than standing in the head in your own socks, but barely do anything, especially in the case of a spill. This is where simple slippers come into play.
I wear a pair of Peal & Co. leather soled slippers from Brooks Brothers. Lightweight, insanely comfortable and not (that) ridiculous looking, they keep my feet covered and comfortable until just before touchdown. Whether it’s a pair of leather slippers or the two dollar jams from Pearl River, do yourself a favor and get something simple and clean.
Il Palazzetto: Rome
Since the 16th century Il Palazzetto has firmly held residence at the top of the Spanish Steps. Formerly the retreat of a noble family, it received a facelift in 1999 and now functions as a four room hotel. With only four rooms, Palazzetto does a great job of making you feel more at home than hotel, while still dishing out all the services and amenities anyone looks forward to when staying elsewhere. The rooms are on point as well. They’re big, clean, comfortable and offer a perfect view of the Spanish Steps. The same applies to the rooftop terrace and restaurant, which hosts an enviable wine selection for all you winos out there. If you’re trying to feel like Mr. Ripley, this is your spot.
Pop over to Mr. & Mrs. Smith to book a room and get all the details.
