ANDY'S
GIFT GUIDE
Andy's
Recommendations
Analysis
of products may be the result of my own purchase, items given to me,
personal opinion, or an advertising fee paid.
A special
offer from Herring Shoes for Ask Andy Members!
Mention that you're from AskAndy and get a
free pair of shoe trees
with
each pair of shoes!! It's a
£35
value! 
I received this pair of Loake 1880's from
from
Herring Shoes
In addition to Loake,
they sell Church, Barker, Barbour, and their own brand of high
quality English made shoes.
The shipping was
really fast and it was a joy to deal with Adrian Herring, and
Mark. Nice personal touches which make doing business on the
internet and internationally so much more pleasant!
http://www.herringshoes.co.uk/
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 Look
at these great Tommy John undershirts from their
new Second Skin Collection.
A functional luxury collection of both underwear (tops and
bottoms) and outerwear (casual tops).
They are incredibly lightweight and
extremely soft.
They claim they have the "ultimate undershirt."
I have to agree as Tommy John has the softest and most
functional undershirt I have ever worn!
No more tucking your undershirts into your underwear and
EFG (excess fabric gut) appearance is eliminated.
It includes Tailored StretchT technology
offering a one of a kind fit technology, which keeps the shirt
tucked in regardless of how much you move.
They fit men of all sizes, regardless of body
shape, to solve the age old problem of undershirts not staying
tucked in. It
performs like an undershirt should; doesn't bunch up, doesn't
ride up, and hugs the body very nicely to ensure it stays tucked
in all day. You'll
forget your even wearing an undershirt.
This is one of the most innovative ideas I've
seen in a long time and it is one of the best sellers in many
major department stores already.
Please use coupon code
“askandy” for 10% off and FREE shipping!
http://www.tommyjohnwear.com/
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The Scott
Hill Experience!
The wardrobe
equivalent to Surround sound!
I just had a most unusual clothing
experience. I hate to use the word ultimate, but this is as close as
you can get!
I had the privilege of having legendary retailer Scott Hill
come to my home and bring an entire men's clothing store!
Scott is unveiling a new business that I think is unique and an
incredible benefit to gentlemen everywhere.
Scott comes to your home or office and you experience the benefit of
his experience, contacts with the highest quality Neapolitan
clothing and shoe sources available.
And that's only one of the unique aspects - Scott brings samples of
suits, fabrics, shirts, buttons, shoes, belts and his expertise in
fitting you and an amazing ability to coordinate it all just for
you.
No tailor can provide the complete look like Scott does.
Again it's the highest quality and is priced such but Scott can
provide these brands at a price much lower than you would pay in
stores plus you get Scott's experience in fitting you perfectly.
This is such a different way of doing business I've detailed my experience
in progress and what Scott Hill can do for you
HERE!
-- Andy
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The Aspinal range of mens gifts offers a collection of exquisite leather gifts for husband, father, boyfriend or son. The men's leather gift range includes leather wallets, leather briefcases, business and office accessories, leather diaries, leather journals, leather photo albums, mens leather belts and many more perfect gift ideas for him - that will last forever. For that extra personal touch almost all our men's gifts can be personalized and of course exquisitely gift wrapped and boxed in
Aspinal's signature gift presentation and sent with your hand written message on our
Aspinal signature gift card. If you need help please don't hesitate to call our Customer toll free help line.
Visit us at www.aspinaloflondon.com
Aspinal of London
Aspinal House
Longfield, Midhurst Road
Fernhurst, Surrey
GU27 3HA, United Kingdom
Call Toll Free 1-888-325-3302
International +44 1428 648 180
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If you're looking for a place to find affordable
cufflinks, fine
men's accessories and quality
neckties, then you need to take a look at
LinkYourShirt.com. LinkYourShirt.com is an online retailer
that has been in business for over 3 years with a selection of
over 3000 pairs of cufflinks and 1000 neckties - pretty
impressive to say the least.
Everything from
designer ties to
sterling silver cufflinks and even
groomsmen gifts, LinkYourShirt is just one of those stores
that you'll be visiting over and over again. So go ahead and
give them a try!
Shop At
LinkYourShirt.com
LinkYourShirt.com
5120 Rue Domville
Saint-Hubert, Qc
J3Y1Y3
1-800-270-1627
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I got some socks from
http://www.Viccel.com and they are a great value. Mercerized Pima Cotton in a very thin
sock. They have reinforced heels, and toes plus you should see the colors! The
prices are very reasonable too.
Made from 100% mercerized cotton, which has a
stronger fabric structure
and will not shrink or lose its shape.
Sweat is a strong solvent
for dyes in socks, but Viccel uses Indantherene
dyes,
which do not disolve in sweat and these socks keep their original color.
Also
Indantherene dyes
are resistant to light, washing, and chloride.
Your
black socks will stay black no matter how many times they are washed.
What's made them so popular with the AskAndy readers (besides the price) is
that the owner has brought out new lines and changes that we have suggested!
True customer service!
http://eshop.viccel.com
OR
http://www.viccel.us
Tell them you came from AskAndy!
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209 Avro House,
Havelock Terrace, London SW8 4AS,
Toll free
1866 434 6937, fax 011 44 20 7498 3800
or by e-mail
sales@smartturnout.com
REMEMBER to mention "AskAndy" and get 15% off your order at
Smart Turnout!
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Just
got two shirts from Moniker!
First
the shirts from Moniker are really fantastic, great details, but before I
get into those details I've got to tell you what fun (yes fun!) shopping on
the Moniker site is. They have an interactive system and you build
your very own shirt. You can "drag" just the features you want for
your shirt. And the choices of features are seemingly unending!
Plus you'll be very pleased with the
unbelievable price for the
quality of fabric and artisan skill that goes into making your custom shirt.
I got these two fabrics:
One of the choices is the
different fabric inside the cuffs, which you can almost see on the blue
herringbone (middle photo). Each shirt has 7 buttons down the front
(including the collar button) and the bottom button goes into a horizontal
button hole with a different color stitching!! Each shirt comes with
an extra set of collar stays, and here's a neat touch - a small square of
the shirt fabric. You can take that in with you to buy a necktie!
Moniker's stated goal
on every shirt, for every customer, is to give the best value available.
And they do that with quality fabrics, proven work-personship, and a
willingness to spend time and money on details that others can't or won't
match.
it's important for
Ask Andy Members whenever they place an order on the Moniker site, should
follow that order up with an email to "pimp@monikerwear.com",
and use that email to tell Kristin the special touches they want us to put
on your shirt.
I thought there was
every option imaginable on the website, but when I placed my order Kristin,
pimp@monikerwear.com contacted me and had more option suggestions!!
They have so many great options that it's just not practical to put all the
options onto the website. One of Kristin's suggestions was to add the
different fabric inside the cuffs of the blue herringbone.
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Create and customize your own
dress shirt online through the use of our web based design
technology. Our innovative and intuitive tools allow you to choose
from a variety of premium fabrics and styles. Once your preferences
have been inputted, you’ll be able to see a digital model of your
actual shirt.
Each of our tailored dress shirts is fit to your body through a
series of custom measurements. Every piece of each shirt is hand-cut
and individually matched to our patterns to ensure proportion and
symmetry.
Within 3 weeks, your order will be delivered to your door --
anywhere in the US or Canada. Free shipping is included
within the price of every dress shirt we offer. The end product will
be a perfectly fit shirt that will look and feel better than any
other in your wardrobe.
We’re convinced that once you experience the quality and fit of our
product, you’ll find it difficult to go back to traditional ‘off the
rack’ dress ware.
Shirts sold in department stores are
typically bulk produced in factories and employ mass market
production technologies. In comparison, each of our shirts is hand
crafted by a trained and skilled artisan tailor. Our tailors
typically have 10 – 15 years of experience producing bespoke men’s
clothing. Prior to selection, these tailors are put through a
vigorous validation and quality process.
You can expect something truly special from a fitted Deo Veritas
shirt:
High thread count Italian
cotton from Tessitura Monti
 Smooth, breathable, and
comfortable – requires very little ironing
18 - 22 stitches per inch
High stitch count achieves
clean, strong seams.
Single needle stitching
A traditional (as well as
costly) method that produces sylish and durable seams.
Four piece, split yoke
Ensures a tailored fit
across the slope of the shoulders
Four piece collars
Four piece assembly
guarantees a secure, durable construction
Cross-stitched buttons
Each button is
cross-stitched into the shirt to ensure that they are secure
and firm
Hand sewn, mother of pearl
buttons 144 stitches per
button hole
Spare buttons
Each shirt comes with
spare buttons.
Removable Collar Stays
Collar stays keep your
collar crisp and lengthen its life.
 I just
got my shirt and it's really great. I liked it so
much (and don't recommend this), but the day I got it, I
pressed it and wore it that night!!
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Tell them you
came from Ask Andy!
http://www.deoveritas.com
 |
 I
just met with Matt Deckard, clothing designer for Matt Deckard
Apparel.
Matt, Forum Member, and as you know, a connoisseur of vintage
clothing has turned that vast knowledge into Matt Deckard
Apparel.
He’s designing for me a fantastic sport jacket. We took a standard
Norfolk Jacket and Matt went from there. He’s really great about
knowing what Classic design elements will work.
We picked a great fabric for the sport jacket and then Matt got to
work, discussing details of every aspect of the jacket – buttons,
throat flap, pockets, bi-swing back and vents!!
Matt's goal is for the jacket to give me that bold adventurous look
of the stars of the 30's and 40's. I'll be happy if it just
makes me look 40!!
Contact Matt at:
info@mattdeckard.com
626-278-8495
Tell him
you came from Ask Andy!! And stay tuned for the progress
and photos of my jacket!
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Established
in January 1995 and located at № 12 Savile Row, Steed gained a
reputation as one of Savile Row’s finest tailors, offering clients a
soft understated elegance.
Edwin DeBoise, whose father was
in the trade and so is his brother, trained at the London College of
Fashion and then worked under the legendary cutter
Edward Sexton (Tommy
Nutter), followed by seven years at
Anderson & Sheppard before
founding Steed.
January
2002 was Steed’s eighth year in business and one which also saw
Edwin taking full control of the company after an amicable split
with his then business partner Thomas Mahon (of
English Cut) with whom he
started the company back in 1995.
 Recently in
September 2008, Edwin’s eldest son Matthew, joined the company and
is currently learning the trade, under his father.
Edwin’s
schedule includes at least 4 visits to the USA each year in order to
cater for his expanding overseas client base. More details can be
found on Steed’s web site
www.steed.co.uk
& Blog
www.steeds-view.blogspot.com
Steed’s
reputation has resulted in features for such publications as
GQ and
American Express Departures Magazine.
To
complement our Savile Row Bespoke Suit, Steed also offers a
Semi-Bespoke Service (MTM)
Our semi-bespoke
suits are cut and constructed to your specific measurements and
requirements allowing you to select the style, fabric and personal
details.
These suits are
tailored using many of the traditional Savile Row methods usually
associated with bespoke suits and take about 6 to 7 weeks to make.
The cut is
crucial in creating an elegant suit that will leave an impression
and our cut has been developed to create a flattering appearance,
whilst still adhering to the general principles of Savile Row and to
reflect our soft, draped bespoke suits.
As well as suits
we make Tail, Morning & Overcoats. prices start from £775 for a
two-piece suit.
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I just ordered some shoes from
http://www.grapevinehill.com
Excellent selection of shoes at great prices and some reviews about
Grapevinehill on the Forums!
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The Art Of Tailoring
The World's Largest Supplier of Custom Tailored Dress Shirts,
Fabrics & Accessories
Modern Tailor has some great fabric choices and their prices are fantastic!
I ordered the Ivory and Blue Check fabric of 100% cotton for only
$39.95!! Lots of options in an easy to navigate
site. 7 button front including the collar button and they
offer mother of pearl buttons as options
They update their fabric collection every 15 days. They just
launched a line of silk ties, and their cufflink collection offer
mother of pearl, silk knots, stainless steel, and more, plus will be
adding suits in the near future!
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BOOKSTER1UK
Purveyors of distinctive tweeds and fine quality clothing,
vintage and modern. Specialising in unique, hard to find
apparel. This extraordinary UK E-bay shop enjoys a worldwide
reputation for quality, value and service.
We've
been busy expanding. Here's some interesting news for
AskAndy members.
We now have a
large warehouse here in rural Herefordshire that serious
buyers can visit by appointment. So far bookings include
visitors from Switzerland and Scandinavia and future visits
planned by USA customers when they visit the UK. It is a
veritable 'Aladins Cave' as we only list a fraction of our
stock in our eBay store.
No leather
couches yet, it is a basic storage facility in an idyllic
rural setting, hundreds of tweed jackets and more. There are
lots of other places to visit nearby to make it a great
English 'Day Out'.
Bookster Club -- Our growing number of regular
customers inspired us to start an exclusive club. Its not
your typical loyalty card operation requiring you to collect
points, the benefits are , appropriately 'bespoke', and can
include shipping discounts, bulk purchase discounts, quality
free gifts etc. 
Any repeat
customer can apply, details on our homepage
www.bookster1uk.com
Barbour Jackets -- Through an
associate of ours, we are able to offer huge savings on some
models of NEW Barbour Wax Cotton Jackets, and a full range
of high quality used Barbour Jackets. None of these are
listed in our e-bay store, anyone interested should contact
us for more information.
Bookster Hacking Jacket embodies all that is best in the
way of styling, from the three button front through to the 3
hacking style slant pockets and functional collar tab.
Tailored in England and designed to be versatile and
suitable for equestrian, formal and casual wear. We’ve used
the finest tweed such as Johnstons of Elgin Saxony, and
Glenhunt Home Spun.
To launch the Bookster Original range of tweed clothing, we
have on offer, at a special introductory price, a selection
of exceptional English Craft Tailored Tweed Hacking Jackets.
Choose
from six different cloths, standard sizes currently in
stock, short and long lengths,
available to order, additional bespoke features to
order, matching waistcoats and trousers to order.
New website for the Bookster Jackets and MORE!!!
http://www.tweed-jacket.com/
We have expanded our range
of cloths and added our estate tweed shooting suit. most
of our items are to order , with a turnaround of 4-6
weeks, so forward planning is a good idea.
Corduroy trousers are ready to join the range too!
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Featuring:
Functional Collar Tab
Single Breasted
Three Button Fastening
3 Hacking Slant Pockets
Breast Pocket
Two inside tweed inset pockets
Deep Single Vent
Floating Canvas Hair Panel
Fully lined with
Co-coordinated Luxury Satin
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Got my Bookster Hacking Jacket!!
It's the Lomond
(see photo at left) and I think the bottom button is
fastened to show all three buttons on the website.
What's really odd is that this jacket fits perfectly!!
??? The sleeves are perfect (that never happens) and
the area below the neck in the back looks like it was
tailored (in Savile Row) just for me. also ??
Now maybe I was lucky, or I'm just the perfect body
type for the typical British country estate squire.
Any way I'll now have to sell my small beach house
(and small lot) and acquire a large country estate in
England or Scotland just to properly wear this
incredible jacket.
Also got the brown moleskin trousers to wear with it.
Can't wait for winter and those chilly 50 degree temps
here in So. California, USA!!No, no
moleskin isn't from a mole!!
Moleskin is an abrasion and tear resistant fabric
made of tightly woven long-staple cotton. It was
developed in the 14th century for hunting
and fishing attire. Moleskin’s reputation for
toughness was so good it found use as aprons to
protect workers from splashes of molten metal in 16th
Century English foundries.
And Bookster uses the
finest quality moleskin available.
Thanks Bookster!
-- Andy
Gilchrist
And here's some good news
Ask Andy members get 5% off the purchase price!!
Just use the discount Codeword
Clydesdale.
Just enter CLYDESDALE in the
promotional code box and the discount will be
automatically applied. |
We are ever happy to consult with
customers to help ensure they get just what they want.
Skype Telephony means we can talk to each other at length
if needs be, our Skype ID is bookster1uk
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This brand new, patent-pending Collar
Card is the world's first and only credit card sized
collar stay holder, which fits conveniently into the
wallet. The Collar Card is fantastic and unique: a card
that contains four “pop out” collar stays for whenever
you need (or forget) one!
Innovative and practical, the Collar Card eliminates the
all-too-common experience of forgetting collar stays -
something every man has experienced and no other product
on the market solves. The individual stays even “snap”
back into the card to store neatly for future use.
For
clothiers and other businesses, they can be personalized
with your logo and information for an unbeatable
giveaway item that gets your logo into your clients'
wallets!
I obviously think it's a great idea!!!
--
Andy:
http://www.collarcard.com/
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.jpg)
Suits - Shirts - Outerwear -
Accessories
Use the Code
'askandy' to get a free dress shirt with any suit purchase. |
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I just got these fantastic
shoes from Forum Member Ron Rider of
Rider Boot Company
http://riderboot.com/
Classic unlined Shell Cordovan Pennystrap on a full
leather
sole and combination heel. 86 last
Ok, I know I am calling this a
boot line, but I can’t help a
good looking pennystrap –
especially in Shell Cordovan.
Our item RBPS1
is an UNLINED Shell Cordovan
loafer on the 86 last, which is
a round toed last for a very
classic look that can work with
either casual or dress options.
RBPS1 features
a mid height vamp, and a double
soled construction (thought both
the mid and outsoles are lighter
for this style) made with
‘Rapid’ stitching (open channel
fully stitched) for easy
re-soling and very long life.
This item is available in our
own #6 Shell Cordovan from
Horween, as well as a few pieces
in Natural Shell Cordovan with
Brandy Scotch Grain Shell
Cordovan strap and topline.
Fit note – We suggest you fit
this shoe 1/2 size smaller than
typical, and for sure 1/2 size
smaller than our other boots.
As an unlined shoe, and due to
the fitting of the last, we
would prefer a fit where the
foot completely fills the shoe
and allows for the material to
wrap around in a snug way thru
wear – as a moccasin should be
fit. -- Ron Rider
http://www.riderboot.com
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Bespoke England
.jpg)
Bespoke England have years of
experience in handling English Footwear including London &
Northampton’s finest Bootmakers such as John Lobb, Edward Green,
Crockett & Jones and more recently, Gaziano Girling.
They also have experience in English Antiques including Leatherwear,
Vintage luggage, Jewellery and Bridle wear. And check out
their extensive line of accessories including shoe brushes, shoe
trees, shoe horns, etc.
.jpg)
Telephone: +44(0)7501
000 567
Email:
info@bespoke-england.co.uk
http://www.bespoke-england.co.uk/
My first Lobb's!!!
I just received these John Lobb Cheltenham one of the Prestige line
Loafers in Burnt Orange Calf. Not only are they exquisite, but
they fit perfectly and I got the elegant the shoe trees shown in the
photo.
--
Andy
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 Welcome
to the ADVENT
OF TIME collection of solid gold and stainless
steel deployant buckles. Each of our wristwatch buckles
is individually hand constructed in 18kt. and 14kt.
plumb gold. We produce our gold watch buckles in 3
colors, yellow, white and rose.
There are five distinctive gold watch buckle models,
each representing a different period of design. Choose a
watch buckle that fits your personal style and taste and
harmonizes with your watch.
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I just received
two items from M & W Traveler
http://mw-traveler.com/
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The folio in brown:
The folio is fully lined in leather on the inside (this
is an area where some manufacturers will skimp). |
The business card holder
in brown:
The
business card holder is lined with a heavy 10 ounce
cotton fabric that is very hard wearing. |
They are so
beautiful that I wished they made shoes! Wow what great
leather. -- Andy
So what's so
great about M & W?
All products are
Made in USA
and every product is handcrafted
(their master craftsman has more than 30 years of experience).
These items
are made of full grain, front quarter horsehide. It’s a very
tough leather that lasts forever and looks better and better as
it breaks in and ages.
Horsehide has a
rich history of usage in jackets for the military, aviators, and
motorcycle enthusiasts. You can currently find several
manufacturers making reproduction jackets, but no one (until now)
has taken this leather into the business travel world.
The business travel world dishes out a lot of abuse (planes, trains,
and automobiles!), so we feel that the timing is ripe for products
that can take the punishment and look good in the process.
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.jpg)
I just got my order
of some
underwear from Key Largo Underwear for me and my wife!!
http://www.keylargounderwear.com/
It's great underwear!
Perfectly styled cotton with an extra feature - a wicking layer. If
you play golf in Palm Desert in the summer like I do it's not a
luxury - it's a necessity!! Plus the wicking feature is just
more comfortable.
The fabric is combed Ring Spun and
body is 100% cotton knit in a tradition 1x1 double needle rib knit.
One of the features I really like
is the substantial waist band. The first part of underwear to go is
the elastic. It will "bacon" from the dryer and the rubber or
spandex will start to break. So covering the waist and leg bands
will make the garment last a lot longer. Plus it feels better on
the skin and will absorb moisture.
They have an excellent selection of
styles for men and women.
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Ask Andy Members
Save 25% by using code 4000 at check out. Free
shipping and handling for USA (lower 48) and Canada. Try 1 pair now
and then reorder and stock up.
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And check out their
blog:
http://theunderwearmaven.blogspot.com/ |
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.jpg) Dave Welch of
http://www.AustinTaylor.net has
a beautiful shop in Irvine, (Orange County) CA. I went to Orange
County for a second fitting and everything was perfect! So I took
home a new beautiful sport jacket!
The sport jacket fabric was selected from the Vitale Barberis, Como
II collection, super 120s. It's a brown with window pane overlays
of blue and a subtle orange.
.jpg)
The trousers are chocolate brown selected from the Vitale Barberis,
Blazone collection, super 120’s.
The shirt fabric was selected from the Soktas fabric collection from
Turkey (2 ply 120s) with a blue and brown stripe that also
coordinates with the sport jacket.
But the details!! Oh the details:
The Sport Jacket has working sleeve buttons, of course, peak lapels,
pick stitching ... but also a vent belt that really works. .jpg)
And look at that lining! Good thing I went with the
conservative one!!
The Trousers have the most unusual but impressive heel guards I've
ever seen, maybe because they were personalized with my name!!
And a Belt buckle tab!
.jpg)
The Shirt fabric has an incredible "wow" factor. I put it on and
didn't want to take it off - EVER! And the French Cuff tabs
that the cuff links go through that holds the bottom of the cuff
together better than just the link alone. It
may be an exclusive Dave Welch design for Austin Taylor.
.jpg) .jpg)
Dave has two collections, one that is MTM (although it's really
close to bespoke) and a Bespoke line. The prices of the Made To
Measure start at approximately:
Suits
$895
Sport jackets $695
Trousers $295
Shirts (Dave has some fabulous fabric choices!!) start at $159
.jpg)
.jpg) The Bespoke is fantastic. He's trying to make it more attainable
and if you live anywhere near Orange County, CA it's going to be
more accessible. More accessible than flying to London and getting
measured on Savile Row!!And I think you're going to get a comparable
or better suit!! With Super 120s Dave's bespoke suits will start at
only $1795 !! The fabric choices will be a wide selection of
Australian Merino fabrics.
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I now have the
Anderson-Little Classic Blue Blazer from.jpg)
http://andersonlittle.com/
as previously discussed
on these threads on the Forum:
http://www.askandyaboutclothes.com/forum/showthread.php?t=88632&highlight=Anderson+Blazer&page=6
<
http://www.askandyaboutclothes.com/forum/showthread.php?p=860713#post860713
This blazer sells for, ready, only $139!! It's not only
good looking with classic styling; it's an amazing
value. Granted it's not a custom made Brioni blazer,
but for the price, the workmanship, the style it's a
wonderful value. Much more value that you can expect in
any $139 garment!! It's actually an amazing value at
twice or three time the price.
What's great is the wrinkle proof quality it has from a
blend of wool and polyester, BUT the fabric looks great
with no shine!! I met Scott Anderson recently for
lunch; he said "Look at this!", and he folded up the
Blazer and sat on it during the rest of lunch!!! 
After lunch it was unwrinkled.
It's perfect for a student in High School or College
that needs a basic blazer. It's perfect for anyone
getting started in business and for me it will be the
ideal travel blazer. Plus I may keep it in my car -
just in case!!
And prominently displayed in the inside collar of the
Blazer is a tag with "Made In The USA"!!
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Patrick
James
are fine men's clothing stores mostly on the West Coast, but
it doesn't matter where you are since they have a fantastic website!
I just got a couple of great sweaters, Some fun Espadrilles
for summer and some belts - Tommy Bahama and Allen Edmonds (they
have a great selection of Allen Edmonds!).
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One of the highest quality neckties
I've ever worn! -- Andy Gilchrist
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You might remember
that The Hanger Project came from you,
Ask Andy Forum Members, discussing where to get a great hanger.
Forum member Kirby found the answer for all of us!!
10% discount
for AAAC members with the Promotion Code "AskAndy"
https://www.hangerproject.com/
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Specials for
Ask Andy Members
from
CEDARVILLE
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Prince Henry, is a family business
based in Bangkok, Thailand providing custom made suits at great prices
and they visit USA, Canada, UK and Australia regularly.
You can see their itineraries at
www.princehenry.biz/world-tour.html
Mention Ask Andy and get a 5%
discount
I
was measured for a sport jacket and trousers during one of their visits
to the USA. Great selection of fabrics and then I was fortunate
enough to visit Bangkok on a recent trip for a second fitting (you don't
have to do that!!). Here's some photos of my Prince Henry jacket:
Look at that great lining!! More photos
HERE!
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High quality custom tailored
clothing, for not much more
than off the rack. Tell Vijay, Andy sent you!
I just ordered two sport jackets and
trousers to go with them from
www.CustomMen.com Stay tuned and I'll let you know how
they turn out!! --
Andy
Got the two sport jackets and they're
perfect! Both jackets are light
weight wool and linen blends by Marzoni and the trousers were
tropical wool by Zegna and Dormeuil. The Olive jacket has dark
olive trousers and the blue jacket has navy. Since I couldn't
be personally measured, I sent Vijay one of my best fitting suits.
The CustomMen jackets
actually fit better across the back than the original suit!! I
don't know how they did that so I asked! Vijay said his father
heads up the Hong Kong tailoring division and he thought that the
back shoulder area should be modified to give me more comfort!
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Blue jacket with navy trouser. |
These are not the pants that came from
CustomMen.
I paired some tan trousers for a more summer look.
How about that lining!! |
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I just received a bespoke shirt in this Blue on Blue Over-check
Italian fabric, 100% Cotton, Two-Fold, Poplin, $110.00
from
www.bawdenbespoke.com
Bawden Bespoke is based in Australia (have you checked
the exchange rate lately!!!) but works from their internet site
where you go through a step-by-step self measurement process. If
you have a great fitting shirt you can use that as a guide. Take
the process serious and put some time into it. You choose your
fabrics, styles, and details.
They are great about offering recommendations so make sure you
communicate with them via e-mail.
They manufacture the shirts in Singapore which provides
reasonable prices, access to the highest quality materials,
machinery and skilled employees.
The shirt has split yoke, sleeve gauntlet buttons, good fabric
(hey I chose it!), 7 buttons on the front placket including one
horizontal button hole at the bottom. Their shirts have
“pucker-free” seams!It’s a process similar to fusing a collar and
may be unique to Bawden Bespoke shirts!
They don’t currently offer visable monogramming as an option,
but are building a new interface to offer more options in the coming
months. The monogram is hidden on the front bottom and is a
free feature for our US customers as is a great surprise! The
package including a monogrammed handkerchief.
The only improvement necessary I can see is more substantial
collar stays. They come with those clear plastic ones that once
you've removed them, you'll never find them again. But that's an
easy fix, and Bawden just told me they are switching to the stronger
white collar stay! |
This is the wallet I use
and recommend! Order it from
First Street
through the banner below. It's Item # 01344 at only
$29.95.
Rogue Wallet
A unique wallet that was specifically designed to be kept in the front pocket.
They have other versions as well!!
Plus it may save you some
future back pain!
-- Andy Gilchrist
From The Encyclopedia of
Men's Clothes, Wallet Chapter:
Ergonomic fashion fundamental –
Two smaller
wallets carried one each in the front pockets instead of the rear.
It will save back strain and pain. When you sit on a large billfold pressure is
placed on your sciatic nerves and muscles. Many back problems have
been related to this practice.
There is another advantage to
carrying two small billfolds in your front pockets. The first
wallet keeps your credit cards, important stuff and some cash. The
other has some cash you don’t mind “donating” New York Style to
muggers.
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I used to own 5 steamers.
I just ordered one of these and then immediately ordered a second
one!
It's the best steamer I've found.
Hold lots of water (tap) and heats up immediately! Doesn't
run out of steam and is so much easier to use that those with an
attached tank.
-- Andy
Gilchrist
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I just got three T. M. Lewin shirts two in the “Luxury” fabric and
one in a “waffle weave”.
Out of all my quality features listed in
The
Encyclopedia of Men’s Clothes these shirts do well!
Split
cut
on the bias (diagonal),
yokes
Two piece non fused collars
Good quality fabrics
Pattern matched on the front
Seven buttons on the front
Front Placket Cross
stitched buttons
Plastic collar stays, removable and with the T.M. Lewin name on them
so I know which shirt they fit!!
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This is one of
the shirts and T.M. Lewin's description:
Blue Waffle Check Luxury Twill Prince of Wales Double Cuff
Shirt - 20414
Prince of Wales collared shirt in heavier textured fabric than
the T.M.Lewin 100 shirt and Twill shirts. Made from classic
Jermyn Street fabric, this T.M.Lewin shirt is made from a
silky finish cotton fabric creating a quality, cool, crisp
man’s shirt. This T.M.Lewin formal shirt is made with finer
yarns, creating a soft and luxurious feel. The Prince of Wales
collar has become T.M.Lewin’s classic collared shirt with a
less cutaway collar than the Windsor shirt. This formal shirt
is 100% cotton.
http://www.tmlewin.co.uk/ |
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Joe Hemrajani
is a a one-of-a-kind person you should know about. Joe is a master
tailor who learned his craft at a famous Hong Kong clothier. But you
don't have to board a plane to get immaculate hand tailoring from
Joe. He has offices here in the United States and travels throughout
the US and London!
On my recent trip to Southeast Asia, I had the pleasure of meeting
with Joe in Hong Kong. He seems like a genuinely honest gentleman
with a sincere concern for customers and a passion for well made
clothing. Not only does he come to you, he also has a great web site
www.mytailor.com
where you browse, learn more about tailoring, schedule
a fitting, and even place orders. How convenient is that?
Joe offers custom made quality at surprisingly affordable prices. He
has the very latest colors, fabrics and styles to reflect your
personal style and good taste. You can even add custom tailored
details, just like in fitting rooms of the world's finest clothiers.
Joe continues the tradition of Hong Kong tailoring all the way
through to finish. After fitting, the garments are manufactured with
care in Hong Kong, a city that is world famous for fine custom
clothing.
Check out Joe Hemrajani. He's an original!
www.mytailor.com And tell him hello from me --
Andy
Here's
the schedule for My Tailor, just click on your state and
city:
http://www.mytailor.com/tourschedule.aspx
UPDATE:
My First Bespoke Suit!!
I met with Joe Hemrajani after our trip at his Irvine office and
we picked out a Loro Piana S-120 Navy wool suit fabric with
pinstripes of light blue and burgundy.
The measuring process was intense. Joe took lots of
measurements
and recorded them by computer program along with my style
feature requests – peaked lapels, double vents, two button,
hacking flap pockets and a ticket pocket. My prior experience
(and this is not criticism but just a difference in the way
tailors work) was a few measurements written on a form.
Joe also took photos of me to help the Hong Kong tailors with
body type.
Joe also suggested a shirt and we picked a blue two-ply
superfine 100's from his “executive collection” end-on-end with
a true split yoke (I think he did this just for me after our
discussion of the value of a split yoke).
The suit arrived last week and it is beautiful! The fabric
is even more outstanding than the swatch (think of the shirt/tie
combinations with a navy fabric with light blue and burgundy pin
stripes) and the fit is perfect. The hand work and details are
outstanding.
Never having that feeling of a perfectly fitting suit I must say
it is really a joy. Now I know what you guys are talking about.
And the shirt (with French cuffs) is very impressive. It fits
perfectly too!!! I’m really pleased with the features and the
fabric.
Thank you Joe!
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And
the eyeglasses in the photo above, the ones that make me look at
least 20 years younger!!! are by --
Nader
Zadi
Eyewear Artist &
Optician
Vintage & Bespoke Eyewear
www.RareFrames.com
(212) 249 5609
Nader
makes great eyeglasses from antique metal frames. They are
each a work of art! Tell him hello for me! |
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My
Second
Bespoke Suit!!
I had the pleasure of
meeting Bob Chawla of Gino Tailor's in Thailand on my recent
trip. He's a great person and the details he puts into his
suits are fantastic. Check out the websites:
www.ginoshirt.com and
www.ginotailor.com
Make sure you tell
him hello for me, and mention you came from the Ask Andy
site!
Here is a video of how my suit was
tailored:
http://enews.ecartstudio.com/scripts/viewfullscreen.asp?nNEWSID=103
 My
Gino suit is fantastic! It's a peaked lapel, two button, double
vents in a navy birdseye. The pattern really looks great and the
fit, oh the fit!!
The fabric is
Italian, Lessona S120, Bob Chawla of Gino uses horsehair
lnterfacing (also called canvas or interlining) and there is
some fusing (as we mentioned fusing has come a long way in the
past few years) but Gino is proud that they use the finest
fusing fabric from France.
Remember I was trying to describe the detailing that Gino's
does?
This may be a better illustration (see photo at right), and yes
that's the Ask Andy hanger logo!
I had met Bob as
mentioned above on my trip to Thailand in January 2006 and
turned him into a tour guide, which he did wonderfully! My
wife and I had a good day with him seeing some of the sites.
When he took us back to our cruise ship we were a little late
and only had time to look at several suits Bob had in his trunk.
I was impressed and tried to describe the detailing and hand
work!
Bob Chawla
www.ginotailor.com will be making visits to the USA,
watch the Forum for his schedule. He currently make
regular visits to Germany, Switzerland and Norway.
Gino shirts are well made of excellent fabrics.
www.ginoshirt.com
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Tom Park, Forum
member, is the owner of Leather Soul.
Contact Tom
tom@leathersoulhawaii.com for a great shoe buying
experience!
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I just got a pair of these Alden
suede tassel slip-on from Tom. The shoes are
fantastic, very comfortable, and good looking!
The customer service from Leather Soul is great, and
the shipping is fast!
Thank you Tom!!
UPDATE:
Just got two more pair of Alden's from Tom.
UPDATE on the UPDATE:
I just got these Alden Plaza Sip-ons (photo on right)
-- Andy
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 When
one of the members of the Forum, David Hober of
Sam Hober Custom Made Neckties mentioned that they featured hand-woven Thai silk neckties, pocket
squares, scarves and shawls, I had to check out their site.
Sam Hober pocket
squares are handsewn and hand-rolled using handwoven Mudmee,
Saiphone, & Iridescent Shot Thai silk fabrics. They (David &
Noina) also make bespoke ties in any length, width, shape or
construction including classic unlined seven-folds, and Italian
style lined six-folds. They have a large selection of English,
Italian, Irish and Thai silks to select from and can custom weave
silks.
Well, I had to have
one of their pocket squares and they're better than the photos on
the site!
Sam Hober also offers the "Official" Ask Andy pocket
square (see photo at right) available
HERE!
And,
graciously, David has provided two of our Tutorials linked
from the Home Page:
David Hober gives steps for making our own Necktie
David Hober shows us how to make a Pocket Square
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For over 18 years, CEGO shirt maker
Carl Goldberg (and AAAC Forum Member) has been providing New
York City's best custom shirt value.
Our custom made shirts have appeared in major Broadway Shows, such
as "Mama Mia" and "The Producers", as well as several network
television shows. We can make you look like a star too without the
inflated prices.
174 Fifth Ave
New York, NY 10010
Mon-Fri 9:00am-6:00pm
Sat 10:00am-3:00pm
Tel: (212) 620-4512
*By Appointment Only
Fax: (212) 620-4503
Email:
cegocs@aol.com
Check their website:
http://www.cego.com
I've just tried some of CEGO's boxer shorts and they are great!!
The fabric (high quality shirt fabric) is fantastic. The
boxer shorts will compel you to get some CEGO shirts*!!-- Andy
*And I just
did!! I’d gotten some luxurious boxer shorts (you should
order some of these!) from CEGO and Carl Goldberg, made from his
shirt fabrics and thought I’d better get something that others
could see, like a custom made shirt! He had some great shirt
fabrics at the CSE show this year. We chose a beautiful herringbone
blue fabric, discussed the collar and cuff details and he measured
me. I have it now. What a great shirt. Excellent fabric and it
fits perfectly!!! Thanks Carl!
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English Gentlemen's Shoes from Crockett & Jones, Tricker's, Alfred
Sargent, Barker, Loake, Grenson and Sanders!
Online customers enjoy detailed and prompt responses to their enquiries
as well as to Shoe Orders. However, it is the fact that
Pediwear
successfully compete with huge organisations on Shoe Prices
and Delivery Prices that is giving Pediwear a growing
reputation for Value as well as for the family business tradition of
personal service.
To help care for your new shoes, Pediwear is offering a FREE pair of
shoe trees with all shoe orders that mention the
"Ask Andy" web site!!!
I have these Tricker's Harrow
Jermyn Street Collection wholecut shoes from Pediwear. They
may just be the most beautiful shoes I own. The service at
Pediwear, as reported on the Forums is outstanding. You'll
be very pleased with the quality shoes and the reasonable prices.
-- Andy
 I
just received these Barker Jameson tan (cedar) calf loafers from
Pediwear! This is my first Barker shoes and I really like them.
Great style, and perfect fit! -- Andy
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I just got a beautiful Tuxedo (peak lapel, of course!!)
from Suit
Yourself
Also got this pair of Alden Shell Cordovan Tassel Loafers!
They have magnificent merchandise, and their customer
service is superb.
You can’t go wrong! --
Andy
http://www.suityourself.com
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A good friend of mine, who I went to
Journalism School with at Kansas State University and who worked for the
Los Angeles Times has a website of photographs. They're great.
Check them out at:
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-- Andy
Gilchrist
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