The Five Gifts You Didn't Even Know You Wanted

   The season of commerce is here! The holiday season...its supposed to be about family, and being thankful, and caroling and candle-lighting, but we all know that from about age 3 until death do you part, the one thing that unites us all is the thrill of receiving gifts! There is no reason to be ashamed, we give our all to our loved ones, it's nice to be appreciated! Now, if I had a "him" in my life to give gifts to, I'd be all over it. Instead, I'll write this post and live vicariously through you all. Here are some of the top gifts that a Rugged Sophisticate would be happy to see under his tree! (or menorah, or whatever...)

1.  The Art of Shaving Skincare Kit. ($75.00)
 Skincare is just as important for men as it is for women, and men (obviously) have different needs as it pertains to shaving. The Art of Shaving is a store designed around that concept. This starter kit contains the basic essentials of proper skincare (wash, daily exfoliator, moisturizer, and blemish treatment) tailored for the shaving man's skin. The face wash is formulated with essential oils (for natural fragrance that won't irritate sensitive skin) such as jojoba and peppermint, and green tea oil to stimulate cell turnover (to combat the signs of aging). Also contains soothing aloe vera oil.

2. BBQ Briefcase by Uncommon Goods. ($84.00)
Okay, I want this! Every man swears he's a "grill master", and some actually are. Guys who take grilling seriously will appreciate the stainless steel 20-piece set. Its functional, stylish, and portable.

3. The "Roomba 770" by iRobot. ($499.99)
The Rugged Sophisticate man likes to maintain a neat and orderly home and appearance. He, like other men, also loves gadgets. The Roomba combines the male love of robots with the male need to keep the rug clean. It even has HEPA filters to clean the air in your living spaces, and cleans underneath furniture with ease.

4. The "Henry" Leather Armchair by West Elm. ($899.99)
There's a special relationship between a man and his chair. Long day at work, temples throbbing, back aching, and all you want from life is a stiff drink and sturdy yet comfortable chair to lounge in. The chair doesn't make the man, the man makes the chair, and this genuine leather armchair says "Man of the House". The kids would never think to drink (and spill) Kool-Aid on this bad boy. This is DADDY'S chair.

5. The Waxwear "Davis Brief" by Jack Spade. ($375.00)
Jack (real name: Andy) and his wife Kate Spade are known for their chic, Americana bags and apparel. The Waxwear brief is crafted from durable cotton canvas material, with sturdy leather handles. Waxwear waterproofing ensures that your laptop, notes, pens, and important documents stay in pristine condition, no matter the weather. The inside has 12 compartments for easy organization.


From work to home to outdoor cooking, the Rugged Sophisticate likes to be organized, comfortable, and of course, stylish. With gifts like these, the Rugged Sophisticate man in your life, be it dad or brother, husband or son, will take on 2013 primed and ready.

In Honor of Veteran's Day: Military Style for the Rugged Sophisticate

  Happy Veteran's Day to all that are serving and have served! And you're welcome (I'm an Army girl myself). I was inspired to post about military style because so much of the Rugged Sophisticate style seems to have its roots in the military. Ribbed beanies and cowlneck sweaters- antique Navy style. Anoraks and peacoats- classic Army officerwear. The Cartier Tank Americaine- designed by Mr. Cartier himself as gifts to American D-Day tank officers after the liberation of France. Here are some military-inspired looks for both stylish vets and those who simply admire their tastes:


ARMY (HOOAH!)

This classic wool Burberry trench is reminiscent of both American and German military officer's coats. They wore theirs in the snows of Ardennes, today's Rugged Sophisticate navigates the urban battlefield with confidence in this imperial blue.

                                                     US Army officer's trench, circa 1944.
NAVY:

The ribbed beanie. Seen here on Bloomingdales fashion editor Josh Peskowitz. This style began with Northeastern fishermen, who brought the style into the Navy when they were drafted. You can find similar styles here.

AIR FORCE:

 

                                              Vintage 1963 Air Force issued pilot's watch.

Air force pilots were issued intricate watches that were known for their rugged durability. The watch of a RAF (Royal Air Force) pilot was said to be his most precious instrument. These watches were made to sustain plane crashes! Today's Rugged Sophisticate may not have those concerns, but the value of a good watch, one that will tell the time (and air pressure, if need be) throughout any circumstance, cannot be denied. You can find similar versions here.

MARINES

The United States Marine Corps NO DOUBT has the cleanest uniform, and they play no games about it! The Marine Corps is known for being the most strict in its uniform requirements, and this dedication to uniformity and ultimate presentation is something that a Rugged Sophisticate can appreciate. NEVER COMPROMISE in your style rules, whatever they are. Never accept a bad seam or loose button, always match your belt to your shoes, and shine those cufflinks, guys!

                                       This Alexander McQueen look is suited to PERFECTION!

82ND AIRBORNE JUMP BOOTS

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the ever-popular "jump boot/jungle boot" trend. I'm a proud owner of a pair myself! (for work though) The "jump boot" is the second most prized staple of the Paratrooper's uniform, besides the wings themselves. Worn with the Army Service Uniform (ASU), the jump boot must always be shined so well your 1SG could shave in its reflection. Jump boots and jungle boots have also made a statement on men's fashion runways for several seasons, and it's almost become a wardrobe staple.

Streetwear versions of the jump boot can be found here.

However you decide to emulate military style, do it with confidence and don't forget to thank a vet!