Put Some Shine On

Limited quantities of several new silk items arrived at the ASW store this week, including a red ascot and an expanded selection of silk belts that will dress up a blazer during the day (dandies might pair them with my suede house shoes), and red satin bow ties that will do the same with a navy suit during the evening. And they will be joined next week by very hard to find flat black silk shoe laces that will dress up your oxfords for black tie occasions.

One thing I like about my silk belts is the positive reaction they elicit from the fairer sex. Paired with an otherwise conventional jacket and trousers, they add flair without taking things too far. Add a pair of tan or light gray socks for a Fred Astaire look without the self consciousness of tieing a necktie around your waist.