When the folks form Timberland asked us to take a look at some of their gear, we told them we would be happy to do so. After all, it’s a storied American brand that has a durable history and reputation for solid outdoorsy basics. “Basic” describes what were expecting, but not what actually arrived. While…
All posts by OTC
Setting the Standard with Standard Shirt
The classic white dress shirt is indeed classic. It goes with virtually anything and as a wardrobe staple, blends with almost any genre. It pairs well with jeans and old docksiders or a bespoke suit and seven-fold tie. If there truly is one item that should be at the core of any man’s wardrobe, the…
Michael Bastian: The Sharp American
Designer Michael Bastian takes a starring turn in the new short film, The Sharp American, a collaboration of GMC and director Arnaud Boutin that celebrates American design and creativity. Bastian, along with musician George “Twin Shadow” Lewis and noted photographer Michael Avedon, narrate what precision means to them and how it influences their work. The…
Luxury Italian Outerware: MONOBI
Discovering a new menswear brand with which most people may be unfamiliar is often one of the great joys of running OTC. We love to tell you about companies and products that are the best at what they do. And, when that brand makes some truly remarkable products, it only adds to the moment. Such…
From Bleu de Chauffe: Scott, The Writer’s Bag
Many years ago, we were traveling in Europe and noticed the bags carried by many men. Particularly in cities, we saw what can only be described as small briefcases designed in a way that made them seem less for business and more for everyday necessity. Not effeminate, these bags were clearly designed for men –…
Keep an Eye on Your Face With These Men’s Grooming Brands
It’s no surprise that men are paying more attention than ever to their wardrobes, but they are also remembering that one’s face is the true focus upon which most attention is leveled. That market for men’s skincare and grooming products is expanding at a healthy clip, and that’s a good thing. Taking care of your…
Father’s Day: Prep Time with Daniel Wellington
Few brands are able to instantly create a market space that seems to have always been there for them. Although new, these objects feel well worn and established. Daniel Wellington is one such brand; it’s a relatively new preppy inspired watch company that feels as though it’s been around forever. We all know the look;…
Father’s Day: Boto Swim Shorts
Men’s swimwear appears to be getting renewed attention this season, with more emphasis on resort wear quality and design. A great brand we have had a chance to review and test out is Boto. This Canadian company has cracked the code for pool-ready shorts that easily transition to poolside entertaining. Masculine nylon fabrics, clean lines,…
Get Styled with Grooming Lounge, Tysons Galleria
On June 25, 2015, join OTC, the Grooming Lounge, and leading DC menswear and style experts at the Grooming Lounge‘s Tysons Galleria location for an evening dedicated to men’s style. Check out the invitation below, mark your calendar, and make sure to join us.
Go West Coast Prep With Johnnie-O
There is little argument that the preppy ethos is grounded in East Coast, Ivy League culture. Khakis, polos, boat shoes, tote bags, and nautical gear are all foundational elements of this most American of fashions. “Classic” preppy, as it were, has spawned a variety of equally impactful offshoots. Southern preppy, for example, is a robustly…