As with much of life, the modern aesthetic we refer to as “preppy” bears only a thin resemblance to the historical roots upon which it rests. Often, the substance of a philosophy or belief is obscured over time as the surface decoration which was initially its outgrowth comes to define the entire idea. The same…
The tiny but enchanting island of Nantucket has long been a magnet for lifestyle and aspirational brands. The handsomely rugged location and windswept geography, combined with the island’s historically East Coast patrician aesthetic, make for an irresistible backdrop. Apart from the Kennedy compound-ish positioning that often accompanies Nantucket themed marketing or product shoots, the island…
Simple lines and details that are both functional and aesthetically relevant are the rule when it comes to Read Wall’s clothes. For example, his oxfords are trim but not skinny, and have a unique feature that speaks directly to his grown-up sense of American style; a flapped chest pocket. Some designer like shirt pockets, others…
Triple Aught Design (TAD) is a really unique brand. It’s products are grounded in a tactical, purposeful world. Function first and form second; the mantra of a company that seeks to create products and garments that last and perform. As a brand that is quality- and detail-driven, we find their products to be very much…
It should come as a surprise to no one that far too often form trumps function in the fashion world. Creating something in the “style” a timeless classic is more important than actually creating something that will last long enough to become a classic. “Inspired by” is often a phrase that makes our warning flag…
Mory’s is more than simply an institution, it is a special place that is both part of my family’s history and my own memories. The Mory’s Association is a private dining club at Yale University – it’s storied past and the transitions that have come to reestablish its future remain tied with the school’s history. …
OTC has partnered with Thomas Pink to create two distinct looks that reflect both city cool and American preppy casual. Recently, we wrote about how the company just unwrapped a significant brand refreshing and in celebration, OTC is showing how to make some of that Pink style work for you. To create our complimentary looks,…
One of the true pleasures of running a site such as Off the Cuff is the opportunity afforded to us of meeting some truly remarkable people. Amazingly enough, many of our most interesting friends sought out OTC, not the other way around. Such was the case with Richard Press. Richard, former CEO of the iconic…
A Barbour jacket is perhaps one of the most iconic garments around today. Even at a distance, they are immediately recognizable. The Barbour brand itself is synonymous with country living, horses, rolling estates, a stiff drink and, more than anything else, heritage. Your classic Beaufort or Bedale coat is meant to be with you for…
As we are now in the full swing of summer, let’s look at one way to give an East Coast sartorial tradition a contemporary twist. Nothing quite says summer style like a blue blazer, linen trousers, and worn-in white bucks. Timeless, yes; but not necessarily stuffy. In this case, details make the difference and allow…
