MONDAY BOOKMANIA - ROWING BLAZERS BY JACK CARLSON

This weekend I finally received my copy of the "bible" of Rowing Blazers.

The blazer is a staple of modern style, but few realize that this garment has its origins in the sporting kit of Oxford and Cambridge, where the very first blazers were created in bold colors for college rowing clubs. 

Rowing Blazers by Jack Carlson looks at the authentic striped, piped, trimmed, and badged blazers that are still worn by oarsmen and -women around the world today, and at the elaborate rituals, elite athletes, prestigious clubs, and legendary races associated with them.

Each university, school, college, and club featured in the book is represented by a blazer-clad rower or group of rowers—including world champions, record holders, and Olympians such as Sir Steve Redgrave and Cameron & Tyler Winklevoss of The Social Network fame.

The stunning original photographs, many by “prep” guru F.E. Castleberry, are taken in situ at the historic boathouses, campuses, and team rooms of clubs in the United States, Great Britain, the Netherlands, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. These enchanting portraits are punctuated by thrilling action shots from the Henley Royal Regatta, the Head of the Charles, the Olympic Games, and the Boat Race; and accompanied by histories, anecdotes, and captivating descriptions of the esoteric traditions behind each blazer.

NIPPON PREP BY BEAMS PLUS

Beams, which started as a small shop in the Harajuku district of Tokyo in 1976, has since grown into a significant retail force in Japan. The men's line, Beams Plus, which was launched in 1999, is the rugged, heritage- and ivy inspired range from the company. Above some pics from their SS 2013 collection.

"STAY PREPPY MY FRIENDS"

Ivy Prepster is just a few years old, the brand has grown to satisfy everything you'll need to complete your collegiate-inspired outfit. The brand is inspired by the resurgence of the tie in the male wardrobe and the modern prep movement, Ivy Prepster neckwear reflects the past, the present and future of knit ties. They reflect classic tie patterns, such as stripes and dots, as well as sweater-like argyle and fair isle motifs. Every Ivy Prepster knit tie is designed in the USA and handmade in Shanghai. Boy, I like that navy tie with anchor. "Stay Preppy my friend" they say at Ivy Prepster.

TIME STOOD STILL @ J.PRESS, NEW HAVEN

"Classic American Style isn't created in an instant. It takes time. In fact, it takes generations worth of thoughtful refinement and an unwavering commitment to dress men to an Ivy League standard". 

This is the commitment of J.Press, Jacob Press opened his first store in 1902 on the grounds of Yale University, he believed in quality above all else. It's that belief that earned him the esteem of US presidents, scholars and captains of industry. You can find a J.Press in New York, Boston, Washington and still in New Haven, CT. When I visited the store on my last trip it looked like time stood still. Everything breath the spirit of the early days, even the sales staff. This must have been the feeling, when the students bought their first Oxford shirts there, back in the days even before Take Ivy.

THE IVY LOOK - THE BOOK

Finally, I received my copy of The Ivy Look. An illustrated pocket guide of Classic American clothing.

Before the preppy look there was the Ivy Look. The impact of the Ivy look can be seen nowadays in designers as Ralph Lauren, Gant, Tommy Hilfiger but also J.Crew and Abercrombie & Fitch get their inspiration from the Ivy Look. This book has great pictures of Style Icons like JFK, Paul Newman and Belmondo but also great ads from the 60's. This Coffee table book is only 14 bucks. Order today and enjoy it.