Journal

Leather boots are a staple in every man's wardrobe. Not only do they provide style and sophistication, but they are also durable and long-lasting. However, to maintain the quality and appearance of your leather men's boots, it is essential to take proper care of them. Here are some tips to ensure your boots stay in great condition:

1. Clean Regularly: Start by removing any dirt or dust from the surface of your boots. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently wipe away the debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the leather.
2. Condition the Leather: Leather is prone to drying out and cracking over time. To keep your boots moisturized and supple, apply a leather conditioner regularly. This will help prevent wrinkles and maintain the natural shine of the leather.
3. Protect from Water: Water can cause significant damage to leather boots. To protect them from moisture, apply a waterproof spray or wax before wearing them in wet conditions. Additionally, avoid wearing your boots in heavy rain or snow to prevent water stains and potential damage.
4. Store Properly: When not in use, store your leather boots in a cool and dry place. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can cause the leather to fade or crack. Use a boot tree or stuff them with newspaper to help maintain their shape.
5. Polish for Shine: Regularly polish your leather boots to maintain their shine and keep them looking new. Choose a polish that matches the color of your boots and apply it in a circular motion using a soft cloth. Buff the boots gently to achieve a glossy finish.
6. Repair and Maintain: If you notice any scuffs, scratches, or loose threads on your boots, address them promptly. Use a leather conditioner or specific repair products to fix minor damages. For major repairs or resoling, take your boots to a professional cobbler.

By following these care tips, you can ensure that your leather boots remain in excellent condition for years to come. Remember, investing a little time and effort in maintaining your boots will prolong their lifespan and keep them looking stylish on every occasion.

Selvedge denim is a type of denim fabric known for its high quality and unique characteristics. It is highly regarded by denim enthusiasts and has gained popularity in recent years.

What Sets Selvedge Denim Apart?

One of the main features that distinguishes selvedge denim from regular denim is its edge finish. Selvedge denim is woven on traditional shuttle looms, which create a tightly woven fabric with a self-finished edge. This edge, often featuring a colored thread, prevents the denim from unraveling or fraying, making it more durable and long-lasting.

Additionally, selvedge denim is usually made from high-quality, natural fibers such as cotton. The fabric is typically woven in narrower widths, resulting in a denser and heavier material compared to mass-produced denim.

The History of Selvedge Denim

Selvedge denim has a rich history dating back to the early days of denim production. During the mid-20th century, most denim was made on shuttle looms, producing selvedge denim as the default fabric. However, with the advent of more efficient projectile looms, the production of selvedge denim declined in favor of mass-produced denim.

In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in selvedge denim, driven by the desire for authentic and high-quality denim garments. Many denim enthusiasts appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into producing selvedge denim.

Why Choose Selvedge Denim?

Choosing selvedge denim goes beyond just the aesthetic appeal. Here are some reasons why you might consider investing in selvedge denim:

• Durability: Selvedge denim is known for its durability and longevity. The tightly woven fabric and self-finished edge contribute to its long-lasting nature.
• Quality: Selvedge denim is often made from high-quality cotton fibers and woven with meticulous attention to detail. This results in a fabric that is not only durable but also has a unique texture and character.
• Authenticity: Selvedge denim carries a sense of authenticity and heritage. It harkens back to a time when denim was produced on traditional shuttle looms, a practice that is now less common.
• Personalization: Over time, selvedge denim develops unique fades and creases that conform to the wearer's body and lifestyle. This makes each pair of selvedge denim jeans or jacket truly unique and personalized.

Caring for Selvedge Denim

To preserve the integrity and longevity of selvedge denim, it is important to follow proper care instructions. Here are a few tips:

1. Wash sparingly: Avoid washing selvedge denim frequently. Instead, spot clean any stains and hang the garment to air out. This helps maintain the unique fades and character of the fabric.
2. Cold water and gentle cycle: When washing selvedge denim, use cold water and a gentle cycle to minimize shrinkage and maintain the fabric's integrity.
3. Air dry: After washing, air dry your selvedge denim garments instead of using a dryer. This helps prevent excessive shrinkage and maintains the original shape and fit.
4. Limit alterations: Avoid excessive alterations to selvedge denim garments, as they may disrupt the original construction and affect the overall appearance and fit.

By following these care instructions, you can ensure that your selvedge denim garments age gracefully and retain their unique qualities for years to come.

Selvedge denim is more than just a type of fabric. It represents a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and the preservation of denim heritage. Whether you're a denim enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates well-made garments, selvedge denim offers a unique and authentic option for your wardrobe.

Via Heddels

If you don’t have a great pair of loafers already, then get on it and get your Ametora on. And if you already have a solid pair—why not upgrade to a truly transcendent one??

Alden has been in the business of insanely-great shoes for nearly as long as the United States has existed and their penny loafer is second to none. Now, cut those classic shoes from their legendary Color 8 Shell Cordovan and you have a pair of shoes so nice you’ll have to be careful not to drool on ’em.

360 degree Goodyear welting, a steel shank, and the pride of owning one of the greatest shoes ever made are all some perks of the Alden penny loafers. Truly no better shoe for summer, a loafer lets you embrace the more refined side of your wardrobe, especially on summer days when the old boots and jeans seem a little too suffocating.

Shop All Alden Footwear

M I L W O R K S | mens goods will adhere to the following CDC guidelines:

- It will be mandatory that staff wears a mask at all times inside the shop. We strongly suggest customers wear a mask as well

- If you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home.

- Hand Sanitizer will be available for use.

- Up to 5 customers will be allowed in the shop at a time.

- Credit or Debit Cards will be accepted. No Cash.

- Remember to socially distance. 6 ft apart.

- High trafficked areas within the shop including surfaces, handles, credit card machine etc...will be routinely cleaned and sanitized for everyone's safety.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we all adapt to this new way of doing retail.

Be well

Jason & Jesse

We get a lot of questions about seasonal clothing, i.e., what to wear and when to wear it. While some pieces are obviously reserved for certain times of year based on practicality, there really aren’t any hard and fast rules anymore. If you want to wear a tweed jacket in the middle of August, more power to you. If you want to show up to your office wearing a three ounce poplin shirt with linen trousers during a polar vortex event, go for it, but make sure you at least have a good winter coat to protect you while you’re outside. A flu shot would probably be helpful, as well.

The fact of the matter is that virtually any kit you can come up with is acceptable these days. If feel comfortable in the clothes you’ve chosen to wear and you think you can pull it off, then do it. If someone calls you out on wearing white jeans after Labor Day, that’s probably more their own insecurity than your faux pas. I can say from experience that wearing a tweed jacket in the middle of August is actually pretty badass, while the same goes for wearing white jeans with the same tweed jacket in the middle of January.

Whatever you want to call it—style, fashion, dandyism—the point is to have fun while you engage in self-expression. I consider it an art. The next time you throw a few pieces on your bed to see if they’ll work, I urge you to toss at least one “out of season” item into the mix. If it doesn’t look decent, try another—you might be surprised what you come up with. That cotton beanie you bought but never wear might actually go quite well with that long sleeve henley you always forget to layer with, regardless of whether it’s January or June. Take some risks, but have fun doing so. We wish you the best of luck with your sartorial statements.

Until next time,

Dan

M I L W O R K S | men's goods

Join us this Friday May 19th from 3-7p at Milworks and check out all our new Summer arrivals while enjoying small bites from Bavette La Boucherie and beer from our friends at Finch beer!