CMKY | SF Men's Ware for a Modern Life

Climates that change by zip code and an abundance of must-attend seasonal events require a ready-to-wear wardrobe for every San Francisco male. Asking your date through chattering teeth to borrow her scarf and hat at a Giant’s game does not a masculine companion make. On the other hand, acquiring a set of rich brown Ferragamo lace-ups to go with your new navy Paul Smith suit will win admiring stares from those dating the dolts who still believe black loafers go with everything. Be it surfing the snow or the couch, riding in limos or on horseback, the following establishments offer outfits for any occasion.
Black Fleece offers an edgy take on the long-standing traditional look of the Brooks Brothers brand. This BB offshoot keeps us looking snappy on the croquet court or at the courthouse (for attorneys of course – orange jumpsuits are a bit less flattering). Seersuckers abound, tailored shorts and an ascot or ten are easily discovered via an incredibly knowledgeable staff who know how to match and layer - a San Francisco necessity. Tasteful plaid patterns are available, along with a rainbow of colors not normally utilized in formal menswear.
Goodbyes? More like Hellos
Full price retail is for suckers, the perpetually lazy, or those with trust funds. With a little effort, you can venture through the racks of selected suits, dress shirts, unworn shoes, jeans, and jackets - the majority of which are designer and selected for re-sale by a fashion-conscious staff. Example: I recently landed an un-lived in pair of brown Patrick James Oxfords. Retail: approximately $400 retail. Goodbyes? $50. Seriously. Don't miss out on this amazing Laurel Heights consignment shop.
For the Dapper Gent: Wilkes Bashford
Wilkes Bashford has been dishing out style to San Franciscans since 1966. Found in the molten core of SF's fashion center Union Square, Wilkes began importing Brioni goods and was one of the first stores to feature items from then unknown American designer Ralph Lauren. The Wilkes Bashford man is exceedingly dapper - forever to be found in French cuffs, suits specified to his measurements, and, more often than not, with a dab of color in the form of a pocket square or socks peeking from behind perfectly tailored slacks. A spending spree at Wilkes may ensure you’ll be riding Muni home with your garment bag, but an outfit from this San Francisco institution will ensure you’re not faking it - you're making it.
Gearing Up for the Apocalypse or Mt. Tam: Triple Aught Design
A fluctuating terrain and micro-climates are some of the glorious attributes of Northern California. Swimming in Bass Lake and tanning on Bolinas Beach can turn into cuddling to shelter from the stinging cold in just a few Dogtown Ale’s time. The same thing can happen at AT&T park - con cuddling, sans fire of course. Triple Aught Design or TAD creates an assortment of apparel, packs, tools, and gear that can keep your new suit dry on a rainy February day as well as save your life during a late October Tuolomne high country trek. The founder’s ex-army training and love of unexplored regions of California inspired this hardcore, practically bulletproof, far-outlive-you collection of packs, clothing, knives, flashlights, and other items necessary for the apocalypse.
Snuggle City: James Perse
After long city nights and adventurous Sierra Nevada excursions, dinner and movie time with sweetie (or solo, just as nice) snuggled up at home is better than any whiskey bar or a 13,000 foot view of Mono Lake. Making sure you’re cozy, and of course overly touchable for sweetie, is as vital as your minus 30-degree sleeping bag. James Perse, out of Los Angeles, churns out the comfiest sweats, t-shirts, and other delightfully luxurious loungewear this side of dreamland. Puppies on clouds bouncing on marshmallows could not be more embraceable, which is everyone’s goal after braving the perils of our modern existence.
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