Essential: Black Boots

Every man needs a solid pair of black boots. Perfect for jeans, a night out, or those snowy days. they make a statement that no sneaker does. They have attitude, and a quality pair only gets better with age.

Above is a very nice collaboration with Wings + Horns and Dayton Vancouver. A bit pricey at $798. However, they actually tie the boot in a knot and dip it in water to get a distinct shape.

Below is the classic Red Wing Gentlemen's travel in black. It goes for around $260 and should last you years of heavy use. Be sure to size down on these as they run quite large.

Band of Outsiders

Band of Outsiders has received a ton of well deserved press in the past year. Kanye West is a big fan, and despite Mr. West's stylistic shortcomings, they are winning me over as well.

Like APC, it is another great company offering classic styles with slim profiles. They are best known for their dress shirts, which are extremely well cut (think short, and skinny), but come with a hefty price tag of 200+ retail. Many people swear by the shirts while others grumble about the price, but rarely about the cut.

The company is doing some great marketing on their website, and offering us an image that is well constructed. The retro use of Polaroid photographs really conjures up an eclectic nostalgia of stylish, modern clothing worn in a classic way. As you surely know by now, the prevalence of wayfarers is something I approve of as well.

This year they are offering a BoO x Sperry collaboration, which really does look fantastic and I encourage you to check out. It looks like boat shoes are making a big comeback this spring with BoO, Sperry and APC leading the pack. However, the boots are definitely the stand out of this collaboration.

Band of Outsiders is a great American prep inspired collection, I look forward to their future offerings.

BoO will be presenting at Fashion Week today, check back soon to see some pics, until then their site is here.