Nov
18
2008
By
The Staff
of Valet.
 
Patch
Things Up
Question
I've been seeing a lot of jackets and sweaters with elbow patches lately. I like the look of them, but don't want to look too stuffy. What do you think? - Ben, Denver
 
Answer

We understand the aversion to looking like a pipe-smoking fogey in your elbow-patched tweed blazer. But we're also noticing the moment the little leather patches seem to be having right now. And if Cary Grant and Hemingway could pull of the well-worn gentleman's look, then damnit, so can you. Modern versions by such retro-inspired labels as Rugby and Hickey have caught our eye, but none seem to be as cool as Engineered Garments' unstructured, wool sportcoat.

Bedford jacket (above), $415 at Odin, New York; Shetland crewneck (left), $55 at Rugby; Lambswool sweater (right), $165 at Hickey.
 

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What should I pack for my first business trip?

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With nearly every airline imposing a baggage fee nowadays, if you can get away with flying with just a carry-on, do it.

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