Summer Essentials: The Mood

Some people are all about music or film, but for me it's all about that really great shot. A moment and mood captured.

I have always loved collecting and studying images that mean something to me, even if I wasn't quite sure what that something was (it's all about the unknown right?). Eventually I'll sift through my collection (either on Pinterest or Instagram), looking for common threads and themes I'm into. Here's what I'm thinking:

Shorts + Blazers: I dig the whole preppy-boarding-school-meets-grown-up thing, especially when vibrant prints are casually worn under perfectly tailored blazers, just to take the edge off - you know? I like how functional this type of look is to wear, and how easy (aka breezy) it can be, especially in summer. 

The Perfect Shirt: Nothing screams perfection more than a starched white shirt. The feeling of wearing a clean and crisp shirt, especially sans tie and buttoned all-the-way-up, is completely unparalleled. I have openly been coveting this Dior Homme 'collar stand' shirt for some time (and yes, dear reader, gifts are always welcome).

The Loafer: If I had to describe myself as a shoe, I would definitely be a loafer (what would you be? This game is FUN!). I still wear my very first pair, by Bally - my father's from the 80ies. Sure, I did the whole Tods and Car Shoe thing, but truthfully it's all about Gucci's Horsebit collection (get involved people, there is something to be said about timelessly elegant footwear).  

*Click the arrows above to browse the inspiration (and shop) the mood.

The Return of the Backpack

Ah, the backpack - we've all had one. Once frowned upon, now a hot commodity? That's right people, this is happening.

I’ve made several points about the benefits of a great backpack - remember that Louis Vuitton mountain climbing-inspired number? (which I’m still coveting in a major way, FYI). Truthfully I haven’t used a backpack since the ninth grade (I upgraded to a Prada messenger bag which I still use). But that’s not the point. The point is this: essentially the backpack is back, and I’m game.

I’m not talking bulky, ‘durable’ backpacks that your super outdoorsy, flanel-wearing (read granola) neighbor-type would wear on a hike upstate. I’m thinking fun, statement packs for urban jaunts to Dean and Deluca, you know? Burton’s aviary print is exceptional in that it a.) reminds me of hunting and the country, and b.) feels playfully preppy in an un-annoying way. I’d definitely wear it to work, dressed-up with a Burberry Prorsum double-breasted navy blazer, a Rag and Bone split-v-neck tee and a fine-stripe short-short. What’s more the aviary print comes in an iPad case too.

Welcome to Wednesday.

Alexander Atkins, holding a Burton Birds Tablet Case, photographed by Camille Labat in Palo Alto.