Off The Shoulder

You may have guessed winter is not really a thing here. Nevertheless layers are always appropriate, no matter the climate.
With all that in-mind, on a recent walk through San Francisco's Mission (and with King Henry the Shiba Inu in-tow) I got a-layering. Everyone's been doing it, only now there's been a development. Namely the whole coat-off-the-shoulders thing (preferably camel - Celine or MaxMara) has become the ideal laissez-faire addition to any layered situation (which in my case also included a henley by emerging talent Handvaerk). 

Aside from the fact that Kimye are complete addicts (and might in-fact be partially responsible for a MaxMara revival), the off-the-shoulder look is legitimately great provided you actually manage to keep said coat on your shoulders (it can be a bit of a balancing act). Perhaps it's all about hating the concept of arms / sleeves in general? Thankfully any shoulder slippage can be negated, or better still remedied entirely by a good pair of reflective shades. But then again isn't everything? 

- Alexander Atkins, wearing Acne, Handvaerk, and L.G.R, photographed by Cara-Beth Rodgers in San Francisco.

Tommy Lei, Menswear Blogger

On a recent trip to Los Angeles I headed over to Melrose to catch-up with Tommy Lei, one of the city's leading bloggers.

My Belonging showcases Tommy's style - a blend California ease meets East Coast cool. His choices are consistently thoughtful, with a slight androgynous edge. While shooting we chatted about living in Los Angeles, blogging, coffee shops and his fascination with very expensive shoes.

"My Belonging initially began as a diary for me to document and instill meaning into my material possessions. I am all about worthwhile material investments - the blog was a visual tribute of sorts to my addiction. Since then it’s morphed into so much more! I love experiencing and wearing brands - both established and emerging. The blog has also opened up so many doors in terms of brand collaborations and befriending likeminded individuals. 

I'm attracted to a mixture of high and low. It all comes down to the overall aesthetic and quality. In terms of high I love classic and rare pieces by Balenciaga, Givenchy, Comme des Garçons, Alexander Wang, Phillip Lim and Yohji Yamamoto. On the flip side Zara, ASOS, Topman and H&M are my go-to, especially for trendy designer replicas and exclusive collaborations. My Balenciaga cutout buckle boots are literally my favorite 'hooves'! I call them that because of the galloping sound they make [laughs]! Initially I had my doubts about the fit and comfort but I’ve been enamored by them for so long. During NYFW I caved after seeing them at a brunch with Simon Doonan and called Barney’s to see if they were still in stock. They were.

One of my favorite pastimes is to explore every nook and cranny of this beautiful, expansive city. I'm always hanging at coffee shops like Coffee Tomo, Balconi Coffee, Lamill, Demitasse and Intelligentsia. I also love getting meditative by going on hikes and absorbing the breathtaking views of Runyon Canyon, Will Rogers State Park and Solstice Canyon in Malibu. [Laughs] I definitely don't wear Balenciaga on my hikes." 

- Tommy Lei, wearing Acne, ASOS, Armani Exchange, Tom Ford, Zara, Ted Baker and Balenciaga, photographed by Alexander Atkins in Los Angeles.

The Watch: Daniel Wellington

So this one basically was a no-brainer. I'm from Wellington and my brother, well, he's called Daniel. Need I say more?

Apart from that little coincidence (is there ever such a thing?) I'd be lying if I said I wasn't loving this watch. It's got an unoffensive preppy thing happening and it's very sophisticated. But more than that it's also easy. And by easy I mean it goes with everything - honestly.

Daniel Wellington, who actually was a real person, inspired Filip Tysander (the founder of Daniel Wellington - confused yet?) to fuse classic timepieces with weathered Nato straps. Why? Well Mr. Wellington wore his Rolexes this way, as did James Bond in Goldfinger. The idea was about being unpretentious while remaining gentlemanly (you know, the whole je ne sais quoi relaxed debonair thing). Essentially the strap has the unique ability to dress-down any dressed-up look. De-formalizing if you will. And all while staying sharp - which, by-the-way, is alway the point. 

If your budget is more dash than cash then Daniel Wellington is the perfect option. I usually pair mine with several bracelets and charms because nothing beats a good wrist party. What's more the strap is completely interchangeable and each is named after a prominent British university town. Technically I should have worn this one (because I went there) but instead I chose both the Exeter and Belfast straps. After all, two straps are always better than one...

Learn more about Daniel Wellington and shop the collection here.

- Photos by Alexander Atkins

The Motley: Atlas Cologne

It's moments like this I wish they'd finally invent the smeller-net, because The Motley's Atlas cologne is just that good.
But alas, we're not quite there yet. Instead you'll just have to make-do with my (hopefully decent) description of the various aroma compounds and essential oils used in 'Formula 0142' - The Motley's very first foray into the world of fragrance. I'll be sure to elaborate, I promise. Consider this Smell-ology 101. I know, I'm excited too.

The Vibe:
Here's the deal (and by the way, this is always the deal): I'm not interested unless the packaging is worth mentioning. Well you guys, thank god - because this is the epitome of solid packaging. I'm digging the whole apothecary vibe that's happening. The label has a this-was-made-exclusively-for-me thing going on which, obviously, I like. What's more the bottle arrived in a fully customized tin case promising to ignite inner-notions of 'mystery', 'adventure' and 'nostalgia' - which are always good (oh, and major props on the cursive - that's a nice touch). 

The Smell:
Because the cologne is compounded and hand-poured in Los Angeles using a 10% concentration of fragrance-oil means a small splash is decisively potent. This is all incredibly fitting as Atlas the Titan held up the celestial sphere of planet Earth (translation: he was strong too, but you probably already knew that). The dominant notes including Algerian Atlas Cedar, American Oakmoss, Amber Musk and bergamot means the fragrance is intensely musky and masculine. The addition of Indian cardamom combined with an infusion of cloves not only adds spice, but also evokes the spirit of a world traveller. Smells good? I thought so.

The Destination:
Anywhere really. The perfectly compact bottle (1 fl. oz) means this puppy is perfect for planes, trains and anything else (yachts?). But if I had to pinpoint a location (go on, twist my arm) I'm definitely into being transported to any Balearic Island, wearing Atlas, and more than likely listening to this.

To discover more about The Motley's Atlas Cologne, and to purchase click here.
-Photos by Alexander Atkins

Travel Essentials: Aesop London Kit & Carry-On Case

Aesop really is the best friend anyone could ask for. Good-looking, trustworthy, useful - did I mention good-looking?

There’s not much to argue about. But it gets better. Aesop now curates perfectly compact travel kits for those unexpected on-the-go situations. And because we all hate the inevitable scramble (not least disastrous results) of rushed packing (unless we’re receiving instruction from Louis Vuitton), nothing could be more practical than a pre-packed toilet bag. Can you tell I’m into it?   

Besides convenience (ahem, always a major point) there’s nothing like guinea pig-ing yourself out to a whole bunch of travel-sized miniatures. I mean, they all need to be tested. It’s only fair. The whole thing can be very liberating - you might find yourself deciding: “fuck it. I will try that face mask and listen to Gilles Peterson in Brazil while starfishing on my bed.”  Yo-to-the-Lo. What’s the worse that could happen? You might go crazy and commit to a full-sized product? Ok, I hear you. You’re probably going: “what about my 3 steps? I’m ALL ABOUT my 3 steps.” Yes, you’re right. A solid skincare regimen is great and all, but sometimes the best part about the routine is breaking it. I’m human. You’re human. Switch-it up, no one likes a bore. Now let’s discuss the details.

I was drawn to Aesop’s ‘London’ travel kit immediately, simply because I lived there (probably not the best justification, but whatever - this isn't physics class). Then I discovered it included a few of my favorite products (now staples) from the Parsley Seed range. 

WHAT'S INSIDE  You'll be getting all the necessities including the Classic Shampoo and Conditioner, Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser, Rind Concentrate Body Balm, Parsley Seed Facial Cleanser, Toner and Hydrator, and of course the Bain de Bouche. Basically the only thing left to worry about is your toothbrush.

I’d recommend keeping your Aesop travel pack fully stocked and ready for grabbing at any given moment. Life is about spontaneity - not bad grooming practices.

CUSTOMIZE IT  Aesop's brand new Carry-On Travel Case means you can now choose to pack your own in-flight grooming essentials. Designed to conform to international travel restrictions and requirements, each signature amber bottle (100ml) and pot (15ml) can be filled with any of your favorite Aesop products, time and time-again. Because Aesop is all about being thoughtful, blank labels have been included to avoid any mid-air confusion.

Alongside the 'London' Kit, Aesop also makes a 'Boston' and 'Jet Set' Kit. Click here for more details and to shop.

Sightings: Ray-Ban Clubmaster

I've always loved a good Ray-Ban. So it's not surprising that I'm very into these new polarized, lightly tinted Clubmasters.
If you've been reading you'll know I've chatted about some great shades before, and it's definitely no secret that I'm partial to my camouflage Wayfarers. But there's something fantastically Dickie Greenleaf-esque about these frames (needless to say anything Amalfi Coast-related is superb in my book). Also summer is fast approaching which generally means it's time to make some changes. Clothes, skincare routines, optics - it's all good. And who doesn't love change, right? - Don't answer that.

The point is Ray-Ban has released a new Clubmaster. The 3016 is exceptionally retro; the classic brow-line frame looks just as good today as it did in the 1980s (dare I whisper the word timeless?). Now I know I've addressed the what's-my-face-shape thing - and yes, that is important (I mean I wrote a whole thing, you guys). But I've been forcing a plethora of round, square and oval faces to try these bad boys on... to resounding success! Everyone looked fly. Besides, the fact that they're polarized means your eyes will really love you - so that's definitely a thing. Also I might mention that someone actually pulled-up to me at a traffic light in Los Angeles, complimenting the Clubmasters. If you need more validation than that, well, I really can't help you.

Alexander Atkins, wearing the new Ray-Ban 3016 Clubmasters, photographed by Cara Beth Rogers in San Francisco.

*Discover more about to Clubmaster by clicking here. 

On Haight Street: Camouflage 2.0

I guess the whole let's-walk-around-town-with-a-small-dog thing is a bit passé. But an iguana as a replacement - really?
In short, yes. Really. This is the twenty-first century. No judgement here. I mean one minute you're walking down Haight St. browsing Wasteland (where I scored a vintage Versace blazer, just FYI), the next minute you're practically confronted by a dragon. On the street. On a Saturday. I know it's San Francisco, and everyone is notoriously, ahem, eclectic (to phrase it conservatively) - but this is beyond.

I'm into this 'look' (if we can call it that?), and not just for the whole updated pirate's parrot-on-one-shoulder thing. Or even for my love of exotic skins. No, I love this because it's legitimate camouflage. Living, breathing premium-grade, pure camouflage. Obviously I'm going to be a fan. Besides, the lizard's name was Yoshi - my all-time favorite Nintendo character. Like ever. Phrased simply, it was a fait accompli.

Yoshi the iguana, in a birthday suit like none other, photographed by Alexander Atkins on Haight St. in San Francisco. 

For more snaps, musings and general rarities be sure to check-out @MrEssentialist on Instagram.

        

A Time to Reflect - A Time to Predict

I know, I know - it's definitely spring. But sometimes it's good to take a moment to think about what you just did, right?
You know, reflect on all the choices you made during the those cold and gloomy winter months (the good, the bad, even the ugly). Besides, reflecting helps us think about what we should do next. So let's reflect. 

We obviously enjoyed some serious downtime with beanies, as did the entire sartorial world it seems. It makes sense - they still are the quickest and easiest way to cover-up any hair-issues. I mean I see absolutely no reason why the dominance of the beanie can't continue through summer. Especially when paired with some great tailored short-shorts and a basic tee. We can still be all about the beanie. That being said, hair is for hairspiration. Without it, dear reader, we are lost. So allow your follicles some well-deserved Vitamin D, they will thank you later. Also camouflage was (and actually still is) everywhere. But looking forward (in a crystal-ball kind of way) I'm feeling a new, deconstructed camouflage. Camo hues and tones worn together, but as separates. 'Camouflage 2.0' - or something.

Let's move on.

I'm very much about shorts. And Blazers. So obviously a combination of both is going to be my go-to, especially this summer. The whole thing allows you to be formally casual in an unoffensive way. Essentially your entire shorts-plus-blazer-combo can be formalized with a great pair of slippers, or casualized (?) with some superb Lanvin sneakers. Office-to-out at it's very best! On a separate note I OD'd on graphic tees in 2008 (this song definitely was responsible). So while I 'get' what people are doing, I'm not going to do it. Instead I'm looking to great cuts, panelling and exciting prints. A love affair with Missoni may just be re-awakened, and it has a lot to do with this tee. So the point here basically is that I need to start dressing like Pharrell. 

Alexander Atkins, in a Prada coat & Missoni Beanie, photographed by Sabrina Reddy at Alexander McQueen in NYC.

Pharrell Williams, wearing Bee Line & BBC, at Frieze NYC 2013.

*Click the arrows below to shop the inspiration.

Washed Out: Asos Jeans Jacket

I dig jeans jackets - on other people (I'm one of those types). Yet recently I've been into it. 'It' being washed-out and fun.

Sure I have several great childhood memories of various denim coats and this season's resurgence makes me nostalgic for the nineties (what's better than that?). But generally I've been avoiding the whole thing for fear of being just too hipster. That is until now. It's likely I was ten when I last wore a jeans jacket. I probably paired it with navy Oshkosh B'gosh overalls and my prized pair of LA Gears (remember those?!). The point is it was cool, but is it cool again? The answer: a resounding two thumbs-up!

I love rediscovering how easy a jeans jacket is. Just to throw-on and go, you know? What's more it's perfect for this seasonal transition period. For now I'd definitely avoid stereotypical blues and rather opt for an acid-wash, which appears more appropriate and current. Paired with an APC striped knit tee, basic Acne Studios jeans and original Wayfarers, the whole thing has real potential for becoming the ideal casual uniform. 

Alexander Atkins, wearing an Asos acid-wash denim jacket, photographed by Cara Beth Rogers in San Francisco.

*Click the arrows below to browse and shop this look.

High Five: Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash

Are you one of those germaphobe types? See, I know you. And you'll love Aesop's Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash.

I'm not even going to try to hide my confidence (even if that was quite a statement). Because it's simple. This is the best hand wash I have ever used, and definitely the best you've ever used too. I mean, does your regular drugstore variety exfoliate and moisturize? I thought not. Besides, clean well-groomed hands equate to: 'I care'. And trust me, you want to care. So yes, this is important - let's get into the details.

Aesop is all about the experience. Aside from great results, Aesop's products are about being consumed by an overwhelming sense of relaxation - even if the whole process lasts just fifteen fleeting seconds (ahem). Also the packaging means your bathroom get's an instant face-lift, and I'm all for a good cosmetic procedure. While Petitgrain and Bergamot Rind ensure cleanliness, milled Pumice serves as a natural and gentle exfoliant. An infusion of Vetiver Root means your hands are left smelling sublime. And there's more...

The whole process should end with Aesop's Reverence Aromatique Hand Balm, a rich treatment that soothes and moisturizes. An injection of Potassium Lactate and Lactic Acid mean hands remain hydrated, without the usual onslaught of annoying or sticky residue. Basically the point here is hands are important. Take care of them. Oh, and Happy Friday.

*Aesop's Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash will be available for purchase on Monday. Visit their online store for details.

Essential Tools: Hermès Ulysse Leather Notebook

I think we can agree that anything Hermès is worth writing about. I mean luxury is always worth writing about, non?

But let's contextualize. At this stage I'd say it's best to re-cap how Hermès effortlessly evokes feelings escapism and endless travel. Voyages of the imagination - remember how much you loved riding a bike on Lake Como? - That's right dear reader, a lot. On some rare occasions pure escapism can actually meet good old practicalities. This is such an occasion. 

The point is Hermès makes an exceptional notebook, the Ulysse (available in two sizes). So exceptional you'll force yourself to use your very best cursive (and even that won't be good enough). My Ulysse notebook came in Gold Taurillon Clemence leather and unsurprisingly is beyond perfection. The suppleness and grain of the leather is unlike any other. The whole thing just makes you want to write something noteworthy, no, Hermès-worthy.

*For more information and to purchase, vist the Hermès e-boutique by clicking here.

Oil Your Face: Shu Uemura Skin Purifier

This is going to be weird. I mean why add oil to your face, right? Wrong. Do it. Shu Uemura's Skin Purifier is the answer.
At this stage you're probably thinking: so how did this all happen? Well let's just say unexpected sleepovers result in unexpected skincare routines - Noxzema was definitely involved (not to mention a weird toothbrush situation - don't ask).  
I've heard chatter about moisturizing oils for some time now (Rodin's Luxury Face Oil comes highly recommended) so I thought, why not. Carpe-that-Diem, etc. Besides I've always loved using La Mer's Radiant Serum which is kind-of oil-ish, I guess. After gently applying a few drops of Shu Uemura's Skin Purifier to my face in small circular motions I was impressed. My skin had a definite glow and felt beyond smooth without leaving any oily residue. Absorption complete, I finished the whole process off with Kiehl's Ultimate UV Shield SPF - which coincidentally is oil-free (I'm guessing a more-is-more approach doesn't apply to this situation). 

And it gets weirder. While researching for this post I discovered that the Skin Purifier is actually a make-up cleanser, which leads me to conclude the following: whatever works, works. Don't argue the oil, no matter what. 

Click the arrows above to browse and shop the products mentioned.

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.

Salvatore Ferragamo Acqua Essenziale

Spring has sprung meaning one thing: it's time for a new fresh fragrance like Acqua Essenziale by Salvatore Ferragamo.

You might recall how much I love a good rich smokey scent, but the new equinox calls for many changes to my grooming routine (including a light-weight toner and moisturizer). Besides, smelling like an Old Boys clubroom doesn't exactly scream I'm-on-a-yacht-in-Capri, does it?

For Spring there are a few 'rules' regarding fragrance. Firstly go light and stay seasonal. There really is nothing worse than overpowering a room with your 'Eau de Whatever'. Ferragamo's Acqua Essenziale is perfect in that it boasts aromatic notes of geranium, rosemary and lavender - all of which are currently in season. Essentially it's like eating seasonally (think Gwyneth), so why not smell like what's in season too? It makes sense.

Ferragamo's perfumer Alberto Morillas included top notes of mint and lemon-tree leaf in Acqua Essenziale to enhance the casual vibe of the fragrance (I'm definitely thinking shorts). The dry notes (including patchouli, vetiver and cistus) add an ultra-refined yet musky quality, reflective of the Ferragamo gentleman. While that all sounds great, let's be honest, they had me at the name. I am Mr Essentialist after all...

Yago Partal's Zoo Portraits

It's Friday - meaning life is good. But things could always be slightly better. The suggestion? Yago Partal's Zoo Portraits.

By now I've made my views known re: the whole let's-play-dress-up-with-animals thing, I think? If not, well hello! I'm kind-of a big fan (remember William Wegman for Acne Studios and Takkoda's Famous Faces?). And if further justification is really needed, just look at the koala rocking a serious Tommy Bahama situation - I can't be helped. 

In reality Yago Partal's Zoo Portraits are quite different and therefore entirely relevant - I promise. For starters the Barcelona-based photographer has taken-on the whole zoo (even this guy - trying to pass as a squirrel) as subjects. Browse with caution however, as the images may induce a fit of sartorial envy. I mean the ostrich is practically wearing a cashmere Loro Piana blazer, while the grizzly bear looks beyond cosy in a great knit - potentially Dale? 

Here's to Friday and my next visit to the zoo!

*Click here to browse and order your Yago Partal print!

Jean Richard 1681 Ronde

Simplicity is elegance. And if elegance is king then JEANRICHARD's Ronde Central Second Gold undeniably holds court.

(FYI elegance is in people. I mean did anyone else see Lee Radziwill's T Magazine cover?) The pink-gold (!) casing visibly houses the Swiss watchmaker's signature self-winding JR1000 movement, featuring 27 jewels, a white lacquered dial, and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. While all that certainly sounds impressive, if you're anything like me you'll probably have no idea what it means. Fret-not, dear reader! Just check-out that aligator strap (I'm thinking Patrick Bateman would definitely be into it).

While I've often chatted about watches, this is different. For starters the $13,000 price-tag makes this timepiece rather, ahem, aspirational. But considering the current state of global finance I'd say wearing your savings is probably wise. And a watch is probably a slightly smarter investment than a Saint Laurent sleeveless jeans jacket - just sayin'.

*For more information about JEANRICHARD's Ronde Central Second Gold click here.

Scouts Honour: A Guidebook

Whether we're talking fashion, work or relationships, sometimes we can use a little guidance - and I found just the thing.

One very chilly and brief stint at an obscure NYC flea-market left me admiring a copy 1965's Boy Scout Handbook. So ok, while this guide is entirely geared towards the great outdoors (think the whole build-a-camp-fire-and-use-stars-as-a-compass thing), we must endeavor to remember that guidance is guidance. Besides, you may recall I loved Wes Anderson's Moonrise Kingdom - so this actually is beyond relevant.

From proper uniform etiquette and pitching the perfect tent, to learning how to tie a fail-safe safety knot, there really is a great deal of value in a good survival guide. I mean, the North Star isn't called the North Star for nothing you guys. Also the fact that Norman Rockwell designed the cover artwork for this handbook (one of several commissions for the Boy Scouts of America) is hugely significant. And if nothing else, it makes a pretty sweet addition to my book collection while also doubling as a fantastic coaster.

Happy weekend.

*Click here to learn more about Norman Rockwell's artistic contributions to the Boy Scouts of America.

Breezy Living

A recent return to California has meant several things: 1.) better weather, 2.) delicious guacamole, and 3.) chill-dressing.

So your probably thinking - what on earth is chill-dressing? Well, it's not the same as dressing-down or being hyper-casual (which usually involves some type of cashmere sweat-suit) per se. For me it's all about wide-cut slouchy pants and loose-fitted jackets - potentially camouflage, probably boxy. The whole thing should convey a sense of ease, comfort and style.  

Chill-dressing is important, mainly because constricting clothes are the worst. Sure, there's a time and a place to feel sausaged by a suit and tie, or bound-in by skinny jeans. But on the flip-side there's also a time for loose breezy clothes - and that doesn't include linen kaftans or moo-moos (despite what André Leon Talley may say). For some extremely laid-back individuals, chill-time is most of the time. What's more, chillfits (aka chill-outfits) can provide some of the most inspiring street-style ever (think MK looking mildly homeless) and even better urban dictionary entries!. 

A recent pillage of ASOS left me with some great basics and these Vivienne Westwood Man drop-crotch chinos. They are ideal in that they manage to retain a level of tailored structure. Besides that (that being a big deal), they work well with a basic v-neck and a Camille K toggle bracelet - all thrown in for good measure.

*Wearing Vivienne Westwood Man drop-crotch chinos, Civilianaire camouflage jacket, Comme des Garçons Play x Converse shoes, and  Camille K toggle bracelet.