Inspiration strikes without warning, and often from the least suspecting sources. Take any Seinfeld episode for instance. Not that the fashion was ever anything to write home about, but one particular variation of his uniform – an ever reliable jeans and blazer combo – got me thinking about basics and how, even now, an outfit comprised of staples can hold its own given a variety of social settings. Perhaps the key is the sports coat? Or maybe it’s the jeans… Whichever it may be, the point remains the same: This combination has and continues to work for all types of men (look to the likes of JFK Jr, David Beckham and a slew of street style galleries – each will reveal the blazer+jeans’ indomitable sartorial power). As for modern updates, the evolution of this particular uniform can be measured by fit – which typically is the trick to everything (i.e. one must, at all costs, avoid becoming Seinfeld’s slouchy doppelgänger). Dressed-up with Johnston & Murphy’s ‘Allred’ 1850 penny loafers (which are crafted from burnished Italian calfskin, creating a timeless silhouette), the look is understated and classic, but above all approachable.
Shoes / Johnston & Murphy • Jeans / Nudie • Tee / standard. by Karolyn Pho • Blazer / Natural Selection London • Sunglasses / Garrett Leight California Optical • California Cap / Durkee Fashion Hats • Photography / Justin Duplantis
