Objects of Affection: White Summer Shoes

Vans Authentics and Sperry Topsiders. Really, what can I say? They’re pretty much indispensable for the summer, and they’re both damn good looking in a “so classic you can’t even try to fuck with it” sense.

My personal favorite, for each, is the white variety. Not the eye-searing optical white, but the more natural and toned down version. Vans calls it “True White,” and Sperry went for the “Ice” moniker. Get either one and I promise you’ll be very happy you did. And do yourself a favor and skip the socks. They both look exponentially better when rocked all by their lonesome.

More shots of the Authentics:

And the Topsiders:

Grab either one from Zappos. The Authentics run $42 and the Topsiders are $65. Both are a steal for what you’re getting.

One final reminder: get ‘em dirty. They look even better once they get a little thrashed.

—Jonathan

(Images courtesy of Zappos)

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Objects of Affection: PF Flyers Sumfun Lo in Natural Canvas

The PF Flyers Sumfun Lo is a reissue of a 1947 tennis sneaker, and I’m very happy these guys weren’t kept locked in the vaults.

The overall look is a refined take on the classic vulcanized canvas sneaker, with sleeker, more interesting lines than your average Chucks. The cutaway detailing on the upper is inspired by the shape you’d find on the most basic of espadrille slip-ons. Thankfully, PF Flyers didn’t go for the rope/jute detail on the sole, and opted for clean foxing instead (I’m rarely a fan of the rope-sole look).

I actually have a pair of these, and can wholeheartedly endorse them. Very comfortable, and the super low cut around the ankles means they’re especially well suited to those super-hot summer days where you want to deal with as little fabric as (appropriately) possible.

Since they’re nearly white, they hold to the whole “look better when dirty as hell” rule. So if you get a pair, be sure to trash them up as soon as possible.

More shots:

Get ‘em at Zappos for $55. Don’t even bother thinking about it. Just go for it. Believe me, it’ll be money well spent.

—Jonathan

(Images courtesy of Zappos)

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Objects of Affection: Gant Rugger Oxford Chino in Gray

They may be sold out at Blackbird, but these Gant Rugger Oxford Chinos have seared themselves into my mind over the last couple of days. The execution is slim, simple, and done up in a gray oxford cloth that’s dark enough to suit my denim-leaning tastes while staying light enough to refrain from sucking up sunlight like crazy. In other words: well suited to my own inclinations, but also well suited to the summer months. That’s me sold.

Since the Gant Rugger flagship just opened this past week on Bleecker Street, I’m crossing my fingers and heading over there this afternoon to try to snag a pair for myself. At the very least, I can find out what size I take and pray that Zappos has that size in stock.

More shots for you:

At $98, they’re not super cheap, but they’re certainly not going to break the bank. Also available in Sea Blue option that’s a bit too light for me, but a very nice pant nonetheless.

—Jonathan

(Images courtesy of Blackbird)

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