We just got back from a week in Ireland. Had incredible meals at the Old Glen in Donegal County and another at Fish Shop in Dublin. Young chefs with interesting takes on “Irish” cuisine. We had exceptional pints everywhere, but the Harbour Bar, Old Glen, and Bowe’s had the best. And my wife got to live in a Barbour jacket and Blundstones for the week, so she was happy. No rain!
Typically I come on here and pose a gear or menswear question but I’m going to take a different angle for today’s query. I’m curious how you balance a life lived well (which you most certainly do!) and in the moment, while also planning for the future (deferred gratification). I have a variety of passions and pursuits that are of great interest to me (travel, fishing, etc.) but wrestle with “indulging today” vs planning (not spending) in an attempt to financially plan for the future for me and my family. Perhaps it’s due to the passing a major milestone (40th) birthday a few months back, but I find myself questioning what I pursue (what I spend on, particularly experiences) and when. While preparing for tomorrow is most prudent, I don’t want life to pass me by, by letting “perfect” get in the way of “good.” I’m just curious how you manage that in your own life and how that has changed for you (if at all) as you’ve matured. Thanks as always for your consideration! Wishing you well!
Hi Justin, well this is a big question. It's an underlying theme of The Believer. How do we balance all these things. I think it's nice to have something you love near your home: fish close by (or whatever it is), not everything has to involve Patagonia or Scotland. These passions can be part of the everyday life and then once a year you go off to do them in a more extended (and expensive) way. Then you have this trip to look forward to. But you're still in the moment when you're at home. It's a good issue to think about and it's always evolving.
No question but did really enjoy the chat with Doug Brunt. Ok, maybe one question: can you press Lamy to make a round grip Safari? I can’t write with the current grip, but think the pen otherwise is as solid as an anvil. Cheers.
You can look at the Lamy2000 (in resin). It is between somewhat and *a lot* more expensive than the Safari, and it can only be filled by bottle. But IMHO it has 2 advantages -- both having to do with discretion -- in addition to having a round grip. The 2000 has a very simple clip, so it doesn't look as obvious as the Safari in the pocket, and it has a tiny nib so when I use it I'll bet 95% of people don't have any idea it is a fountain pen. Beautiful line, feels great to write with, and doesn't draw any attention to itself...
DC - your podcaster-in-crime recently wrote about a growing appreciation for Chicago. Curious if you share his views, and please consider this a request for a Contender dispatch from the Second City!
David, love your work. Longtime listener, first time caller. Please help settle a debate with regard to white crew neck t-shirts men often wear with button-up shirts/polos, etc. In my estimation, if you feel compelled to wear a white t-shirt (I never do), the thing should never be visible. It's essentially underwear. Thoughts?
Hi Alan, I'm with you. I don't like seeing something underneath the sweater (or whatever it is) unless it's a collared shirt (which belongs under anything). People are out experimenting or just trying things without really considering how casual it is.
I couldn't agree more with this. I was just sating this to my wife the other day. I have a skin tone V-neck that I usually only wear under my merino long-sleeve polo. Which is probably my new favorite piece of clothing.
Took your advise and bought a pair of RRL Chino Officer Pants. Spot on!. They are great. I did not like the RRL Chino Field Pants, way too big.
Made another major purchase. The re issue of the J. Crew x Barbour barn coat. In order to justify the purchase I vowed to sell some other jackets to off set the cost. Sales have been brisk. This means I have to sell my Barbour Bedale that I have had for 15+ years. I love that jacket. It's like an old friend. Made in England. I feel bad selling it. I cared for it. Sent in to Barbour for re waxing and some minor repairs. It is starting to show its age with some fraying on the bottom (I did buy it used off Ebay). I didn't think I would react this way. Have you ever had a hard time giving up a cherished piece of clothing?
Oh it's always hard to say goodbye. What I try to do is focus on the good fifteen years you had with the Barbour (or whatever). It did its job. Now it's going to the next person who will appreciate it and get a lot out of it. The secret is that there are plenty of other Barbours out there and it will all be fine. After a few years you completely forget about what you've given away or sold or donated. And if you're *dying* to find something then the hunt is another fun challenge.
There's more grey in the beard these days. But that's still exactly what I wear (including that exact coat). And I still own everything in the photo--the socks may have been binned. So I stand by it!
Good morning! Being familiar with your "Tiers of Dressing" approach, I'm curious how you could adopt a similar philosophy to the tools and objects we use on a regular basis. It may not always be practical to own multiple iterations of the same thing to use in varied settings, but would your general recommendation be to use nicer things, whatever the circumstances, risks be damned? More than loss, theft, or damage, I fear alienating friends and neighbours by pulling out the Josephinenhütte stems for Wednesday night Barbera, or the walnut-stocked Italian shotgun for the local duck hunt. Cheers!
It's a really good question, Jonathan. I think if something gives you pleasure then that's good (like a fountain pen or umbrella). If other people are involved that's different--you don't want to make them feel nervous about your fine China or whatever. But generally I think you get to a level where you're more relaxed and using these objects feels natural. And that's a great thing.
Hello, DC. Out of curiosity, when you go to a football or baseball game, what do you wear? Don't strike me as a jersey-donning type, but I'd be interested in your thoughts on what is/is not appropriate for us 40 somethings.
Well, David, I came here to see about the clothes, but it turns out your highest value lies in recommending obscure novels. I tore through Do You Remember England? And am still thinking about it. Please keep them coming.
Oh thank you. If you liked that then you should definitely read "Rich Boy From Chicago" also Marlowe, also great, despite the title. And always recommend "A Month in the Country" by J.L. Carr. Enjoy!
David, I’m curious if you have a theory or rule on wear and tear, patina let’s call it, on clothes? For instance, a favorite pair of chinos has scuffs or a few small stains, and you’d still wear them in public, but beyond that the chinos are retired. I see a lot written about “just wear your clothes!”, but I often think about how beat up is too beat up. I’m curious to hear how you navigate this.
Oh my goodness you know I love a patina. If something gets a little dirty then I wear it more in the country and less in the city. Same with holes and things like that. But even worn in clothes belong in town. My shoes are well worn. I think that should be desired.
Hello David, I have really enjoyed reading your posts. This is actually my first question. I am sure you have answered it before, but I am not sure where. Do you have any suggestions for my first chore jacket on the more value end of the spectrum? I would like it to work in the hot and humid Spring and Summer in the South, and to be nice enough looking for business casual. Thanks.
Thanks! So my favorite are Drake's and they are really pricey. I would look on eBay and maybe Wallace & Barnes. The issue with most chore jackets is that they are too short. I prefer them longer. You can even look for a vintage military jacket (without too many pockets). Also blue French work coat. Good luck!
I'm a Drake's man myself, but what about the original: Le Mont St. Michel? Or Le Laboureur, another French heritage brand? People also seem to love the ones Paynter makes but availability is scarce.
St. Paul has a really great restaurant scene right now. Estelle is one of my favorite in town. Also, Mend Provisions is the best fly shop in town and they recently moved to St. Paul.
Alright gang. Retiring comments for this session. Save those questions for next time!
We just got back from a week in Ireland. Had incredible meals at the Old Glen in Donegal County and another at Fish Shop in Dublin. Young chefs with interesting takes on “Irish” cuisine. We had exceptional pints everywhere, but the Harbour Bar, Old Glen, and Bowe’s had the best. And my wife got to live in a Barbour jacket and Blundstones for the week, so she was happy. No rain!
Good morning, David,
Typically I come on here and pose a gear or menswear question but I’m going to take a different angle for today’s query. I’m curious how you balance a life lived well (which you most certainly do!) and in the moment, while also planning for the future (deferred gratification). I have a variety of passions and pursuits that are of great interest to me (travel, fishing, etc.) but wrestle with “indulging today” vs planning (not spending) in an attempt to financially plan for the future for me and my family. Perhaps it’s due to the passing a major milestone (40th) birthday a few months back, but I find myself questioning what I pursue (what I spend on, particularly experiences) and when. While preparing for tomorrow is most prudent, I don’t want life to pass me by, by letting “perfect” get in the way of “good.” I’m just curious how you manage that in your own life and how that has changed for you (if at all) as you’ve matured. Thanks as always for your consideration! Wishing you well!
-Justin.
Hi Justin, well this is a big question. It's an underlying theme of The Believer. How do we balance all these things. I think it's nice to have something you love near your home: fish close by (or whatever it is), not everything has to involve Patagonia or Scotland. These passions can be part of the everyday life and then once a year you go off to do them in a more extended (and expensive) way. Then you have this trip to look forward to. But you're still in the moment when you're at home. It's a good issue to think about and it's always evolving.
Thanks so much, David. Heavy question for sure but I appreciate your thoughts!
No question but did really enjoy the chat with Doug Brunt. Ok, maybe one question: can you press Lamy to make a round grip Safari? I can’t write with the current grip, but think the pen otherwise is as solid as an anvil. Cheers.
Oh good note! They *should* make it with a round grip too.
You can look at the Lamy2000 (in resin). It is between somewhat and *a lot* more expensive than the Safari, and it can only be filled by bottle. But IMHO it has 2 advantages -- both having to do with discretion -- in addition to having a round grip. The 2000 has a very simple clip, so it doesn't look as obvious as the Safari in the pocket, and it has a tiny nib so when I use it I'll bet 95% of people don't have any idea it is a fountain pen. Beautiful line, feels great to write with, and doesn't draw any attention to itself...
DC - your podcaster-in-crime recently wrote about a growing appreciation for Chicago. Curious if you share his views, and please consider this a request for a Contender dispatch from the Second City!
(Admittedly, from a Chicagoan.)
Ha! My mom's family is from Chicago. So I appreciate it. But don't spend much time there these days. That should change!
David, love your work. Longtime listener, first time caller. Please help settle a debate with regard to white crew neck t-shirts men often wear with button-up shirts/polos, etc. In my estimation, if you feel compelled to wear a white t-shirt (I never do), the thing should never be visible. It's essentially underwear. Thoughts?
Hi Alan, I'm with you. I don't like seeing something underneath the sweater (or whatever it is) unless it's a collared shirt (which belongs under anything). People are out experimenting or just trying things without really considering how casual it is.
Agreed! One of my many sartorial pet peeves is a crew neck undershirt visible under anything. They make v-necks for a reason.
Agreed! I only buy v-neck undershirts for that exact reason!
I couldn't agree more with this. I was just sating this to my wife the other day. I have a skin tone V-neck that I usually only wear under my merino long-sleeve polo. Which is probably my new favorite piece of clothing.
Took your advise and bought a pair of RRL Chino Officer Pants. Spot on!. They are great. I did not like the RRL Chino Field Pants, way too big.
Made another major purchase. The re issue of the J. Crew x Barbour barn coat. In order to justify the purchase I vowed to sell some other jackets to off set the cost. Sales have been brisk. This means I have to sell my Barbour Bedale that I have had for 15+ years. I love that jacket. It's like an old friend. Made in England. I feel bad selling it. I cared for it. Sent in to Barbour for re waxing and some minor repairs. It is starting to show its age with some fraying on the bottom (I did buy it used off Ebay). I didn't think I would react this way. Have you ever had a hard time giving up a cherished piece of clothing?
Oh it's always hard to say goodbye. What I try to do is focus on the good fifteen years you had with the Barbour (or whatever). It did its job. Now it's going to the next person who will appreciate it and get a lot out of it. The secret is that there are plenty of other Barbours out there and it will all be fine. After a few years you completely forget about what you've given away or sold or donated. And if you're *dying* to find something then the hunt is another fun challenge.
David, any new thoughts or advice on your travel essentials video from 10 years ago? https://youtu.be/QO9eVa7N0ng?si=kFonLJAHkxBkq1OR
There's more grey in the beard these days. But that's still exactly what I wear (including that exact coat). And I still own everything in the photo--the socks may have been binned. So I stand by it!
Hey David, I’m headed to the Masters for the first time…what is your footwear recommendation for two days of walking around the course?
Boat shoes! Sperry will do well. These if you want to step up in class: https://www.rancourtandcompany.com/products/read-boat-shoe-carolina-brown-chromexcel?size=6&width=D&color=Natural
Good morning! Being familiar with your "Tiers of Dressing" approach, I'm curious how you could adopt a similar philosophy to the tools and objects we use on a regular basis. It may not always be practical to own multiple iterations of the same thing to use in varied settings, but would your general recommendation be to use nicer things, whatever the circumstances, risks be damned? More than loss, theft, or damage, I fear alienating friends and neighbours by pulling out the Josephinenhütte stems for Wednesday night Barbera, or the walnut-stocked Italian shotgun for the local duck hunt. Cheers!
It's a really good question, Jonathan. I think if something gives you pleasure then that's good (like a fountain pen or umbrella). If other people are involved that's different--you don't want to make them feel nervous about your fine China or whatever. But generally I think you get to a level where you're more relaxed and using these objects feels natural. And that's a great thing.
Thanks kindly!
Hello, DC. Out of curiosity, when you go to a football or baseball game, what do you wear? Don't strike me as a jersey-donning type, but I'd be interested in your thoughts on what is/is not appropriate for us 40 somethings.
You walked right into a story I wrote about that exact topic! https://artfulliving.com/david-coggins-mens-style-sports-fan-tips/
Well, David, I came here to see about the clothes, but it turns out your highest value lies in recommending obscure novels. I tore through Do You Remember England? And am still thinking about it. Please keep them coming.
Oh thank you. If you liked that then you should definitely read "Rich Boy From Chicago" also Marlowe, also great, despite the title. And always recommend "A Month in the Country" by J.L. Carr. Enjoy!
David, I’m curious if you have a theory or rule on wear and tear, patina let’s call it, on clothes? For instance, a favorite pair of chinos has scuffs or a few small stains, and you’d still wear them in public, but beyond that the chinos are retired. I see a lot written about “just wear your clothes!”, but I often think about how beat up is too beat up. I’m curious to hear how you navigate this.
Oh my goodness you know I love a patina. If something gets a little dirty then I wear it more in the country and less in the city. Same with holes and things like that. But even worn in clothes belong in town. My shoes are well worn. I think that should be desired.
Shoes are an easy one. My opinion is you never want to hear “Are those new shoes?”
Hello David, I have really enjoyed reading your posts. This is actually my first question. I am sure you have answered it before, but I am not sure where. Do you have any suggestions for my first chore jacket on the more value end of the spectrum? I would like it to work in the hot and humid Spring and Summer in the South, and to be nice enough looking for business casual. Thanks.
Thanks! So my favorite are Drake's and they are really pricey. I would look on eBay and maybe Wallace & Barnes. The issue with most chore jackets is that they are too short. I prefer them longer. You can even look for a vintage military jacket (without too many pockets). Also blue French work coat. Good luck!
Check out Glenn Au’s shop Junior’s in Philadelphia. Has a great chore coat in both twill and linen. Great value. Shopjuniors.com
I'm a Drake's man myself, but what about the original: Le Mont St. Michel? Or Le Laboureur, another French heritage brand? People also seem to love the ones Paynter makes but availability is scarce.
Epaulet makes some great ones in cool fabrics. I've purchased 2 on eBay for around $100-125.
Possibly a bit too casual, but Filson's products are always bulletproof. https://www.filson.com/products/tin-cloth-cruiser-jacket-dark-tan
Hey David,
I just moved to the twin cities and wanted to know if you have any recommendations on restaurants, shops, or otherwise?
Regards,
John
Hi John, you can't go wrong at the Monte Carlo. Great bar and the dining room is a classic.
Where are you living, John? Don't sleep on St. Paul!
St. Paul has a really great restaurant scene right now. Estelle is one of my favorite in town. Also, Mend Provisions is the best fly shop in town and they recently moved to St. Paul.
Wildly late response, apologies. Saint Louis park at the moment but I’m open to any and all suggestions!
What's something that you don't really like, that's not really for you, but that you kind of wish you liked?
Orange marmalade.