The Daily News surveys the current landmine-strewn field of “murses” — or men’s purses. Plain and simple, bags are responsible for ruining more outwork appearances than crack. Guys just have no experience in this area, so end up either trying too hard or not at all. Simple rules for success include keeping it simple, classic,… Read more »

While some S/S ’09 sales are wrapping up, others are just now getting serious. Christopher Street’s Leffot — which, according to Will of A Suitable Wardrobe, has the best shoe selection on the East Coast — is now taking a full 50% off select styles. These Artioli Baby Calf Cap Toe Bourbon Antique lace-ups, for… Read more »

Our friends over at Valet just did a great interview with Frank Muytjens, i.e., “the man responsible for the new J. Crew,” which — for its attention to detail, quality, classicism (so to speak), understatement, intelligence, maturity, and heritage — is absolutely the best positioned brand in America, today.

New York Mag endorses “the lightweight and refreshingly simple” backpacks from Swedish outdoor label Fjällräven (f-yall-raven) availalbe now at Opening Ceremony for $80, and J.Crew in a matter of week. [NYM] Update: And ContextClothing.com. Opening Ceremony – 35 Howard St between Broadway & Crosby – 212-219-2688 – Map

As the S/S ’09 sale season slowly winds down, we’re sad to report that some stores seem unlikely to cross the 50%-off threshold. For one, eschewing the 75%-off markdowns of last season, the city’s Paul Smith boutiques are packing up S/S as we speak. Thankfully, though, our favorite “hipster high-end” boutique Aloha Rag is now… Read more »