You may not know it with all the rain we’ve been getting here in New York, but summer is in full swing, which means it’s time to break out the summer gear and celebrate another season of pools, patios, picnics and barbecues…no matter what the weather. We’re not big on following “trendy” pieces for the season (sorry fedoras), but there are a few things that have caught our eye for the summer of ’09.
1. V-Neck T-Shirt form 3.1 Phillip Lim

It’s the signature loose-fitting tee with a rolled neck and side pocket, from the master of clean, precise clothing that never looks like it tries too hard to be in style. Though the bright royal blue shown above looks smart, we want to scoop this shirt up (no pun intended) in more neutral colors, like a pale green and beige.
2. Pointer Tan “Crago” Boot

A cross between a desert boot and a sneaker, the “Crago” is a leather and suede hybrid that laces up perfectly with jeans and khakis, or, in our case, sock-less with shorts. The shoe features genuine leather lining with a contrast ecru-stitched rubber sole. This is the kind of shoe that looks better with age, so don’t be afraid to beat it up. We’ve been fans of Pointer sneakers for years, and we’re glad the British company is now making waves across the pond with their line of boots and loafers as well.
3. Fred Perry Anniversary Polo

Nothing is as classic or as solid a closet staple as a tailored Fred Perry polo shirt. This summer, the company celebrates its 100th anniversary, with a new collection of polos created just for the occasion. The shirts retain the signature tipped collars and sleeve, but with a unique design detail: an enlarged 16 leaf laurel with the centenary embroidery placed underneath. The anniversary polos hit stores last month and are selling quickly. Available at the Fred Perry store in SoHo and at select retailers.
4. Superior Labor Tote Bag

This Japanese company is a genius when it comes to heavyweight bags that are both utilitarian and stylish. Designed for both men and women, the bag is made of a durable canvas with leather straps and brass buckles. Spacious enough for a weekend getaway or day at the park, it’s also got just enough detail to make it stand out from the lot of tote-bag pretenders out there.
5. Eau D’Italie Scented Soaps and Hair Wash


Inspired by a Mediterranean hotel, we love Eau D’Italie’s line of bath products as much for its design and packaging as we do its creamy texture and scent. The soap is 100% natural and can be used both for cleansing and shaving, while the hair wash (a.k.a. shampoo) has a refreshingly light scent and moisturizer perfect for all hair types. And did we mention how much we liked the packaging?
What do you think? What’s on YOUR list of summer must-haves? And who’s ready for the sun to come out already? Let’s get the summer started…
- TC