GIFT GUIDE FOR GUYS.

so we're almost down to the single digits til the holidays are in full swing...
I dont know about you, but I certainly haven't finished my christmas shopping, let alone saved enough to buy everything for everyone... So it looks like I'll be gifting smart this year!
I was in a couple creative conversations with some gentleman that are stuck on what to get their "ladies"
The funny thing is that they didn't have a problem figuring out what to give, it was more a problem of giving the right gift from their ever so demanding wish list. Ladies, piece of advice, be grateful for whatever your man gets you. Seriously.
Are you really going to complain if your man went through all this trouble of actually getting you the michael kors camo bag and it's not the one you wanted... (sorry that was a gift my coworkers girlfriend wanted and it came to mind)
(im genuinely concerned because the girl wanted a camo bag... that's very destiny's child of you...)
 can't you atleast be grateful?
What about all those who don't have a man to share the holidays with... Just think about it.

Alright, rant done, on to the good stuff.
How to gift smart.
Ladies its our turn to give back.
For the Men (easy gifts for brothers, boyfriends, and fathers. Any man on that list.)

Quick Stocking Stuffers

(for all ages)

Chanel Allure. Tom Ford. Burberry Brit.

A variety of scents, for an array of ages.

UNDER $50

  

row 1: Jcrew mens 49. UO tee 24. Levis 58. 

row 2: UO tee 24. HugoBoss 25. UO mug 18.

row 3: Jcrew 12. UO 39. Jcrew 18.

UNDER $100

row 1: Jcrew 88. Tommy Bahama 98. Jcrew 69.

row 2: Peter Millar 95. Jcrew 98. JLindeberg 85.

row 3: Adidas 60. William Rast 95. TopMan 32.

That Special Someone. PRICELESS.

row 1: Timex 150. Hugo Boss 245. Hugo Boss 125.

row 2: Persol 225. Kicking Mules 335. JLindeberg 175.

row 3: Aquascutum 170. Victronix 595. Aquascutum 185.

A special thanks to those designers who created apparel and accessories for the modern man. Majority of these items are ageless (minus the UrbanOutfitters pieces...) Plenty of thought goes into designing pieces that are flexible and easily integrated into the customers wardrobe while creating something new and fresh! I'm excited for the new year and the new designs. Also, thanks for trendygolfer for making shopping easier for the individual who is interested in fashionable golf apparel instead of weeding through the pitiful designs that don't flatter everyone. Please enjoy this help, and let it inspire you to shop for that someone special and give them a gift that really matters!

Cinched Up: My Favorite Belts

As previously mentioned, my love for watches runs deep. They are such a fantastic and versatile accessory that can really enhance a whole outfit. And while I could go on for ages about watches, I must not forget to pay homage to another beloved accessory: the belt. 

So many options. And yet I will take the time to select only a few to feature in this post. A great belt should make a statement, but in a good way, not in a John Daly way, which of course, would be very bad. Just like watches, the belt can really add to an outfit as well. My criteria for belts are similar to what I look for in golf clothes. Make you look good on the course and still look put together when you leave the links for the day.

I thought about this post at work last night (my job affords me ample amount of time think about random stuff) and I liked the idea of writing about something I really enjoy (weird, right?). Since Griggs already covered watches, belts were the next best thing. 

Nike

Sometimes they can get a little out-of-control in the belt buckle department, but I think for the most part their simple designs are the best. Good quality leather (though I am not opposed to the colored webbing styles) and a clean, simple buckle design is what makes their belts good. They surprisingly have some great belts with a regular buckle for the more conservative crowd. But they do have some great options for white belts, which despite what some people think, can be pulled off properly even if you aren't a svelte little Englishman like Justin Rose or Paul Casey. A moderate price tag, usually between $40 and $60 they are a good-looking option for both your waist and your wallet. 

J. Lindeberg

This Swedish designer makes great belts. But his colors are not for the faint of heart. Bold uses of color combined with his iconic "JL" logo are what these belts are all about. Worn by the likes of golf star Camilo Villegas and entertainer Justin Timberlake, these belts appeal to all kinds of golfers. This is the perfect addition to that golf outfit that just needs something. A pop of color, perhaps? Done. Thanks JL. These belts made of leather and brushed steel finished buckles can run you anywhere from $65 to $80. 

Note: Camillo's rock hard body does not come with the purchase of a J. Lindeberg belt. Sorry, folks.

 Kiel James Patrick

I only recently discovered this website of fantastic New England inspired belts and accessories. And I am really glad I did, but the jury is still out if you ask my bank account. This brand is all about "creating a classic, all-American lifestyle" and I personally think that translates well into the golf course scene. Each belt is handcrafted in Rhode Island by Mr. Patrick himself out of materials from the good 'ol US of A. The quality of these belts (and their other products) is very apparent, a lot of attention to detail and a ton of hard work goes into each one...not to mention there are a ton of fun color combinations to choose from! I wear mine to the golf course all the time and the classic design makes it look great off the course as well. Starting at $88 per belt is totally worth it too, you are paying for quality here, people. 

Vineyard Vines

The belts by VV are so much fun. Known for their crazy patterns and fun colors, these whimsical designs are always a great addition to any wardrobe. Vineyard Vines also sponsors PGA Tour player Brett Quigley and LPGA Tour player Liz Janangelo. Needless to say, they aren't big in the golf game having come from a simple line of ties for men and their primarily cotton fabric polo shirts cannot compete with the bigger companies that are more focused on creating shirts out of performance fabrics. But I chose them for their belts, not polo shirts, we will save the post on that love affair for another day. I am a big fan of their cotton D-ring belts, they have the fun patterns and are pretty reasonably priced ($35) but they do have more expensive options like their Club Belts made of canvas and leather for about $50. 

As with watches, I could go on forever about my love for belts. The ones from this post in particular. Maybe another time, as new companies with great belts crop up I will revise my list. But for now, this is it. I encourage you to click on the header of each section, it will take you straight to the company website so you can experience all the golfing and belting goodness they have to offer. 

PS. I won't judge you for buying a Christmas present for yourself (we have all done it)...just as long as its a sweet belt from one of these guys. 

-B