Journal Standard Shawl Cardigan

A grey cardigan isn't anything new, there's plenty of different options out there and especially at this time of the year. But an interesting one like this is one of those pieces that's never to be found when you're actually looking for one. We probably say it too much, but it's all in the details. The darker melange grey lambswool is a pretty basic colour, but the perfectly sized orange leather buttons make it something more. A tab collar isn't something that you see on a sweater very often and while it looks a bit off buttoned up here, once you've got it on and have it undone the brown leather combined with the shawl collar it wouldn't look out of place at all. The slightly tapered ribbed cuffs and waist mean the sweater is going to keep its shape nicely. What really makes it for me though is the unstitched pockets that have a nice casual roll to them, that and the size and placement of them is ideal.

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J.S. Denim Painter Coverall Jacket

I need one of these coverall jackets. Light, great for layering and good looking. Do you really need anything else in a spring coat? There are obviously a lot of different variations around these days but this is one by Journal Standard is one of my favourites. I think it's a little more wearable for me than a lot of them. Just the two front pockets and four button front makes it a little more subtle than the ones with a bunch of asymmetrical pockets.  Denim rather than chambray or some other material is nice too and the collar belt is awesome. The colour is good but I think it could use a few hours of sunshine to lighten it up. I don't think I'd do much painting in it but every time I look at it I want to put on some Springsteen and Work on a Highway.

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Jas-M.B. Boston Bag

I don't really know what they have to do with Massachusetts but boston bags are my favourite style of bag. They're nice and simple, the ideal shape and nine times out of ten are the perfect size. This one I spotted at Journal Standard has all those good characteristics and a bit more. The colour and materials on this bag is what I love most though. The wax coated canvas looks like it has already been worn in for you to give it a stellar indigo colour. I'm not crazy about the handle ends but leather is always a nice touch and the copper colour is just right. I like boston bags because they're good for any age and outfit really, a good finishing touch on a fun spring look. I can't wait to see more small duffles this spring.

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Minnetonka - Journal Standard Mocs

Journal Standard has definitely seen some good blog time in the last year but most of us still haven't seen any of their products in North America. They retail well, make nice items and do a great job on their footwear. This spring they've hooked up with the classic Minnetonka moccasin makers for a great looking driving shoe. I really like the lighter color stitching around the toe with the deep brown for the majority of the shoe. These would definitely be a nice subtle step away from the boat shoe if you were looking for that in the next couple months. Minnetonka has been around since 1964 so you can only assume they know how to make a good shoe. The last detail the won me over is the full laces. A lot of shoes in this style don't have long enough laces to really give them a good tie-up.

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