South 2 West 8 Corduroy Field Cords

Since more people still are on the hunt for a good pair of cords, I thought I would tease you with South 2 West 8's fall version. The combed lightweight cotton makes for easy daily wearing while still keeping you warm. I'm a big fan of the flap-button pockets on the back of these pants. It definitely adds to the casual aesthetic and outdoorsy appeal. The nice metal buttons are essential to a good pair and waist cinch and rivets only add to the great looking pants. Their colour selection is just about dead on as my top picks would be navy and the tan/khaki color without hesitation. The price isn't as low as a pair from Uniqlo but I would imagine these will hold up a little longer and feel a little more special. I'm still awaiting the arrival of my Workaday cords in a new size and am honestly still worried based on how slim the first size was. If they don't work out, I will likely try to track down a pair of these.

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Penfield Kasson Parka

I love them, you love them, why not just post one every day? The 60/40 has taken several forms with several labels and more often than not they are tough to find. The parka is definitely a piece I recommend to anyone looking for a versatile outer layer that will hold up against rain, wind and cold while going with everything from a suit to a white T shirt. While several of my suggestions come from Japan or can jump up in price pretty quick, Penfield are offering one of the more competitively priced and better looking options. I shot this jacket for an article (that you'll see soon) and was impressed with the feel and fit. It does size on the larger side so beware, but for the price it will be tough to beat. The navy and khaki colors are my personal choices but if you've already got a muted parka, why not go for the red. Available at Oi Polloi

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Meg Company Day Pack

Yuki Matsuda's Meg Company encompasses a number of under the radar brands. One of which is Epperson Mountianeering and this is their Day Pack. Garbstore recently received their first shipment from the USA based company and it features a couple really great looking back packs. While the back pack hasn't been our most popular accessory to write about, it is definitely something we are into when done right. This bag is really great looking and definitely has a very outdoorsy feel. The mix of colors also works really well. The navy, red and cow hide work nicely on the simple design to create something a little bit special. Whether you're back in school this month or riding your bike to work, this bag would definitely be a top runner option.

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The Real McCoy's Blue Seal Pants

I've been spending a fair bit of time this fall trying to track down the perfect navy cotton pants. I want something warm enough for winter but still diverse enough to wear all year round. My first couple choices were Wings+Horns, RRL and Visvim. Wings+Horns updated chino cut just isn't for me as it's too slim and the rise is too high, I couldn't find the right model from RRL in navy and Visvim are my remaining option. Beyond that, the list is surprisingly short for finding a simple navy cotton pant. The Real McCoy's have a great version of their own. While it would probably be a little tougher in feel, the straight leg cut looks just right. Again, it's made in Japan and available at Superdenim. I'm only impressed looking through the Real McCoy's collection each time, there are so many items to pick from and this is another keeper.

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Mt. Rainer Design Works Mountain Parka

I figured everyone was hoping I would post another great looking mountain parka that was made in the USA but is only available in Japan - so I did. Mt. Rainer Design Works is made only a few hours away and yet only the Japanese market have been able to put their touches on the relatively unknown local brand to make it great. The mountain parka itself is a classic 60/40 make up and comes in a nice selection of colors. The slightly titled left chest pocket is a nice detail if you're looking for something different, but I do prefer nice symmetrical pockets myself. I'm not sure if the brand has been licensed for Japan but with the prices coming in at around $350 after being sent overseas, one would think if you could have this made for the local market it would do quite well.

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Woolrich Woolen Mills Maine Guide Jacket

Bordering the lines between sweater and jacket, the Woolen Mills Maine Guide top features all the right details for fall. Grey wool, shawl neck that buttons across, chest pockets and flap lower pockets. This piece is perfect for layering over a shirt and under a parka. Casual enough to be worn as a sport coat, it would still work just fine with a neck tie and BD oxford. This seems like such an easy piece to wear for 7 months of the year, it is hard to say no to right now. I've personally put a stop on buying for the short term future but if I had some money in my pockets, this could easily get traded for that money.

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Porter Swell Boston Bag

Although we made a pretty good stab at the perfect daily duffle bag but Porter have a few options of their own. If you need something durable, good looking and functional then the medium sized Swell Boston bag might be for you. The navy and black options are easily my favorite options for this compact luggage. I think it would be great for packing a camera, your lunch and some text books for school this fall. The bag is now available from Beams and their continuing collaboration with B Yoshida.

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Drake's Multi-Pattern Scarf

Drakes are widely regarded as the best makers of fine wool scarves. I am not sure whether to credit this one to the buyer at CHCM or to the brand, but somebody deserves some credit. The unlikely mixture of Fair Isle, bits of Tartan and a sportswear check have all come together to create something really interesting. I don't feel this will be a piece for everybody, but I am personally really into it and debating placing an order. I know I need a scarf or two this fall and why not add a little injection of color and off-key pairings with something like this Drakes scarf. For $145 it's not an easy buy, but Drakes' top quality and fine use of lambswool puts my mind at ease. There are also a couple great looking Drakes Norwegian ski scarves in stock, so have a browse.

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