EDITION 3 - MARCH
Issue # 3 - MARCH 2023 - IDES OF MARCH
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Issue # 3 - MARCH 2023 - IDES OF MARCH -
We’re back - March 2023. This project is evolving, and I’d love to get honest feedback. Any questions/ideas/thoughts etc., are highly encouraged.
This month’s theme is “Ides of March,” - relating to the beginning of Spring and the rise of a new lunar phase. A transition to a new season!
Some of you may remember Shakespeare’s reference to Julius Ceaser's “Beware the Ides of March,” referencing March 15th, the day ol’ Julius was assassinated. (It couldn’t have happened to a more likable guy!)
But we’re in transition as March is the beginning of Spring, which means we can begin to ditch the layering and have excuses to buy new, lighter-weight clothing.
This month we’ll explore all things transition.
Let’s get into it.
THE SOUNDTRACK
Following the theme of Transition, ASC member Mr. Brandon Cullen blessed us with a soundtrack for the changing of the seasons—hope, warmer weather, lightweight fits, friends, family, and new beginnings. I love his 3x3 format this month. 3 bands x 3 great songs.
“with my lightnin’ bolts a-glowin…i can see where I’m goin’” - Arcade Fire - Wake Up
Enjoy!
About Brandon: In search of life’s [im]perfect soundtrack, Brandon brings an edgy approach to entrepreneurship through his valuable experience as a professional athlete turned business owner. Brandon hosts the entrepreneurial-inspired podcast PlayingGuilty and is the Co-Founder and Chief Concept Officer of MADabolic - the industry’s premiere strength-driven interval franchise.
DAVID’S 3 thoughts for march 2023
Here are a few thoughts to consider DAILY this month. There are only 3 for a reason. Execute.
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In a recent Monocle Magazine, Sid Mashburn stated, “Many men have lost their ‘muscle memory’ for dressing well, for making an effort.”
I’ve long believed money doesn’t play a huge role in this challenge but care level and effort reign supreme.
By being a part of ASC, you are playing your part.
I had a gentleman tell me something once that has always stuck.
“Great wardrobes create access.”
He mentioned this while telling me his rule, always to wear a sport coat to the airport.
Outside of the countless compliments and cabin upgrades, he said the confidence that comes with it was the basis. That being said, you know what your sport coat is. Give it a shot.
It’s just a gentle reminder that the dominance of casualness in everything from what we wear to how we behave might seem unstoppable, there are outliers, and that’s you.
I firmly believe you can remain casual, but with effort, you still portray an air of authority; you’re poised and modern. People will know you’re in charge!
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A well-fitted navy sport coat and crisp white shirt are simple.
A pair of well-fitting denim and a heather gray tee is also simple.
Remember, simple ideas and simple decisions applied effectively are powerful.
Do you know what else is simple?
Planning your calendar to help you enter your day prepared.
Setting dietary rules to help keep your weight in line.
Creating filters with your email to eliminate inbox overwhelm.
Those are also simple.
And the effect of each one is a decisive step toward reclaiming your time, focus, and attention.
But when considering your wardrobe approach, do you overcomplicate things?
Can you keep it simple?
Now, simple isn’t easy. Hard from it, but with a little effort (See #1), you got this.
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I used to believe if I could only reach more people, I’d immediately have traction, and ABBEYDALE would take off.
But over time, I discovered reach is a poor substitute for the trust of a small group of the right people.
I could have paid for reach, but deep connection trumps fleeting attention every time.
Over the years, I’ve dedicated my “marketing spend” to creating a better product with the thought that quality will trump any “acquisition marketing.”
Not sure how this relates to you and whatever projects you’re working on, but I just wanted to remind you to focus on doing good work.
Stay focused on that, and success is inevitable!
For a deeper dive into this, read this. He’s a much better writer than me, but the idea is similar.
THIS MONTHS LINKS
A collection of items worthy of a purchase, a read, or an action.
Look for this “🌀” emoji to denote a transitional piece!
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Ken Burns - Civil War - I guess I’m on a civil war kick, but this is THE perennial documentary. I’d seen bits of it on PBS as they do a run of the doc once a year, but I decided to buy it from YouTube, and it’s well worth it. The film is a comprehensive and definitive history of the American Civil War and the recipient of 40 major film and television awards, including two Emmys and two Grammys. Settle in; it’s about 10 hours long! This video on Making The Civil War: 25 Years Later was also solid for extended viewing.
Gangs of London - I’ve started this British crime family drama, and man, it’s a roller coaster. Beware, it can get gory in parts, but what kind of mob movie doesn’t? Good casting, a plot, and plenty of action. Highly recommend.
Professor Brian Cox on Joe Rogan - Jesus, this is a mind-bender. Professor Brian Cox is an English physicist and Professor of Particle Physics in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Manchester in the UK. He has a way of explaining complicated things in a simple way that most people can understand on some level. Get smarter - take a listen and be prepared to be —-> 🤯
How To Choose Trousers for Any Sportcoat - This question pops up quite a bit, and it’s a good refresher as we begin to get back in the office again.
This Decision Changed My Life and Business - Instead of using our energy and resources and effort to make stuff that converts, let’s use our energy and resources, and effort to make stuff that matters.
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🌀 Octobre Editions Field Jacket - A piece I cannot stop wearing. Shout out to Dave for the hook-up on this. Must have for the transition. If denim blue isn’t your thing, it does come in some other groovy colors.
🌀 Levis Trucker Jacket - An excellent transitional season piece. You might as well go with the classic! Pair with olive bottoms or black denim for a relaxed “I know what the hell I’m doing” fit. You can find these in good vintage shops as well.
🌀 Private White Rugby Sweatshirt - You had me at Rugby + Sweatshirt. Not to mention the front pockets. Show up at your next Pickleball game looking sleek! The quality from Private White is unmatched. Check the blog.
🌀 Save Khaki Heather Gray Sweatshirt - The end of winter is the perfect time to pick up a sweatshirt to add to your wardrobe. This is a great casual layering piece you can wear under a coat when it's cold. As the weather warms up, it's a piece that works well on its own.
🌀 Baracuda Classic g9 Harrington - I don't think the Harrington jacket gets enough love. It's the iconic jacket James Dean wore in Rebel Without a Cause. The navy one is hard to beat regarding versatility and ease of wear. If you love the bomber-style jacket but find it too casual for your taste (or age), I suggest trying the Harrington.
🌀 Links Vest via P. Johnson - If you wear a vest this spring, wear one of quality and something other than Peter Millar. 🤝
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🌀 Drakes 13.2 oz Denim 5-Pockets - I could post off-white denim every month and be OK with it. I like this classic fit with a hefty roll.
🌀 Officine Hugo Straight Leg Belted Trousers - They’ve been making these for years and for a good reason. Comfy and modern.
🌀 Navy Heavy Cotton Twill Game Trousers - Comfortable, practical, and resilient. It’s an everyday classic for this time of year.
🌀 Norse Projects Cotton Blend Twill - Norse makes a nice fitting pant. Their beige is an easy staple to bounce around town or the office in.
🌀 Sid Mashburn Slim 5-Pocket in Fern Canvas - Great color for the transition to Spring / Summer. “A workhorse without the weight . . . They'll continue to soften up over time.”
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Corridor X Kswiss - I recently started playing tennis again after a 5+ year pause. I realized I didn’t have appropriate kicks anymore, and you know me, we can’t just get anything. I have to say; these are awesome. Very sturdy and, in my opinion, slick and original. They might not be everyone’s bag, but I co-sign these. They come in off-white as well.
🌀 Officine Hopkins Crepe Boots - This chukka is soft and relaxed. Yes, I would wear these with shorts. (But usually a long sleeve up top because, you know, balance.)
🌀 NIKE ACG Lowcate - Great for a spring hike. ACG always ups the design within Nike, offering a little more function than fashion!
Birkenstock Zermatt Shearling - Damnit Birk made a house shoe. I’m in.
Res Ipsa Clogs - I love a clog, and damn, these are all hand woven. If you’re looking for something original with a spring, let’s go to the beach vibe - these could be it. They have so many damn pairs it would be hard to recommend one for you.
🌀 Nylite Plus Sneaker - It’s about time to grab yourself a white canvas sneaker for the changing seasons. I dig this white-on-white Tretorn version.
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🌀 Res Ipsa Weekender - Handmade from Turkish rugs to give you something kinda unique. Good size as well.
🌀 Drakes X St. John Tote Bag - A collaboration to have people asking why the hell does your bag say Nose / Tail? I’ve always wanted to visit St. John - has anyone been?
Papoutsanis Pure Greek Olive Oil Soap - I’ve been on a mission to reduce harsh chemicals and bizarre fragrances. I love these - you might as well.
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APC Blackwatch Sweatshirt - Amazing deal on this classic pattern.
Officine Denim Shirt - Quality denim shirt under $100. Yes, sign me up.
Cottonseed Draw String Shorts via Corridor - What a deal on a loungy type comfy short. 6.75” Inseam makes them not too long or short. The side vents are a nice touch.
Roundup Via Put This On - These guys do a once-a-month ebay round-up to you can find deep, deep discounts on quality menswear.
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Re-Usable Coffee Cup - I dig these, and they come in a myriad of colors. Let’s save the planet one cup of coffee at a time!
Crown Town Compost - Let’s end food waste in the queen city! A good friend and ABBEYDALE guy own this business, and he’s a solid guy with a solid mission! They turn food scraps into nutrient-rich compost for homes & businesses in greater Charlotte, North Carolina.
Bleu-De-Chauffe Apron - French brand that makes awesome leather goods, bags, and a slick chore coat also makes this awesome apron. Look like a pro in this!
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The LOUTREL - I had the pleasure of staying at this gem on a recent business trip to Charleston. I was thoroughly impressed and still unsure why it was much less than others around it. Its location is ideal, and the service top notch. It was re-designed two years ago, so everything is fresh and modern. Def grab a drink at the bar!
11 Of The Most Unique Airbnb’s In The World - Outside Magazine - Wow. A tower above the sea or a crane high in the skies?! The bunker in New Mexico is nuts. I’m out on that (claustrophobia, anyone?) LFG!
Topton Cabin w/ Hot Tub & Nantahala Lake views! - Some good friends own this gem, and it’s pretty rad and not crazy far from Charlotte. It has space but also a cabin feel. Please do it.
ON THE ASC BLOG
Brands We Love : Private White V.C.
new from abbeydale :The knit tee + New Denim
Knit Tees and New Stretch Denim for Spring
The Knit T-shirt
A more sartorial take on the classic tee, we predict this new model will quickly become a favorite wardrobe basic. Adaptable for countless outfits and occasions, from under a 2.5-button jacket or layered with a hoodie. This is a tee you can probably wear to the office.
Extra Stretch Denim
By popular demand, this request has been fulfilled. This will be ABBEYDALE’s most comfortable option. Italian Mill Candiani offers these super lightweight (only 9oz!) denim with superior stretch. They are made from a soft cotton blend twill – woven, dyed, and washed in Italy. Want to add a wash effect? The result will be a more authentic faded look.
Book your appointment now if interested!
Until next Month! Thanks again for your time and attention.
I’ll see you in the comments on Instagram or the blog.
As always, email or text (704) 737-4274 with any questions!
✌️ - DW
CATCH US ON THE GRAM!