Style

Local Plunder

The Summer Essentials

Well, no one said today was going to be easy. Especially not your CPA. But for the foreseeable future, it’s going to be smooth sailing. Also: smooth everything else—because we’ve selected a few essentials for a few momentous events on the horizon.

MAY 5: STEPPENWOLF GALA

Dressing Like John Malkovich

What: Italian silk ties created by that noted fashion designer/occasionally creepy thespian, John Malkovich. He’s been known to tread the boards on occasion at Steppenwolf. And, apparently, design men’s formal wear in his spare time.
Why: Method acting requires a great tie. As do gala events.

MAY 25: CHICAGO BEACHES OPEN

Cocktailing-Ready Swim Trunks

What: These smart, classically cut trunks from Brit designer Orlebar Brown have a back pocket and a zipper fly, and are made from a super-fast-drying material.
Why: Because after that chilly inaugural toe dip at Oak Street, you’re going to want to immediately head over to the Cape Cod Room. For that inaugural gin and tonic.

MAY 31: MAYFEST

The Street-Fest-Ready Chino

What: Summer-weight chinos by German clothes-maker Closed are durable, colorful and slim without being severe. Which is so not what you expect from German pants.
Why: Bavarian beer fest, Bavarian pants. Plus, the lederhosen get a year off.

JULY 21: RACE TO MACKINAC

That Preppy French Sailor Look

What: Classic Sperry Top-Siders and a horizontal-lined shirt inspired by French naval gear. All you need now: a crew. And a boat. And possibly a cob pipe.
Why: You’re trying to cultivate a look that says “martinis on the forward deck,” not “I’m on season nine of Deadliest Catch.”

AUGUST 3-5: LOLLA

Getting Ready for Sabbath

What: A classic Black Sabbath concert T-shirt that’s ready for sun, rain and possibly arterial spray from a recently beheaded bat.
Why: Your Blizzard of Ozz shirt from junior high hasn’t aged well. You’d hate to have the metalloids think you’re wearing hand-me-downs.