Runway to Realway – Casual Cool: Billy Reid

Oxford: Vans
Trousers: Zanerobe
Vest: Levi’s
Cuff: Giles & Brother
Sneakers: New Balance

Billy Reid, a LA native (hayyyyy Amite), is one of my favorite American designers. Each collection he presents uses high-quality materials in a classic Americana style, but with a hint of Southern charm. He keeps a down-home feel while upping the ante with versatile designs and fabric which appeal to non-Southerners as well. My personal devotion to Reid’s collections is for his ability to design for both men and women with the same gusto. Many large-name design houses have separate aesthetics for their men’s and women’s lines, so much so that it is difficult to identify these designers’ pieces as from the same creative brain train. Collections from Reid are easily identifiable and simply flow.

The model’s above look is from Reid’s 2013 Spring/Summer collection. The inspiration is no doubt of late 1930s shapes. Higher trousers, silk everywhere, and total grandpa chic. I love looking at old photographs (search #yearbookboyfriend on Instagram…ya welcome) of gents in their younger days and am 100% horrified for the #yearbookboyfriends of my generation. JNCOs, bucket hats, frosted tips. Needless to say, this collection is a breath of fresh air and gives me hope that my future children will not feel inclined to wear t-shirts 3x their size.

The “real way” version of the Billy Reid look would totally fly here today. The khakis are *shudder*, khakis, but the drawstring keeps them from looking too preppy and stays in the downtown vibe. A striped button-up is a step up from a v-neck, but the short sleeves deem the shirt casual and more heat index friendly. Toss on a denim vest for an extra layer as a prerequisite for your winter Barbour and the Giles & Brother railroad cuff is a must! I don’t care if you aren’t “a jewelry guy,” this baby will convert you. Besides, what is more manly than a hard-workin’ railroader wearing Levi’s and railroad stripes? Nothing.

And don’t forget your sneaks! Jack Bauer may be able to run in boots, but he probably wishes he didn’t have to.