bally

Ask the MB: What to Wear to a Summer Wedding Besides Seersucker Pants

April 3, 2012

Q: I am going to a summer wedding and want to wear my favorite blue seersucker pants and white shirt. What I'm not sure about is what style shoes should I wear and what color jacket would be best? Also should I wear a tie? If so what kind?
—Sam

A: We would embrace and extend your casual look and wear a deconstructed two-button navy blazer, like this one from Scotch & Soda that's just 85 bucks. As for the tie we'd probably wear madras in a width that echos the 3" S&S blazer lapels, but if you don't have one handy just stuff this Land's End Canvas crinkle twill Tartan pocket square in your chest pocket and call it good. It's on sale for $9.99.

With all the money we just saved you, spend it on the shoes.

We always opt for fun takes on the sneaker, like these Bally boat shoes that would tie your preppy look together, and provide comfort when performing the inevitable running man/Melbourne shuffle.

If you don't think you can (or want to) pull that off, go for a blue suede moc from Car Shoe, the original driving shoe.

Earlier: MB Endorses: Exposed Ankles

Ask the MB: Sandals That Don't Feel Like a Thong

July 20, 2010

Bally Fresney sueded leather sandals via bally.com, $243.00 — Bally Fresney sueded leather sandals via bally.com. $243.00.

Q: Do you have any recommendations for sandals that do not have a strap shoved between my big and second toe? I know it's a hang-up of mine, but the feeling of having the strap tug up between those two toes is too much like having underwear run up my butt crack. In other words, do you have a good "commando" sandal suggestion?
--Richard

A: We don't have the same hang-up as you, and we've never had underwear run up our butt crack, but if you're feeling that thong sandals are too much like a capital "T" Thong, then definitely leave those to the fairer sex.

A couple of years ago, during our first-annual Pedicure Awareness Month, we recommended these Paul Smith crisscross sandals from Barney's Co-Op. They're long gone now, and this has been a lousy season for great sandals, but the idea is the same: go for crisscross or strap sandals with an opening wide enough to not compact your toes, like this versatile sueded Bally version, now 50% off. (Limited sizes, so hurry.)

Ed. note: If you have toes not fit for public consumption (you know who you are) and insist on sandals, please be kind to others and go closed-toe fisherman. Thank you.

Ask the MB

December 10, 2007

Q: Dear Magnificent Bastard: My husband has requested a pair of "cool" casual shoes for Christmas. In the past he has worn Campers but I am wondering if they are post-peak. Any thoughts, suggestions?
—Amy

A: Camper has become basic, so don't worry about them going post-peak. (We love 'em, incidentally.) If you want to turn the style dial a click or two to the right, and have him wear something a bit more anonymous, try out a pair of Ballys (top) or Sabelts (bottom). Bally just oozes cool, and Sabelt has a pedigree in Formula One footwear. Let us know how he deals with a shift from Camper. They can be a hard habit to break.