As you know, Dear Reader, I'm a personal stylist for women primarily in the Seattle area. But, that certainly doesn't keep me from diving into all sorts of super cool menswear options. I'm always keeping a list of noteworthy options for the men and at some point is just gets too long to keep to  myself any longer. Lucky for us, Father's Day is a nice excuse to share a sea of awesomeness that will be helpful to you now and in the future. Let me know what you think!

10 Places to Shop and Things to Buy for

the Fella in Your Life.

1. Division Road.

Looking for a new place to find super hip menswear that is off the beaten path? For you early adopters out there, Division Road on 1st Avenue South might be just the thing. Identifying as "heritage luxury" the shop (and website) exclusively feature North American, Western European and Japanese manufacturers and an emphasis on great service. Championing sustainability by promoting the, "buy once" mentality a la Patagonia and others, the journal and guidebook sections of the site are sure to suck you in. Plus, anyone who celebrates a 1974 Ford Bronco is a friend of mine. 

2. Puzzle Break.

If there's someone in your life who loves going up against major challenges, an evening at Puzzle Break is in order. I keep hearing about this from all the tech folks in my life. Schedule a time for your small group to work together to solve a puzzle while racing the clock. It's all very posh, so rid yourself of the image of sitting around a board game. Apparently, only about 30% of participant groups solve the challenge, if that's any incentive. When you win, you get a rubber bracelet to celebrate. 

3. Portal Virtual Reality Arcade.

From the full on gamer to the person who just likes to have a good time with technology, an evening at Ballard's VR arcade is an inventive and memorable gift. Yes, you can take the kids, depending on their ages. There's more info on the site. Or, make this an adults only adventure. 

4. Shoes from re-souL. Pieces from Freeman. 

If he's ready to dive into a great pair of high quality shoes, a trip to re-souL in Ballard will treat him right. The re-souL line I'm so fond of (Italian leather, great design, affordable prices) includes options for men! Plus, there's an array of other high end brands to choose from.  Freeman in Capitol Hill is always a great idea for clothing, accessories and shoes. Plus, visiting with staff is a great way to learn more about hand crafted menswear. Owners Brittany and Scott Freeman started out by making a great raincoat and realized that they were onto something Now, their label includes several pieces and the shop also sells a variety of other great brands. Gift cards are fun or wing it and find something you think he'll like. Both shops curate items so carefully, you can feel good about your purchase. 

5. The Elliott Bay Book Company. 

My favorite thing is to walk into Elliott Bay and describe someone's recent book obsessions. I then follow this up with, "what should he/she read next?" This is way beyond the Amazon experience of reading reviews and this approach has helped me get my husband started on several new book series. The staff and selection really can't be beat. Can't get to Capitol Hill before Sunday? Just give them a call for advice and/or order directly off the website. Or, plan a Sunday outing of brunch at Oddfellows and a trip to the book store. I also love the email list that keeps me up to date on authors coming to town. Pick up a ticket for an evening out to see an author your fella loves as a gift. Or, send dad with one of the kids to see an author that they'd both appreciate. Our son's first experiences with celebrity were children's book authors. It's a win for the entire family. 

6. Town Hall.

Did you know you can get tickets for a speaker at Town Hall for as little as $5?! That's real, folks. I sent my husband to see Neil deGrasse Tyson years ago as a gift.... for $5. 

7. Hammer & Awl.

I heart Hammer & Awl for incredible menswear accessories and so much more. It's a fun outing for the two of you or just swing by and pick up a last minute gift he'll love. I wrote a handy guide to purchasing accessories there a few years ago and as it turns out, it's still relevant. Plus, the stock has only gotten better since then. 

8. Dads & Daughters Hair Workshop at Gary Manuel.

I seriously LOVE this. If there's a dad in your world that styles his daughter's hair each day, this workshop is sure to be fun and productive for he and his daughter. Please share it if you can think of someone this could be useful for. 

9. The Old Stand Bys.

If you ask me, a subscription to Esquire magazine and/or New York Magazine is always a smart investment that gives all year long. 

10. Time with a Tailor. 

The last few weeks I've spent an enormous amount of time transforming client wardrobes with my very favorite tailor by my side. As you know, I don't normally style men, but if the man in your life could benefit from time with a stylist and a tailor as a team, I'm here to help. Great tailoring really is life changing. 

 

And there you have it. Last but not least, remember that homemade gifts are also extraordinary and you don't need to be super crafty to make it happen. If you are music lovers, make a Spotify playlist for Dad or ask the kids to help you list 10 reasons they love their dad. Really, it's the thought that counts. Happy Father's Day and please make sure you are entered into the drawing for the Universal Standard Geneva Dress!