President’s Day style, part 2 – President John F. Kennedy
Gabe Alonso For the second installment in our Presidential steeze, I want to highlight the man who has been considered pretty much the epitome of New England prep and classical style. The one, the only John F. Kennedy.
John F. Kennedy has one of the most well-known American quotes, stating “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for you country.” There’s a lesser known quote of his (but just as important) that I feel is unjustly forgotten. It says, “Ask not what you can do for your President, but how you can bite his style for years to come.”
Or something like that (Editor’s Note: This is not an actual quote).
JFK was the youngest man elected President ever, he was the youngest to die in office, and he was the first Roman Catholic President. The man broke the Presidential mold when he elected by the people, for the people. While it can be argued he made a few missteps in foreign policy early in his term, he led the United States onto the path of equal rights and attempted to create a broader sense of world peace.
The one thing JFK never faltered on was his quintessential New England prep style. The man is the epitome of that Ivy Style, characterized by button-down collar shirts, chinos, and boat shoes. His laid back elegance is something prep purists have been emulating and imitating for decades. Now, I know that not everyone is going to be heading up to Martha’s Vineyard and going sailing on the yacht with Muffy. But what you can take from his style is how to look well put together even in the most laid back of situations (like BBQs, tailgates, summer parties, and booze cruises). I’ve put together the simplest of outfits below for you. Versatility is key, you can throw a cardigan or un-lined cotton sportcoat on top to dress it up or untuck the shirt to stay super casual. If it’s good for JFK, it’s good for me (and you). Afterwards, check out a few more pictures of JFK for your sartorial inspiration. My favorite is the one of his at Harvard, sporting the double breasted blazer.
Lands’ End Tailored Fit No Iron Oxford Shirt - $39.50
For the money, you really won’t find a better fitting and affordable brand for the essentials (other than maybe L.L. Bean).
Dockers SF Tapered Khaki – $75 (but check out your local Macy’s, they’re ALWAYS on sale)
Dockers is a massive rebranding mission right now, they’re no longer your Dad’s chinos. Look for a post on them soon.
Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoes – $75 (if you want something a bit more dressy, check the brown buc)
Sperrys are my go-to shoe of choice during the summer. I’ve beat mine to hell over the last couple years. Super comfortable and durable for any type of weather. Not to mention, they look good with just about anything.
But if the Sperrys are just a bit too much Prep too soon, go for the Clarks Wallabees, Sand Suede – $125
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