Hitting the Target

So, you might question what a big-box retailer has to do with a blog about traditional style, but Target stores, despite their discount nature, actually, on occasion, have some prep-friendly items. Even prepsters need to buy laundry detergent and clothes hangers from time to time, but on a recent visit I eyed a few items that were actually pretty impressive in their own right.

"At least we're not as terrible as Walmart"

Now, I'm well aware that there is a significant gap in quality between clothes from here and say, Brooks or even Land's End, but of all the large chain stores, Target somehow delivers on a few areas that may be appealing to some. For the prep on a budget, you might consider filling in wardrobe needs with some of the following when thrift finds are scarce.

Which items scored, and which missed the mark?

Surcingle belt for $15. Supposedly real leather too!

Another leather belt surprisingly, MADE IN USA. This may very well be the only clothing item in the store bearing that claim.

Targyle Socks. 100% cotton and a wide array of color combinations @ $4. a pair. I don't see why one would pay upwards of $12 for Brooks Brothers argyles when these are around.

The target take on the OCBD. The cloth felt fairly decent, and while some features were not as perfect as high-end oxford shirts, these honestly didn't look too bad. Slim fitting, but alpha sized (S,M,L,XL). Priced between $15 and $20.

3rd Collar button and locker loop on the back--classic elements taken from Brooks and GANT styling.  

A pair of flat front shorts, deadly polyester content, so these would be a no-buy for me.

These Oxford cloth shorts on the other hand, were 100% cotton and looked quite nice. These were $15.

Ties were disappointing for the most part--Middle School dance in nature. They were however mainly 100% silk, but I would stay away regardless. 

You don't need a Omega or a Tag Heuer to pull off a classic look. Grab a $40 Timex weekender series watch and a few interchangeable bands, and you will have a solid daily timepiece.

So, In addition to offering good deals on Clif bars and rocks glasses, someone up the line at Target HQ has been paying attention to classic menswear styles, and are offering them up at a good fraction of more reputable brands. Sure, it doesn't carry the distinguished history and valor of a real men's clothier, but sometimes, it's all about saving a buck or two.

(Note: I didn't purchase any of the items above, so I can not comment on the durability. Typically in this area, you get what you pay for...but if any readers would like to chime in with their experience, I'd be happy to hear about it)