it's been a few weeks | now i'm back

i started off strong with my blogging intents. and then 'life' happened and i got a little distracted. 

i am making it my goal to get back into the swing of things with a blogging schedule. there are a few reasons for wanting to get back to it. in one sense it is a good tool for me to be able to keep up on current trends for myself, which will help me look my best at all times. it will also help me relay on-trend information to my clients - i work in retail. it will also give me a chance to hone my skills when it comes to fashion and writing about it. one of my 'dreams' has always been to be a columnist for a magazine like gq or details. finally, i feel like i have a good sense when it comes to style - and styling is the huge difference between buying something classic and/or on trend and being able to wear it well. 

having said that, i am jumping back in the saddle with a commitment to three blog posts a week. i have also decided to limit (for the time being) my activity on most social networking sites, so that i can focus on other areas of my life - such as this blog. though, i am an avid instagram user; if you're over there, follow me (@rich_houser). ;)

for tonight, i will leave you with my most recent purchase. i will also introduce you to one of my all-time favorite, go-to brands - gap. the product there is what some would call basic. i would say classic, even essential. you can buy everything there and the prices are reasonable. gap is a good place to start when you want to expand your wardrobe. yesterday, i picked up two pieces to add to my collection.

i love slub cotton. the feel and the fit of it work better for me than a more refined cotton. and, who doesn't love nautical stripes? over the past year, i have been introducing denim and chambray shirts into my wardrobe. now, they are staples. i love the versatility of a denim workshirt. you can dress it up (tucked with a knit or wool tie), dress it down (un-tucked with chinos, or - yes - denim), or, as i show below, a layering piece in place of a jacket on those days where the weather is just in between. 

the break-down:

striped slub tee | gap

denim workshirt | gap

feel free to leave feedback in the comments below on your go-to pieces and brands.