Things I Love: Cory Ohlendorf of Valet. on Men's Style Finds for Spring
Cory Ohlendorf co-founded Valet. with his partner Jeremy Norman in 2008 as a resource for modern guys. The site (and its popular iPhone and iPad apps) has gone on to become a leader in the menswear arena, thanks to its smart design, informative features and focus on quality. “I’ve developed a great appreciation for things crafted with integrity — whether it’s a bottle of wine or a hand-sewn shirt — and the best part of my job is being able to share those finds,” he says.
We interviewed him last summer when he was inducted into the Say 100 - and invited him back to share some of his current favorite men's style finds for spring:
Gingham Shirts From Hamilton 1883
I love gingham shirts, especially in the spring, and these button-downs are some of the best out there. Made from crisp Italian cotton, they’re cut and sewn in Texas by a family-owned brand that’s been making shirts for more than a century. ($245, Hamilton Shirts)
Dockers Alpha Khakis
For your money, I don’t think you can find a better pair of chinos. Soft, washed fabrics with sturdy stitching, a narrow leg and perfect pocket placements. They’re a modern-day classic, and you can’t have too many colors. ($64, Dockers)
Scribe Wine
Scribe is an artisanal winery in Sonoma committed to sustainable wine-growing. I recently got to spend the day at the vineyard, and the place had such a cool vibe and amazing pinot noir that I left an instant fan. (From $38 a bottle, Scribe Winery)
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Clarks Desert Boots
No matter the time of year, I’ve always got a pair of desert boots in my closet. When the weather starts warming up, I tend to reach for the lighter pairs. You’ve got to love shoes that can work in any situation and with nearly any outfit. ($120, Zappos)
Instapaper
I’m online - a lot. And I’m constantly coming across great stories, but I don’t always have time to read them. Instapaper is an app that brilliantly saves all the text and presents it in a simple, easy-to-read format for offline reading later on my iPad. ($4, iTunes)
Aesop Shaving Serum
I’m not a morning person, so I’m all for things that make the a.m. routine a little easier. This low-lather citrusy serum is a shaving cream alternative. It moisturizes your skin and makes for a quick shave without any burn. It’s pricey for sure, but the benefits make it worth it. ($57, Barneys)
Bead Necklaces
A bold, beaded necklace is a great way to add a little color and texture to whatever you’re wearing. These glass bead necklaces are from Ghana and come in all shapes, sizes and colors, but I dig the orange and red ones. ($25, Sid Mashburn)
Follow Valet and Cory on Twitter @valetmag