Whys and Wherefores: Season 1, Issue 15
"I'm on a shopping spree to get whatever is in store"
I didn't know what to write about this week, as I wasn’t feeling particularly inspired. No specific story seemed compelling enough, so I considered taking a week off to think about what would be next instead of forcing something. However, in the process of thinking about this, I figured this could be an opportunity to talk about some of the things I’ve recently bought that I dig — and might be worth sharing with all of you.
I don’t want Whys and Wherefores to become too recommendation-heavy. There are dozens of places (and newsletters) that do a better job than I could. Nevertheless, I think breaking from the mold now and again can be a fun exercise. Plus, I think you can learn a lot about someone based upon what they purchase. After all, that’s the crux of WaW anyhow, ascribing more of a narrative-focus to material objects. Enough the navel-gazing; let's get into it.
D17’s Carhartt Watch Cap
I wrote about the ubiquitous nature of Carhartt Watch Caps last year for SPY. Quality, reliable, and cheap, the Watch Cap is also a fashion statement in and of itself. You can get them anywhere, but I prefer this version from Maryland’s own D17. Full disclosure, D17 creator Terrance reached out after that SPY article and sent me some to try for myself. The logo embroidery is so well done and looks so good. I’ve gotten a few of their other products (including this lightweight race hat which is now my go-to for workouts) and am really impressed with the quality. It’s only going to get colder, so make sure your dome is nice and warm.
Bud Light x Jansport Collegiate Crewneck Sweatshirt
I’m really trying to stick to my guns on the one-in, one-out goal I set for myself this year. My sweatshirt collection is full of stuff I’m not ready to let go of quite yet, so that means I can’t fully justify this Bud Light collegiate-style crewneck sweatshirt I found on Grailed. My loss is your gain, however. Shipped for under $60, I think it’s a steal. Buy it before I find a way to convince myself I do need it.
Death & Co Pirate Tiki Mug
If this newsletter proves anything, it’s that I’m a collector. I collected Pokemon cards as a kid, and this obsession eventually grew into clothing, posters, pins, and tiki mugs. I’ve got a pretty extensive collection at this point — my current count is over 30. Much like some clothing drops, tiki mugs can be hard to get, since there is a real collectability element. I have a version of this Death & Co (the beloved NYC cocktail bar) mug in a white glaze, and while that version is sold out already, the D&C store still has this teal version around. If you’re looking to start a collection, this one is a great start place. The sculpt is done by Tom “THOR” Thordarson, who makes some of the most exciting mugs around, making this D&C mug a great first purchase.
Ceramic Bonfire Incense Cone Burner
There’s a cool market on the corner of my block that sells a handful of locally-made products. While waiting around inside for a cup of coffee a few weeks ago, I stumbled across some incense cones. I used to burn Blackbird ones when I lived in Columbia and forgotten how much I enjoy their smell. Naturally, I wanted a cool ceramic burner for the cones and found this bonfire one on Etsy courtesy of krosedstudio. For $25, I think this is an absolute steal. It’s well-made, looks cool as hell, and supports an independent maker. That’s my favorite kind of triple threat.
Chelsea Bobb Sports Skull Print
Twitter is weird. It’s (arguably) bad most of the time. But sometimes it’s good! Like when you come across some fantastic art. I’m not sure how I found Chelsea Bobb’s amazing team skull prints, but I’m glad I did. I've been on a skulls-related kick as of late, so the Spurs one was perfect for me. She’s done ones for the Raptors, Celtics, and the Patriots too. I’m sure if you reach out, she might do one for your favorite sports team. Her art IG page is here, or find her on Twitter.
For GQ this week, I spoke with Teyonah Parris of WandaVision fame about her time on the show so far. We touched on a handful of topics including going to sitcom bootcamp, watching the show on a weekly basis, and more. Proud of this one, so I hope you’ll read.
I’d like to do a roundup like this once a month or, assuming there’s some good interst around it. Definitely reach out and let me know if you’re digging this.
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