What I made my dad for father’s day

CW* = Critiques welcome - always! Happy Juneteenth. Today's outfit is called.... What Shades of Blue and White were the Smurfs again? Interesting mix of five blues (socks, slacks, jacket, vest, watch) and four whites (shirt, tie, cufflinks, and pocket square), accented by gold and mid brown accents. • Odd Jacket — DOJ-010 (Ralph Lauren): A navy single-breasted wool blazer from Ralph Lauren with polished rope shoulders and brass buttons. The subtle sheen and high armholes give it a refined silhouette that bridges business formal and smart professional—perfect for video calls and in-person meetings. • Slacks — SL-005 (Santorelli): Italian blue textured Santorelli slacks with a classic cuffed hem and belt anchors. The blue tone creates intentional harmony with the navy jacket while adding visual depth and interest below the frame. • Vest — VWC-013 (Ralph Lauren): A powder blue linen Hitchcock-style vest by Ralph Lauren with cream buttons and a brass rear buckle. Moderately light in weight—ideal for layering on a warm California day while maintaining a put-together appearance on camera. • Shirt — DS-048 (Charles Tyrwhitt): A non-iron ivory twill dress shirt from Charles Tyrwhitt with French cuffs and a classic point collar. The 2-ply cotton construction delivers a soft hand with excellent stitch density—refined enough for board meetings while requiring minimal maintenance. • Undershirt — US-002 (Ralph Lauren Polo): A classic white crew neck cotton undershirt—soft, breathable, and invisible beneath the opaque dress shirt. Reliable workhorse that keeps the foundation clean. • Tie — NT-056 (Rampley & Co): An ecru wool-cashmere knitted tie from Rampley & Co. The matte texture and soft-cornered blade offer visual contrast to the navy jacket without competing for attention. Best tied in a relaxed Four-in-Hand—perfect for business casual video days. Anyone who says business wear is not comfortable has never felt this tie. It most be the softest thing I have ever felt... other than my wife.

Though Juneteenth did not magically make equality happen, it was an important step, and there is a lesson there. The staircase to equality must be constructed, and one must constantly work on it. Lincoln did not live to see the legislation that followed the 13th amendment, martin luther king did not live to see the first African-American president, but nevertheless both were instrumental to Building that staircase. Our lives are finite, but our legacies are not. Help build that staircase.