Summer has a funny way of exposing the difference between things you own and things you actually use.
The jacket that sat in your closet all winter? Meh. But the grill on the patio? The chair by the pool? The swim trunks hanging on the back of the bathroom door? Those earn their keep.
Summer is the season of repetition. Long days. Weekend rituals. Drinks outside. Late dinners. The things you buy now have a way of becoming part of these memories. So this month’s Black Book is dedicated to the pieces making summer a little better. Nay. A lot better. Some practical. Some indulgent. All worthy of a spot in the sunny season ahead.
—Lanny
Fichi Collection Cherry Stripe Boxers
After a long day in the sun, I like to come home, shower, chuck on boxers and a robe, and parade around my apartment the rest of the evening in just that. Sue me. I opt for luxury boxers from Fichi. You should, too.
Buy: $56
Kamado Joe Classic Joe® Grill - Series II
Summer's about gathering people. And this grill makes it an absolute pleasure to host. Not to throw shade at any certain green grills you may be considering, but I like that the red Kamado Joe ones come with all the accessories.
Buy: $1499.99
AMUNDSEN Soak Swim Trunk in Lichen Green
I want to look good in a swim suit. There. I said it. If your ideal summer involves equal parts swimming, reading, and disappearing for a few days, these are your trunks. Clean, understated, and free from the loud patterns currently plaguing too many beaches. Just a great color and a great fit.
Buy: $199
Kiel James Patrick Maritime Flag Sweater
Every great summer wardrobe needs one piece for when the sun goes down. This Maritime-flag-inspired Sweater feels like it belongs on the deck of a sailboat somewhere off the New England coast. Lightweight enough for cool evenings. Classic enough to wear for the next decade+. Also, my wife always snags it when she's cold and it looks cute draping over her little body. I love any piece we can share. Aww, I know.
Buy: $168
Smiley Dust Broom Set
Utility with personality is always welcome in my home and on my deck. This design forward set doesn't have to disappear into some sad closet because it looks handsome enough to have out. It's right there in its name. Smiley. Not saying cleaning up is ever a blast. But you will at least smirk when using this dust and broom set.
Buy: $85
RSVP Stainless Steel S/2 Martini Glasses
Pouring someone a martini is an honor. Especially on a summer evening. The problem? Glassware gets a little dicey on the patio after you've had a couple. These stainless steal ones solve that. Bonus points because they keep it chilly, too.
Buy: $52
Buck Mason Loomed Linen OG-107 Fatigue Pant
I bought some linen pants from Buck Mason a couple years ago and pulling them out when the weather turns nice has become a ritual I very much look forward to. And their linen gets better every year.
Buy: $198
Airain Sous-Marine Re-Edition DNA Strand Dive Watch
Dive watches and summer belong together. This one brings legitimate vintage pedigree with enough color and personality to stand apart from the usual suspects. A watch that looks equally at home by the water or behind a steering wheel on a coastal road trip.
Buy: $2382
Leben Paris 1991 The Neldas Sunglasses
These hit that sweet spot between fashion-forward and timeless, with a green frame that feels particularly right this time of year. Heads up. They sell out. Every time. So put your email in to get notified of the next drop. Then hop to it. These'll be the frames people ask you about every time you wear them.
Buy: $155
Lofree Dot Foundation Mechanical Keyboard
Most keyboards are boring appliances. This one feels more like furniture. Beautifully designed, deeply satisfying to type on, and proof that even the tools you use every day can bring a little joy to the process. I especially like this color for summer. I didn't realize how much of my day I spend staring at my fingers (i.e., typing) until I got a keyboard that makes me happy when I look at it or hear it clickity-clacking.
Buy: $179
Ridezign The Tesser XL 5:3 Lamp
Good lighting changes a room more than almost anything else. And the Tesser XL feels sculptural without being precious. Even when it's turned off, it's doing something interesting. Turn it on and the entire space gets better. Like a little summer glow for your room/office/patio.
Buy: $300
Uncommon Goods Olive Oil & Vinegar Dipping Tray
My favorite things to eat in the summer share one thing in common. Dips. Olive oil, vinegar, spreads, you name it, I'm dipping it. And this little centerpiece brings some intention to it. Pour your vinegar into the leafy bits. Then, oil on top. Your guests will love it.
Buy: $50
Personalized Leather Backgammon Roll
Summer is about having fun on the go. You need things that can pack up and unroll on the beach, the deck, the rooftop, wherever. This handsome travel-ready backgammon set gives those moments something better to do. Plus, you can personalize it (great gift idea).
Buy: $337
Business & Pleasure Co. Pam Chair
This might be the chair of the summer. Equal parts beach club, European café, and backyard escape. Comfortable enough to spend an afternoon in and attractive enough to make you want to spend an afternoon in it. Plus, it packs up easy.
Buy: $299
