2025 is in the rearview and we have a fresh new palette to paint this year.
Thanks for starting that journey with us, let’s get it.
🗂️ IN THIS ISSUE
→ A golf brand serving true one-of-one designs
→ Low-key navy and grey uniform for winter
→ The midwest Fred Again
⭐ Brand Spotlight: JK Headcovers
Headcovers are a personal reflection.
Some want to display their fancy club, some want to remember the bucket-list golf trips, some want their favorite sports team, their college, their favorite golf tournament. Some of us like to show their favorite golf brand and keep it professional.
For those who want the ultimate 1-of-1 headcovers, you go to JK Headcovers for a truly custom design. Whether it’s your kids old blanket, your college jersey (or high school if that’s when you peaked 😃), or an old caddy bib, JK Headovers can turn that into a headcover you’ll cherish forever.
A few of our favorites:
(these were all custom orders and are not for re-sale)
As a dad, you see your kids grow up far too fast. The idea of taking one of their old fleece jackets and being able to see it every time you’re on the course would keep you in a great headspace.
Proof they can make headcovers from nearly anything. This one’s from a lululemon shopping tote, genius.
An old golf bag upcycled into a headcover to remember.
A reminder that all JK Headcover orders are custom. They take around 2 weeks to deliver and you can find more info on their website here.
✍️ Editor’s Picks
Grundens Cloud Cover Ankle Boot
Three pieces to anchor your winder rotation.
Cole Haan Grand Kittery Court Sneakers → This dark blue sneaker for office or weekend will hold up against the winter sludge, part of Cole Haan’s End of Season Sale. Shop here
Norse Projects Sherpa Wool Fleece Jacket→ A sleek, no-logo option when all your friends are wearing Patagonia. Shop here
Quiet Golf Pennant Dad Hat → Cotton twill dark navy hat that looks like a prestigious golf club but a brand that is making big moves in 2026. Shop here
💲 Sales Worth Knowing
Peter Millar End of Season Sale → Stock up on vests and q-zips.
Grayers Big Winter Sale - 30-50% off terrific sweaters and knit button downs.
Hudson Sutler Stand Golf Bags are $100 off → One of the best traditional, no-logo bags. Like if Holderness & Bourne made golf bags.
⛳ Miscellaneous but Noteworthy
InsideHook
Tracking your bowel movements and other trend predictions for 2026 → InsideHook collected their predictions for men in the new year.
How to head into 2026 “light’” → It starts with your closet.
Every Cigar Smoked by James Bond in His Movies → In case you needed some suggestions.
🎵 What We’re Listening To
Listen if you like: Fred Again
Daniel Allan is an up and coming producer DJ from Louisville, KY. Mixing electronic with hip hop, in a fast-paced hop up and down DJ style, you’ll see quickly why he’s more like the midwest version of Fred Again. He’s just starting to blow up so get ready to hear his name, and music, A LOT this year.
🙌 Thanks for reading.
And a reminder, next time you call it better be from this:
Stay cool, swing easy.
— Riley, Founder & Editor
QUESTION - Did you enjoy today's newsletter?
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ABOUT CLEVER
Clever The Optimist is a weekly newsletter curating elevated menswear and golf gear for guys who refuse to settle.
Founded by Riley Kearns in 2024.
Based in Columbus, OH.