You’ve almost made it through the first work week of the year.
You deserve a donut, a latte, or at least a side of guac with your next burrito. If you spill any of that on your shirt, we’ve got you covered with some great options below.
🗂️ IN THIS ISSUE
→ A Bond-worthy luxury brand
→ A full outfit for your next Phish show
→ Where to spend your next $30k in New York City
⭐ Brand Spotlight: Sunspel
The term Quiet Luxury skyrocketed to popularity the past few years but it’s very possible that Sunspel clothing actually invented it. They’ve been making the highest quality, no-logo, knitwear since 1860 in England and most people have never even heard of them.
You’ve probably seen their clothes, however, even if you didn’t know it (isn’t that kind of the point of quiet luxury anyhow?). Daniel Craig wore their Riviera polo shirt in his debut as James Bond in Casino Royale (pictured below).
For Sunspel - Think J Crew but more regal, think Buck Mason t-shirts but both finer and more comfortable, think Hugo Boss but more approachable.
If you’re in the market for a classic solid-color t-shirt (and don’t spending $100), you need to seriously consider them. Yes, they’re a little more expensive than most, but hey, it’s called luxury for a reason.
Our favorites:
Riviera Polo Shirt
Riviera Polo Shirt → Once you try some Supima Cotton in a proper cut, it may be tough going back to a typical plastic (polyester) golf polo.
Shetland Crew Neck Jumper
Shetland Crew Neck Jumper → You won’t find a better-looking sweater to pair over a dress shirt, best-in-class wool straight from the Scottish highlands.
Riviera Midweight Shirt
Riviera Midweight T-Shirt → We’re a sucker for a heathered grey t-shirt but this one’s avail in over 20 colors, all with luxurious cotton and a crisp, clean cut.
Shop Sunspel here (10% off first order).
✍️ Editor’s Picks
Malbon x Grateful Dead Stealie Snapback → Malbon’s new collab will take your brain straight back to their show at the Sphere. Shop here
Madewell Long Sleeve Rayon Blend Shirt→ Button it up or leave it open with a t-shirt, a shirt that can dress up or down. Shop here
Madewell 1991 Straight Allday Pants → Twill is a great alternative to denim, not as preppy as chinos, not as cowboy as blue jeans. Shop here
New Balance 550 Sneakers → Enough beige and off-white that any dirt won’t stand out, avail in a golf version too Shop here
💲 End of Season Sales
⛳ Miscellaneous but Noteworthy
Kith Opens New Private Club in NYC as Kith Ivy → Kith continues their dominance over New York with this private club complete with Padel courts, spa, restaurant, and Erewhon smoothie bar.
Why Patagonia’s Pockets Look The Way They Do → Boaters, listen up.
The Best Sports Movies of This Century → According to Bill Simmons. Honestly, F1 was great. Do you agree with the list?
🎵 What We’re Listening To
Listen if you like: Ben Böhmer, Kaskade
NM (IG: @n.m_official) is a Berlin-based DJ producer enjoying a quick rise after committing to music full-time only last year. His flair of house music is vocal-heavy with tempo that works on the dance floor or driving into the sunset. Think summer during golden hour.
Just like last week’s artist, Daniel Allan, get ready to hear NM a lot more in 2026.
🙌 Thanks for reading
Stay cool, swing easy — see you next week.
— Riley, Founder & Editor
What are you most excited about in 2026?
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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.