I've been asking my hubby to create a blog on style, food, music and adventures that we'd call MR DuFOUR (like MR PORTER). Here is the first edition, just in time for Father's Day,birthdays or whenever you need gift inspo for him or to borrow for yourself(wink, wink). Enjoy the read! Zoé

MR DuFOUR 

Some of us like to portray ourselves as the strong and stable anchor of the family (real or not), but us dads can be very sentimental, especially when it comes to gifts we receive on Father’s Day. A multi-colored ceramic mug that looks like maybe Picasso created it on a bad day that says “World’s Greatest Dad”? Treasure with a prized spot on the office shelf. Essentially, as Robert DeNiro proclaimed in “The Intern,” we’re all basically “…a sensitive bowl of mush.”

As I grow older, I have come to appreciate the value of buying things that will last and stand the test of time versus a quick and easy high I get from buying something trendy and cheap affordable. Not that I am immune to something fun and cheap affordable, I feel I am transitioning into the quality over quantity phase of my life and encourage those in my life considering getting me something with that in mind. Good news, it doesn’t need to be exceedingly expensive (a bonus if it isn’t).

With that in mind, here are some things that should stand the test of time, both in terms of quality and fashion, that can remind that bowl of mush of the loved one who gave it to him every time he sees it. And for those of us who still like a bargain, value plays an important part of these selections. The same guy that adjusts the thermostat anytime someone leaves the room doesn’t want you going crazy, either, with something so precious and expensive he won’t want to use it!

These are the things that recently caught my eye or is currently in my life as something special that you would use on a semi-regular basis and a reminder of the person who picked them out for you as you go through life with them in your heart (see, we’re just a bowl of mush).

Style

·     Watch: ORIENT BAMBINO VERSION 2 75TH ANNIVERSARY Watch:$267.75 with discount code FATHERSDAY2025. I have another watch from Orient, and the brand is a terrific value for a quality timepiece. What I especially like about this one is the tan suede band paired with a classic Roman numeral, rose gold face that can be dressed up or down. Comes with a brown croc leather strap, too, that can easily be swapped out. 

·      Shoes: Rothy’s The Ravello Loafer in Stone Black – $139 w/ MENS50 ($189). I must confess, I have never owned a pair of Rothy’s, but I like the simplicity and style of these. Comfy (so I’m told) and washable. I’d wear the black ones without socks (of course) and a pair of white jeans. If he doesn’t have a nice pair of white sneakers, there are many to choose from, but you can’t go wrong with a nice pair of Stan Smith’s from Adidas. Classic staple for any man.

·      Pants: 484 Slim-fit Bergen five-pocket pant ($84.50 - $118).   I love these pants. My new “go-to.” I get mine in Slim fit and although I would never be accused of being “slim,” I like the way they fit on the legs. There’s also a nice blend of cotton and elastine (whatever that is) that provides a little give across the waist. Comfortable and stylish. Right now, they seem to have limited colors available, so would go for the canvas if he doesn’t have a nice, off-white pair of jeans.

·      Luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage   I am always in search for more efficient ways to travel, but when it comes to a single piece of luggage that I would bring to that desert island, it would be this carry on. It has everything: clever use of compartments and compression, expandable, numerous pockets and special features (i.e. battery charger compartment). It spins like a ballerina and looks as new as the day I bought it (which turns out was in 2019). I know the Away bags are the current “it” bag, but I prefer the soft sided bag like this one, which many experts believe are more durable. But, you can’t wrong with one of those either, which are also nice (we have one ourselves), if style take precedence over functionality. 

·      Something in leather: https://wpstandard.com I have bought a lot of my leather goods from WP, a nice blend of luxury and value. I love my laptop case, an elegant upgrade to pull out of your briefcase. I have one in tan and olive green, and love the substantial gold zipper that is quality. I use the cargo tote bag for grocery shopping and usually get a compliment or two as I check out. The new Messenger Bag looks tempting, too. How about a PanAm Duffle Bag? Who wouldn’t like that? They have sales all the time, so be on the lookout (not currently offering one).

I think Credit to some of favorite sites for these ideas that track fashion and deals, such as Dappered.com or Wirecutter from the NY Times, which might have more ideas for you.

 See all the suggestions & links here: #6 added by Zoé