Men, we are on the cusp of greatness. Soon the temperatures will rise and there will be an abundance of women in sun dresses and short shorts. Hallelujah, right? Here are five things I’ll be buying to catch their eyes.  

Shwood Sunglasses 

Want a hip take on a classic look? I’m going with Shwood’s take on the classic RayBan made popular by hipsters everywhere. They are handmade in the good old U.S. of A. and come in a variety of lens colors. Order them here.  These shades will run you between $95 and $115.

Straw Hat 

Spring can be hot and summer even hotter so instead of the classic trilby or porkpie tin felt or canvass, it’s time to break out the straw hat. You can get them anywhere but Nordstrom has a nice and reasonably priced selection.  The hat above will cost $55 but cheaper alternatives can be found at H&M, Zara and Urban Outfitters.

I get a lot of looks from other dudes when I pull out the trilby, but the fact is, they are in.  And girls dig the look, if you can pull it off.

 The Jean Jacket 

You guys remember these things? Way back in the day, jean jackets were all the rage. Well, whether you like it or not (tip: like it) jean jackets are making a comeback this spring. Levi’s – naturally – has a great selection. Personally I’m partial to the slim trucker jacket for an easy $90. For God’s sake though, don’t wear it with jeans. 

If you aren’t comfortable with that style, the military look is still very in, and will likely follow through until next winter. Banana Republic makes a smart four pocket utility jacket for just under $100.  

Harrington Jacket 

In addition to the African Safari look that’s about to break out, look for Urban Athletic to take hold. Here in DC it will surely be popular given the prevalence of New Englanders roaming our nation’s capital. I present the Harrington Jacket. It’ll keep you warm at night but it’s not heavy enough that you’ll have a problem in semi-warm weather. This guy here is Adidas and will run you $130.  

Chukka Boots 

Keeping with the prep theme, comes the Chukka Boot. Now you’ve seen these popping up in the Whole Foods crowd for some time, but rolled up jeans and the prep look are coming so I’m preparing with Sperry’s Bahama Chukka Boot. Easy on the wallet at $60.

Beau is a Capitol Hill staffer and contributor to CHS.  His style is decidedly Mid-Atlantic preppy.  Belle doesn’t agree with most of these choices and is horrified that there are topsiders on this blog, but since she doesn’t edit contributor content, she’s stuck.  She’s going to go breathe into a paper bag now.