Gift Guide '08: Paul Frank sunglasses

In anticipation of warmer days to come or if you're planning on making a tropical getaway for the holidays, grab a pair of Paul Frank's Craft Engineer sunglasses in olive, a color we've never carried before. Reminiscent of the classic Wayfarer shape, with softer angles and edges for a younger, less serious shape, these sunglasses are totally retro — in a good way. Hand shaped out of zyl-acetate, these shades feature surgical grade stainless steel hardware and come with a carry case. Tropical getaway not included in purchase. ($103, available in store)

Gift Guide '08: Suburban Riot tees

If you've got an eco-centric dude on your Christmas list, then you might to think about grabbing one of Surburan Riot's super-soft tees. But they aren't just a pretty face; the brand is committed to sustainability and uses organic cottons and recycled polymer-based products. Also, 1% of their total sales go directly towards causes that benefit and protect the environment. The solar panels on their latest tees aren't just cool line-art, they're proof that some brands out there really do care. ($40 each, available on the Dapper webstore)

Gift Guide '08: Schmoove shoes

No need to tread softly when you're wearing statement making shoes like the Jamaica Easy Derby from Schmoove. Their signature pointed-toe silhouette comes with a wrinkled leather upper for a fun balance between casual and dress. A rubber sole adds durability and comfort and, if you look carefully, leaves a certain mark. ($165, available on the Dapper webstore.)

Gift Guide '08: Turk + Taylor tees

Graphic tees make great gifts, particularly when they're 100% organic like those by Turk + Taylor and feature cool graphics. The Vertigo tee includes foiled printing that adds a cool glister while their hand-screened prints are perfectly imperfect. Cut slim and washed soft, they're perfect for the guy who wants a little more than just cartoons on his tees. ($46, available on the Dapper webstore)

Gift Guide '08: Baxter's Shave Kit

The greatest wardrobe in the world won't do you a lick of good if you aren't properly groomed and put together. But Baxter's three-part shave kit makes it easy to keep your skin smooth and healthy. Baxter's shave cream whips into a rich, clean lather that keeps hairs separated for a better shave. And only real badger bristles can pull up hairs to expose them at the best angle for shaving. Finish it off with some soothing, hydrating after shave balm to prevent redness and razor burn. With three easy steps like that, there's no reason why any man shouldn't be able to keep his face as impeccably put together as his closet. ($60, available on the Dapper webstore)

Gift Guide '08: Brixton hats

One of our most requested brands, Brixton hats are casual, but stylish; blending smart silhouettes with fine fabrics for hats that look good on just about everyone. And if the temperature keeps dropping like it has been, a hat is the perfect gift for a guy who needs to bundle up. The Hooligan, Brixton's classic and constantly updated driver's cap, comes to us this season in a great grey herringbone. As always, they're fully lined to keep your noggin toasty even when the winds outside are blustering away. ($35, available in store)

Gift Guide '08: Spinde & Canister Cardigan

As we mentioned in our previous post introducing Spindle & Canister, we really can't help ourselves when it comes to quality fabrics. If you're looking for something luxurious and substantial to put underneath the tree, this wool/cashmere blend cardigan will be the perfect fit. Whether he wears it indoors to stay cozy or layered up when he goes out, he'll appreciate the warmth of wool and the comfort of cashmere. A great, classic silhouette with simple detailing makes this piece a great addition to any wardrobe. And they come in their own canisters, which, when wrapped, make sure that the contents are a plush surprise. ($290, available on the Dapper webstore)

Gift Guide '08: Artificial Flavor Underwear

Keep the men in your life cozy this season with some of Artificial Flavor's trunks, which have been pre-washed and treated for an extremely comfortable fit. We have them in a variety of sizes and colors, but we suggest grabbing a pair in a festive red to commemorate the season. ($21, available in store)

Gift Guide '08: REVL Ties

We've gotten a fresh batch of REVL's just-slim-enough neckties to help you stuff all those stockings. Made out of 100% silk, REVL ties mix sharp modern proportions with classic coloring for trendy ties that will always seem on point. More styles and colors are available. ($46 each, available in store)

Dad Deserves Better Denim

WeSC Standard, $98

If your dad is stuck in dad jeans (you know the type, high-waisted, light blue wash, way too many pockets), then think about grabbing him a nice pair of raw denim. Certain to evoke memories of jeans from an earlier age, raw denim like the WeSC Standard – as well as our Cheap Monday and Good Society jeans – are dyed with real indigo and washed once for shrinkage. Natural wear and tear will rub out the indigo at specific places, give dad a wash as unique as he is. Also, the darker indigo color makes for a more grown-up pant. Now if only you could get him to give up his sweater vests, too.

For the Dad who has Everything...

(Call for pricing)

People always forget about the great art that hangs on our walls, courtesy of Cassandra Auker, one of the folks at our neighboor Form Modern Vintage, one of the best furniture stores in the East Bay. In addition to slinging mid-century chairs with the best of them, Cassandra's an accomplished artist in her own right and all of the pieces that you see are available for sale. If you're looking for something a little more unique than a sweater or tie, come in and talk to us about getting one of Cassandra's pieces.

Quick Debriefing

James Perse boxer briefs in black, white, and olympic; $28 each

If you're going to be rehauling dad's wardrobe, you've got to start with the basics. James Perse boxer briefs are made from an ultra-comfortable blend of 95% pima cotton 5% lycra for stretch. These skivvies are cut perfectly – not too loose, not too tight – and are a great way to introduce a little luxury into dad's closet.

For Dangerous Dads

Brave Soldier Crash Pack, $15

If your dad is prone to reckless adventuring (motorcycles, skydiving, and whathaveyou), the Brave Soldier Crash Pack is the ideal stowaway first-aid kit. An all-in-one travel pack, it's a complete set of all the supplies you'll ever need in an emergency including:

• One (1) Antiseptic ointment
• Two (2) wound dressings
• Two (2) surgical sponges
• Two (2) pieces of burn gauze
• Four (4) bandages
• Two (2) butterfly cut closures
• Two (2) antiseptic pads
• Two (2) antiseptic towelettes
• Two (2) Advil tablets

All with a detailed set of instructions for treating a wound all wrapped up in a waterproof mylar bag.

(French Connection ties, clockwise from top right: Grey blurred tie, blue placed stripe tie, grey and red striped tie, and gold split personality tie; each $48)

If your dads are anything like ours, the majority of his tie collection probably dates to the earlier parts of the 20th century. Give Dad an update this Sunday with one of our French Connection ties, skinnier for a more modern silhouette. Whether he's in a full suit at the office or just in a rumpled button down at brunch, these new ties are sure to please.

Kicking Back for Father's Day

PF Flyers Windjammer in white, $60

A classic silhouette for summer, PF Flyers' Windjammer is a low-top lace-up in pristine white canvas with dark blue trim around the midsole. Naturally, these feature PF Flyers' patented rigid wedge for arch support and proper posture. And after years of Dad telling you to stand up straight, its high time you returned the favor.

Keeping Your Dad Cool

Brixton Castor in tan, $45

Pun intended. As the days get hotter, Dad is going to need some shade from the sun and what better way to help Dad chill out than one of Brixton's classic straw hats like the Castor? Made of completely natural straw, the Castor is banded with a multi-colored stripe for a shot of extra color complete with Brixton's signature letter pin. Lined in gold silk, this is the perfect combo of looks and luxury for Dad.

Dressing Dad Down

Apolis Activism Military Woven in black, $128

Dad's got enough shirts for the office. It's high time you get him something a little more casual. Apolis Activism's military woven shirt with roll-up sleeves combines tailoring and military details for a shirt that's perfect for your dad's off-duty time. Made from 4 ounce cotton poplin with 20 stitches per inch, Apolis garment dyes and pre-washes every shirt before shipping them out. Available in this slick black as well as white and charcoal.

Counting Down to Dad's Day

Vestal Plexi in black/silver, $268

Nothing's as timeless as a good watch, but all too often, dads wind up slapping the first thing they find on their wrist before heading out to work. Give your dad a watch that means business, like the Vestal Plexi. A extra-large face and 12-minute chronograph combined with leather-covered links gives dad both form and function.

Smooth Moves for Dad

Baxter of California Shave Kit, $60

If dad's been rubbing his face raw with an electric razor, maybe it's time for something a little more old school. Baxter of California's shaving kit includes shaving cream fortified with tea tree oil and peppermint, a brush made from real badger's hair, and soothing aftershave balm with aloe and menthol. Bandages for nicks and cuts not included.

Dads Can Be Cool, Too

Original Penguin Le Mans sunglasses, $162

This year, instead of reaching for some stuffy sweater or cartoon-covered tie, get your dad a pair of shades from Original Penguin. Everything about these sunglasses, from their surgical grade nickel-silver frame to their stainless steel hinges to the 99.9% distortion-free SOLA CR-39 lenses will make your dad the coolest on the block.