Gifts for Him

As promised, here are some of my ideas for gifts for a guy this Christmas. I forgot to put numbers in la collage, so forgive & forget and just bear with me? Thanks.

1. Polaroid Instant Camera: I had two Amazon gift cards in September so I bought myself one and some extra film. As a college student, there is nothing better than pretending to be super hipster with polaroid pictures.

2. The New York Times 36 Hours in Europe: I really want this book. It gives you the best plans for a weekend in Europe.

3. J. Crew Waffle Sweater: This is probably the most comfortable sweater in the entire world. It's a wool-cashmere blend, which is super warm for the upcoming months.

4. Cashmere Throw Blanket: They only sound unnecessary to people who don't have them let me tell you.

5. Humans of New York Book: So, this book is probably the coolest coffee table book in the entire world, and the guy you give it to will actually look through it. Unfortunately, it's completely sold out online, so I don't know what I can do for you about that. But I thought you should know.

6. iPad Mini: I really want one. I have an iPad now, but it's just too big. I don't even use it, but I feel like I would use this one?

7. Oral B Electric Toothbrush: You'll probably have to be close to whomever you gift this. It could definitely come off wrong, but who doesn't love clean teeth?

8. J. Crew Polka Dot Socks: They don't necessarily have to be these ones, but socks are probably the best accessory to play around with. And polka dots, well why not?

9. How to Be A Man by Glenn O'Brien: If anybody reads GQ, you have probably heard of The Style Guy. You already know Glenn O'Brien then. He's one of my favorite writers, and he has one of the best senses of style ever. period.

10. J. Crew Bottoms Up Flask: I bought this for one of my friends on Black Friday. Flasks make an awesome gift because they're so classy and timeless.

11. Frends Headphones: The most stylish headphones on the face of the planet.

12. Bacon of the Month Club: I think you can figure out why this is on the list. Am I right?

Happy December

I am wearing: Tom Ford glasses, J. Crew sweater, Lucky Brand Jeans, J. Crew Boots, Tissot watch

Claire is wearing: Charlotte Russe shirt, F21 sweater, Lucky Brand jeans, H&M boots

HAPPY DECEMBER EVERYBODY!

I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving because I certainly did. 

Here is my family's potential Christmas card this year. Claire looks pretty ratchet, but for once I look semi-decent in the card, so it's happening. For some reason it's awful quality on here, but it's pretty clear on my computer. Use your imagination. 

So there are officially only 21 more days until Christmas, and I am literally counting down the hours. I get really anxious around this time of year. It's mostly because I am so ready to be off from school that I can't even function in the real world anymore. Now, I am just looking forward to being off and being home for a while. As you know, I am finishing up my first semester of college. It has really been incredible. I have met the most amazing people ever here, and I am absolutely certain that I will stay lifelong friends with them. Even so, I cannot wait to be home with my family. I miss my sister beyond words despite the fact that her inner diva is channelled nearly every waking minute of the day. She'll grow out of it I think hope. Some inspirational quotes from the Queen herself: 

1. "No ragrets." - our motto from the hysterical movie We're the Millers

2. "I bottlefed my kids, but I breastfed my pug."

Enough about her, though. I have a running list on my phone for gifts which I plan to share as soon as I deem it finished (which probably won't be until 11:59pm on Christmas Eve, but I'll do my best). I have some really awesome goodies on it (and yes I did say goodies). It's funny to see how much my wants change as I get older. Five years ago I never would have dreamed of asking for books for Christmas. Lo and behold, I'm asking for four. You tell me, is it last minute puberty? College? Or that I'm trying to be cool and hipster? My sister would say the latter, but I'll let you decide. 

HOHO,

Jack 

Spontaneity

Spontaneity is a really funny thing, you guys. I feel like when I look at movies or television shows from the 80's or 90's everything was spontaneous and beautiful. And maybe it's just my fantasy that that's how it was. It definitely is a fantasy, but let me have my moment. 

My friend Kiera, who is featured in that glorious selfie you had the privilege of snarking at above, and I recently came to the conclusion that the first three months of our college careers have been trivial. As such, we have absolutely nothing to show for them, except for a few ridiculous photos which were taken at inopportune places at inopportune times. So, in depressed states, we did what anybody would do. We scrolled our social media accounts making ourselves vulnerable to the beautifully filtered pictures of other people having much more fun than we. Why is that? Seriously. Like why the hell does every other person in the world look like they're having that much more fun than I. Why are they so photogenic in drunk selfies? Why do they have coffee with hearts in it? Why is their dorm perfect? And please God tell me why they have a thigh gap. Social media, the technological beauty that has connected us all so easily, is the reason behind depression and low self esteem. Kiera and I looked at each other both knowing what we needed Ben & Jerry's. We grabbed a pint and two spoons and went to work. Twenty minutes later with a food baby, diarrhea, and an empty pint of ice cream, we scrolled Ticketmaster to find that Kate Nash, the happy go lucky British soul singer, was playing at Terminal 5 the next day. We swiped the key to our rapidly dwindling bank accounts and printed out the tickets for the concert the next day hoping a little spontaneity would snap us out of our rut and give us a few good insta's. We were right. Believe it or not, we snuck up on stage with some people Kate picked from the audience and danced with her for a song. Afterwards, she screamed at the top of her deep, deep lungs with us and gave the two of us a ten second long bear hug... it turns out a little spontaneity goes a LONG ass way. 

Inspired by our good fortune and glorious Instagrams, we made a list of things we want to do before freshman year ends. It's long. Like really long. We checked a lot off that night, and we continue to do so. I strongly urge you guys to bring a little spontaneity into your life. It's a beautiful thing, you know? Also make a list of things to do with your friends. I'm realizing as I get older that life is super quick and regret sucks. Do the things now before you regret it. I wish you luck with your list, please wish me luck with mine. 

Cheers, 

Jack

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MOMA

Happy Halloween, everybody! 

So I have some pretty cool ideas in terms of costumes, but I won't be able to show you the final decision until this weekend after tonight and tomorrow night's festivities. I'm sure you'll approve. 

In the meantime, I have some photos from probably my favorite museum in New York--MOMA. I'm a huge fan of art, particularly modern art. I love photography, Andy Warhol and pop art, sculpture, and my favorite artist ever, Jackson Pollock. Here are a few of the pieces you can find at MOMA. I encourage you to stop in when you have a free day or are in New York with an extra hour to kill. They have a student discount too which is such a deal breaker in my opinion. 

Stay Safe, 

Jack 

PS I apologize for the quality of these photos. I only had my iPhone with me.

The Bowtie

So for all of you people who believe the only person who can pull off a non-tux bowtie is still Steve Urkel, I'm here to attempt to convince you otherwise. The bowtie is back, and, let me tell ya, it is here to stay. Since I briefly mentioned tuxedos, I just wanted to say one thing to all of the people reading this right now. A tuxedo MUST have a bowtie. I hate tuxedos and ties. And in the name of sweet baby Jesus, if you're wearing a tux, get your shit together and wear a real bowtie. If you're going to put that much effort into it, don't screw yourself over and wear a clip on, you'll look stupid. I'm talking to you high school prom guys.

Anyway, the bowtie. If anybody has noticed bowties have shrunk substantially since their peak in the last century. They're no longer gigantic bows. They're smaller, chic, and really a lot easier to pull off than you think. My advice on a bowtie is this. Invest in two other than your tuxedo's. You probably won't need too many more than two. Why do I say two? Because you want a solid one, probably blue or red, maybe gray. As for the second one, feel free to experiment. Get a fun pattern--stripes, polka dots, plaid even. Think about the shirts you have before you buy one though. A lot of times, people think stripes and another pattern don't match, but they work more often than you think. Keep to similar color palettes and you'd be surprised how many combinations you can get. Most of you know, I'm a big  J. Crew fan. Hell, I worked there this summer. Well, their fashion director, Gayle Spannaus, is one of the best pattern mixers of all time. She frequently writes company emails for J. Crew, so sign up for the email list if you want great advice from her. 

Basically, I want you guys to try something new. Don't let the past stereotypes mold you and prevent you from changing things up. BE A FUCKIN' MAN. That about wraps it up. In fact, I challenge you men. Because God knows, men like a damn challenge. Next party you have, or event, or whatever. Even if you're just going on a date, try the bowtie. Jeans, a cool shirt, nice pair of shoes, a blazer (try your suit jacket), and the bowtie. Let me know the reaction you get. 

Grow a pair & don't let me down, 

Jack 

That Person

Shirt: J. Crew (Now on sale!), Jeans: Lucky Brand, Shoes: Sperry Topsider

I hope y'all are having just a superb weekend so far! You guys know Sarah, right? She's one of my best friends whom I have known since actual nursery school. She came and picked me up at school today, so I could go home and surprise my Dad for his birthday. What a doll, right? She's probably the most amazing, beautiful, terrific person I have ever had the pleasure of being friends with. That ideal friend you guys think about when you watch movies and read books is Sarah. You know exactly what I mean by that, too. Well give her some props and snap for her (because clapping isn't cool anymore). 

Stay sexy, 

Jack 

What the hell is up, Wednesday?

I recently have been hating on myself about how I haven't been posting on my blog for almost three whole months. I started this blog a year ago last month, and I will readily admit that it has been so tough to keep running. It's difficult to take pictures and keep you lovely readers informed. It's difficult to compete with the literally millions of other blogs on this magical thing we call the internet. As a result, I have fallen off the band wagon more than a few times, but I really want to get back on it. Like really badly. I recently broke down, and said I need a completely different face. I want a new slate. So I wrote a post about reinventing yourself and evolving and changing, and I introduced you to a new blog on Tumblr to take the place of this one that I created. However, I think I have changed my mind about leaving The Hamptonite in its time of need. I've gotten her this far, so what the hell? Right? I mean isn't that what we are supposed to do? Persevere in times of trouble. At least, that's what all the bitches in elementary school told me... So I'm here and I'm ready to party.

Unfortunately, I left my camera at home when I came to school, because I was afraid my roommate would steal it. So I cannot take outfit pictures for a while. However, I had this great idea. What if I did a post once a week that didn't involve pictures of me? In it I have the freedom to express anything I want. Pictures, stories, essays, advice, food, etc. Here it is... What's up Wednesday? Like so many other bloggers, I started this blog to express myself and put my thoughts and expressions down so other people could relate to me. And I think some time last year, I got mixed up and lost sight of my original intention and goal of creating The Hamptonite. I thought I needed to become famous. But such a small portion of bloggers become famous and have the luxury of living a life created from their hobby. And that's not what I want. I want a judgement-free zone in which I can relate to the other losers in the world just like me. And I know you're out there.

So, if you're still willing, follow me along this journey to find ourselves. And if you're not, I'll still be here taking up space on the internet when you change your mind and come back to see me.

I'll see you soon.

Jack

Playing Catch Up

Had dinner on the beach last night, and it was probably the most gorgeous night of the summer so far. 

Happy Tuesday!

Ask & You Will Receive

Well, here it is. Honestly, I had a ton of fun making it, so I think I am going to try to do one once a month or so. Let me know what you think. 

Thank you to Ally and Christina for helping me make it!

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Hello Again

 I am wearing: Dad's Hat, J. Crew Popover, J. Crew Shorts, Swatch Watch, Ray Bans Aviators

So here I am after a two month hiatus. My sincere apologies for leaving you all in suspense imagining my whereabouts and what not. Well, I am alive and well. Much has happened since we last spoke, and I promise I won't bore you with all of the knitty gritty details. 

Highlights of the last 56 Days (8 exact weeks for those of you who don't multiply)

June 2, 2013: I graduated from high school....mmmmhhhmmm.  Since then, I have been to 12 graduation parties, three more on the way. 

June 11, 2013: I saw Matilda. Two words: so good. You have to see it. I am seeing Kinky Boots in the fall so I'll let you know how it is. 

June 18, 2013: I saw Hunter Hayes at Webster Hall with my sister. Longest night of my life, but he was incredible. 

June 25, 2013: I was diagnosed with Mononucleosis. FML. I'm fine though, so if anybody wants to swap some spit let me know.

July 4, 2013: 'Murica. 

And here we are... July 16, 2013: I write my first blog post in 56 days. 

As a gift to y'all, I am going to film a day in the life of Jack and set it to some supah dope track. 

Deuces, 

Jack

Prom 2013

 I am wearing: Glasses Tom Ford, Bowtie J. McLaughlin (old), Shirt Brooks Brothers, Belt Brooks Brothers, Pants Polo outlet ($44!), Shoes 1901

Prom is one of those nights during high school that kids have always looked forward to from the beginning of their high school career. My prom's venue was the "Cornucopia Majesty," a luxury yacht that circled the enchanting island of Manhattan from 8:30 until 1:00 AM. It was magical to say the least. I danced like it was my job on the roof of the deck with 800 other people. Yeah be jealous. 

If you're wondering why there's a lack of tuxedoes and gowns, I'll tell you. My school is completely anti-prom and has made our "Senior Celebration Cruise" (aka Aquaprom) a casual dance, hence the chinos. 

I went with my best friend since kindergarden, Shannon, who filled in for my other date when she became an incubus of viral plague.... not to quote The Devil Wears Prada or anything. She got ready in  an hour and a half and borrowed her girlfriend's sister's dress--that's the friend who's a girl, not the lesbian kind for those of you who were confused. 

Props to Shannon, yo. 

Stay as hot as us, 

Jack 

The Gentleman's Guide

Alright, so here I am, at the ripe old age of eighteen just having graduated from high school, giving advice on how to master the life of a gentleman, who, for all intensive purposes, is a bachelor. I guess you could argue that my advice and suggestions just aren't worth reading because I don't have experience as a hipster living in a loft in Williamsburg... however, what I lack in experience, I make up in imagination! So here we go with my top five gentleman essentials.

1. The candle: Some men think candles aren't important, but think again. What about all those nights you're trying to set the mood? This candle is on the pricy side, but it is most definitely worth every penny. 

2. A rocking piece of leather furniture:

3. Good glassware: when you have friends over, you better have good glassware. There is nothing worse than drinking out of a dirty or shitty glass. For wine and similar glasses, Riedel makes THE best glasses. Stemless glasses are my personal favorite, and I think they're a bit younger and sexier than a stem glass. My family has them and they really are good glasses. You should have tumblers too, and while you're in the spending mood, get them monogrammed. 

4. Cashmere Throw: there are some luxuries in life that I cannot live without. A good throw blanket is one of them. Two years ago, I got my grandmother a baby Alpaca throw for Christmas. T'was pricey, but it was worth it. I live underneath it when I'm at her house. Get yourselves one, and don't forget to thank me later. 

5. The dog: last but not least, you need a dog. A cute one. I went to the puppy store the other day just to browse because God knows I need a third dog three months before I leave for college. I decided then that a dog was necessary in the life of a bachelor. For me, at least. 

Sounds about right, right? What does your imagination tell you about a bachelor? 

My prom was last night, and I'm just editing some pictures from it, so you'll see me soon!

Also, I'm thinking of doing a video of the day in the life of moi... what do you think? 

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Shrimp Ceviche

How are y'all doing? I'm officially on summer vacation, and it feels great. The other day my friend came over to make a healthy lunch with me. Shrimp Ceviche is literally one of my favorite dishes. It has so many delicious flavors, and I'm a sucker for Latin food. Here is our recipe: 

Ceviche 

1 pound of baby shrimp

Juice from 2 to 3 Lemons

Juice from 3 to 4 Limes

As much cilantro as you want (We put in about half of the bunch)

A cup of chopped tomatoes

A cup of chopped red onion

Two ears of roasted corn (roast it on a BBQ it's that much better)

2 Teaspoons of Tabasco Sauce or some Jalapeños

Salad

A box of organic mixed greens

A can of black beans

Half of a red onion

1/3 a cup of pine nuts

1 cucumber 

Dressing

1 cup of White Balsamic Vinegar

1/3 cup of good Olive Oil

2 teaspoons of Dijon Mustard

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PS I got a the new Macbook Pro with retina display, and I highly recommend it!