Introducing the October "Nut of the Month"

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Each month I plan to write a kernel or "Nut" about observations I make while running Black Squirrel Outfitters and connecting with my customers. To crack open the “Nut” series, I focus on my love of belts. Belts for men and boys are like necklaces for women; they can make or break an outfit. Think of a man wearing jeans and an un-tucked T-shirt. If he tucks in his shirt and adds a good looking belt, he will suddenly look pulled together. Line up five men in khakis and polos and their belt will set them apart. A good belt can differentiate you from your colleagues and even hint at your personality.

This month I am "nuts" about Argentinian belts that just arrived in our store.  We’re selling them in a range of sizes suitable for small boys to big men. Among other things, Argentina is known for tango, polo and the Patagonia Mountains. Add these colorful geometric belts to the list.
How Black Squirrel Got Looped In:
- A good friend of mine was shopping in Argentina and thinking about Black Squirrel when he spotted these belts. He felt they would be a good addition to the mix and he cinched it. They are fun and work well with jeans and khakis. And best of all, when we’re all tightening our own proverbial belts, the price is right: $60/men and $20/boys.

A quick tip for young boys; if you would rather wear a T-shirt, as long as you have on a belt you will still look neat and may be able to get past the front door without someone telling you to go back in and put on a collared shirt.

Picture Perfect Columbus Day!

Thursday, October 15, 2009



We took advantage of this past long weekend to head up to the Catskills for a little family time. My boys, Hayne and Quinn, stood still for minute so I could capture a quick shot. Fortunately, the foliage was at its peak and it was a colorful weekend.

The fall season is one of my favorites – and Columbus Day Weekend is the perfect time to get away for a day or two and re-charge. Since Labor Day, we have been going non-stop with work, school and sports -- no complaining, but a slower change of pace was nice. 

The chill in the air means time for hiking, picking apples, sitting by the fire and visiting haunted houses. For weekend getaways I like to pack lots of layers for my boys and me. When the temperature dips I always start with my "woolies" (the Zepher by Ibex is my favorite) and then I add more layers from there.


Many people have an outdated understanding of wool and think wool = itch. Wool has come a long way since the seventies! The wool pieces I sell are soft, comfortable and warm without being bulky. You can start your morning wearing wool and it will still feel fresh by the time you’re sipping a hot toddy at the end of the day. Wool can keep you toasty if you’re picking apples, taking a run or just simply collecting firewood. It might be time to consider reintroducing yourself to wool. 

Shop Black Squirrel

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

This week I remind you to DO what you always say you’re going to do and Don’t Wait ‘til the Last Minute to buy holiday gifts for all. Those of you who are local in Westchester, shop the Holiday Spree Boutique at the Shenorock Shore Club in Rye, NY -- on Wednesday, Oct 7 and Thursday, Oct 8. Doors open at 9:30. 

Since living in Pelham I have gone to the show and shopped for many gifts for my family. I am now grateful to my friend Kristin Barsanti, who helped me secure a table for Black Squirrel Outfitters at this year's show.

Even though it is a holiday show, Black Squirrel’s shopping theme this year will be all about looking good on the sidelines (at football games, soccer games or otherwise.) 


New Tailorbyrd shirts have arrived just in time for fall; those coupled with the Ibex Scout, Shak, and new Rave down vest deliver supreme sideline style. From sideline to mainline -- all pieces are extremely versatile for the season.


I hope to see you at Shenorock, otherwise please call or email me to get a jump start on the season and let me help you find some great clothes. Remember my favorite aspect about working at Black Squirrel is connecting with all of you, and helping you find the right assortment for your lifestyle. 


I recently had the good fortune to help my friend, Melanie Tolan, and here is what she wants you to know: 


"Anne at Black Squirrel Outfitters has the innate ability to know what type of outerwear a family needs -- before they even KNOW they need it. The best part of working with her is that she does the legwork and presents you with options that always work. You can be confident in her selection -- and, she saves you time while making the whole family look good."

Stay in touch!

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