Ask Chris Black: What’s a Good Throw Blanket to Flex My Taste and Keep Me Warm?

By,a style columnist at the Strategist since 2019.He is also a co-host of ‘How Long Gone’ and the founder of Done To Death Projects.
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If you’re looking for the most powerfulhair dryeror the handiestchef’s knife, those things can be easy enough to find. Other objects of desire are a little more taste-based. What’s the next statuswater bottleorhand wash, for instance? Chris Black (he’s a partner at brand consultancyPublic Announcement) is here to help, in the form ofa regular column. If you have a burning question about the next fanny pack or Noah rugby shirt, drop us an email with the subject line “Ask Chris” at strategist@nymag.com.

With the temperature cooling, I’m looking to invest in a newthrow blanketfor my couch. Have any recommendations for a (roughly) $300 budget?

I assume you keep your Hermès cashmereblanketson the PJ? You want somethinga little more casualfor your home — I get it!

Parachute Windowpane Alpaca Throw
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Parachute does one in a fluffy windowpane alpaca that is quite appealing. Warm, cozy, and very well-priced.

Missoni Sigmund Knit Throw
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The rest of my picks are a bit above your price range, but when has this column ever been about sticking to a budget?. This black-and-white lattice-inspired wool throw from Missoni will look great tossed casually on your vintage Ligne Roset microfiber Togo (or anysofa). It’s art that keeps you warm.*Chef’s kiss*

Barneys New York Double-Faced Cashmere Throw
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The double-faced cashmere throw from Barney’s in-house brand also really speaks to me. The bright yellow will keep things cheerful in the gloomy winter months. It’s the color of the sun!

Loro Piana Unito Fleecy Cashmere Throw
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And I have to include something from Loro Piana. [Future voice]: How could I not?! Nothing is more luxurious than gray cashmere. This will makewatching Bill Maheron Friday nights much more comfortable.

You gave some greatsockpicks to last week’scolor-curious reader. Wondering if you could suggest a few more stylish fall/winter pairs in more neutral/understated palettes?

As a knownloafer enthusiast, I don’t wear socks during the warmer months; I just find that it ~kills~ my look. But with temperatures dropping, it’s time to wrap your lower extremities in luxurious fabrics.

Charvet Ribbed Cotton Socks
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A ribbed cotton pair from Charvet in a seasonally appropriate shade of Army green would work well with almost any outfit.

Anonymous Ism Three-pack Mélange Knitted Socks
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If you want understated, this triofrom Japan’ssock gods Anonymous Ism should do the trick. Three different shades of gray to complement all of your introspective fall moods.

Kapital Smiley Leopard-Jacquard Cotton-Blend Socks
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I know you asked for understated, but I would be remiss if I didn’t share this incredible leopard pair from Kapital (leopard, for some,is a neutralafter all). The heel features the brand’s signature smiley face, which I find incredibly charming. I actually have a few pairs, and honestly, the secret smiley puts some pep in my step!

Corgi Men’s Luxury Hand Knitted Cable Pure Cashmere Socks
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Nothing says pure luxury like a handmade pair of cashmere socks from Wales. This cable-knit version fromCorgi— which suppliesmembers of the royal familywith their socks — comes in a plethora of colors in addition to this neutral oatmeal, and is meant to be worn around the (country) house. Snuggle up by the fire with a cup of tea and the newest episode ofBelow Deck. Pure bliss.

I just had to start wearing glasses recently. I want to look stylish, but feel overwhelmed by the options, so I would love to see a rundown of the most important eyeglasses for right now and 2020, as well as where to get them.

Welcome the Four Eyes Club™. My name is Chris, I will be your guide. I have worn glasses since I was in middle school, I have years and years of relevant experience. You are in good hands.

Cutler and Gross 1313-02 Crystal Optical Glasses
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I am loyal toCutler and Gross. The customer service at the New York location on Mercer Street is second to none, and the product is outstanding. To start, maybe you want to try something round and clear — a statement, but not a crazy one. The 1313-02 Crystal would work. It’s a modern look that says, “Yes, I am actuallyan architect.”

Moscot Telena
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Moscot is another brand I have a soft spot for. Family-owned, steeped in history, and they make a great spectacle! The Telena is a new shape that looks very cool in classic tortoiseshell. It’s a little bold, but will give you the “professor who wears old Celine” look that you desperately crave.

Matsuda Silver Titanium 10189H Glasses
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The fully round wire-frame look is SO CHIC. My head is too big to pull it off, but it looks great on most people. This pair from Japanese brand Matsuda is perfectly delicate and will inspire you to read a tattered copy ofSlaughterhouse Fivefireside in the Bowery Hotel lobby. Perfection. If you like the look but want to spend less, Moscot alsomakes a round wire-frame pairthat’s only $320.

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