Tucked in the southwest side of Chicago is the charming shop, Yearbook. Store owners, Jef & Noel, have created a unique collection of academic paraphernalia mixed with essential home goods. It’s almost like they walked into the movie set Dead Poets Society and took all the beautiful props. It’s meticulously merchandised in a way that you can’t help but be inspired to decorate your home with one of their products. I personally fell in love with their vintage collegiate selection. The framed yale flag, school house chairs, jacket pins, trophies…I wanted it all!

what’s one of your favorite shops that has inspired you lately?

– Nathan Michael

– all photographs by nathan michael

– keep up with nathan’s travels by following him on instagram.

Texas is known for a lot of things … big hats, bigger hair, tex mex, and too many pairs of cowboy boots. But home decor? Not till now.

I remember the first time I walked into Spartan … it was one of those experiences when I just wanted to roll out a sleeping bag & move in. from beautiful textiles, a unique selection of kitchen ware, and a plethora of quality-made personal accessories … they have it all. Next time you’re in Austin be sure to drop by. You won’t regret it. Until then, check out their online shop & pick up a few goodies.

– nathan michael

beautiful ceramic bells from mquan.

antler keychain designed by love jules. also! check out their custom made shoes here.

painted server from ladies & gentlemen.

the hunter scent from mcmc is intoxicating.

love these marie turnor picnic cluthes & inlaid wood wine key.

– all photographs by nathan michael

– keep up with nathan’s travels by following him on twitter, instagram & pinterest.

when i’m not hard at work, you’ll most likely find me exploring one of my favorite antique shops. this last month I visited Austin, Texas, and probably two of those weeks were spent in awe at Uncommon Objects. This whimsical shop located in SoCo is by far one of the best treasure chests I’ve laid my eyes on. So many beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you’re decorating your modern bungalow, cottage in the woods, or bohemian loft — this shop has something just for you. next time you’re in austin be sure to prepare by renting a u-hual. I promise, you won’t leave empty handed.

What’s one of your favorite shops for find those one-of-a-kind treasures?

– nathan michael

– keep up with nathan’s travels by following him on twitter.

austin is definitely a city that marches to the beat of their own drum … and that doesn’t stop with jo’s coffee.

best known for their “iced turbo” — this delicious, ice-cold coffee drink is like rocket fuel. it’s perfectly sweetened with a touch of mocha to cure even the harshest mid-day slump (or weekend hangover). the great thing is, it doesn’t stop there. bbq pulled pork? check. ice-cold brew? check. american spirits? check. adjacent to the san jose hotel? double check.  this is like the land of milk & honey when it comes to coffee shops. it doesn’t get much better than this people. next time you’re in the area, drop by & get your monthly quota of caffeine. you won’t be disappointed.

until next time,

– nathan michael

I’m a big fan of their tuna albacore sandwich. served with a twist on a lemon parsley aioli & capers.

in some ways, texas is like college … there’s always that one guy playing guitar that no one wants to listen to :)

* all photographs by nathan michael

– keep up with nathan’s travels by following him on twitter.

When it comes to the Windy City, Chicago is best known for its mile high, deep dish pizza & their irresistible hot dogs. Cubs fan anyone?

after living in the midwest for the last couple of years, I’ve realized Chicago holds its own in style too. Now, I’m not a fashion expert myself, so when I need insight on the latest apparel; I go to my buddy Brad over at Well Spent. A few weeks back, brad & i visited independence — a men’s store carrying only american-made goods. started by george vlagos (creator of oak street bootmakers), this shop is filled with a respectable selection of menswear. Featuring brands like: Imogene + Willie, Left Field NYC, Stanley & Sons, Apolis and Engineered Garments.

next time you’re in the chicago area, drop by & stock up on a few goodies.

until next time,

– nathan michael

tees  l  jeans  l  baseball cap  l  button down  l  oxfords

canvas & leather tote from makr.

Oak Street Bootmakers – Handcrafted in America.

red line selvedge greaser jeans from left field nyc.

* all photographs by nathan michael

– keep up with nathan’s travels by following him on twitter.

Tucked away in the Outer Sunset is the extremely charming, General Store. This curious little shop is carefully curated with well-made objects from local artisans & craftspeople from around the world. From colorful kitchen accessories to unique wall art, you are bound to find the perfect gift for a friend (or even yourself). in addition, the shopping pairs perfectly with a weekend brunch from Outerlands. If you visit, be sure to check out their backyard garden — it is simply beautiful. What is one of your favorite local shops?

until next time,

nathan michael

*all photos by nathan michael

There are antique stores your grandmother shops at & then there is The Perish Trust. This sophisticated shop has a refined sense of nostalgia … stacked with the perfect balance of basement-found antiques & collectables from modern day artists. They are currently showcasing a selection of Jessica Niello‘s work — it’s quite the spectacle. As if that isn’t enough, they are also the only showroom in San Francisco to carry the full collection of Warby Parker eyewear. Definitely a sight for soar eyes. Where do you visit to find those charming, one-of-a-kind objects?

nathan michael

*all photos snapped by nathan michael

typically, when I think of texas, I imagine: cowboy hats, ranches & miniature ponies; not a dreamy bohemian hotel. That’s what I love about austin though … The city’s eclectic vibe is always pushing things to the limit. I fell upon Hotel San José when I was visiting my sister last year.  It is one of those experiences where you feel like you’re hooked up to an i.v. full of love-drugs the whole time. truly surreal. with 40 custom designed rooms, you are bound to find the perfect place to hang your hat. plus, they even stock their mini-bars with read-to-make salsa kits! it doesn’t get much better than that. don’t think you can handle the texas heat? no worries–they have a pool ready for you to take a dip whenever your heart desires.

For those of you who are thinking about booking for next year’s SXSW, the waiting list opens May 1st & they start booking June 1st. So, get on it…They will fill up fast.

Until next time,

nathan michael

*all photos by nathan michael

Howdy Ya’ll – If you can’t tell, I’m writing with an accent. Eh hem. (think Johnny Cash)

Like the old saying: It don’t take a genius to spot a goat in a flock of sheep … The same thing could be said about Welcome Stranger. This new shop features some of the finest goods south of the mississippi in San Francisco. Including proper menswear from Gant, Barbour, Filson, Saturday NYC & Fjall Raven. if you’re in the area be sure to drop by and take a gander. you’ll go hog wild.

until next time, nathan michael

flask  l  spike cuff  l  bar of soap l  molar cuff  l  Handkerchief  l  cologne

•photos by nathan michael

Outerlands is a restaurant committed to doing things right. With a focus on collaborating with local organic farms & specialty food purveyors–they have created a menu full of delicious dishes. If you’re anything like me … you do brunch often. And let me tell you friends, Outerlands, will make you cry sweet little tears of joy. It’s just that good.

A few recommendations:

Brunch: Eggs in Jail or Dutch Pancakes w/ Ginger Lemon Apple Cider. All good. All the time.

Lunch: Beet & Farro Salad or Grilled Cheese Sandwich. Go Cheese … trust me.

Dinner: Confit Duck Leg w/ Fingerling Potatoes. crazy good.

Cheers to life well lived,

Nathan Michael