State Traditions

DERBY DAYS

From mint juleps to the Garland of the Roses to the rendition of "My Old Kentucky Home," the annual traditions of the Kentucky Derby have stood the test of time. Whether you are cheering on your favorite thoroughbreds from the clubhouse or from home, our Kentucky clothing and accessories, from bow ties to button downs, are a perfect match. One of our original designs, the Kentucky Traditional Polo, is a classic way to honor the "Greatest Two Minutes in Sports" on this year's Derby Day 141. This unique design also appears on our bow ties and ties. 

There is nothing quite like the annual iconic golf tradition that is The Masters. Lush green grass, colorful azaleas, and gorgeous dogwoods set the Augusta National Golf Club apart as a stunning backdrop for this time-honored and revered tournament.

Sunny spring weekends call for fun gear designed for any occasion. Whether your event requires your Easter Sunday best or more casual wear, State Traditions has an assortment of state-inspired options that fit the bill. 

Your summer just got easier. One of our favorite items to be released from our new Spring 2015 Collection is the Coastline Short. Built for sunny weather, these go-to shorts can stand up to any event you've got planned. Dress them up or down, they are made for spring weekends, long summer days, and early fall tailgates.

Nothing goes better than the beach and State Traditions. Whether you are cruising the Caribbean or a guest on the Gulf Coast, ST is perfect for every Spring Break hot spot. Our team's picks for what to pack include all you need for a memorable stay at the sandy shore. We've got ideas for guys and girls, whether you plan on soaking up the sun, getting in a round of golf, or going out with friends. Or all of the above on repeat--let's get real, it is Spring Break.

For Him:

State-inspired swim trunks are a must for a day watching the waves roll in. Pair with one of our tanks and visors and some flops, and you're set. (We chose Hari Mari.) Don't forget to throw some croakies in your luggage as well. (We're a fan of the Filson bag.) Got an afternoon of golf on the agenda? Pick up one our new Clubhouse Performance Polos from our Spring 2015 Collection. With their four-way stretch fabrication, these polos won't let you down no matter how hot the sun gets. And our new Coastline Shorts are one of our must-haves for the spring and summer. Available in Navy, Red, Slate Blue, Stone, and Yellow, these will soon be your favorite everyday go-to, from day to night. Be sure to stash a couple of koozies in your pockets. Add in one of our state-inspired belts, and you're done. To the beach!

For Her:

For a day lounging on the seashore with your girlfriends or taking a spin on a boat, all you really need is your favorite bikini, a cute bag to store your essentials (our new Crossbody Handbags are designed with an interior cell phone pocket and credit card sleeves--throw in your lip gloss, and you're good to go!), a tee or tank to cover up, and a bright hat for the sun. Be sure to steal one of your boyfriend's koozies, and get ready for some sunshine!

LUCK OF THE IRISH

Everyone's Irish on St. Patrick's Day, and it's no different here at State Traditions. We've got three sure-fire ways to make your March 17th even better.

1. Sport a Shamrock

Our Ireland-inspired t-shirt features both the Irish flag colors on the back and the must-have shamrock on the front for those looking to pay tribute to the age-old custom.

2. Don't Get Pinched

Go green with our t-shirt, hat or iPhone covers. You can proudly wear the Irish flag and colors on St. Patrick's Day and all year long.

3. Know an Irish Toast

Before taking your first sip of Guinness, don't forget to raise your glass to your friends with a traditional Irish cheers: Sláinte! 

The weather outside may still be frightful, but spring is not far away, bringing with it some of our favorite warm weather pastimes like baseball, golf, and sailing. ST's Timeless Traditions t-shirts feature iconic images of these popular pursuits. 

Pride in country is big here at ST. Whether honoring our nation's history or celebrating your love of the good ol' USA, State Traditions offers a way to wear your American pride from sea to shining sea. Our America Collection includes hats, t-shirts, swimwear, belts and more for all types of occasions, from the links to the office to the pool. 

And to fill your home with USA-inspired items, check out ST Market. With handcrafted items made right here in America, ST Market presents local purveyors of one-of-a-kind art and decor, such as handmade hat racks and carefully crafted string art, perfect for showcasing your American pride.

ALL THINGS PREP

Matt Watson and Stephen Glasgow, founders of Country Club Prep, first met when they found themselves in the same section at the University of Virginia School of Law. Both moved to Atlanta after school to practice in different law firms, but soon they hatched a new plan. “Let’s do something we enjoy and has a better outcome at the end of the tunnel,” explains Watson. After noticing they and their friends spent a lot of time going to different stores to get their favorite clothing, they decided to start an e-commerce one-stop-shop for all things preppy. “Our mission is to be the beginning of the conversation for preppy clothing,” says Watson. “If the customer wants a preppy hat or tie, he will start with us.”

They launched Country Club Prep out of Watson’s basement in March 2012, doing everything themselves, from basic web design to writing copy to customer service. Now, in just three short years, they have moved to their second warehouse and have almost 35 employees. In addition to its popular website, Country Club Prep launched two brick-and-mortar stores this past fall, one in homage to where it all began in Charlottesville, Virginia, and one in Lexington, Kentucky. Both stores have been well received so far, says Watson, largely in part to the great communities and the amazing teams they have there. They also have plans for a pop-up shop in the Hamptons this summer.

(Photo courtesy of Country Club Prep)

State Traditions has been a great fit for Country Club Prep as it sells nationwide. “State Traditions has a line that breaks through boundaries,” says Watson. “Everyone has an alma mater. State Traditions has been a great footprint for us and has reinforced our ties with some cities.”  Two of their top-selling State Traditions items are hats and belts. “It’s a great-looking hat and different from the regular logo hat…There’s an attraction because it’s a little more subtle,” explains Watson. “And the belt’s leather is nice, and it has a vibrant design. It’s an area where guys in particular are sick of just wearing a leather belt. They can rock that on campus.” And just like ST, Country Club Prep likes to focus on phenomenal customer service. “If you order by 4:00 pm, it’s shipping that day. When you’re approaching Country Club Prep, you are reaching us immediately. We are going to take care of you,” says Watson.

With plans in the works for a web redesign in 2015 as well as the potential of even more brick-and-mortar stores, Country Club Prep is full steam ahead to fulfilling its mission of becoming synonymous with all things prep.

Valentine's Day is almost here, and you know what that means. Chocolates, flowers, and only the best for the one you love. We have lots to shower your better half with here at State Traditions. Below are some of our suggestions so that you don't show up empty-handed.