Yesterday I went directly from the shop to a hunting lodge for a night of firearms festivities with my in-laws.

I didn’t have time to change my clothes and needed something that would transition easily from one environment to the next. As much as I love suiting, I’m not about to wear one out in the desert

The trick to pulling the transition off is by leaning a bit more casual with my shop attire and more dressed-up for the range. I find the Refined archetype makes the transition easiest for me.

Rather than a full suit with brogues, I opted for a navy jacket, OCBD, chinos, and desert boots (all of which are staples). I still wore a wool tie and textured pocket square to the shop, which kept the ensemble professional and appropriate while working with clients.

When it was time to head to the range, I simply ditched the jacket, tie, and square, undid the top two buttons of my shirt, and threw on a quilted vest

The shirt, pants, and boots – the primary items of my outfit anchored both looks and I changed the extras as I needed.

This is one of the big benefits of menswear having large roots in military history. The chinos and boots started off in rough environments and gradually became acceptable casual wear in more genteel circumstances.

Knowing how to transition effectively made my life much easier than having to dress inappropriately in one environment or the other, or than having to pack and entire change of clothes.

Understanding the origins of one’s clothing isn’t a must, but it certainly makes it easier to make your clothing work for you in trickier circumstances.

Lastly, if you have any interest in stylish firearms accessories, I strongly encourage you to check out Galco Gun Leather. They made the bag I’m holding I this shot, along with the other bags, cases, and holsters I use. Their quality is top notch and their team is even better.