Here’s Monday’s Burberry show in London, a terrific presentation by Christopher Bailey. There is a small dose of menswear, with 7 looks included. Burberry is the undisputed leader in utilizing the internet to promote itself and the production of this massive and sometimes plodding show (is it the music?) brings up memories of the Victoria Secret spectacle, complete with shots of front row celebrities and special effects, including simulated rain for the finale. But you have to wonder if there is a breaking point and whether or not bigger is always better. The editors in attendance are only halfway there, after over 200 shows in New York, and more than 70 slated for Milan. Massive fashion shows may be a relic in 5 years.

Michael Pitt stars in the new Prada campaign rolling out this week across the bigger March issues. Shot by photographer David Sims, the images are designed to look like portraits from the 1950′s. They work seamlessly with the women’s campaign and it’s good to see Pitt recast as a bright-eyed, young heart throb after his self destructive turn in Boardwalk Empire.

Another perfect short film from Prada for the women’s spring collection.

David McCullough is a Pulitzer Prize winning American historian who’s books are required reading, especially on President’s Day. He deftly captures the greatest moments and leaders in our nation’s history; quite remarkably, while still using a vintage “Royal” typewriter. Reading non-fiction history can be a laborious task, but not with McCullough, a compelling storyteller. Read one book, and the rest will follow. Begin with 1776, the story of George Washington, his followers and the year of American independence. His other notable books on the New York Times Best Seller List include:  John Adams, Mornings on Horseback & Truman.

Take a cue from one of the best dressed presidents in history who knew how to relax in style. The Kennedy’s perfected the effortless, windswept weekend look. But if you cared to notice, there was no questioning their immense wealth and hold on the American aristocracy: inexpensive khaki’s – worn on a luxury yacht, a frayed polo – hanging from the clothes line at the family compound. If only it were so easy for the rest of us. But don’t despair if you haven’t yet secured your place at the local yacht club, you can at least feel iconic by simply adding classic American sportswear essentials to your wardrobe this spring. And conveniently, they’re all available at Steven Alan, one of the best online shopping resources for men:

WEEKEND PRESIDENTIAL
Levi’s 1950′s crew sweatshirt, $165. The stitch detailing on the front collar gives this sweatshirt a collegiate look and sets it apart from more basic crews. Super Future “People” sunglasses in dark Havana, $163. Made in Italy, they carry a little more swagger than the Wayfarer’s JFK favored. Steven Alan military chino, $198. “Chino” is a twill cloth, typically 100% cotton. It will hold up well for badminton, as it traces it’s roots to mid-19th century British and French military wear. Sunspel royal blue polo, $130. Amazingly Sunspel has been around since 1860 so durability is never a question. Bold color often looks best layered – at just the collar and along the waist. Volley International tennis sneakers, $48. Volley’s are hard to find in the U.S. and are one of the most comfortable, and ridiculously affordable sneakers around, straight from Australia.