Don’t pass on these game-day fashions and no-fuss party mixes.
Schoolhouse frocks
After graduating from Duke University in 2007, Rachel Weeks headed to Sri Lanka as a Fulbright scholar. While she was there to research ethical manufacturing initiatives, Weeks started School House, a socially responsible collegiate fashion brand.
In 2011, Weeks brought her company back to North Carolina. Recently, Weeks was honored for her efforts when she made Inc. magazine’s “30 under 30” list of America’s young entrepreneurs.
Based in Durham, School House’s classic yet modern collection appeals to today’s college coeds. There are school spirit tights ($16) and an updated Oxford shirt dress ($130). But it is the sweaters ($90 to $110) that are fan favorites. So far this fall, the chic cardigan with the shawl collar is a best-seller.
Coming soon is the “Bluto Sweater,” inspired by John Belushi’s character in the 1978 movie “Animal House.” The 100 percent cotton letterman sweater will feature the iconic “COLLEGE” woven across the chest.
School House wear can be found at select campus bookstores and at the company’s new e-commerce site at www.shopschoolhouse.com.
P.S. On Nov. 1, School House debuts a new collection for University of Notre Dame fans.
Kickoff cocktails
After a late-night gig, John Glenn and Joe Good came up with a bloody mary mix — and an idea for a new business. In 2011, the childhood friends and band mates (of Fatter Then Albert) started Fat and Juicy in Charleston, S.C.
This smoky and spicy mix lives up to its name. It combines vine-ripe tomatoes and a mix of roasted vegetable puree, fresh horseradish, celery and garlic. The party-ready cocktail mix is $5.99 for a 32-ounce bottle.
Find it in the Atlanta area at Green’s Beverages and Total Wine & More stores. Learn more about the mix and find recipes at www.fatandjuicymix.com.
P.S. When it comes to bloody mary mixes, the South has other favorites, including Scales, also from the Charleston area, and Not Yo’ Mama’s from Dadeville, Ala.
Go-to khakis
Many Southern guys have a closet full of bow ties and polo shirts. They also have a good selection of well-worn or favorite khaki shorts and pants. For some, the go-to khakis for game day or any day are from Georgia-based Jack Donnelly.
In 2010, after two years of research, Gregg Donnelly started the company in Roswell and named it in honor of his grandfather. Donnelly, a graduate of Texas Christian University and a longtime khaki wearer, wants his company’s sturdy but soft khakis to set the standard.
“I have been wearing khakis my whole life,” said Atlanta’s Joe Ashkouti, an Auburn grad. “And these are easily the most comfortable … and best-fitting pair of khakis I have ever owned.”
The company’s best-seller is the flat front Dalton pant, but the British khaki is new for fall.
Made in the South, the 100 percent combed cotton pants ($92) are available in flat or pleated front and in colors of khaki, British khaki and stone. Shorts ($72), in flat or pleated front, feature two inseam lengths (7.5 and 9 inches). To order, visit www.jackdonnellykhakis.com.
Best of the South
Do you have favorite finds from around the South that you give as gifts, buy for your home or rave about to friends? If, so please share them with us. Send your suggestions to: ljerkins@bellsouth.net. In the subject line, write Southern Made. Include your name and a contact number.
