tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1528362041289389762024-02-06T18:50:04.561-08:00THE SIGNIFICANT OTHER<strong><a href="http://thesigother.com">_____________________GO TO THE NEW THESIGOTHER.COM______________________</a></strong>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-58807890528852685272011-12-12T11:16:00.000-08:002011-12-12T11:16:00.434-08:00***THE SIG OTHER HAS MOVED***<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thesigother.com/"><img border="0" height="433" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oiAOfQTq5Tg/TuZD9iYah2I/AAAAAAAAAew/JAw3dkz99lQ/s640/Screen+Shot+2011-12-12+at+1.10.20+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dear readers and visitors, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks for reading and visiting! - Marisa</span></div>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-83645055088223226612011-12-06T07:41:00.001-08:002011-12-06T08:58:16.121-08:00PHOTOS | POP UP FLEA 2011<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGa8r38nEJgCGrQ9IlwZ6hGpO1vcA1ZvkLKI-xH8MQmwSPqqd4fpbtj2eNRfOKZyYuD8pAvQD4KAjx6wF3XvgGedtToUT-jiS-xJ7-LJH-j9Dg2tB_dJHuDKjWtroMHMRl6GYicuL3Wh4/s1600/popup2011-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGa8r38nEJgCGrQ9IlwZ6hGpO1vcA1ZvkLKI-xH8MQmwSPqqd4fpbtj2eNRfOKZyYuD8pAvQD4KAjx6wF3XvgGedtToUT-jiS-xJ7-LJH-j9Dg2tB_dJHuDKjWtroMHMRl6GYicuL3Wh4/s640/popup2011-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pierrepont Hicks</td></tr>
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I'll admit, I went to the <a href="http://www.popupflea.com/">Pop Up Flea</a> this weekend with full intentions of doing an overly ambitious, grandiose photo essay. Instead I showed up post-Sierra Nevada and a slice (courtesy Artichoke pizza), and ended up shooting the shit with some of my favorite American craftsmen, bloggers and people. This of course meant photos took a back seat to shaking many hands and generally having a great time - absolutely no regrets. Still, I thought I'd share what I did end up shooting. Quickly though, here are some of the booths that impressed me this year:<br />
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<a href="http://www.billykirk.com/">Billy Kirk</a> // <a href="http://olch.com/">Alexander Olch</a> //<a href="http://www.gitmanvintage.com/"> GitmanVintage</a> // <a href="http://www.hickorees.com/">Hickorees</a> // <a href="http://hodinkee.cm/">Hodinkee</a> // <a href="http://danner.com/">Danner Boots</a> // <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/woodensleepers">Wooden Sleepers</a> // <a href="http://oakstreetbootmakers.com/">Oak Street Bootmkers</a> // <a href="http://www.smithbutler.com/">Smith + Butler </a>// <a href="http://www.terrapinstationers.com/">Terrapin Stationers</a> // <a href="http://www.rancourtandcompany.com/">Rancourt & Co</a><br />
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No better time to buy American than the holiday season! - M<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6466361905_027d089246_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6466361905_027d089246_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Collars and Patterns</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6466355331_406c685230_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6466355331_406c685230_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#america</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6466356101_c120bd818c_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6466356101_c120bd818c_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gitman Vintage</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6466366961_20e08df484_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6466366961_20e08df484_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hodinkee Booth</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7174/6466365681_c0c52b8231_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7174/6466365681_c0c52b8231_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hodinkee</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6466362525_2a3be07ff1_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6466362525_2a3be07ff1_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gant Rugger Pop Over (aka my favorite garment ever) caught in the wild</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6466369549_0204394814_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6466369549_0204394814_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scene outside</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6466368859_22a13c1f28_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6466368859_22a13c1f28_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wax-wane.com/">Jake's </a>Wolverine 1000 Miles and <a href="http://www.tuckedstyle.com/">Justin's</a> Oxblood Pony Hair Doc Martens</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7148/6466368109_001c11ec6b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7148/6466368109_001c11ec6b_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bloggers papping bloggers papping bloggers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6466360463_6679ef064a_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6466360463_6679ef064a_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dapperdemeanor.com/">Mister CB</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6466370269_95a0226039_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6466370269_95a0226039_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://youhavebrokentheinternet.blogspot.com/">Ryan Plett</a> in situ</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7144/6466367475_f80c6ea510_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7144/6466367475_f80c6ea510_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Token pocket square moment</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>More photos over on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/64354707@N05/sets/72157628306319835/">Flickr</a></li>
<li>Flash back to <a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2010/11/photos-pop-up-shots.html">last year's flea</a></li>
</ul>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-69913852115461025842011-11-16T07:18:00.000-08:002011-11-22T18:32:37.544-08:00SPECIAL EDITION | THE SIG OTHER x GRAHAM WITHERS Pt. II<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6035/6345952405_3b18ce91b7_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6035/6345952405_3b18ce91b7_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2011/10/special-edition-sig-other-x-graham.html">In the introductory post of this two part series</a> </b>I highlighted the finished product of my collaboration with Graham Withers and, as promised, in part two we'll take a look into the tie making process.<br />
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The ties being sold at <a href="http://grahamwithersclothing.com/">Graham Withers</a> are hand crafted in NYC by a legend of the tie making circuit who's been in the industry for 40 years and makes ties for the likes of Thom Browne. He's such a secret weapon that when asked to reveal his identity, Paul would only disclose that the craftsman operates out of Chelsea. He hand stitches everything save the slip stitch - that runs the length of the back of a tie - which is sewn by a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGtcvgSImvA">Liba machine</a>, (Paul adds "the quality of the Liba machine stitch vs handmade slip stitch is negligible).<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6113/6345951357_07507d4663_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6113/6345951357_07507d4663_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fabric: a worsted English wool tartan in a deep navy and russet stripe. The tipping is 100% cashmere</td></tr>
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Before Paul and Dave handed over manufacturing to their best kept secret, they handmade everything themselves at the factory that is the home base for Paul's family business in Long Island City. <b> </b>They're entirely self taught and a few weeks ago, I rode out the factory with them to document their tag team process as they hand made <b><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/collection_item.php?id=6&type=necktie">a Zupan tie</a></b> from start to finish.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-begIxpYABY4/TsIBDkENIJI/AAAAAAAAAeE/VusTxGtQ3fQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-15+at+1.04.23+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="143" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-begIxpYABY4/TsIBDkENIJI/AAAAAAAAAeE/VusTxGtQ3fQ/s640/Screen+shot+2011-11-15+at+1.04.23+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutting the wool from the pattern.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6047/6346002985_3ea9221966_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6047/6346002985_3ea9221966_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul placing the tipping at the front end of the tie.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6102/6346753638_ab15eb8265_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6102/6346753638_ab15eb8265_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stitching the tipping in place</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6237/6346755426_e719186e53_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6237/6346755426_e719186e53_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul sews the two ends of the tie together in the workshop at his family's factory</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUNc9XThkec/TsIF19BiGeI/AAAAAAAAAec/5Q_mT1ne9cw/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-15+at+1.24.52+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUNc9XThkec/TsIF19BiGeI/AAAAAAAAAec/5Q_mT1ne9cw/s640/Screen+shot+2011-11-15+at+1.24.52+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sewing machine they use was once owned by a handy man who worked with the family business</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6091/6346754714_7c2225acef_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6091/6346754714_7c2225acef_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front and the back of the tie are joined</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6230/6346756914_0f5c2ac8b0_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6230/6346756914_0f5c2ac8b0_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sewing in the tipping</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BrORks77S5c/TsIIv-j-8iI/AAAAAAAAAek/ySrR46wv9ZY/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-15+at+1.36.56+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BrORks77S5c/TsIIv-j-8iI/AAAAAAAAAek/ySrR46wv9ZY/s640/Screen+shot+2011-11-15+at+1.36.56+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the point complete, the tie begins to take shape.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6212/6346756692_3fb02ca851_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6212/6346756692_3fb02ca851_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul (seated) and Dave together in the workshop</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBinjN2nIqfM3cciD3Z-meZHCz23mD5rQ2hUAKJ6LBJL_-HuU3eFnxCHwH62_wFb-WmaHHneg_cdbdAEEk_FtvK1V1UIyvlHmKI6QnFTlD3tKz92V0SeaG6S0aEij4EMkrfAUa4YU2duO/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-15+at+12.22.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBinjN2nIqfM3cciD3Z-meZHCz23mD5rQ2hUAKJ6LBJL_-HuU3eFnxCHwH62_wFb-WmaHHneg_cdbdAEEk_FtvK1V1UIyvlHmKI6QnFTlD3tKz92V0SeaG6S0aEij4EMkrfAUa4YU2duO/s640/Screen+shot+2011-11-15+at+12.22.39+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adding the core of the tie and folding the edges in.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6113/6346758824_fec1fb618b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6113/6346758824_fec1fb618b_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The skinny end of the tie is pinned into place</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6103/6346759814_d790e5334d_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6103/6346759814_d790e5334d_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The (nearly) finished product</td></tr>
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At this stage the slip stitch is hand sewn, which takes about an hour. The entire process took about two hours, and it was an incredible experience to watch these work together and this product come to life. See the full range of photos from the day <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/64354707@N05/sets/72157628006572701/">over at my Flickr</a>. Huge thanks to both Paul and Dave for letting me be a fly on the wall while they work their magic. - M<br />
<br />
<i>Related Links</i><br />
<ul>
<li><i><a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2011/10/special-edition-sig-other-x-graham.html">SPECIAL EDITION | THE SIG OTHER x GRAHAM WITHERS Pt. I</a></i></li>
<li><i><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/64354707@N05/sets/72157628006572701/">More photos on Flickr </a></i></li>
<li><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/collection_item.php?id=6&type=necktie">Purchase The Zupan Tie at Graham Withers</a></li>
</ul>
<br />Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-57639390031363453412011-10-30T21:57:00.000-07:002011-10-31T07:10:11.736-07:00SPECIAL EDITION | THE SIG OTHER x GRAHAM WITHERS Pt. I<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQZhQDiv09I/Tq3wD6IQ6uI/AAAAAAAAAcE/c_UcOQd4i-4/s1600/GWJake-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQZhQDiv09I/Tq3wD6IQ6uI/AAAAAAAAAcE/c_UcOQd4i-4/s640/GWJake-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Last February, Paul and Dave, the gents of <a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/">Graham Withers</a>, asked me to collaborate with them on a tie for Fall. Nine months later, I'm excited to announce that we've released our collaborative effort and I could not be more thrilled with the result. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1819408270" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R6o8Q8LOQbA/Tq4NzICU6VI/AAAAAAAAAd0/z13EzmqlWGU/s640/Screen+shot+2011-10-30+at+10.53.36+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/collection_item.php?id=6&type=necktie"><b><span style="font-size: small;">$84 at grahamwithersclothing.com & other stockists in the US</span></b></a></td></tr>
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The final product is 2.5 inches wide made from an English wool tartan in a deep navy and russet stripe with cashmere tipping. The fabrics were sourced from the veritable <a href="http://www.tiptopfabrics.com/">Tip Top Fabrics in Greenpoint, Brooklyn</a>, (which is nothing short of a candy store). I handed them off to Graham Withers in August who took the reigns in design, production and product photography, (which was executed by the incredibly talented <a href="http://virile.4ormat.com/">Joshua Woods)</a>. <br />
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My original intention was to create a piece that was as original as it was distinctive. So, this weekend I ventured to Red Hook, Brooklyn with a
patient and willing friend and my Pentax for a test run. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bTlhyxDhZ3Q/Tq4GnZLPpkI/AAAAAAAAAdc/UymD1C1ASj8/s1600/GWJakeAdjust2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bTlhyxDhZ3Q/Tq4GnZLPpkI/AAAAAAAAAdc/UymD1C1ASj8/s640/GWJakeAdjust2-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pictured: <a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/collection_item.php?id=6&type=necktie">Zupan Tie by Graham Withers</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/844338/Crosby_Oxford">Crosby Button Down by Saturdays NYC</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://svpply.com/item/193521/Woolrich_Woolen_Mills_Woodsman">Woodsman Shirt by Woolrich Woolen Mills</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/937203/Needles_Waxed_Army_Shirt_Jacket">Waxed Camo Jacket by Needles</a></span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_euNAbdRpY/Tq4M6GI67qI/AAAAAAAAAds/B_jMtLAn7ZE/s1600/GWJake-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_euNAbdRpY/Tq4M6GI67qI/AAAAAAAAAds/B_jMtLAn7ZE/s640/GWJake-9.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPMpNtBKZh8/Tq4BENxEIyI/AAAAAAAAAc8/YIbtiwYFHME/s1600/GWJakeAdjust-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPMpNtBKZh8/Tq4BENxEIyI/AAAAAAAAAc8/YIbtiwYFHME/s640/GWJakeAdjust-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_pfwuuxmrg/Tq4po9LIJuI/AAAAAAAAAd8/SQriq5AwCR8/s1600/GWJake-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_pfwuuxmrg/Tq4po9LIJuI/AAAAAAAAAd8/SQriq5AwCR8/s640/GWJake-16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i> </i> </div>
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This is is the first of two posts, the second of which will
document production and take us to the Long Island location where Dave
and Paul make tie magic happen. Stay tuned and by all means, I'd love to hear your thoughts and questions. - M</div>
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<i>**Editor's Note** I can say with all honesty this has been one of the more rewarding experiences in my life, and it
could not have been possible without the support of a great many
including: Dave and Paul, for being the amazing partners, friends, and craftsmen that
they are, </i><i><a href="http://jonathanevans.tumblr.com/">Jonathan Evans</a> who's got a <a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/collection_item.php?id=2&type=necktie">Graham Withers tie of his own</a>,</i><i> <a href="http://virile.4ormat.com/">Joshua Woods</a>, </i><i><a href="http://twitter.com/ridlej">Johnny Ridley</a>, </i><i><a href="http://twitter.com/americangrain">Daniel Edmundson</a>, <a href="http://waxwane.tumblr.com/">Jake Gallagher</a>, <a href="http://bklyndrygoods.com/">Jahn Hall</a>, the amazing staff at Tip Top Fabrics and </i><i> my Mother, Patricia Zupan.</i></div>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-63380640656538631552011-09-10T19:30:00.000-07:002011-09-12T15:44:12.780-07:00PHOTOS | TWO WEEKS OF DETAILS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6167/6133314902_12e4372282_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6167/6133314902_12e4372282_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Tommy Hilfiger S/S 2012 show</td></tr>
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<br />
Two weeks ago I bought my first real camera in about a decade. It's a Pentax K20D, sold to me by one <a href="http://gaws.fr/">Mr. Liam Gaws</a>. I am thrilled to have it. I had been feeling ill equipped for too long - every day seeing things I wanted to capture for this very space, and with no means to do so. Since it arrived, the camera has barely left my face. I'm just getting warmed up again after a five year photo hiatus (I did some artsy fartsy stuff in college) but my life has already benefitted and hopefully this blog will too. Here are some of the menswear focused shots thus far. And you can see all the rest on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/64354707@N05/">Flickr</a>. Many thanks to the aforementioned <a href="http://gaws.fr/">Liam Gaws</a>, the wonderful <a href="http://blog.justinchungphotography.com/">Justin Chung</a> and the patient <a href="http://twitter.com/ridlej">Johnny Ridley</a> for their continuing mentorship on this front. - M<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6072/6134114663_fe2f9bd7c2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6072/6134114663_fe2f9bd7c2_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beer Money</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6160/6134115451_16f45752ba_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6160/6134115451_16f45752ba_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noah</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julio</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6168/6134323063_cbed85e397_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6168/6134323063_cbed85e397_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dating bikes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6153/6134309187_bce3440150_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6153/6134309187_bce3440150_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jess' shirt</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6071/6134773846_a497af7f96_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6071/6134773846_a497af7f96_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tattoo picnic</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6186/6134220405_7aef593ccb_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6186/6134220405_7aef593ccb_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandpa ties</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6068/6134104831_f0d14880e8_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6068/6134104831_f0d14880e8_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Porkslap</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hats. Fan.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6176/6134654152_443afa2bbc_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6176/6134654152_443afa2bbc_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gabe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6081/6134652540_07ba163725_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6081/6134652540_07ba163725_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James</td></tr>
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<a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6201/6134859774_e31a893417_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6201/6134859774_e31a893417_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tecateeeeee</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6063/6134229861_66bb12eeda_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6063/6134229861_66bb12eeda_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graeme's Tretorns</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6206/6134235743_36301b104c_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6206/6134235743_36301b104c_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Jian</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Danger.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Allan, designer at <a href="http://svpply.com/">Svpply.</a></td></tr>
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Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-38255466376328454272011-09-05T17:49:00.000-07:002011-09-05T20:02:50.621-07:00SPECIAL EDITION | FOR THE NEW PROFESSIONALS<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HN5Xvynlrvc/TmUAiD8KZ5I/AAAAAAAAAbw/sh7ZSrdRuXU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-04+at+5.52.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="498" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HN5Xvynlrvc/TmUAiD8KZ5I/AAAAAAAAAbw/sh7ZSrdRuXU/s640/Screen+shot+2011-09-04+at+5.52.49+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tee, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/661190/Richmond__Tops__Mens__Products">Brixton</a> // Shirt, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/196038/Gitman_Bros_Dress_Shirts_Blue_Oxford">Gitman Vintage</a> // Blazer, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/415870/AcneUnstructured_Cotton_BlazerMR">Acne</a> // Belt, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/761467/Unfinished_Bridle_Leather_Single">Epaulet</a> // Bag, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/40407/Archival_Clothing_Archival_Update">Archival</a> // <br />
Jeans, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/768970/Rooney__Tack_Slim_Selvedge_Jeans">Levi's Made & Crafted</a> // Shoes, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/417503/Nylite_Canvas_Mens_Tennis_Shoes">Tretorn</a> // Hat, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/166079/Supreme">Supreme</a></td></tr>
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I recently took a job with <a href="http://svpply.com/">Svpply</a>, a startup in NYC. I've written about Svpply <a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/search/label/A%20Week%27s%20Svpply">previously</a> - it's a fantastic company filled with fantastic people. Last week, one of our co-founders, <a href="http://zachklein.com/">Zach Klein</a>, pointed me to <a href="http://www.quora.com/What-can-a-man-wear-in-Silicon-Valley-business-circles-to-be-impeccably-dressed-without-being-overly-formal?srid=uK">this question on Quora</a>: "What can a man wear in Silicon Valley business circles to be impeccably dressed with out being overly formal?"<br />
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While I've never been to Silicon Valley, the underlying anxiety here is something that I've seen nag at men in the creative fields everywhere. In six years, I've gone from <a href="http://anomaly.com/">small ad shop</a>, to <a href="http://undercurrent.com/">digital strategy firm</a>, to <a href="http://svpply.com/">start-up</a>, all of them companies founded one way or another on the idea of doing something unprecedented. <b>The normal sartorial rules of the workplace are irrelevant here, so what's a guy to do when there's no suit and tie to fall back on? </b> Taking from my experience of working with whole cast of entrepreneurs/creatives/internet-makers, here are a few things I'd suggest:<br />
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</i>1. Fit, Quality, Comfort...and Utility</b><br />
First of all, no matter what, dressing well is built around fit, quality comfort and (in this case) utility. It is a complete waste of money to buy things that do not fit you, that are not made well that are uncomfortable or serve no functional purpose. Do not buy anything that does not check these boxes, you will regret it. (Also, <i>functional</i> does not mean sports/workout gear. Mesh shorts, like sweat bands, are only considered functional in the gym).<i> </i><br />
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<b>2. Invest (really invest) in a bag.</b><br />
This is the most important item you own - you use it every single day so it needs to be as useful and durable as possible. Beware the messenger bag. They can be sloppy and bad for your back. Go with a tote or an informal briefcase. A good backpack is completely acceptable as long as you cannot imagine a high school kid wearing it. <i><br />
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<i>Suggestions: <a href="http://www.jwhulmeco.com/">J.W. Hulme</a>, <a href="http://store.archivalclothing.com/">Archival</a> (above), <a href="http://www.filson.com/luggage/everyday/-1013/">Filson</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/kelty">Kelty</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/store/skinnyvinny.bigcartel.com">Skinny Vinny</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/billy%20kirk">Billy Kirk</a>, <a href="http://shop.millscanvas.com/TheOfficeBag.html">Wm. J Mills & Co</a></i><br />
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<b>3. Three pairs of shoes will go a long, long way.</b><br />
One pair canvas, one pair leather and one pair boots. Formal shoes aren't a must, but no matter what, each pair should look as good with jeans and a T-shirt as they do with chinos and a blazer.<br />
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<i>Canvas: <a href="http://svpply.com/item/35369/T56_Canvas__Tretorn">Tretorn</a> (above), <a href="http://svpply.com/item/32873/Converse_Jack_Purcell_Fall_2010">Converse</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/zuriick/only/shoes">Zuriick</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/56342/Vans_Black_Rata_Vulcanized_Sneaker">Vans</a> // Leather: <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/epaulet/only/shoes">Epaulet</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/alden">Alden</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/common%20projects/only/shoes">Common Projects</a> // Boots: <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/wolverine/only/shoes">Wolverine</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/red%20wing/only/shoes">Red Wing</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/ll%20bean/only/shoes">L.L Bean </a></i><br />
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<b>4. One blazer. Uno. Ichi. Eins.</b><br />
For those rarest of occasions, or if you feel like being spiffy, just one will do. Navy or grey but I advise against black as it can be too formal. I'd say an unstructured blazer (like above) will get you far. <br />
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<i>Suggestions: </i><a href="http://svpply.com/item/768816/Oliver_Spencer__Travel_Jacket_Sultan">Oliver Spencer</a><i>, </i><i><a href="http://svpply.com/item/665697/GANT__Hopsak_Blazer">Gant,</a></i><i> <a href="http://svpply.com/item/768947/Ludlow_twobutton_blazer">J.Crew</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/760790/YUKON_BLAZER__Steven_Alan">Steven Alan</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/item/768822/Need_Supply_Co__General_Assembly">General Assembly,</a></i><i> <a href="http://svpply.com/item/415870/AcneUnstructured_Cotton_BlazerMR">Acne</a> (above)</i><br />
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<b>5. Graduate from (just) T-shirts.</b><br />
Basic tees are important. About ten plain shirts in a combination of black, white and gray should do it. On top of that, it is ok to keep your old ones with sports teams or bands on them - that's charming and cool in a kind of Street way, but do supplement with about five button downs<u>.</u> I suggest a range - a couple solids, a couple patterns, in varying weights and at least one white. <br />
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<i>Suggestions: <a href="http://gant.com/">Gant</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/gitman%20vintage">Gitman Brothers Vintage</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/woolrich%20woolen%20shirt/only/male">WWM</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/thom%20browne%20shirts">Thom Browne</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/ralph%20lauren%20shirts">Ralph Lauren</a></i><br />
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6. Half of your pants collection should be exceptionally high quality.</b><br />
Pants get the biggest beating. Half of them should be able to last through the apocalypse and fit slim (i.e. do not puddle around your ankles or sag in the butt). Pants that look good and last for years are worth every penny. Plus, everyone loves a guy in five year old jeans. Means he's crafty and dedicated.<br />
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<i>Denim: <a href="http://needsupply.com/mens/brands/tellason">Tellason</a>, <a href="http://needsupply.com/mens/brands/raleigh-denim">Raleigh</a>, <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/apc%20jeans">APC</a>, <a href="http://www.parkandbond.com/clothing/denim?category=clothing&subcategory=denim&count=24&designer=levis-made-crafted">Levi's</a> (above), <a href="http://www.nudiejeans.com/">Nudie</a>, <a href="http://www.rogueterritory.com/store/">Rogue Territory </a>// Non-Denim: <a href="http://bonobos.com/">Bonobos</a>, <a href="http://epauletshop.com/">Epaulet</a>, <a href="http://outlier.cc/">Outlier</a>, <a href="http://dockers.com/">Dockers</a></i><br />
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7. Hang on to your North Face, but have at least two other options.</b><br />
In my experience entrepreneurs tend to be outdoors-men, (aspiring or otherwise), so waterproof/outdoorsy jackets are fine and necessary. That said, make sure you have others that are not made for mountain scaling as you do not need to scale mountains while in the office<i>.</i><br />
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<i>Outdoorsy: for when you need to be all active outside. <a href="http://svpply.com/item/139646/Aether__Collection__categoryNameSHELLS"> Like this one.</a></i><br />
<i>Light jacket: not denim and can fit a sweater under it.<a href="http://svpply.com/item/366456/Norse_X_Oi_Polloi__Norse_Projects"> Like this one.</a><br />
Heavy jacket: should keep you warm. I suggest wool. <a href="http://svpply.com/item/148527/Canada_Goose_Constable_Parka_Graphite">Like this one</a> or <a href="http://svpply.com/item/64121/Mens_Navy_Pea_Coat__Schott_Naval">this one.</a></i><br />
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<b>8. Rule of four layers</b><br />
Thinking in layers helps you understand how many pieces you need/want. The idea is you need (roughly) one layer for Summer, two for Spring, three for Fall, four for Winter. Like so:<br />
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One Shirt (Tee or button down) = <span style="background-color: white;">Summer</span><br />
Tee + (Button down or jacket) = Spring<br />
Tee + Button down + (Jacket or Sweater) = Fall<br />
Tee + Button down + Sweater + Jacket = Winter</blockquote>
With ten basic tees, five button downs, three or four sweaters and three jackets you can start to see how your options multiply. (Bonus points if you write a program that will create those combinations for you).<br />
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Tips on sweaters: go with merino wool, cashmere, cotton or a blend. No synthetics - they make you sweaty and don't actually keep you warm. I like ones like <a href="http://svpply.com/item/702710/Our_Legacy_Boiled_Crew_Neck_Knit">this</a> and <a href="http://svpply.com/item/729755/Woolrich_East_Base_Henley__Woolrich">this</a>. For casual, hoodies are good perfectly acceptable. Like this <a href="http://svpply.com/item/758403/Need_Supply_Co__RVCA__Fleece_Zip">one.</a></i><br />
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<b>9. Ties</b><br />
Not a must, but they make it easy to look slightly more dressed up and they're just fun. I'm actually partial to the tie and sneaker look, these days.<br />
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<i>Suggestions: <a href="http://svpply.com/search/products/graham%20withers">Graham Withers</a>, <a href="http://www.contextclothing.com/brand.php?brand=The+Hill-Side">The Hill-Side</a>, <a href="http://www.thewclub.com/">The Windmill Club</a>, <a href="http://www.pierreponthicks-shop.com/">Pierrepont Hicks</a>, <a href="http://olch.com/">Alexander Olch</a> </i><br />
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<b>10. "</b><b>Every day, </b><b>wear something that says something about who you are"- <a href="http://putthison.com/">Put This On</a></b><br />
Most importantly, have something that lends character and that you love wearing. Examples I know and love include <a href="http://twitter.com/taftcard">big watches</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/mikearauz">bow ties</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/leppert">blue hoodies</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/pieratt">red belts</a>, and <a href="http://twitter.com/jiandeleon">bad ass hats</a>. Whatever it is, find that thing, big or small, and wear the hell out of it. The last thing we need is a sea of 'creative professional' clones wandering the earth. Plus, when you get all famous for building the internet, we've got to have something endearing make fun of you for.<br />
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<i>**Editor's note**<br />
This post is inspired entirely by the gentlemen I've had the great pleasure of working with. They're my friends and comrades and I respect them deeply no matter what they wear. They could all show up </i><i>to work </i><i> in garbage bags and I'd still congratulate them on being the talented men that they are. And that's the truth. </i>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-9795891472899769892011-07-02T19:02:00.000-07:002011-07-03T07:23:57.154-07:00COLLECTION | BARBOUR x TO KI TO A/W '11<div style="text-align: left;">
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<b>Barbour x To Ki To. </b>Is there really anything more to say?</div>
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Well, no. But humor me: Usually I'm pretty persnickety about covering things I've never seen in person, but there are some exceptions, and this collaboration is always one of them. Barbour and Japanese designer Tokihito both have impeccable track records and together they've produced an impressive collection for several seasons now. The functional details and architectural nature of the collaboration give way to a well executed, sophisticated blend of modern and traditional, putting each piece in a category of Caborn-like artistry. Not a bad category to be in.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y757BtDd-jA/Tg9UJIillEI/AAAAAAAAAbo/kT8vw9CLydM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-07-02+at+1.22.34+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="636" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y757BtDd-jA/Tg9UJIillEI/AAAAAAAAAbo/kT8vw9CLydM/s640/Screen+shot+2011-07-02+at+1.22.34+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm particularly fond of the half placket front closures and oversized hoods featured this season. Beautiful yet useful as can be – not a bad choice for urbanites who struggle to find outerwear that does it's job without making one look like a banker or detracting from what's beneath. If anything, a Barbour x To Ki To will likely up-stage anything else you could possibly be wearing, but that's really not a something I'd consider a problem. </div>
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The entire collection is on pre-order at <a href="http://numbersixlondon.com/">Number Six</a>, where you will also find more images and details of each piece. Sincere apologies in advance for any brain or heart spasms that might result. - M<br />
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// <a href="http://www.numbersixlondon.com/brands/barbour-tokihito/">Barbour x To Ki To at Number Six</a>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-43038105366944928822011-06-30T03:19:00.000-07:002011-07-02T19:08:16.849-07:00COLLECTION | NUDIE JEANS A/W 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Previous to this year, I was not extremely familiar with Nudie, a Swedish label founded in 2001. I knew the brand for for it's excellent reputation in men's denim, perpetuated by a loyal and vocal male customer base, and it's not so great reputation for rather amateurish apparel. Fast forward to last month when I had the pleasure of visiting the Nudie Showroom in Chelsea, an experience that left me thoroughly impressed by Nudie's mature, well-rounded, and beautifully made A/W '11 collection.<br />
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Comprised of three distinct lines differentiated by palette and fabrics, the collection is focused around a solid set of basics, with some distinctive, yet subdued pieces peppered throughout. The brighter more transitional side of the collection, in cottons and japanese linens, plays nicely with the heavier knits and denims and all is tied together with a nod to workwear inspired silouhettes.<br />
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Laid out across racks and tables, the collection's balance of textures, weights and materials made the showroom feel a bit like closet of a well groomed musician or designer: built carefully over time, with attention to quality and comfort, and a touch of playfulness, in the form of a beautiful leather bomber, from the crazier days.<br />
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I was particularly struck by the shirting, featured here. For me, the stand out pieces were those in Japanese fabrics as well as the amazing heavy wash (read: stone washed!) denim button down (pictured above). Honestly, it's so beautiful and soft in person, it made me realize a new-found appreciation for a once forgotten 90's treatment.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEckNgWnQyI/TgxKhCnngZI/AAAAAAAAAao/uk6Z2_5r1HQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-30+at+6.05.18+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEckNgWnQyI/TgxKhCnngZI/AAAAAAAAAao/uk6Z2_5r1HQ/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-30+at+6.05.18+AM.png" width="640" /></a> <br />
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All in all, Nudie has stepped up their game with this thoughtfully considered, well made collection that lives up to their reputation in the denim category. Nudie is clearly in a process of reinvention, and I'm excited to see how it evolves in the coming seasons. Special thanks to goes to Ruari Mahon for making the showroom visit a complete joy, and <a href="http://twitter.com/ridlej">Johnny Ridley</a> for lending me his camera and editing skills. - M <br />
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//<a href="http://nudiejeans.com/">nudiejeans.com </a>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-64269411352324473312011-06-16T11:07:00.000-07:002011-06-16T12:41:24.893-07:00VIDEO | GILTMANUAL MINUTE : PESKO VS. WOOSTER<iframe frameborder="0" height="366" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/25192203?color=bab9a6" width="650"></iframe>
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This week's GiltManual Minute brings us the thrill of a cheeky sartorial dual: menswear legend and street style icon <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/NickWooster">Nick Wooster </a>vs. GiltMan Style Director and street style 'rival', <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/jpeskowitz">Josh Peskowitz.</a> Two men. Two arsenals of choice threads. One steezy survivor.<br />
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Well, kind of. In the end (spoil alert!) they shake hands and talk suits with GiltMan creative director, <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/tylerthoreson">Tyler Thoreson.</a> Still it's a (geeky) joy to see them face off hombre a hombre. Speaking of facing off, I was especially preoccupied with their differing tie and shoe choices (commented upon after the jump). Both are details that can vastly change and personalize an otherwise standard get-up, and the juxtaposition of these two gents shows that off well. For more of where this came from, check out all the <a href="http://www.gilt.com/giltmanual/tag/manual-minute/">other GiltManual Minute shorts</a> and a few other Pesko x Wooster shots from this week on <a href="http://thesigother.tumblr.com/tagged/woosterpesko">my Tumblr.</a> - M<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_SdJIMdqvWo/Tfo7L7MIe5I/AAAAAAAAAZw/JRNmmz_-JBI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-16+at+1.17.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_SdJIMdqvWo/Tfo7L7MIe5I/AAAAAAAAAZw/JRNmmz_-JBI/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-16+at+1.17.39+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Ties: </b>Pesko goes the loud and patterned route, while Wooster rocks an unusual chameleon-like approach.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OjjB_7PPwYU/Tfo82GtszOI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/NlSFHJIEvII/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-16+at+1.16.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OjjB_7PPwYU/Tfo82GtszOI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/NlSFHJIEvII/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-16+at+1.16.50+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Shoes: </b>These loafers on Pesko are subtle but but just detailed enough to say 'I'm clearly the man'.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D1Y4l1gaXI0/Tfo9JsrsLqI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/gjcB_FlCXQo/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-16+at+1.15.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D1Y4l1gaXI0/Tfo9JsrsLqI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/gjcB_FlCXQo/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-16+at+1.15.51+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Shoes:</b> Wooster opts to draw more attention to his feet with these spankin' white brogues.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TJEEWxtJ7Ww/Tfo_iYIgzoI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/LT4YmY3p2u8/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-16+at+1.37.18+PM.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="610" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TJEEWxtJ7Ww/Tfo_iYIgzoI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/LT4YmY3p2u8/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-16+at+1.37.18+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>All together now: </b>Pesko's shoe and tie combo lets the paisley do all the talking, while Wooster draws out the lighter tones of his upper half with a bright and snappy footwear option. <br />All around, some well balanced duds. Truce, gents.</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-4135443859896191902011-06-15T09:24:00.000-07:002011-06-15T09:27:40.224-07:00SALE | 15% OFF SYMMETRY GOODS SPRING COLLECTION<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-55gZjRC0x9I/TfjZQ_7dR2I/AAAAAAAAAZo/iBBAkaR0ESo/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+12.09.03+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-55gZjRC0x9I/TfjZQ_7dR2I/AAAAAAAAAZo/iBBAkaR0ESo/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+12.09.03+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OtyEHoxyNLU/TfjS5MqYKSI/AAAAAAAAAZg/-G0q_MAhoMU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+11.40.08+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
I'm excited to announce that our good friends over at <a href="http://shop.symmetrygoods.com/">Symmetry Goods</a> are teaming up with The Sig Other to bring you a one week sale of the their Spring Collection.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Just enter the code "<i>thesigother</i>" at check out to redeem </b><b>15% off any item.</b></span><br />
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For those who are new to the brand, Symmetry is an LA based company that offers a range of functional, entirely handcrafted accessories for men and women, (yes, ladies this one's for you too ;). Beginning with a line of scarves in Fall 2010, they've expanded to
leather goods this spring and have big things to panned for the coming
seasons.<br />
<br />
This season I'm a big fan of the the Dixon, the range of pocket squares,
and the SIlverstone. (Regarding the latter: I own one, can vouch for
it's awesomeness and can recount the time when a gent once offered to pay for
it off my neck).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5P7tMmU5do/TfjUTXh8S8I/AAAAAAAAAZk/jYwhb8FPlFE/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+11.47.55+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5P7tMmU5do/TfjUTXh8S8I/AAAAAAAAAZk/jYwhb8FPlFE/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+11.47.55+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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For more on Symmetry and this Spring line check out my <a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2011/02/yes-please-symmetry-goods-ss-2011.html">Q & A with co-owner Ted Bynes.</a> If you have any questions about the sale, feel free to hit up Ted directly on Twitter at @symmetrygoods. - M<br />
<br />
//<a href="http://shop.symmetrygoods.com/">Symmetry Goods Shop</a> <i>(15% off code: thesigother)</i><br />
<i>Sale ends Wednesday, June 22, 2011 </i>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-5451575896203819922011-06-08T17:08:00.000-07:002011-06-09T06:56:22.594-07:00YES, PLEASE | DRIFTER DAY PACK<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TB31NsfmgTE/Te_h9f5ENYI/AAAAAAAAAY8/HUW1_Frx-a0/s1600/GREY-F1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TB31NsfmgTE/Te_h9f5ENYI/AAAAAAAAAY8/HUW1_Frx-a0/s640/GREY-F1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A few days ago I tweeted about a pack very similar to this one. It looked right and cost right - just 50 bucks! - but after a discussion with a few of my favorite ethically sound gents, <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/SymmetryGoods">Ted</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/simplethreads">Ryan</a>, and <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/scriboscribere">Jason</a>, it was determined to be a (poorly) Made in China junker. Bummed, I was determined to find an equivalent pack that was ethically made and at a decent price. 24 hours later I hit the jackpot when I discovered this one from <a href="http://drifterbag.com/">Drifter.</a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qY3uOa7XoMQ/TfAFfqI-WQI/AAAAAAAAAZA/nH6JATBNO0k/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-08+at+7.13.00+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qY3uOa7XoMQ/TfAFfqI-WQI/AAAAAAAAAZA/nH6JATBNO0k/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-08+at+7.13.00+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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These packs are made from ultra durable Cordura fabric (also used by brands such as the great <a href="http://topodesigns.com/">Topo Designs</a>), feature two compartments and zippers by the ever reliable YKK. They're designed to keep water out and unlike the aforementioned crap-pack, are all USA made with a lifetime warranty. In fact, as a brand Drifter is dedicated to made in America products that support American workers, materials and resources. As they say on their site, <i>"<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Our entire product
line is handcrafted in the United States by workers who take pride
in knowing that their craftsmanship is backed by a lifetime warranty." </span></i><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">All this, and the price tag won't kill your wallet at</span></span> $55 a pack. Purchase them at the new promising shop, <a href="http://www.shopneighbour.com/collections/drifter">Neigbour</a>, who carry them in five color ways as well as a number of other Drifter items. - M<br />
<br />
// <a href="http://www.drifterbag.com/">Drifter</a><br />
// <a href="http://www.shopneighbour.com/collections/drifter">Neighbour</a>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-91719696604230193512011-05-22T12:43:00.000-07:002011-05-22T13:01:56.041-07:00IN CONTEXT | MARK MCNAIRY TWO TONE SADDLE SHOE IN NAVY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIOKx2UZX3-sewV7CmQlnZ8ke9Q5Fn2L93-md6BZMOzHzt67qxxummVMlKLFz2FgB-crsfKVGFaHJRp-e9SJxMJkq2mO8wXawHXv0G1xLI-lxzLe1L9NIAoZumeJ9in-lzanM_DAgGJXZQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-22+at+2.20.24+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIOKx2UZX3-sewV7CmQlnZ8ke9Q5Fn2L93-md6BZMOzHzt67qxxummVMlKLFz2FgB-crsfKVGFaHJRp-e9SJxMJkq2mO8wXawHXv0G1xLI-lxzLe1L9NIAoZumeJ9in-lzanM_DAgGJXZQ/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-22+at+2.20.24+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
If Menswear had its own Chinese new year style calendar (now there's an idea...), this would most definitely be The Year of the McNairy. After garnering notoriety as the respected lead creative director of classic American label J.Press, the past couple of years have seen Mark McNairy collaborate with some of the most prominent brands in the industry such as <a href="http://www.engineeredgarments.com/">Engineered Garments</a>, <a href="https://bassshoes.harborghb.com/">Bass</a>, and <a href="http://www.keds.com/store/SiteController/kedspro/home">Pro-Keds</a>. Most recently he's recently taken the helm as creative director of <a href="http://www.woolrichwoolenmillsproduction.com/">Woolrich Woolen Mills.</a><br />
<br />
These Two-Tone saddles are hardly new - for that you should check his <a href="http://www.freemanbrand.com/2011/05/mark-mcnairy-x-bass-weejun-bert-kiltie.html">Kilte Loafers for Bass Weejun </a>- but they've have had quite a run as one of this year's most recognizable models. Made for his own line <a href="http://www.markmcnairy.com/">New Amsterdam</a>, these suede saddles are crafted in Northamptonshire, England, using traditional American and British cobbling techniques. Typical to McNairy, the attention to detail is fastidious resulting in a top quality shoe. Plus, while they look substantial they're surprisingly light and supple.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOnUmcUDI_0JvBAQAkR9uxfd58GjAYgLzR8NApEGSwqtcAOs8TowtrL1eOUWWCqXkYJnvalNo3Mra9eLvlUfDLdEfuRA0dUwyeFzqGOVXJ1Lr46IcJ0GvL1bLzGTakVD2tzE5vucpwrs-_/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-22+at+2.20.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOnUmcUDI_0JvBAQAkR9uxfd58GjAYgLzR8NApEGSwqtcAOs8TowtrL1eOUWWCqXkYJnvalNo3Mra9eLvlUfDLdEfuRA0dUwyeFzqGOVXJ1Lr46IcJ0GvL1bLzGTakVD2tzE5vucpwrs-_/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-22+at+2.20.38+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Despite their Internet fame, I've barely seen these on the street and when I have it's been in a pretty standard fashion, (with a navy suit or rolled chino). As it's spring-ish now, I've been fixated with the idea of seeing them with shorts, (oh, c'mon live a little!), and threw together the below as a bit of insipiration in that vien. Purchase the shoe at <a href="http://markmcnairy.com/">MarkMcnairy.com</a> (US) or <a href="http://www.endclothing.co.uk/brands/mark-mcnairy-new-amsterdam/mark-mcnairy-two-tone-saddle-shoe-2.html">End Clothing</a> (UK) and if you're a lady, they're available (in store only) at <a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-template/about/Page">Epaulet in Manhattan</a>. - M<br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>[IN CONTEXT</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b>]</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Mark McNairy Two-Tone Saddle Loafer for a Rainy Spring</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br />
</i></span></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJFopmpLuxK6mJdX6uBlaEtTR3ToZCckAJbRqn5RKudMNGWtbqfW3vq8SabEaDU7yeDHCI9lrXjAJOp6ReaEM1NAX8KidBDQGiXopDIvdub5XxPiLd2f0TX9cGy613zOnnhCGhrfSA0Iwl/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-22+at+1.08.16+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJFopmpLuxK6mJdX6uBlaEtTR3ToZCckAJbRqn5RKudMNGWtbqfW3vq8SabEaDU7yeDHCI9lrXjAJOp6ReaEM1NAX8KidBDQGiXopDIvdub5XxPiLd2f0TX9cGy613zOnnhCGhrfSA0Iwl/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-22+at+1.08.16+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Mark McNairy <a href="http://shop.markmcnairy.com/collections/all/products/navy-suede-saddle-shoe"><b>Two-Tone Saddle in Navy</b></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Our Legacy <b><a href="http://www.oipolloi.com/Store/OiPolloi-DII-2883-146-our+legacy+chambray+shorts+light+blue.html">Chambray Shorts</a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Folk Clothing <b><a href="http://www.oipolloi.com/Store/OiPolloi-DII-2619-14-folk+light+rain+mac+bronze.html">Light Rain Mac</a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">APC <a href="http://www.shoppenelopes.com/Product/Madras+plaid+short+sleeve"><b>Short Sleeve Madras Shirt</b></a><a href="http://www.shoppenelopes.com/Product/Madras+plaid+short+sleeve"><b><br />
</b></a>Left Field <b><a href="http://www.leftfieldnyc.net/product/navy-crossgrain-sweatshirt">Deadstock Crossgrain Sweatshirt</a></b><br />
APC <a href="http://usonline.apc.fr/catalog/products/accessories/mens"><b>Woven Belt</b></a><br />
Illestiva <b><a href="http://www.gargyle.com/lenox-tortoise.html">Lennox Tortoise Frames (removeable shades</a></b>)</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Previously [In Context] : <br />
<a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2010/12/in-context-left-field-nyc-ivy-crew.html">Left Field NYC Ivy Crew Sweater</a><br />
<a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2011/01/in-context-nike-air-royal-mid-qs.html">Nike Air Royal Mid QS 'Workboot' Sneaker</a><br />
<a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2011/03/in-context-mr-hare-mailer-loafer.html">Mr. Hare Mailer Loafer </a>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-29920285925937808952011-05-22T10:47:00.000-07:002011-05-22T10:47:44.555-07:00VIDEO | JAKE DAVIS TEST SHOTS | GLENN O'BRIEN<iframe frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/23563557?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=ffffff" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
It's a rainy Sunday and I forgot to post this on Friday. Even though it's all over the internet and you've probably already seen it, it's O'Brien. You can always stand to watch it another time. All I really need to say about this is: Jake Davis + Glenn O'Brien + the lining on that coat = there is much to appreciate here. I also recommend checking out Mr. O'Brien's latest book <a href="http://www.rizzoliusa.com/book.php?isbn=9780847836956"><i>How to Be a Man</i></a>, published by the one and only <a href="http://www.rizzoliusa.com/">Rizzoli New York</a>. - MMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-60349508281370208842011-05-16T18:24:00.000-07:002011-05-16T18:24:44.684-07:00VIDEO | GANT RUGGER PRE-FALL 2011<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Is0WVNqorHU" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
Last week I had the pleasure of meeting Christian Bastin, lead designer of Gant Rugger as well as Douglas Geller, Gant's head of marketing, at <a href="http://epauletshop.com/">Epaulet</a>'s Orchard Street shop. Over a delicious <a href="http://www.cheerwine.com/">Cheerwine</a>-induced buzz, we discussed karaoke, the joys of a <a href="http://www.butternutsbeerandale.com/">Porkslap IPA</a> and their excitement over releasing this pre-fall video. After seeing it today, I can echo their love for it. Inspired by 50's era etiquette videos, the tongue-in-cheek narrative (from which we'll all have our favorite quote) and nostalgic 'crackle-pop' cinematic style charmingly tease out the playfulness of the collection, all while framing the kind of traditional beauty that Gant Rugger embodies.<br />
<br />
Speaking of beauty, I'm also taking this opportunity to feature the Gant Rugger Cricket Sweater which makes cameos in the look book and the above video.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGA1DrV-_6lT94CBM7578vbBdSl47NXteuRbSzGHbqQolqz2D4uuDg_1brBljUFKTTphYfROr9DaeXcyl2Kse4YW9VvzN5_Fxnthyphenhyphennc3_-voGmXc9AAmL9NH_G_KR0dOKlYsFHVvhXAKS/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-16+at+8.58.31+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGA1DrV-_6lT94CBM7578vbBdSl47NXteuRbSzGHbqQolqz2D4uuDg_1brBljUFKTTphYfROr9DaeXcyl2Kse4YW9VvzN5_Fxnthyphenhyphennc3_-voGmXc9AAmL9NH_G_KR0dOKlYsFHVvhXAKS/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-16+at+8.58.31+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I had the chance to meet this notable item in person at Epaulet and while it's lovely to behold, the true selling point is how buttery soft it is. The sweater is made from a (mostly cottton) cotton/acrylic/poly blend, and it is - I can't stress this enough - one of the most satisfyingly plush items of clothing I've ever come into contact with.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9Oxyn6Fu6yXbEeNnxB8oWcrzb__YFdOj0_ETmIlXFhW4_VAstWladt1g4OELsgefQmyiP5VdVEPFKgIRsn9j-RLSrQLN8xYhHxrQ2b1GUZ8NMfJzZhGugQmeQ9Y2NgacXcrSlili4wki/s1600/294290911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="624" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9Oxyn6Fu6yXbEeNnxB8oWcrzb__YFdOj0_ETmIlXFhW4_VAstWladt1g4OELsgefQmyiP5VdVEPFKgIRsn9j-RLSrQLN8xYhHxrQ2b1GUZ8NMfJzZhGugQmeQ9Y2NgacXcrSlili4wki/s640/294290911.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Sure, it'll be many-a-moon till the weather gets colder, but the weight and feel of this sweather makes it a perfect option for when the temperature dips in the spring and it's sure to fit right in with your layers in the fall. So, as the video says, use your smarts to look smart, gents and don't pass this one up. - M<br />
<br />
//<a href="http://gant.com/">gant.com</a><br />
//<a href="http://epauletshop.com/">epauletshop.com</a>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-22650586984251752642011-05-15T17:02:00.000-07:002011-05-15T19:09:01.332-07:00Q & A | SKINNY VINNY<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OANpReKkpgQ/TdBgIJrOZII/AAAAAAAAAYk/nyHq3lpoC6A/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-15+at+7.20.40+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OANpReKkpgQ/TdBgIJrOZII/AAAAAAAAAYk/nyHq3lpoC6A/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-15+at+7.20.40+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.skinnyvinny.bigcartel.com/product/sal">The Sal</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
A new entrant to the ever rapidly growing pool of bag makers, is Brooklyn based designer Vincent Lai, who's already earning his keep in the game with his brand, Skinny Vinny. Vincent reached out to me with his spring collection and I jumped at the chance to feature the line. It's not every day that a freshman effort offers such a nicely curated, unified and well crafted range. From the simple City Slicker Tote to The Sal, a convertible backpack/carry-all, each model remains understated while answering to a distinct functional need. My favorite is the Rowan, soon to be available in the fall, a backpack that looks easy-breezy but is made of heavy duty canvas and contains plenty of pockets for everything you might need in the urban wilderness - from pocket knife to laptop.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mxKvyoyM7bo/TdBi41kNgCI/AAAAAAAAAYs/dg6u6Ap24TM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-15+at+7.33.06+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="548" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mxKvyoyM7bo/TdBi41kNgCI/AAAAAAAAAYs/dg6u6Ap24TM/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-15+at+7.33.06+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>The Rowan</b><br />
<b>Submit pre-order inquiries <a href="http://www.skinnyvinny.bigcartel.com/contact">here</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Covering the bags was a no brainer but I wanted to scratch the surface a bit on this emerging designer, and was lucky enough that Vincent was willing to answer a few questions about himself, the brand and the products. I urge you to take a peak at the line and get to know the brand; I have a feeling, and not just because of my flagrant Brooklyn pride, it'll be one to watch. - M<br />
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<b><i>The Sig Other: First, could you tell us a little bit about yourself?</i></b><br />
Vincent Lai: I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, So a Brooklynite to the core. I come from a family of sewers and makers in the garment industry and grew up in and around factories. For college, I attended Carnegie Mellon University and graduated with an Industrial Design Degree in 2006. <br />
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<i><b>TSO: So how did Skinny Vinny come to be?</b></i><br />
After graduating from college, I worked for a design consultancy in Lower Manhattan, Soho area. After about a year, I decided that it was time for a change. I wanted to combine my product design education with the soft goods and pattern-making knowledge I gained growing up in a garment factory. As a child, I would sometimes help my mother at her job in a garment factory in Brooklyn. I would cut loose threads, do some sewing, ironing, or even just sweep the floor. As I was looking for a new job, I had some sketches and ideas for bags. I made some samples just to get it out of my head. I sent some photos to my friends and out of the blue, a blog picked it up and then another blog and another. I started to get some orders and I thought “hmm… maybe, I can do this for a living?” I stopped my job search, and been doing Skinny Vinny ever since.<br />
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<i><b>Does the brand have a mission or perspective?</b></i><br />
We strive to create straight-forward, no-fuss products you can use everyday. We give special and careful attention to craft and quality. Since all our products are made in limited quantities by my small family of artisans and myself, individual variation and that special level of human touch is guaranteed. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zLcBBJO-vdI/TdBnPToB9uI/AAAAAAAAAYw/Q7TgCHcGPpE/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-15+at+7.51.48+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zLcBBJO-vdI/TdBnPToB9uI/AAAAAAAAAYw/Q7TgCHcGPpE/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-15+at+7.51.48+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.skinnyvinny.bigcartel.com/product/city-slicker-tote">The City Slicker Tote</a></b></td></tr>
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<i><b>What is your design approach?</b></i><br />
I always find myself thinking about new bags, new shapes and new ways of carrying things. I can be out with friends and I find myself drifting off thinking about it. I love people watching, watching how one interacts or stumble with their bags is a huge source of inspiration for me. How the bag falls or hugs the body, or what problems they seem to have with their bags is very helpful to my process. Through watching, I usually have a direction and sketching helps me find the right shape and proportions. I sometimes make quick and fast muslin samples just to test out the proportions and usability. Then I jump on my computer to refine the design and make the tech packs. I won’t really know if the bag is successful or not until I get a final working sample. After I give the "okay" for a new design, we make the production in small batches. I number each one and I keep a log of where each bag is going, whether they're are going to a store or to a person. I love keeping things personal like that.<i><b></b></i><br />
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<i><b>What are your thoughts on the current collection?</b></i><br />
Our collection is usually not seasonal, we usually have injections where we introduce a new product here and there. It's easier to manage that way since we are a small brand and it's usually just me. For the Spring season, The Sal convertible bag is my favorite. Just the functionality of it and the versatility is quite successful in my opinion. It has been quite popular.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WRqnvsNcvaM/TdBxHP1ixtI/AAAAAAAAAY4/4vDFYegiqHI/s1600/Sal_web_difways.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WRqnvsNcvaM/TdBxHP1ixtI/AAAAAAAAAY4/4vDFYegiqHI/s640/Sal_web_difways.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.skinnyvinny.bigcartel.com/product/sal"><b>The Sal, in all its multi-functional glory</b></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<i><b>Could you elaborate on the materials you use?</b></i><br />
Our products have been predominantly cotton. Mostly cotton canvas and a few leather detailing here and there. We like using natural fibers. However, we are defiantly going to be looking into some tech fabrics. There's a lot of possibilities of new types of bags we can create with those kinds of materials.<br />
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<i><b>What are your future plans for Skinny Vinny?</b></i><br />
Currently, I'm all booked up for the next 6 months! I would love a vacation, but I can't take one as of yet. We have orders to make and fulfill for the Fall. However, we will be working with some stores releasing new styles exclusive to their store and the city they're located in. There's a store in Hong Kong that I'm really excited to collaborate with. I'm always looking to collaborate with people, weather in the design industry or not, the experience will help me grow as a person and as a designer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-96pVfGhkycQ/TdBpQ-CTXOI/AAAAAAAAAY0/9r28723B0lc/s1600/08_ChrisRowen3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="590" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-96pVfGhkycQ/TdBpQ-CTXOI/AAAAAAAAAY0/9r28723B0lc/s640/08_ChrisRowen3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>The Rowan</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
// <a href="http://skinny-vinny.com/">skinny-vinny.com</a><br />
// <a href="http://www.skinnyvinny.bigcartel.com/">skinny-vinny shop</a>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-12846954726416491702011-04-25T18:51:00.000-07:002011-04-25T19:13:53.898-07:00YES, PLEASE | FILSON ITALIA BLACK LABEL S/S OUTERWEAR<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT28fl4dJt0jVWmNDfa30y2kWQFKLr2oFRvBTCsTvvGO3YQvy_f7so5tMylX8Fkmi4DmMDLU9k-BwKjJcJau8Zj4HRg2Mar-4G-xkT9oWYPdkRmEDlsMHm-7qWXsbm19jeNIw8uUKDA2Gb/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-25+at+9.14.55+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT28fl4dJt0jVWmNDfa30y2kWQFKLr2oFRvBTCsTvvGO3YQvy_f7so5tMylX8Fkmi4DmMDLU9k-BwKjJcJau8Zj4HRg2Mar-4G-xkT9oWYPdkRmEDlsMHm-7qWXsbm19jeNIw8uUKDA2Gb/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-25+at+9.14.55+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From left to right, FIlson Italia Blacklabel S/S 2011 Workwear Jacket and Overhead Coat. <br />
All photos courtesy of <a href="http://www.oipolloi.com/">Oi Polloi.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The American x Italian love affair continues with Filson's limited line of Italian S/S workwear. Filson introduced the Italia collection in 2009 and this season it's reached new heights, at least in my eyes. With (slightly) slimmer cuts, and distinctive accents, the line takes all of the brand's signature American ruggedness and refines it with an Italian eye for design and details, (just behold all those beautifully situated pockets). Try as I might, I can't seem to find too much background on these gems, (perhaps they've been overshadowed by all the hullabaloo around <a href="http://www.acontinuouslean.com/2011/04/20/filson-japan-sans-proxy/">Filson's Japanese Red Label line</a>), but suffice it to say, if seasons past are any indication, the uniqueness and craftsmanship of these pieces will make them worth the money, (read: not cheap, but if you've got the cash, by all means be my guest).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDcDVAXU8pxnlymrhEg2c8YiyGitYOxHSioho8VLZRm1V7d8Kidk7IZpAAXzZ4Q1c3OGbJEKXUkWMmh7UmlNhyphenhyphenfW4xvbxm0xHXXyPsfUJ5Errg-VuUopvCoOh8L7ytG3-LdHUr58X0aVh1/s1600/FIlsonItalia2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDcDVAXU8pxnlymrhEg2c8YiyGitYOxHSioho8VLZRm1V7d8Kidk7IZpAAXzZ4Q1c3OGbJEKXUkWMmh7UmlNhyphenhyphenfW4xvbxm0xHXXyPsfUJ5Errg-VuUopvCoOh8L7ytG3-LdHUr58X0aVh1/s640/FIlsonItalia2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Filson Italia Black Label Workwear Jacket</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaK_c5UGNZJOpcxDkup4e3dMDvLgxpOq06ZjCYZ5sQWjCUcl3o5gSgeD42qlvWiY03Q_M9cKhJD4-gNE59akUOwYLFCR-g2ZUEuxoGWxm1x7p2M28gH8TwZ_3EtLeSBX2gmzvSBHqcatuO/s1600/FilsonItaliaB6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaK_c5UGNZJOpcxDkup4e3dMDvLgxpOq06ZjCYZ5sQWjCUcl3o5gSgeD42qlvWiY03Q_M9cKhJD4-gNE59akUOwYLFCR-g2ZUEuxoGWxm1x7p2M28gH8TwZ_3EtLeSBX2gmzvSBHqcatuO/s640/FilsonItaliaB6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Filson Italia Black Label Overhead Coat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>This line is not (easily) available in the United States, but fortunately for us, our friends at <a href="http://www.oipolloi.com/">Oi Polloi</a> have them in stock, (along with a few other items in the Italia collection), and they've got A+ US shipping standards. Of course, if you're one of those lucky (and wildly wealthy) blokes from across the pond, then this post might've just made Spring. <b><a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2011/04/yes-please-filson-italia-black-label-ss.html">Be sure to see many more detail shots after the jump</a></b> and shop <a href="http://www.oipolloi.com/Store/OiPolloi-DisplayBrands-64-filson.html">Filson Italia here.</a> - M<br />
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// <a href="http://oipolloi.com/">Oi Polloi</a><br />
// <a href="http://filson.com/">Filson (USA)</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1762413826"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.oipolloi.com/Store/OiPolloi-DII-949-64-filson+italia+workwear+jacket+green.html"><b>Filson Italia Black Label Workwear Jacket</b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpCN-0Xn_1BsT6hYk1PEtJaPDuLnO3jx35MR9X7JIfMc7dvI-1tgkQwzmd6uzGG1Mk-adDy8SNhueXVcoSQtkt6gf6GYLpaYhMjs1g3jZYwGCVYBLIqbs2hKHIuvEZlBZ7JbWvAURPGXN/s1600/FilsonItalia1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpCN-0Xn_1BsT6hYk1PEtJaPDuLnO3jx35MR9X7JIfMc7dvI-1tgkQwzmd6uzGG1Mk-adDy8SNhueXVcoSQtkt6gf6GYLpaYhMjs1g3jZYwGCVYBLIqbs2hKHIuvEZlBZ7JbWvAURPGXN/s640/FilsonItalia1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVf9Foa75dkgfWaumdL89W411DOcIxSyFiG2fodBUKuaM9-WtwV4-7guR9vDddeccmpELgAc0msTEEXFNdfodWw5YN4mtUNtgdjkJUH7VFlnc13ggCc3dEzPnR3rZ96Nn8RC4qL0LNmL1/s1600/FilsonItalia5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVf9Foa75dkgfWaumdL89W411DOcIxSyFiG2fodBUKuaM9-WtwV4-7guR9vDddeccmpELgAc0msTEEXFNdfodWw5YN4mtUNtgdjkJUH7VFlnc13ggCc3dEzPnR3rZ96Nn8RC4qL0LNmL1/s640/FilsonItalia5.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.oipolloi.com/Store/OiPolloi-DII-1620-64-filson+italia+overhead+coat+khaki.html"><b>Filson Italia Black Label Overhead Coat</b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1vPrNdQYuK8tihbsMg49boj26qkjvaYysRWSdeCs7q710hpknyN0fr3lqvl8fujYYfqsdWaP5qCGWd01gNwIUPQK86rgylejNC59VfHlCI-dz3gCXYxE7lzde4-YgyXTw9bVy8qTfOh9/s1600/FilsonItaliaB2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1vPrNdQYuK8tihbsMg49boj26qkjvaYysRWSdeCs7q710hpknyN0fr3lqvl8fujYYfqsdWaP5qCGWd01gNwIUPQK86rgylejNC59VfHlCI-dz3gCXYxE7lzde4-YgyXTw9bVy8qTfOh9/s640/FilsonItaliaB2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0u9FjjNFDjjS3_grPH2w1I6anTGXz3Dw-n1A8cUpEN_winu4JBfv0DM68jfWTCyYSerZ28ZzJBgkskva6PjI-7DLu_kc3403TMt0bL-xyF3J3Nu0nbplf2JXpl07tVwkwZyGdh_EEdIJ/s1600/FilsonItaliaB5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0u9FjjNFDjjS3_grPH2w1I6anTGXz3Dw-n1A8cUpEN_winu4JBfv0DM68jfWTCyYSerZ28ZzJBgkskva6PjI-7DLu_kc3403TMt0bL-xyF3J3Nu0nbplf2JXpl07tVwkwZyGdh_EEdIJ/s640/FilsonItaliaB5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4kSjbNri_sz0ZodLLoo7p4enowxJpT18a5qrNWtGnh-OisqO39ouVdEiSK8pCxDoxjSHyLUMEQiJs57Ffy1uT4nk-0A4kAEViNEoisUYBID1B5C7bpLHrtN0xfqsQxCj7Vg0J5dlCRs8/s1600/FilsonItaliaB6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4kSjbNri_sz0ZodLLoo7p4enowxJpT18a5qrNWtGnh-OisqO39ouVdEiSK8pCxDoxjSHyLUMEQiJs57Ffy1uT4nk-0A4kAEViNEoisUYBID1B5C7bpLHrtN0xfqsQxCj7Vg0J5dlCRs8/s640/FilsonItaliaB6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-44086320606133178142011-04-17T10:20:00.000-07:002011-04-18T04:24:41.321-07:00YES, PLEASE | ILLESTEVA EYEWEAR<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpC6OmO277AQ0Ct1-Y2f6zRA4zlKSRhQkvE4_Zb_IhOMMGBaiJc_cBcC8Pg9cdxnbn0XvtBNRzdm69CJEjw0nq9nx2qnszhLFIdlEx7VJnyQ4HpIwH5kR3rJqfuoXx63wJeNQo-8bdPbdf/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.53.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpC6OmO277AQ0Ct1-Y2f6zRA4zlKSRhQkvE4_Zb_IhOMMGBaiJc_cBcC8Pg9cdxnbn0XvtBNRzdm69CJEjw0nq9nx2qnszhLFIdlEx7VJnyQ4HpIwH5kR3rJqfuoXx63wJeNQo-8bdPbdf/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.53.38+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leonard, in Half tortoise</td></tr>
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Although April showers are aplenty this spring, it's that time of year again to begin sunglasses hunting. Enter, <a href="http://www.illesteva.com/">Illesteva</a> a fairly new brand in the eyewear scene but one that has entered with a warm welcome and to many accolades. In my eyes, rightfully so. Since the introduction of their first line in 2009, founders Daniel Silberman and Jus Ske have come through with classic silhouettes in a range of high quality and distinctive materials ranging from bamboo and buffalo horn to titanium and acetate. All the pieces are designed stateside by the New York based duo and hand made in Germany and Italy. <br />
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I'm a fan of the Leonard model (above), and now that round framed glasses are a big to-do these days, it's no wonder they're becoming more and more difficult to find as Summer draws nearer. Although the Leonard is the stand out, the whole, versatile range is something to consider if you're looking for an alternative to the Persol/Ray Ban/Oliver Peoples staples. I've had several owners tell me they're the best pair they've ever bought, and I can vouch for their attractiveness in person as well - the photos, as lovely as they are, actually don't do these pieces justice. Plus, with a price point between $160 - $225 they'll afford you a quality pair of sunglasses without completely breaking the bank. See more models after the jump and find where to buy online and off, <a href="http://illesteva.com/wp/retailers">here.</a> - M<br />
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// <a href="http://illesteva.com/">Illesteva.com </a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpm7J5Q-KxwtguyNNgLcAFWDEfcchJw5ITjryRY1D_ACsQ3xRELxFwHpy-QgyiOMK5M8qAfX8gft25qJwpXy0XnEbAs9YJosdeXbkdC-fsqEU2qnfjlP5t3Ot913yunXJBjRjpegqPOR7l/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.53.53+PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leonard, in Half Tortoise<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-3LDrbQbs4HXaAvrOJU4q4-7gmYr2UQ2rpA-GC2vv3dGQbu16kqCIAwMd4_kzgda1uSEgQrTeBu7I6fiI0WGZhFSp7Qhvc0a4l4f6_yAtNIBIcqzacMRWOzfRXE3SS6Gwk7kj5LOeAXkC/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+1.00.11+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-3LDrbQbs4HXaAvrOJU4q4-7gmYr2UQ2rpA-GC2vv3dGQbu16kqCIAwMd4_kzgda1uSEgQrTeBu7I6fiI0WGZhFSp7Qhvc0a4l4f6_yAtNIBIcqzacMRWOzfRXE3SS6Gwk7kj5LOeAXkC/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+1.00.11+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leonard in Tortoise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrNhnwBnUVk8yBlslK92dyvUILmRfvwv0n1H9QoX8rZeqpmrJAeoURL2lYZQKTKi_YnYRPacmuvfH0OzGCxm_TguYemdZ9n6MnoRrTvRTlRH3ahfZzv3iBs6h9NrhJYCPd0zeAJ9F5OO5/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.55.10+PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrNhnwBnUVk8yBlslK92dyvUILmRfvwv0n1H9QoX8rZeqpmrJAeoURL2lYZQKTKi_YnYRPacmuvfH0OzGCxm_TguYemdZ9n6MnoRrTvRTlRH3ahfZzv3iBs6h9NrhJYCPd0zeAJ9F5OO5/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.55.10+PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrNhnwBnUVk8yBlslK92dyvUILmRfvwv0n1H9QoX8rZeqpmrJAeoURL2lYZQKTKi_YnYRPacmuvfH0OzGCxm_TguYemdZ9n6MnoRrTvRTlRH3ahfZzv3iBs6h9NrhJYCPd0zeAJ9F5OO5/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.55.10+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lennox, in Tortoise with removable sunglass clip-on </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4wQFwjnMsmIuRlmofPv3HUPc9DwLe2dwuMzca1BhBbi-2wqUh1I2LITeJrk1BlJbWdC2Ar0F5M2tYQzHfTjqRlRom0iyPH7Wqra_ilhENdm7mjU9FlmcOufe0oznHknHYezCClfxfXNl/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.55.01+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4wQFwjnMsmIuRlmofPv3HUPc9DwLe2dwuMzca1BhBbi-2wqUh1I2LITeJrk1BlJbWdC2Ar0F5M2tYQzHfTjqRlRom0iyPH7Wqra_ilhENdm7mjU9FlmcOufe0oznHknHYezCClfxfXNl/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.55.01+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lennox, in Tortoise (with sunglas clip on removed)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLuOvPFnYFpfVLF-ZCKhFbGSJC46JokBEHXKetI6fOL6JNG90K4MGztuYw_DoIM4GMvNQyYFTiReGngSMhxbtvbgPBKyMM0SGdn2Sx1QtSiJsakeAbOTi1tNrte6781pjoznCRclE_FOF/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.54.46+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLuOvPFnYFpfVLF-ZCKhFbGSJC46JokBEHXKetI6fOL6JNG90K4MGztuYw_DoIM4GMvNQyYFTiReGngSMhxbtvbgPBKyMM0SGdn2Sx1QtSiJsakeAbOTi1tNrte6781pjoznCRclE_FOF/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.54.46+PM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lennox in Tortoise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnzWx3SdHFlmgKYJJbyMAXV0hEburepim7hLpaDi-xx2_gIDK1Kyb3pF1kQoTgpdLMPSiiI3cjk67fw8QhqYoQ03xSnMoXG_pRJaFw2o2EYALsOuSYmdycxeKWdyGbwIs1MTcq4s1wcin/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+1.13.34+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnzWx3SdHFlmgKYJJbyMAXV0hEburepim7hLpaDi-xx2_gIDK1Kyb3pF1kQoTgpdLMPSiiI3cjk67fw8QhqYoQ03xSnMoXG_pRJaFw2o2EYALsOuSYmdycxeKWdyGbwIs1MTcq4s1wcin/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+1.13.34+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leonard, in Blonde</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jVgdDnMhrYOkM0L5JUQ85w7I8cDz79kY-MYGZnWV1R7hPjoWgygWx5xZw__ccU4fwLJKGjg0WDyaWe-EC74ZHyqaaW902S_SgXJOc1S0BpyAgXpQWj2XqFKdIOFDhd3PuUKQfO2_zXOK/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.57.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jVgdDnMhrYOkM0L5JUQ85w7I8cDz79kY-MYGZnWV1R7hPjoWgygWx5xZw__ccU4fwLJKGjg0WDyaWe-EC74ZHyqaaW902S_SgXJOc1S0BpyAgXpQWj2XqFKdIOFDhd3PuUKQfO2_zXOK/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.57.50+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Howard, wood frames, in Brown</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkbFlPC8ayxNTQUM8x24l-szpTS0zZ7WZQ4ggpBoalJ93hb5KlpwRb0aJE8cgpzJ2kwD6S9rJjEuOVWo8MOiZjCtIwl8KKjVYX0EqAOmmyXqrqqcc8r8epan7DkGlo-E_fjAL5VpT9Uaw/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.57.09+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkbFlPC8ayxNTQUM8x24l-szpTS0zZ7WZQ4ggpBoalJ93hb5KlpwRb0aJE8cgpzJ2kwD6S9rJjEuOVWo8MOiZjCtIwl8KKjVYX0EqAOmmyXqrqqcc8r8epan7DkGlo-E_fjAL5VpT9Uaw/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.57.09+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Howard, wood frames, in Brown</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyP0XaYdlimZNC-YXrLvwX2gyY5no8t_ZmBjQ0SFCv5MG9gfeb1Lgv6WL_MblE-wLygY_ybuKROyU36534TVX91dNyYiNlq3bKdhbdvtteg44hryg-mEQuyZkVeA_I02CrTUW-HLvrGQI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.58.29+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyP0XaYdlimZNC-YXrLvwX2gyY5no8t_ZmBjQ0SFCv5MG9gfeb1Lgv6WL_MblE-wLygY_ybuKROyU36534TVX91dNyYiNlq3bKdhbdvtteg44hryg-mEQuyZkVeA_I02CrTUW-HLvrGQI/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-17+at+12.58.29+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Albert, in Tortoise</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-60368821336660985822011-04-10T20:36:00.000-07:002011-04-16T11:13:53.649-07:00ASSORTED | POCKET KNIVES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o9AveuoFgh4/TaMVYmTIEYI/AAAAAAAAAYA/SitZkHlYX5Y/s1600/OLD4_008_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o9AveuoFgh4/TaMVYmTIEYI/AAAAAAAAAYA/SitZkHlYX5Y/s640/OLD4_008_8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
In the past weeks, most likely due to the popularity of <a href="http://everyday-carry.com/">Every Day Carry</a>, I was inspired to do some digging in the way of pocket knives. Prior to this search I had developed a general philosophy that a man's pocket knife reveals more about a him than almost anything else he owns. Whether or not he carries it with him regularly, which I absolutely think he should, I always find it fascinating how much these handy tools reflect their owners, much like a pet might. <br />
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Perhaps not surprisingly then, I came to realize that one's search for the perfect knife demands a fairly intensive consideration process. First, there are the various features the piece, (how many blades? does it house a hidden tooth pic? A bottle opener? or is it one simple blade?), the design and materials, (classic or modern? carbon or stainless? wood or bone?) and finally the size, (fit to slay a rhino or an apple?).<br />
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As you might expect, I uncovered a huge array of options but in the end I narrowed my search to the classic, small sized, hand crafted variety which so artfully blend materials, design and functionality. I've had quite the time researching this post, and in the process developed a great appreciation for these functional, illusive little artifacts. Dwelling on pretty cutlery has been a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon and I hope you enjoy the selection below as much as I did collecting it. - M<br />
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<b><a href="http://store.archivalclothing.com/products/opinel-pocketknife-1">1. Opinel Pocket Knife</a></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikEzPe-3_nkD-cQExjFFknTv340nF1QQ3-RaeeqWXTTZURu-WMs_5qOyJOXIeovMboeMoXQHlXotUl0P4k91VHAxQhRRhafMsbm4y8OAJYvYKZtNNjPbEXhn_MylxIYFDbZDl_IFw7e81/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-10+at+8.02.48+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikEzPe-3_nkD-cQExjFFknTv340nF1QQ3-RaeeqWXTTZURu-WMs_5qOyJOXIeovMboeMoXQHlXotUl0P4k91VHAxQhRRhafMsbm4y8OAJYvYKZtNNjPbEXhn_MylxIYFDbZDl_IFw7e81/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-10+at+8.02.48+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<b>Handle:</b> Beechwood<br />
<b>Blade:</b> Carbon steel<br />
<b>Size:</b> 7 5/8" (open)<br />
<i><a href="http://store.archivalclothing.com/products/opinel-pocketknife-1">$12.00 at Archival Clothing</a></i><br />
<i>(Thx <a href="http://twitter.com/americangrain">Daniel</a> for the tip)</i><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.laguiole.com/laguiole-knife-piece-juniper-handle-brushed-stainless-steel-p-647.html">2. Laguiole en Aubrac Juniper Handle Stainless Steel</a></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6SONk6JD3mrdjaO42VaWQa1hH-X1GmkFknL6sgib9R_KIx7E0fjCO4WV8sTyz0znC0_14I8Rm0zjISOhKHG1JPzEzDTnbRy42W-Zk63iiVWXYDu97Ht4go0F4SH0738D4AZaTdCUeEQh/s1600/laguiole.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6SONk6JD3mrdjaO42VaWQa1hH-X1GmkFknL6sgib9R_KIx7E0fjCO4WV8sTyz0znC0_14I8Rm0zjISOhKHG1JPzEzDTnbRy42W-Zk63iiVWXYDu97Ht4go0F4SH0738D4AZaTdCUeEQh/s640/laguiole.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<b>Handle:</b> Juniper<br />
<b>Blade: </b>One, Stainless Steel<br />
<b>Length: </b> 3.54" (closed)<br />
<i><a href="http://www.laguiole.com/laguiole-knife-piece-juniper-handle-brushed-stainless-steel-p-647.html">82.00 Euro at Laguiole</a></i><b> </b><br />
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<a href="http://www.orvis.com/store/product.aspx?pf_id=3e1G&dir_id=1089&group_id=22600&cat_id=22621&subcat_id=22660"><b>3. Orvis Clip Folder Knife,</b></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYF2QR7sUwaHyMKEhnMtQjglh9jUddj440NmlDyT6Dx_seFcIThvKKUbdGOCtEy-PNrSmC9kQE31L6R7L3RucrMYdkxGi0NJFifs6Jj5D4yLAy1QJp-k7Hv8BE57joHw1UWpyubj1CljsL/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-10+at+9.13.55+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="441" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYF2QR7sUwaHyMKEhnMtQjglh9jUddj440NmlDyT6Dx_seFcIThvKKUbdGOCtEy-PNrSmC9kQE31L6R7L3RucrMYdkxGi0NJFifs6Jj5D4yLAy1QJp-k7Hv8BE57joHw1UWpyubj1CljsL/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-10+at+9.13.55+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><b>Handle: </b>Rosewood<b> </b><br />
<b>Blade: </b>One, Steel (assumed as it is not in the description)<b> </b><br />
<b>Length: </b>5" (closed)<b></b><br />
<a href="http://www.orvis.com/store/product.aspx?pf_id=3e1G&dir_id=1089&group_id=22600&cat_id=22621&subcat_id=22660">$119.00 at Orvis</a><b> </b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.tractorsupply.com/pocket-knives/case-cutlery-reg-amber-bone-medium-stockman-knife-1000691l">4. W.R. Case & Sons Medium Stockman Knife</a></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSnESwVUrTwZlk0itQ8BfPsBs_knQlLKffkz9bDYNUx7s9p1PXvVANodO1h7ak8J5soJHjD7JtQ2Xy7X3BkDMNgrBu6yT2jJThYVYmPVw6sy3_DS03auqkuQo01bWI1oIB3sTAd-PyjAG/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-10+at+8.50.34+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSnESwVUrTwZlk0itQ8BfPsBs_knQlLKffkz9bDYNUx7s9p1PXvVANodO1h7ak8J5soJHjD7JtQ2Xy7X3BkDMNgrBu6yT2jJThYVYmPVw6sy3_DS03auqkuQo01bWI1oIB3sTAd-PyjAG/s640/Screen+shot+2011-04-10+at+8.50.34+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<b>Handle:</b> Amber Bone<br />
<b>Blade:</b> Three, Surgical Steel<br />
<b>Size: </b>3 3/5" (closed)<br />
<i><a href="http://www.tractorsupply.com/pocket-knives/case-cutlery-reg-amber-bone-medium-stockman-knife-1000691">$49.99 at Tractor Supply Co.</a></i><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.boker.de/us/pocket-knife/cinch/11CI403Y.html">5. Boker Cinch Knife</a></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMPy8caTQnXJ7fHZLCNCVMy4yQjxPGoXFdpVjt39hVIt7tNC-0GfTGO8OjEHhFf3Utn_rkBa3cshWoKKc3eNF_gVfxfi550gxZYD8jCLp5y1QXuSDIP2jXumEmsWepV3CPUf2mJytlgIz/s1600/boker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMPy8caTQnXJ7fHZLCNCVMy4yQjxPGoXFdpVjt39hVIt7tNC-0GfTGO8OjEHhFf3Utn_rkBa3cshWoKKc3eNF_gVfxfi550gxZYD8jCLp5y1QXuSDIP2jXumEmsWepV3CPUf2mJytlgIz/s640/boker.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<b>Handle: </b>Polypropylene<br />
<b>Blade: </b>One, Carbon steel<b> </b><br />
<b>Size:</b> 3 5/8" (closed)<br />
<a href="http://www.boker.de/us/pocket-knife/cinch/11CI403Y.html">$29.95 at Boker</a><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Schrade-94RPB-Gunstock-Trapper-Blade-/dp/B000UVWXHC/ref=sr_1_63?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1302482401&sr=1-63">6. Schrade Gunstock Trapper Two Blade</a></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_EkR-PzG3-YWZtYmpO_jM-SINkhXFztcZ86ltmKyt0I5RWnulNB_HpwVC_zxTMDB2_23UzG2TOzbqiQNzLyuVlh1_mOaFFrQWJEL2CN7CosM5ZXbsJIAk5JM_OJj-FpylfbstpIIrRzK/s1600/schrade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_EkR-PzG3-YWZtYmpO_jM-SINkhXFztcZ86ltmKyt0I5RWnulNB_HpwVC_zxTMDB2_23UzG2TOzbqiQNzLyuVlh1_mOaFFrQWJEL2CN7CosM5ZXbsJIAk5JM_OJj-FpylfbstpIIrRzK/s640/schrade.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<b>Handle:</b> Red Pick Bone<br />
<b>Blade: </b>Two, Stainless Steel<br />
<b>Length:</b> 3 7/8" (closed)<br />
<i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Schrade-94RPB-Gunstock-Trapper-Blade-/dp/B000UVWXHC/ref=sr_1_63?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1302482401&sr=1-63">$14.28 at Amazon </a></i><br />
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<a href="http://www.bulldogknives.org/catalog/i110.html"><b>7. Bulldog Brand Sunfish Blue Corn Cob Bone (1 of 50 produced)</b></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJdLTc6zCF25IN_7XFWCWlEyT8Kqv_rxdoG_gHXaADoUJ930-mrBD9kdPJfYm6zcdZgNgjUUwdkSjyh9cA2Rv1DnQB30o6LtfQyXZ82NFrlomoGGXy457hArCZH1DirF123I_cE5rtkjAM/s1600/bb-sunfish-bluecorncob-2007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJdLTc6zCF25IN_7XFWCWlEyT8Kqv_rxdoG_gHXaADoUJ930-mrBD9kdPJfYm6zcdZgNgjUUwdkSjyh9cA2Rv1DnQB30o6LtfQyXZ82NFrlomoGGXy457hArCZH1DirF123I_cE5rtkjAM/s640/bb-sunfish-bluecorncob-2007.jpg" width="640" /></a><b>Handle:</b> Blue Corn Cob Bone<br />
<b>Blade: </b>Two, Surgical Steel<br />
<b>Length: </b> 4" (closed)<i> </i><br />
<i><a href="http://www.bulldogknives.org/catalog/i110.html">$99.99 at Parker's Knife Collector</a></i><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.selfedge.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=75&products_id=683">8. Self Edge Haught Inlaid Pocket Knife</a></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hOEHp5pctYbZtH8CiP39D8ADFyRlp_NQVoS5SxRPD9jFsHnZX4-Dee3m0ktJObjqhosmvxXS44xk2vGHc2xnv9VPPideMuljvOUPxy5Rb853h8ad5vXPmNf8q380Li48iN8B-jCLDq2P/s1600/selfedge1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hOEHp5pctYbZtH8CiP39D8ADFyRlp_NQVoS5SxRPD9jFsHnZX4-Dee3m0ktJObjqhosmvxXS44xk2vGHc2xnv9VPPideMuljvOUPxy5Rb853h8ad5vXPmNf8q380Li48iN8B-jCLDq2P/s640/selfedge1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<b>Handle:</b> Inlaid hard wood and natural stones<br />
<b>Blade:</b> Two, Stainless Steel<br />
<b>Length:</b> 4" (closed), 7.2" (open)<br />
<a href="http://www.selfedge.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=75&products_id=683"><i>$80.00 at Self Edge (in assorted patterns & lengths)</i></a><br />
<i>(Thx <a href="http://twitter.com/josermejia">Jose</a> for the tip)</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.mcustaknives.com/CustomLimitedSeries2ndEdition.html"><b>9. Mcusta Sakura LMC 1201D, Limited Collectors Edition </b></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-H6GcB8qdT6QqxSb6CwJ35vFVIT0r7gzgzxcdCw18tgbiLmS2fg9Pg8l2Auro0h_7l7mfmRpU4LZEMQ0WOkn5DQ4hJxuPauM13yzgElfHzCc3y8ynovdWX-W7ByTkYlT0Vi-sydsPztfD/s1600/mcusta2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-H6GcB8qdT6QqxSb6CwJ35vFVIT0r7gzgzxcdCw18tgbiLmS2fg9Pg8l2Auro0h_7l7mfmRpU4LZEMQ0WOkn5DQ4hJxuPauM13yzgElfHzCc3y8ynovdWX-W7ByTkYlT0Vi-sydsPztfD/s640/mcusta2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<b>Handle: </b>Cocobolo wood<b> </b><br />
<b>Blade: </b>Stainless Steel<b> </b><br />
<b>Length: </b>One, 4 1/4" (closed)<i> </i><br />
<a href="http://www.mcustaknives.com/CustomLimitedSeries2ndEdition.html"><i>$3</i>20.00 at Mucusta</a><br />
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<a href="http://cxxvi.net/collections/jewelry/products/marlin-spike-knife"><b>10. Marlin Spike Knife</b></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRkiUidw3KmouXXlaCR8yT8xMOOZG4IanPpTpg5kpHDN8ky8qA_mhbV5jqkUv7A0Mc42lyhyphenhyphenGuSh2nVV2JukZ6-idPxTgXh0x6j6Wfd9nOH-W1vDA9u4xopqe6OVlHxg1QUtzndXU2tSi4/s1600/whale-k1_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRkiUidw3KmouXXlaCR8yT8xMOOZG4IanPpTpg5kpHDN8ky8qA_mhbV5jqkUv7A0Mc42lyhyphenhyphenGuSh2nVV2JukZ6-idPxTgXh0x6j6Wfd9nOH-W1vDA9u4xopqe6OVlHxg1QUtzndXU2tSi4/s640/whale-k1_large.jpg" width="540" /></a></div><br />
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<b>Handle: </b>Bone<br />
<b>Blade: </b>One, plus marlin spike, Stainless steel<br />
<b>Length: </b>4 1/2" (closed)<br />
<i><a href="http://cxxvi.net/collections/jewelry/products/marlin-spike-knife">$104.00 at CXXVI</a></i><br />
<i>(Thx <a href="http://thingsthatpleaseme.tumblr.com/">Matt</a> for the tip, and to the Anon who called out an error in the description - since revised)</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.garrettwade.com/hand-made-german-anchor-knife/p/02B04.01/"><b>11. Messer Anchor Knife </b></a><i></i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm00lGFXymIODkVc5_es8BRxEfc8K8ZURuomBCVioE2G21kAipYWDzBh2W4KGPH2zlIFVyfSiXPyw4iid5FXgREABd7ZTqL5DcJbhSg9tBtYI0im-TsSOsMEvpyj5t4kYMZ0SH9mAd6hXK/s1600/MesserAnchor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm00lGFXymIODkVc5_es8BRxEfc8K8ZURuomBCVioE2G21kAipYWDzBh2W4KGPH2zlIFVyfSiXPyw4iid5FXgREABd7ZTqL5DcJbhSg9tBtYI0im-TsSOsMEvpyj5t4kYMZ0SH9mAd6hXK/s640/MesserAnchor.jpg" width="640" /></a><b>Handle: </b>Wood<br />
<b>Blade: </b>One, Stainless steel<br />
<b>Length: approx. </b>4", blade is 2 1/2" long <br />
<i><a href="http://www.garrettwade.com/hand-made-german-anchor-knife/p/02B04.01/">$39.70 at Garrett Wade</a></i><br />
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<a href="http://www.leatherman.com/argentum/collection/"><b>11. Leatherman Lagrima de Luna Multitool, Argentum 25th Anniversary ed.</b></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UbQnNVO9FQc/TaMRYglumxI/AAAAAAAAAX8/V89oU3Hg5GY/s1600/Squirt_Lagrima_de_Luna_CLSD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UbQnNVO9FQc/TaMRYglumxI/AAAAAAAAAX8/V89oU3Hg5GY/s640/Squirt_Lagrima_de_Luna_CLSD.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<b>Handle:</b> Sterling Silver<br />
<b>Tools:</b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"></span></span></span><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Scissors</span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Tweezers</span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"></span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">File</span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span title="Click for alternate translations"></span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"></span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Knife</span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Edge</span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Large</span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">flat</span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">screwdriver</span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"></span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Small</span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">flat</span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">screwdriver</span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"></span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Micro</span><span class="atn" title="Click for alternate translations">-</span><span title="Click for alternate translations">flat-blade screwdriver</span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"></span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Skewer</span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"></span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Cap lifter</span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"></span><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif;"><span class="hps" title="Click for alternate translations">Key ring</span></span></span></span></li>
</ul><b>Length: </b>2" (closed)<br />
<i><a href="http://www.leatherman.com/argentum/collection/">$250 at Leatherman </a></i><br />
<i>(Thx <a href="http://twitter.com/ridlej">Johnny</a> for the tip)</i> <br />
<i> </i>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-48294599965673147922011-04-05T08:02:00.000-07:002011-04-06T20:45:23.925-07:00COLLECTION | NONNATIVE S/S 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVLD0xGFEiCOUvMYSc6ZibnGti66AdYcpHt6da6_U2E3rap5K6MGmKDRgRWSo-ABHIv7BYIjkhcshQcEdqJTMVvdlsMXLPMkO_EY9Ilnt8awXy2wC3_pGuKprIVmMU_jyF99b8rWiqvcVo/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVLD0xGFEiCOUvMYSc6ZibnGti66AdYcpHt6da6_U2E3rap5K6MGmKDRgRWSo-ABHIv7BYIjkhcshQcEdqJTMVvdlsMXLPMkO_EY9Ilnt8awXy2wC3_pGuKprIVmMU_jyF99b8rWiqvcVo/s640/1.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
A few weeks ago Japanese brand <a href="http://www.nonnative.com/">Nonnative</a> dropped this beautifully styled S/S collection during a stretch when I was too busy to write anything. Sure, four weeks after the fact seems a bit late but when my browser tells me I've visited a site over 40 times in two weeks I generally take it as a sign and so here we are.<br />
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This season Nonnative remains consistent with its 'urban outdoors-man' aesthetic, but airs more heavily on the urban side of the equation, a departure from the rugged, <a href="http://milliardmag.com/2011/03/31/nonnative-fw-2011-collection/">'artisty mountaineer' theme presented for F/W</a>. This time around they've designed an impressive range of casual pieces for a more relaxed, deconstructed silhouette. While there are a few formal elements thrown in, everything is thoroughly wearable and cast in a palate that balances washed out pastels, which are so popular this season, with darker, richer tones. I'm especially a fan of the highly pigmented purple accents that I suspect, and hope, we'll see pop up again in the fall.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHo4tSfOnvCt7MIr704NG-RS0DYGRqqdYySiqoY7wLHCrdFECwBWm2KLNHsHs2KcEbggXfXUW56e3Mg2KR-WZvEWjNf_ht3UwAkydc0ajayPwl6-EJCpMqgD0A9qppVlNYEbLy2m6lnNJ/s1600/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHo4tSfOnvCt7MIr704NG-RS0DYGRqqdYySiqoY7wLHCrdFECwBWm2KLNHsHs2KcEbggXfXUW56e3Mg2KR-WZvEWjNf_ht3UwAkydc0ajayPwl6-EJCpMqgD0A9qppVlNYEbLy2m6lnNJ/s640/2.png" width="640" /></a></div>The styling - some of the best this season - shows off the versatility of the collection; drawing upon the strengths of the accessories and footwear which are the true heroes here. Thanks to Nonnative's informative and pretty website, I've been able to pair detail shots with pulls from the lookbooks, both spring and summer. <br />
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Looking at it all now, I realize I'll actually be sad to have to publish anything after this as its probably the best looking post I've written here - easy when the pieces and presentation are so flawlessly executed. Certainly deserving of applause all around. It's a tough act to follow, but I look forward to see how they plan to top it next season. - M <br />
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// <a href="http://nonnative.com/">nonnative.com</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6l9rkdzE5sjzI97B3PjJdFmLb4YuTHIvQmvhJQiZY8nQa097kehI54ZU1_VuDjFJFQgDn9Dx8m0-dVQnAuQhSGwW3kYTj_gRTK3_o8eo6zvK8dfwjNMAxAbT67ahVniFelRfsYC1gX6e2/s1600/10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6l9rkdzE5sjzI97B3PjJdFmLb4YuTHIvQmvhJQiZY8nQa097kehI54ZU1_VuDjFJFQgDn9Dx8m0-dVQnAuQhSGwW3kYTj_gRTK3_o8eo6zvK8dfwjNMAxAbT67ahVniFelRfsYC1gX6e2/s640/10.png" width="640" /></a></div>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-63439096499414642442011-04-01T14:39:00.000-07:002011-04-01T14:40:46.494-07:00VIDEO | SCHOTT NYC x WILLIAM YAN x WE ARE NOT PILGRIMS<iframe frameborder="0" height="338" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/21334220" width="600"></iframe><br />
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As Friday comes to a close I strongly suggest you all take a moment to watch this short video featuring Greg Chapman, the creative director of <a href="http://schottnyc.com/">Perfecto Brand by Schott NYC.</a> It's a short and sweet vignette that dreamily meanders the Schott Factory in Elizabeth New Jersey, following Chapman as he muses about his inspiration for the Perfecto line.<br />
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The film was produced - and beautifully shot - by <a href="http://williamyan.com/blog/2011/4/1/william-yan-we-are-not-pilgrims-presents-perfecto-brand-by-s.html">William Yan</a> in collaboration with<a href="http://www.wearenotpilgrims.com/"> We Are Not Pilgrims.</a> A lovely way to start this first, and hopefully not too rainy, weekend in April. Enjoy. - M<br />
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// <a href="http://schottnyc.com/">Schott NYC</a><br />
// <a href="http://williamyan.com/">William Yan</a><br />
// <a href="http://www.wearenotpilgrims.com/"> We Are Not Pilgrims</a>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-81963211234982412882011-03-28T06:45:00.000-07:002011-03-28T19:43:00.391-07:00YES, PLEASE | WINTERCHECK FACTORY DUAL USE SHORT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Nothing gives me greater pleasure than posting about a one of a kind item made by someone I respect as a designer and also consider a rad person. This week, the limited <a href="http://wintercheckfactory.com/shop/24-dual-use-short">Dual Use Short</a> by Kristen at <a href="http://wintercheckfactory.com/">Wintercheck Factory</a> gives me the opportunity to do just that.<br />
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As the name would suggest, these are designed to be worn both as swim trunks and every day shorts. They were inspired by the fact that swim trunks, as a limited use item, often end up a difficult piece to purchase and not a particularly valuable commodity in one's wardrobe as a whole. As Kristen puts it, "<i>In order to expand the use of a higher quality US made swim trunk, we made the liner removable (it buttons into the waistband) so that a man could also work these into his regular summer wardrobe."</i><br />
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<a href="http://wintercheckfactory.com/shop/24-dual-use-short">The Dual Use Shorts</a>, which also come in black (below), are manufactured in Brooklyn and only 304 pieces were made for this first run. The outer fabric is milled in the state of Massachusetts with a Hydrowick coating (for maximum waterproofness) and the removable liner is made from high quality Toray Japanese Mesh. There is a double snap closure at the waist, no zipper, trouser pockets, back pockets with a metal ring to hold your keys. Pretty much the picture of functionality. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gezWrG4ygWQ/TY_iILEi8GI/AAAAAAAAAXU/x1l5H70Z4aU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-03-26+at+9.41.27+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gezWrG4ygWQ/TY_iILEi8GI/AAAAAAAAAXU/x1l5H70Z4aU/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-26+at+9.41.27+PM.png" width="640" /></a><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">So, now imagine it's a sweltering 98 degrees on a summer Friday, the kind where you stop work at 2 PM and head out of the city immediately. Throw these on with a short sleeve button down, some canvas sneaks, cotton blazer, a pair of shades. Pretend to do some work at the office for a couple hours, hop on the train to the nearest lake, shrug off your blazer and you're ready to kayak, hike, swim, whatever. As much as I hate to be all lifestyle-rific about it, you have to admit, these shorts just made your summer. All for a cool $49.00. </span></i>Hop to fellas. - M<br />
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// <a href="http://wintercheckfactory.com/">Wintercheck Factory</a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4Kmj0NJ-wE/TY_lNbB6LFI/AAAAAAAAAXg/k-TZRbVNm5o/s1600/icon-black.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4Kmj0NJ-wE/TY_lNbB6LFI/AAAAAAAAAXg/k-TZRbVNm5o/s640/icon-black.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wintercheck Dual Use Short in Black</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1DPWEefJ94/TY_mI-AieOI/AAAAAAAAAXs/gIUYwy8mUWA/s1600/-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1DPWEefJ94/TY_mI-AieOI/AAAAAAAAAXs/gIUYwy8mUWA/s640/-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">in black</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jLXEgzE2ApQ/TY_ld0jO8oI/AAAAAAAAAXk/8IZrHmn0HB0/s1600/6a00d8341c5df753ef0147e37a929e970b-500wi.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jLXEgzE2ApQ/TY_ld0jO8oI/AAAAAAAAAXk/8IZrHmn0HB0/s640/6a00d8341c5df753ef0147e37a929e970b-500wi.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">with removable liner</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XKGjoBomEts/TY_llc0Rw8I/AAAAAAAAAXo/gPttRY2qmyc/s1600/-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XKGjoBomEts/TY_llc0Rw8I/AAAAAAAAAXo/gPttRY2qmyc/s640/-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">key hook detail</td></tr>
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<br />Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-30051827152653758792011-03-16T08:43:00.000-07:002011-03-16T08:44:29.961-07:00YES PLEASE | GRAHAM WITHERS S/S NECKWEAR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/ties/gunwale-big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/ties/gunwale-big.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
The fellas at <a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/">Graham Withers Clothing Co.</a> impress yet again with this new line of neckwear, bow ties included, for spring and summer. As you would expect from Graham Withers, the designs are clean and classic, letting the top notch fabrics shine through unencumbered. This line is in a seasonally appropriate range of linens, cottons, light flannel, with seersucker making a quick cameo as well. There's a nice balance of patterns and colorways this time too, and all sourced sourced primarily from the US. Each piece is hand made here in NYC, with the (joking) exception of one, which I challenge you to find in the delightfully cheeky product descriptions. This isn't the whole story though, be on the lookout for some pocket squares and a look book in the coming weeks. If this collection is any indication, we're in for a treat. - M<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/ties/chesterfield-big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/ties/chesterfield-big.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graham Withers Chesterfield Tie</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/ties/kingsley-big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/ties/kingsley-big.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graham Withers Kingsley Tie</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/bows/boatkeeper-blue-bow-big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/bows/boatkeeper-blue-bow-big.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graham Withers Boat Keeper Bow Tie (front side)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/bows/boatkeeper-brown-bow-big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/bows/boatkeeper-brown-bow-big.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graham Withers Boat Keeper Bow Tie (reverse side)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/ties/mongibello-big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/ties/mongibello-big.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graham Withers Mongibello Seersucker Tie</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/bows/dg-bow-big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://www.grahamwithersclothing.com/images/products/bows/dg-bow-big.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graham Withers DG Bow Tie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-29940264617621842902011-03-14T11:39:00.000-07:002011-03-14T11:40:24.778-07:00FOR GOOD | CORTER LEATHER 'FOR JAPAN' CUFF<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cache0.bigcartel.com/product_images/33257906/5526183881_f531a5ae46_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://cache0.bigcartel.com/product_images/33257906/5526183881_f531a5ae46_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.corterleather.com/">Corter Leather</a>, a small shop based entirely out of one room in Massachusetts, just announced they will be selling these cuffs with hand painted snaps for $20 to support relief efforts in Japan. All proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross. From the Corter journal about the bracelets:<br />
<blockquote><br />
<i>I wanted to help, wanted to give back more than a reblog or retweet. So for the next week or two, I'll be offering a special "For Japan" edition bracelet ... The bracelet is a natural 9oz bracelet, available in sizes from 6.5" to 8.75", with a hand painted red button to show support. Each comes in a nice cloth bag. Out of respect, there is no branding, no fancy packaging- just a reminder to help and remember.</i> </blockquote><br />
Read more about the For Japan bracelet <a href="http://corter.squarespace.com/imported-20100617030825/">here</a> and buy them at the <a href="http://corterleather.bigcartel.com/product/for-japan">Corter shop.</a> Best $20 you'll have spent in a long time. - MMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05655267205162448326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-67281002497228335002011-03-14T07:31:00.000-07:002011-03-14T07:31:28.900-07:00YES, PLEASE | EPAULET SHIRTING<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2027256415" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4541325983_d83553196b_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-581/Mens-Club-Collar-Oxford/Detail">Epaulet Club Collar Shirt in Oxford Blue</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, yesterday morning I woke up and realized with horror that I'd never written a proper post about Epaulet and resolved to remedy the situation ASAP. Ideally, I'd write about some super epic and phenomenal Epaulet item, but honestly everything they do fits that bill. I've been led to believe this after about four years of having my socks wow-ed off by everything they do.<br />
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I'm fortunate that the proprietors, Mike & Adele, opened the first <a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/">Epaulet</a> location in 2008 just blocks from my apartment as it's afforded me the great pleasure of watching the shop and line grow over time. Shirting was their first in-house offering and it is as impressive today as on day one, if not more so. I thought it fitting, then, that their first staple item should be the topic for this first dedicated post.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2027256549" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/4541325085_5bb5ee3080_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-581/Mens-Club-Collar-Oxford/Detail">Epaulet Club Collar Shirt</a></b></td></tr>
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This season they've introduced some gutsier fabrics, including a mashup tartan number (below), that I'm very fond of. Not to worry though, the classics are all still accounted for, including some beautifully appointed club collars (above) and even a couple of french cuff options. As their website will tell you, all Epaulet shirts are hand crafted in small batches here in the US of A with painstaking attention to detail. I can vouch for the resulting quality as I've owned three.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2027256424" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xMJAEwxjNgY/TX1_WS1A3cI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/pb5_wW0DvaQ/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-13+at+10.36.05+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-915/%27Mens-Buttondown-Tartan-Mashup/Detail">Epaulet Tartan Mashup Shirt</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
More styles are below the jump, and each photo clicks through to Epaulet's storefront where you'll notice the details on each shirt are incredibly
thorough. While you're there, make sure to take stock of the full range of Epaulet goods, as the line now includes the best pants made anywhere and certainly in NYC (hands down), knits, neck wear, and collaborations with Alden, Gitman Brothers, and Thorogood. If you're in the city, a visit to one of the Epaulet boutiques - in <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=epaulet&aq=&sll=40.707189,-73.960648&sspn=0.073522,0.180416&ie=UTF8&hq=epaulet&hnear=&z=13">Brooklyn or Manhattan</a> - is a must. Whatever you purchase or whichever store you visit, there is a 100% possibility that Epaulet is sure to impress. - M<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_f0R5MG206w/TX4isuSQq8I/AAAAAAAAAWs/RWjg-5orayM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-03-14+at+10.13.05+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_f0R5MG206w/TX4isuSQq8I/AAAAAAAAAWs/RWjg-5orayM/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-14+at+10.13.05+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-857/Mens-Buttondown-Collar-Oxford/Detail">Epaulet Men's Button Down Oxford Collar Shirts</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2027256471" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-3ce1-ZLYJZc/TX4YaXXUrdI/AAAAAAAAAWY/bmD2VuuuM18/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-14+at+9.22.16+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-819/*Mens-Dress-Shirt-Steel/Detail">Epaulet Steel Gingham Dress Shirt</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2027256464" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-uWJtWwBtkeM/TX4YqEBjPPI/AAAAAAAAAWc/3kHkoVcpGm8/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-14+at+9.22.22+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-942/%27Mens-Point-Collar-Shadow/Detail">Epaulet Point Collar Shadow Dot Shirt</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2027256459" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-F4o6nAqKsS8/TX4YxtgLjmI/AAAAAAAAAWg/y1H0NYKHR14/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-14+at+9.24.11+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-608/*Mens-Japanese-Madras-Grape-fdsh-Goldenrod/Detail">Japanese Madras Short Sleeved Shirt</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2027256527" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-JsT7di83PnM/TX4e7eDZVDI/AAAAAAAAAWo/z-NbZfaA6uk/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-14+at+9.22.29+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-866/Mens-French-Cuff-/Detail">Epaulet Navy Stripe French Cuff Shirt</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2027256450" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-NNJ72p7MHko/TX4Y4Y5p8qI/AAAAAAAAAWk/pkI3zwSqXFM/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-14+at+9.25.28+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-615/*EP%27s-Greycast-Indigo-Chambray/Detail">Epaulet Greycast Indigo Chambray Utility Shirt</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2027256503" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dCDdyxpy5-g/TX4YNpafH4I/AAAAAAAAAWU/URUlwO4TZ7s/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-14+at+9.22.03+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-413/*Mens-Slim-Point-Black/Detail">Men's Slim Point Black Tartan Flannel Shirt</a></b><br />
(not springy but what the hey, it's a beautiful shirt)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-152836204128938976.post-37742041949485702612011-03-09T19:44:00.000-08:002011-03-09T21:51:23.544-08:00IN CONTEXT | MR. HARE MAILER LOAFER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IjkHfz5m5-M/TXVvHqKLQuI/AAAAAAAAAVU/hi-ukNYLcNQ/s1600/IMG_0403-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IjkHfz5m5-M/TXVvHqKLQuI/AAAAAAAAAVU/hi-ukNYLcNQ/s1600/IMG_0403-1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
You'll notice that the image above contains ample negative space and one bombastic pair of shoes. Mind you, I know these aren't for everyone and certainly intimidate most, but they also promise to be the crowning sartorial glory of any man's shoe collection should he be ballsy enough to take the leap. These loafers just have that much gravitas. <br />
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This phenomenon is not unusual for <a href="http://www.mrhare.co.uk/Home.html">Mr. Hare</a> shoes. The company began as the mission of one man - yes, Mr. Hare - to create footwear that he, simply, liked. Nearly three years and four collections later, he's created a fleet of shoes, boots and loafers that a great many like, if not revere. Mr. Hare's offerings are distinct in almost every way that counts - in silhouette, manufacturing and materials making them some of the more unique pieces on the market. These are no exception.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLl8aIQDnTrD3fZsxvvE1o03nLiZHlINwsYSa9DstrvndR30kF4b7IOU-xeco3tgpOtMHvorG5wwkN1DfI6-fZiwj3RKOrOk69ke82gnvWV8p4foCduwiEd5XTRuqaIUr3Op1e6SGyWDrI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-03-07+at+6.47.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLl8aIQDnTrD3fZsxvvE1o03nLiZHlINwsYSa9DstrvndR30kF4b7IOU-xeco3tgpOtMHvorG5wwkN1DfI6-fZiwj3RKOrOk69ke82gnvWV8p4foCduwiEd5XTRuqaIUr3Op1e6SGyWDrI/s640/Screen+shot+2011-03-07+at+6.47.51+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
The Mailer loafer upper and tassels - which appear more substantial than most - are made with Vacchetta leather, an untreated animal rawhide that is traditionally used for the trim of luggage and bags. Vachetta is susceptible to sunlight, which means care is important, but also that the shoe will darken in shade over time, creating a natural patina. The lasts for the shoes - those <a href="http://www.ourcottagegarden.com/uploads/shoe_lasts0.jpg">old-timey looking wooden shoe molds</a> - are crafted in Northampton, England and then sent to Italy where the shoe is then constructed over the last.<br />
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Available in Tan, Navy and Black they retail for a cool £405, or approximately $656 depending on the exchange. The Tan version, featured here, are a solid option for Spring if you want to class things up a bit; one that will surely hold its own amidst this, the season of ornate footwear, (read: <a href="http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/double+monk">an increasingly aggressive double monk takeover</a>). <br />
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To purchase or for more info you can contact Mr. Hare directly by reaching out to the spectacularly helpful James Hayes <a href="mailto:james@mrhare.co.uk">[email]</a>. For more about Mr. Hare check out this excellent interview with the man himself on <a href="http://stylesalvage.blogspot.com/2011/03/mr-hare-aw11-idolescents.html">Style Salvage</a>. Cheers and Happy loafering. - M<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>[IN CONTEXT</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b>]</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Mr. Hare Mailer Loafer + Dressy Spring Essentials</i></span></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2CCuYq2zzM8/TXVvofqYKRI/AAAAAAAAAVc/pqdznTd-isQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-03-07+at+6.04.57+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2CCuYq2zzM8/TXVvofqYKRI/AAAAAAAAAVc/pqdznTd-isQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-03-07+at+6.04.57+PM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Hare <b><a href="http://www.mrhare.co.uk/Mailer.html">Mailer Loafer</a></b><br />
Seven Alan Spring <b><a href="http://www.stevenalan.com/catalog/Spring-Peak-Lapel-Blazer-p-18856-c-1024-21796.html">Peak Lapel Blazer</a></b><br />
Epaulet <b><a href="http://www.epauletshop.com/servlet/the-596/Tapered-Rudy-Trouser-Chambray/Detail">Tapered Rudy Trouser</a></b><br />
Folk Clothing <b><a href="http://www.folkclothing.com/men/belts/buckley-belt-navy-with-stripes.html">Buckley Belt</a></b><br />
Ines Melain <b><a href="http://www.barneys.com/Solid-Sport-Shirt/501066195,default,pd.html?utm_source=GAN&utm_medium=Polyvore&utm_campaign=Primary">Solid Sport Shirt</a></b><br />
Mismo <b><a href="http://www.freemanbrand.com/2011/03/mismo-fallwinter-11.html">Full Grain Canvas Carry-all</a></b><br />
Stowa<a href="http://www.stowa.de/lshop,showdetail,12997249257560,en,1299724926-7560,marine,marineautsilbermattdat,,,.htm"> <b>Marine Automatic Timepiece</b></a><br />
Tom Ford <b><a href="http://www.complex.com/style/2011/03/you-need-this-tom-ford-singleman-glasses">Single Man Glasses</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://store.archivalclothing.com/products/archival-clothing-field-bag"></a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Previously [In Context] : <br />
<a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2010/12/in-context-left-field-nyc-ivy-crew.html">Left Field NYC Ivy Crew Sweater</a><br />
<a href="http://thesigother.blogspot.com/2011/01/in-context-nike-air-royal-mid-qs.html">Nike Air Royal Mid QS 'Workboot' Sneaker</a>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03109589207434531177noreply@blogger.com2