PHOTOS | AMERICA IN COLOR

A friend of mine recently sent me a link to this absolutely spectacular set of photos compiled by the Denver Post. The collection is from an exhibit by the library of congress.  "These Images", they say, "are by photographers of the Farm Security Administration/Office of War Information, [and] are some of the only color photographs taken of the effects of the Depression on America’s rural and small town populations."

I've pulled the images that I found most striking, and not surprisingly, they illustrate the continued, if not enhanced, pride in self presentation in the face of the chaotic, uncertain times of that era.

Is it any wonder that the comforts of work wear, traditional construction and whole fabrics have emerged once again? - M

See more after the jump and at denverpost.com.

VIDEO | VIBERG BOOT

I recently stumbled upon this video about the Viberg Boot company produced by Inventory Magazine's "Inventory Films". It is about a year old so I'm surprised I haven't seen more coverage, but, as one would expect from Inventory, it is still a beautifully shot piece about a company with an authentic past.  Inventory's description does a fine job framing up the company:

"Nestled in the heart of downtown Victoria, B.C. is Viberg Boot. Home to three generations of master craftsmen, the Viberg tradition involves making the best quality leather boots available. While they've traditionally made footwear for logging and labouring, the family owned & operated company is now finding success in lifestyle markets halfway around the world in Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the UK. 

Like Orvis, Carhartt and even L.L Bean, Viberg is riding the wave of the 'American Trad' resurgence while never jeopardizing functionality; going so far as highlighting an entire line of boots under the title "Safety Boots".  At a time when Heritage stories are often equal parts romanticized fiction and approximations of truth, I'm finding that down and dirty authenticity is rare, so I applaud Viberg for their complete lack of pretense.

Notable models in their current range include The Packer, and The Foreman (pictured below) both of which could accommodate a pair of office slacks for those lucky few who need to seamlessly transition between the boardroom and the hunting lodge.

Be sure to check out both Inventory Magazine and the Viberg brand after checking out the video.  - M

The Packer

The Foreman

COMPANY | FIGS TIES, 'THREADS FOR THREADS'

Following in Tom's footsteps, FIGS (short for Fashion Inspired Global Sophistication) promises to donate a school uniform to a child in need with every tie purchase. The program is called Threads for Threads and will begin by supplying uniforms for children in 105 schools in Kenya and Tanzania. 

If that isn't inspiring enough, it doesn't hurt that collection features a variety of pure fabrics, like Italian silk and British wool, simple patterns and custom services. I'm especially impressed with the heathered wool and classic Tartan ties, though I think the bicycle print steals the show.

The company founder, Heather Hasson, had experience with Levis, Gucci and other fashion funded philanthropic endeavors before starting FIGS. Cheers to Mrs. Hasson for an impressive launch, I'm looking forward to seeing how FIGS evolves. - M

BLOG | THINGS ORGANIZED NEATLY

The concept is simple: Photographs of things organized neatly. Although not particularly Man focused, it does conjure the beauty of deliberateness, structure, simplicity and variety which are, perhaps not so surprisingly, the most noble qualities of Menswear.  - M

Link: thingsorganizedneatly.tumblr.com

Just a few more photos after the jump.

VIDEO | OXXFORD CLOTHES

"If images of your father and grandfather wearing beautifully tailored, but slightly old-fashioned suits from this Chicago-based company is the only lasting memory you have of the 91-year-old brand, it’s time to take a second look. The new Oxxford suits feature lighter super wool and cashmere fabrics, softer construction, and a sexier shape that includes smaller lapels, higher armholes, and leaner, flat-front slacks." - via Robb Report