COLLECTION | BARBOUR x TO KI TO A/W '11

Barbour x To Ki To.  Is there really anything more to say?

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.

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. 

The entire collection is on pre-order at Number Six, 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

// Barbour x To Ki To at Number Six

YES, PLEASE | FILSON ITALIA BLACK LABEL S/S OUTERWEAR

From left to right, FIlson Italia Blacklabel S/S 2011 Workwear Jacket and Overhead Coat.
All photos courtesy of Oi Polloi.

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 Filson's Japanese Red Label line), 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).

Filson Italia Black Label Workwear Jacket

Filson Italia Black Label Overhead Coat

This line is not (easily) available in the United States, but fortunately for us, our friends at Oi Polloi 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. Be sure to see many more detail shots after the jump and shop Filson Italia here. - M

// Oi Polloi
// Filson (USA)

A WEEK'S SVPPLY | No. 04 FEB. 26 - MAR. 5

via svpply.com/thesigother

Things I fancied this week, (from left to right):

1. Royal Suede Sneakers, PRO-Keds x Mcniary
   Alright so these have permeated the internet and my brain for at least a couple of weeks. I think they're bordering on a season staple at this point. In four colors, including Kelly green, make them do-able for anyone.
2. The Anthem Baseball Blazer, Uniforms for the Dedicated
   A really phenomenal take on the classic baseball coat. Make it slimmer, refine the collar, axe the bungee bottom, and this is what you get. The detail work, closures and piping, really put it on the map for me. Beautiful piece.
3. Canvas Tote, Mismo
   Danish company, Mismo can do no wrong and it's been cropping up everywhere this week. This tote is perfect for every day; a sleeker alternative to Filson, that looks good in a more formal office too. If you like, check out the Mismo write ups on Free/Man & Selecism.
4. Cabinology by Dale Mulfinger
   Anyone who knows me is familiar with my obsession with cabins/cottages and according to the blurb "If you have a cabin dream, this book is your ticket to making it real." Where do I sign?
5. Franklin Chino, Vanishing Elephant
   Just a classic chino in a great color and something else to consider besides Dockers. I have not seen them in person but from the measurements it looks like these are a medium/slim fit.
6. Floral Button Down, YMC
   I've actually been eyeing this for a good month now.  Floral is a bit of a trend this season, and while it's not for everyone, YMC does it quite well here. Also, I don't think this company gets enough love given how awesome their offering is lately.
7. Marine Automatic Timepiece, Stowa
   German manufacture Stowa is one of the greatest mid-level watch companies I know of.  This is such an amazing piece for price, which is under $800. Those navy hands just kill me. Honestly, this needs a post of its own but for now, check out the Stowa collection here.
8. Organic Cotton Flax Stripe Pocket Square, The Hill-Side
   A whimsical little detail for spring that is just informal enough that you could wear it to brunch or a cocktail party.  Something tells me this will attract the ladies too - "oh your pocket square is just so charming!" - take my word for it.
9. Hooded Mac, APC
   APC is hit or miss with me but it is a consistently good brand when it comes to outerwear. This trench will take you through the transition of the seasons, with a 100% cotton outer and removable wool liner and hood. The silhouette on this one is hard to beat and the nicely over-sized buttons are a good touch too.

Must admit, this week was a rough one due to seasonal illness (oh, it wasn't pretty) which is why this is late to come. Despite that fact, it's been a strong weekend, this post included. Love everything here and the warm, if rainy, weather its heralding in. Enjoy the rest of Sunday everyone. - M

COLLECTED | PARKAS & COATS WINTER 2010

Nigel Cabourn Cameraman Jacket

T'is the season to prepare for hibernation and I've been getting so many questions about winter jackets lately that I thought it warranted a post of its own. Jacketry, as I lovingly call it, is my ultimate achilles heel, and this season it has impressed at every price/style/construction so it was teeth-pullingly hard to pick and chose. That said, hopefully there is something in this selection to suit many a fancy and wallet size. I'm looking forward to adding to the list - the more the merrier - so don't hesitate to leave suggestions.  Check out the list with notations below the jump and happy parka-ing.  - M

MONITALY & YUKETEN F/W 2010

I first came across the Monitaly Riders Coat while devouring this quarters' Men's File, and have since seen it spread across every blog I know and respect.  And with good reason, these are probably some of the most distinctive pieces this season.  I love how they've spun traditional with bold rings of color.  It's very post-apocalypic in a rugged, nowhere man kind of way, which I find very appealing.

Not surprisingly, Monitaly's sister company, Yuketen, takes a similar approach and if you look closely you'll see it's the footwear featured in this shoot.  Shop Monitaly and Yuketen at Opening Ceremony  - and check out close ups after the jump. - M