More on the Crew
I’ve been remiss in checking my MD mail lately. J.Crew (thanks, Lance!) dropped me a note to fill me in on the new Men’s Shop opening (back on May 12) on Broadway in NYC, and to let me know that they would be collaborating with artist Richard Haines on some projects. Additionally, the new shop will be selling Superior Labor tote bags, which is a HUGE bonus. I love the exclusives that J.Crew offers.
Lance notes that, “We took over the old Universal News at 484 Broadway and gave it a masculine make-over, while keeping some elements of the original structure created in the 1800s. Consider the Men’s Shop as the “big brother” to the Liquor Store in Tribeca. It’s at least 3 times the size, with more assortment, more exclusives and even more vintage pieces.
I can’t wait for J.Crew to open a Men’s Shop in San Fran. Until then, I am planning a long weekend trip to NYC soon and will definitely be spending some time in both the Liquor Store and at the Broadway location. Great job, guys!
Loading ...Paul Smith Comes to the City by the Bay
There has been a lot of anticipation here in SF since Paul Smith announced some time ago that he’d be opening his doors. They’ve been open a few weeks and I finally had the chance to pop in this past weekend. But you don’t just “pop” into Paul Smith, it’s impossible. Paul’s stores are a total sensory experience, and perhaps one of my favorite retail experiences next to Ralph Lauren. The SoHo location is amazing, and San Francisco does not disappoint. Surprises hidden in every nook and cranny, bright pops of color and pattern combined with modern and vintage fixtures. At times its like peeking in someones gorgeous closet, and others like being in an amazing modern art museum. True to form, Paul Smith is tucked away in the outskirts of Union Square with entries on both Geary and Maiden Lane. Enter from Geary and you get a more modern feel; enter through Maiden Lane and it’s like entering and English manor home. And perhaps my favorite part of going to Paul Smith, the staff is actually friendly, fun, and helpful. “The shop will house all Collections and will also be filled with interesting objects and curios, turning every shopping experience into a treasure hunt of sorts.”
Jenna @ J.Crew
Anyone who knows me also knows that I am a big J.Crew fan. Ironic given that I work for a large specialty apparel retailer who is not the Crew. Makes getting dressed for work sometimes a challenge. I’m an east coast boy at heart living on the left coast, and J.Crew makes me feel a bit of home with its east coast sensibility. They have done an amazing job over the last several years evolving the brand, and they tell a fantastic story with their marketing and store visuals. My favorite days are those when I come home to find a new catalog in the mail (its the simple things). Behind every great man (Mickey Drexler) they say there is a great woman, and for J.Crew that is Jenna Lyons, Creative Director. Jenna sat down with Details to give her 10 Rules of Style. A few of my favorite Jenna tips:
4. A pressed shirt signals work mode. But a washed-cotton shirt automatically makes you feel more touchable, more approachable. It’s effortless. However, if everything is washed—that’s not interesting. When washed is paired with a blazer and a tie, it looks amazing.
6. Get dressed, then change one element. With a suit, wear a pair of Converse, or take off your dress shirt and put on a chambray button-down instead. You can also do the reverse. Try khakis rolled up with wingtips. Tweaking one thing is an easy way for guys to modernize an outfit, even if they don’t know what the hell they’re doing.
10. We don’t need you to be perfect. What we do need is for you to look a little bit more pulled-together. And no pleats, please, not ever, ever, in your life. Ever.
Inspire
Obsession – Jack Spade
While out shopping for an 18th birthday / high school graduation gift for my sister this week I stopped by the Kate Spade store, and I of course had to spend a few minutes (okay the majority of my time) perusing the Jack Spade section. And I found my obsession for the week…Jack has a fantastic line of Bankers Envelopes in stores right now. From their signature waxwear (shown here) to a gorgeous aged leather. They are priced just right for a small luxury indulgence without breaking the bank at $95 – $175.
NYT On The Street
The New York Times’ Bill Cunningham gives a great photo essay entitled “On the Street / Boundless” describing the current state of mens fashion.
Ask & Tell
Hot Trunks
I know, I know…completely gratuitous. And to top the hotness off these trunks (as well as others) are on sale at Rugby. Happy Monday.
Gossip Boy
J.Press Sale
The J.Press final winter sale is on, stock up on the ultimate in preppy winter gear.
