my stuff

Jacket:UNIQLO Shirt:Koto/UrbanOutfitters Denim:A.P.C.

I know, this place's been all about photo safaris and my stuff lately, but I'm on a mountain in the middle of China, give me a break. I've been feeling UNIQLO lately. This jacket is a perfect transitional jacket. It's got a removable quilted liner-which extends its use as a light rain shell to a fairly decent Fall and early Winter jacket. With the right layers, it's apropos for quite a few occasions. I found the chambray buried in a rack of flannels and skittle flavored hoodies one day wandering through the local Urban Outfitters this summer. I've never heard of Koto, but I like the shirt and the pocket details. Don't worry, I only have 2 chambray shirts.

 

Doesn't it look like I'm thoughtfully considering the beauty of nature and how small a speck in this great universe I really am? Yeah, too bad I just misjudged the ten second timer on my camera.

my stuff

Jacket: Uniqlo Shirt: Ralph Lauren Tie:The Hill-Side Trousers:Uniqlo Hat:GraceHats Shoes:Camper PocketSquare:The Hill-Side

Today is Halloween on Moganshan. Not that this is really a costume at all. Actually, it's my best impression of Thom Browne. This is the other jacket I bought in Hong Kong a few weeks back (has it really been 2 months?) from Uniqlo. I picked the trousers up in Osaka after drooling over similar styles at BEAMS and Ciaopanic. I never was the biggest fan of cropped trousers, but the Japanese won me over. I'm still not sure how girls feel about them, but I doubt that feelings are too negative, right?

 

I can't really say how much I like, no strike that, love my gear from The Hill-Side. The tie is amazing and has held up to 2 plus months of travel and my not always so delicate packing style. It works with jeans and an untucked shirt as well as a blazer/trouser combo for more formal moments. The bandanna, which I've folded into a pocket square here, is great. Still haven't seen a shade quite like the plum chambray. Plus, whenever I get the urge to rob a bank, I have the perfect mask. If you're going to steal someone's money, you should at least be well dressed. 

Happy Halloween kids. 

my stuff

I picked up this hat in Osaka from a small hat shop on the walk back to the hotel one day. Obviously, I'm a big fan of driving caps. And I have quite a few of them. What I didn't have was one made in heavy, sweatshirt material cotton. Grey and sweatshirt cotton-sold and sold. The Obey shirt and New Standards are holding up to China well.The real surprise here is I got new specs!

I went for an oval shape. Kind of an impulse buy, I wandered into the glasses shop in the small city at the base of the mountain one night with my sister. She told me before that glasses could be had at pretty amazing prices. A quick eye exam, 45 minutes, and 45 dollars later and here we are. I went for the oval shaped frames. That way I can look like a distinguished architect or modern artist, no? That or the goofy guy with funny shaped glasses. Either way I'm into it. 

nice parka

The changing seasons haven't gone unnoticed by yours truly. Solid parkas are a necessity where I'm from and often times have little to do with style. Survival is key when you're trudging to school in February, dodging snowballs, and trying not to slip on ice covered sidewalks. A good parka helps you enjoy the beauty that is winter. Living in the midwest has garnered me quite the collection over the years of nylon, quilted, and down stuffed parkas. That doesn't mean I don't notice a good thing when I see it.

The first photo is part of the amazing Nigel Cabourn collection. Inspired by the first ascent of Everest, Mr. Cabourn's collection is as meticulously constructed as it is aesthetically appealing. The Mountain Rucksack Parka is certainly one of my favorites this season. I love wool and the hop-sack style wool outer is choice. The term 'investment piece' is bandied about a lot these days, but I do think that this is such a piece. I especially love the built in rucksack on the back in a contrast color. Check out Oi Polloi for more detailed shots. 

The second jacket is the CW Corona Parka from Woolen Mills by Woolrich. This is probably one of the more perfect parkas I've seen in awhile. The knee length helps cut down on wintry winds, while the fur lined canvas outer keeps you warm and dry. I also really like that the lining is removable-I always end up wearing the lining of parkas a lot. Also available at Oi Polloi. 

So grab yourself a good coat and go snowshoeing this winter-it's a great way to enjoy a fresh blanket of snow...

my stuff

hat:UnitedArrows, vest:Ciaopanic, shirt:Obey, denim:APC, boots:Ciaopanic, rucksack:Fjallraven

Remember when I said that all I needed were the perfect pair of boots and I'd be set for a fall uniform? Well I found them. Ciaopanic to the rescue! If you come to Detroit, or I'm around your parts, this is probably what you'll see me wearing. Substitute a flannel and I'm pretty sure this will work for all but the coldest days.

I've had my eye on Fjallraven's kanken rucksack for awhile now and when I saw them at Opening Ceremony in Shibuya, I couldn't resist. Can you tell I like the color green?

The boots in a little more detail. I love crepe souls, so obviously when I saw these, I was sold. The thick sole is super comfortable and I like the sand suede. I may switch the laces to red, but other than that, I wouldn't change a thing.

These bags are really versatile and have been around forever. My favorite feature is how the shoulder straps can be cinched tight and snapped in place, making the bag a tote rather than a rucksack. Perfect for running around the city, a day hike in the bamboo forest, or packing lunch for that picnic you've been meaning to take her on. Don't want to fly to New York or Tokyo to buy it? Get it at Context Clothing.

my stuff

Can you tell I like bamboo? The views are amazing and being able to touch bamboo this thick is pretty neat. I've been trying to run or walk around at least for an hour or so for the past few days and it's criminal how little I've seen of the mountain. Everything from waterfalls to koi ponds are at my doorstep. If you get the chance, come visit Monganshan-I know a pretty cool pastry chef/manager of a really nice coffee shop/restaurant (and it's not just 'cause she's my sister)...

To the clothes:

Jeans are the Edwin 503s I got back in Hong Kong. It's crazy how one wash makes such a difference. These are much softer than the A.P.C.s. I do really like the red selvage. I'm leaving for Osaka and Tokyo on Wednesday and now that I have Edwins, I'll fit in right?

The shirt is a Dior shirt I've had since high school. No, I didn't buy a Dior shirt just to wear to school-a friend of my mom's gave me a ton of shirts they had laying around when they heard I had to wear them as part of my uniform. I always liked this one and have kept it in rotation ever since.

You can see The Hill-Side bandanna peeking out-it's really come in handy on this trip. Plus, with the mustache, when I wear it around my neck I totally kind of look like a real train robber. Can't beat that.

And of course Clarks desert treks. The crepe sole is really comfy, especially on all the stone steps here on the mountain. I think I'm going to grab a pair of luggers while I'm here too. You can never have enough Clarks, can you?

my stuff

Hong Kong has some of the best shopping in the world. There are way too many places to check out in just three days (don't worry I plan on looping back through before heading back to the states). I wish malls back home were even a fraction of the quality here. After pining over Porter bags, Visvim shoes, and countless others, I spied these guys on the 4th floor of the Sogo shopping center. I was always curious about Edwin denim, but had never seen them in person.

I went for the red selvage 503s. Straight leg, one wash. Now normally, I'd say just go raw/dry, but I really liked the fit and hand of these. And they were a good deal.

The fit on these jeans is perfect. Not too tight, not baggy at all-this Goldilocks has found her porridge. I think these will definitely give my new standards a run for their money. In general, I'm not the biggest fan of pocket embroidery, but this detail isn't too much for me at all. I also like how the center back belt loop is slightly off-center.

All in all, I'd say absolutely zero buyer's remorse. My only regret? Not enough time and money for all the precious treasures I've been seeing.

my stuff

Hi from Hong Kong!! After a long, but pleasantly uneventful 16 hour commute, we made it. Highlights- seeing my sister after almost a year apart, her boyfriend giving me sweet sunglasses, and wandering the Temple St. Night Market. Today's my first full day, so we'll see what happens.

My stuff: (1.) asus Eee pc-great for traveling, it's light and fast, exactly what every blogger nerd needs. (2.) Timex expedition watch-20 bucks from Target. Great for traveling- I never really wear a watch (thanks cellphone) but I figured one that reminded me of military watches would be cool for the trip. (3.) Billykirk leather card holder in tan. Slim, stylish, and rugged, it's the perfect wallet. (4.) My pentax optio digital camera. (5.) Muji pen and notebook. Picked these guys up when I was in New York. (6.) Last but not least, folding Ferrari sunglasses my sister's boyfriend gave me. I've always had a soft spot for folding sunglasses-if they're good enough for Mr. McQueen, they're perfect for me.

my stuff

Hat: can't remember, Shirt: Ralph Lauren, Tie: The Hill-Side, Trousers: Lacoste, Shoes: Camper, Watch: Timex

I love driving caps. I have a pretty good collection, although I always have my eye out. I also have a soft spot for gingham.

Ralph Lauren is always a good bet for a solid shirt. It might not be the brand of the moment, but it will always fit well and last for awhile.

The Hill-Side is an amazing new company. If you're in the market for a tie, handkerchief, or bandanna, this is the place to go. The guys at The Hill-Side use sturdy, unconventional fabrics like chambray, denim, and waxed cotton which lends their ties a nice edge. I'll probably wear this indigo selvedge denim tie as much as possible. It works well with a suit, as well as with my shirt untucked. Stay tuned for an upcoming post on The Hill-Side.

I don't really have a lot of stuff from Lacoste, in fact these trousers may be the only thing I own. But I do like them. A good chocolate brown trouser is a nice alternative to khaki or navy. To roll or to cuff? I tend to roll my trousers in the summer. It's because I have sexy ankles. When you got it, flaunt it, right?

My plum selvedge chambray bandanna. This will be in my back pocket, around my neck, or folded as a pocket square every day. Can you tell I really like the Hill-Side?

The contents of my pockets: Billykirk card holder in tan leather and the Hill-Side bandanna. I plan on owning these pieces for a long time.

Franny is normally around when I take pictures of myself. I think she was getting a little jealous. She kept shooting me the 'you actually take pictures of yourself ?' look. No one likes it when their dog calls them on their slightly narcissistic activities. This is her stare off into the distance pose.

capsule show: Folk

Folk was by far my favorite of the Capsule Show. Founded in 2001 by Cathal McAteer, Folk has made a name for itself with quality, understated, casual menswear. Based in the U.K., I didn't really know much about the company other than they were attending the show. Needless to say I was blown away. In a sea of workwear inspired labels, Folk stood out with simple, classic pieces. Amazing attention is paid to even the smallest detail.

Every season a signature pattern is worked into almost every garment. It shows up in the chunky knit sweaters to the lining of shirts and jackets. The key to Folk's success is in not overdoing the little details and touches.

This quilted jacket was my favorite of Folk's offerings and of the show overall. The material is a soft cotton that has been waterproofed. Inspired by old life jackets, the zipper has a rescue whistle attached. Folk mixes a sense of humor with quality construction and materials-something very difficult to pull off without the garments becoming costumey or cliched.

I will have this jacket. Another detail I loved (besides the color and the quilting) were these shoulder handles. Handles on the shoulder you ask?

The handles are so your buddy can pull you out of the water. If there's one jacket I buy in the next few months, seriously, it'll probably be this one. Too bad I have to wait so long for it to come to shops.

I love the palette of this collection. The staples remain classic colors, while the details and some of the sweaters stand out in bright relief. I would wear every piece shown in this section of the lookbook. I love their shirts. From a little twist on the plackets to contrast lining which gets shown when the sleeves are rolled up, the details really set the shirts a part.

Finding a clothing label that doesn't take itself too seriously while remaining meticulous about construction and fit is a hard thing to do. Folk's probably my new favorite label. How can you not like a label that uses playmobil toys in their lookbook?

Can't wait till I open my own store to buy some Folk gear? Check out oi polloi and oki-ni. Or check out the Folk shop when you're in London.

Folk
49 Lambs Conduit St,
London, WC1N 3NG
0207 404 6458
shop@folkclothing.com

capsule show: Billykirk

I've been admiring the work of the brothers Bray from afar for quite some time now. Hand made leather goods in large part produced by Amish craftsmen in Pennsylvania, Billykirk bags and wallets look amazing. Being able to feel the leather and the stitching made me want something even more.

Being primarily a leathermaking outfit, I was nicely surprised when I spied these duffels at their booth.

Heavy duty waxed canvas and strong, sturdy zippers make these duffels a must have for when you need to disappear for a few days.

My favorite was this olive green. Like all of their products, these bags will only get cooler and better looking with age and abuse. Throw it in the back of your car and let your girl borrow it.

The perfect size for the gym as well as the overhead compartment. Get this and never buy another duffel again.

Billykirk teamed up with sebago to make some pretty cool shoes and boots.

These hats are classic shapes and made with classic materials. Great for that impromptu picnic that you're planning for her.

A few jerky guys have almost single handedly ruined wearing dapper pieces like these. Let's reclaim the classic hat from all those guys.

I saved my all-time favorites for last. I love the zipper wallets. I'd get the natural leather and watch how cool it got just from holding my money and staying in my pocket.

Not one of those guys who really rocks a wallet? Get the cardholder and you'll be set for life.

Billykirk makes products that you hold on to for a long time. Girls, these are things any guy will appreciate. Also, whenever I meet a girl with a cool wallet or bag (or hat) I always remember her. It's like the girl with a really cool car.

make sure to check out Billykirk's site for way more product shots. For those of you who love studio/workspace shots check out Selectism's visit to their studio.

capsule show: Garbstore

Garbstore has a great reputation and whenever a new line drops, it's bound to get a ton of press. As a label, Garbstore treads that fine line between vintage-inspired and reproduction. The materials, color ways, and construction all hint at the influence, yet the pieces remain modern and relevant.

The jackets and trousers stood out as very durable options that would work well as three season gear. A lot of times labels that reference traditional garb often retain the original fitting, which is often boxier and baggier than average. The fit of the jackets and trousers are spot-on.

This was one of my favorites of the showings for spring/summer '10. The shawl collar is something I've really been liking lately. I'm happy to see a few looks incorporating the traditional collar. I also like that this cardigan is made of a heavy sweatshirt cotton. Perfect for the chilly night or as a layering piece.

Garbstore makes amazing jackets and waistcoats. I really like the shape and color of this one. The slight contrast on the underside of the collar is a nice subtle touch. These jackets feel great. The seams and buttons feel strong and the pocket placement is perfect.

This back cinch is a nice touch. It's small touches like these that kept me discovering new details throughout the show. The guys at Garbstore are picky about where their garments are carried. Which often translates to a little frustration in locating them. But if you can find it, it's great gear that will last you a long time.

For more pics and thoughts check out ryan's review, see what the guys from streetetiquette wore and saw, and to round it out; drinkin&dronin's thoughts.

capsule show: Yuketen

this pic courtesy of streetetiquette

The Yuketen company wasn't really a surprise in terms of quality or presentation. All the gear is hand made in the U.S.A. and looks great. From moccasins, to boat shoes, to backpacks, the boys at Yuketen have got you covered. Now if they could just get some U.S. buyers to pick up more than just one or two styles. From the booth itself, it seems as if the boat shoe will be around for a few more seasons to come. And really, if you're gonna get some, why not a hand made pair?

It's no secret here that I love all things moccasin and crepe sole. So when I spotted these guys underneath the main table, I had to take a second look.

The Yuketen guys (who were really nice and more than willing to let me chat their ears off) told me these were the first model ever made at Yuketen.

I love the over sized sole and overall roughness of the shoe. They are lightweight while still feeling solid as hell. I could see myself wearing these until they completely disintegrated on my feet.

For me, these are the perfect compromise between a boat shoe and moccasin. I heard Steven Alan was looking at them, but no one could confirm whether or not they'll actually be available here in the U.S.. So if you see a pair, cop me an eleven and I'll be your best friend.

Your thoughts? Too goofy looking? Too much crepe sole?

capsule show, an introduction

The Capsule show was amazing. Partly because it was an opportunity to see clothes that I've only seen on my computer screen. Mostly because the show served as a catalyst for a lot of great people to congregate in the Lower East Side of New York for four great days. Hard working, creative, generous, and kind to a fault; these guys and girls served as a great source of inspiration and energy for yours truly. A great big hello and nice to meet you (and thank you) goes out to Ryan(youhavebrokentheinternet), Max(allplaidout), Jake Davis, Sonia(snoozerloser), James(secretforts), Emil(thehill-side), Chris(folk), Raan(apolisactivism), Rogues Gallery, 3Sixteen, ContextClothing, BillyKirk, SwipeLife, and so, so many more.

Rather than put all the photos I took and my impressions in one huge post, I figured I'd start with my overall impression and then do posts on individual brands over the next few days.

Initially, I was overwhelmed when I walked through the doors. The venue (a once condemned church) was amazing and added a lot of character. The music was a tad too loud, especially since the ostensible purpose was to conduct business and allow designers and reps to talk about their labels. Other than that, the organizers did a great job-free water, booze, and the now ubiquitous energy drink were plentiful and kept everyone in fairly good moods.

Quick impressions: The workwear thing, it definitely is here to stay. Almost every company had at least a chambray shirt or hickory striped something. Best in show goes to Folk.

The opportunity to see these clothes up close really highlighted the quality and care that goes into their design and construction. I feel far more comfortable posting about and recommending them. The fact that the people behind these brands are so warm and inviting makes me even more willing to give them my money.

Stay tuned for spotlights on Folk, Billy Kirk, and my other favorites of the show.