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. 

Stuff For Your Girl

A few more 'just because' items for your girl. Small, cute, but not overly cutesy gifts that make her smile. I don't know where Sonia finds this stuff, but I guarantee it'll score you some points.

Is your girl an accountant? Is she really organised? Get her the Abacus Pendant. That way she can keep track of all the sweet, gentlemanly things you do for her during the day. Like always walking between her and the street.

The Geode Skull Pendant is a pretty awesome necklace. Just make sure you give it to a pretty awesome girl. It'd be wasted on anyone else. The fact that the skull is a Day of the Dead skull makes it even cooler.

 The Jade Pipe Pendant is my favorite. I've been in China/Asia for over two months now and haven't seen something as cool as this. This pendant is for the girl who can talk about Truffaut and The Hangover in the same sentence and wears five inch heels just as easily as Air Force Ones. Plus when you guys get bored, she could totally serenade you with it. 

If you haven't, get over to SnoozerLoser NY.  

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.

you can have my heart, or we can share it like the last slice

Boy. by band of outsiders always has the best lookbooks. Marisa Tomei for fall.

A girl with a healthy sense of adventure is a girl that's always fun to be around. (one who owns a hooded trench is also probably quite cool)

Kind of makes you wish for a long distance relationship, no?

I think this photo embodies what all guys want. A girl who reads. A girl who wears pretty things. And a girl that can make you fall in love by just waiting for you in a chair.

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.

SnoozerLoser Studio Visit

SnoozerLoser is made for the girl who you meet once, but remember for the rest of your life. Witty, charming, and beautiful, she's the girl who makes better mixtapes than you and who your friends secretly like more than you.

When I was in New York, Sonia was nice enough to let me drop by her home studio to take a peek at the work she's doing for both the upcoming fall and spring/summer lines. When I arrived, Sonia had wine and delicious chocolate treats from Oro bakery waiting. Good taste in wine and baked goods aside, Sonia is super cool. We chatted about everything from L7's onstage antics, to geology, to where she draws inspiration from.

Having really no background in the arts or design, I am utterly fascinated by the creative process. Getting to see the studio was such a treat. Talking with Sonia and looking around her space, it quickly became apparent that SnoozerLoser is a natural extension of Sonia and her sensibilities. Rather than blabber on about how nice and gracious Sonia is, or how well done SnoozerLoser is, I'll let the pictures do the talking.

Make sure to stop by the snoozerloser store and grab your girl (or girls, grab yourself) something awesome. It's the stuff that makes you look cool without looking like your trying. Thanks again, Sonia.

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.