Double Breasted Blazer from Band of Outsiders: Things I Have

To readers of this site, it will come as no surprise that I have been searching for a great double breasted blazer. Last Spring I thought I'd found one in linen, only to discard it as too seasonal (and too prone to wrinkling). So my search continued... until now. 

I was recently doing some Fall shopping at Barney's and came across a beautiful DB from Band of Outsiders. As soon as I tried it on I knew I'd found a winner... it fit perfectly throughout the shoulders and the arms, and with Band's tendency towards cropped jackets, the length is just as I like it. 

There are suede elbow patches, and it is lined in the classic blue & white stripe that the brand is known for. However the best part of all is that it is made from a wool and cashmere blend, making it the warmest sturdiest softest blazer I may ever own.

I wore it for the first time this week and whether buttoned (where it fits perfectly snug) or unbuttoned (where the drape of the jacket adds great dimension), I have definitely invested in a piece I will have and wear for a long time to come. 

Burgundy Blazer from Carven: Things I Have

Ever since Guillaume Henry took over the design reins at Carven I've become a big fan. The Fall line continued to impress and while at Barney's last month I tried on the "Paul" jacket and pants in burgundy... a color that seems to be everywhere and was called out by GQ as a seasonal trend.

Well I went back to Barney's over the weekend + picked up the blazer. It's cotton gabardine and so perfect for transitional Fall temps. It also has the cropped silhouette that I've found in much of the Carven pieces and which I tend to gravitate towards

I already wore it for the first time, paired with a burgundy knit tie and striped oxford. Ready for Fall!

Check out the rest of the Fall collection + you can head to Barney's like I did to pick up one for yourself!

Tim Coppens Spring 2013: NYFW Review

Last season I saw a lot of great menswear for Fall 2012, but there was one show in particular that stood out... Tim Coppens. I said as much in my profile with Fashion We Like, and waited anxiously to see it hit stores.

For Fall I loved Coppen's outwear -- the stitching detail, the panels, the mixed material. So I was definitely excited to see what he delivered for Spring 2013, the third collection under his eponymous label.

Inspired by post-World War II pilots, the collection was titled "Gentlemen of the Sky". Coppens evoked color as a major story: "dust blue, rust, ivy green, sepia, sand, midnight, and ivory." It was on the whole a darker palette than his first Spring collection, but one that had more continuity to Fall and felt like a step forward as a result.

Components I was drawn to last season were here again: bomber jackets, a strong use of stitching to separate out elements of a piece, well crafted hardware, and the use of paneling to give a technical bent (no surprise given Coppen's background at RLX).

A standout was this bonded leather bomber jacket with the use of bright gold hardware.

Bags were done in collaboration with Masterpiece Japan and the use of quilted panels tied it back to the jackets also being shown. 

While a number of pieces stood out, the shorts below were a favorite... jet black, quilted, and with leather pockets. A subtle tone-on-tone juxtaposition that Coppens creates without seeming overdone.

I am really excited by the execution and the progression in Coppens work + can't wait to see it in stores... Get over here for more pics.

Image Source: Fucking Young

Double-Breasted Blazer from Boglioli: Things I Want

Yesterday I wrote about the burgundy Carven suit I tried on (and loved) over the weekend... well the color trend continues with another piece I really fell for, this Boglioli Double-Breasted blazer.

I put this on at Bergdorf's on Sunday afternoon and found it fit me almost perfectly. It was comfortable through the shoulders, trim in the waist, and the length (always an issue for me) hit just below waist level.

The blazer is Double-Breasted and with a peak collar, which would normally give it an air of formality. However it is a wool/nylon blend and unstructured, allowing it to form to your body and keeping it a little more casual. I think this adds to the versatility -- dressed up as a great suit, or used as a sweater type layer on weekends.  

Mr. Porter is carrying it on their site, where you can see more pics and details.

Blazer + Pants from Carven: Things I Want

Last weekend as I was checking out the new Fall goods I came across a fantastic blazer/pant combo from Carven. You may remember how excited I was to get a blazer from their Spring collection when I was last in Paris... the line continues to have a great subtle French influence and a nice slim and cropped fit.

The burgundy color of these pieces is the first thing that caught my eye, and I could definitely see myself mixing and matching this color as the season changes. When I tried it on the jacket fit well -- perhaps a little snug for some, but I liked the shorter length and high arm holes. The pants also worked well, and were just short enough that when paired with my Tretorns it had a nice pulled together but casual vibe.

 

I tried it all on at Barney's but you can find out more (and see other Carven for Fall) over at Mr. Porter. 

Trousers from BASCO: Things I Have

Yesterday I needed to make a trip into Barney's... Fall collections have been arriving and I specifically wanted to see Tim Coppens, Thom Grey (Thom Browne's new diffusion line), and BASCO. The last is a re-launch of an in-house label, Barney's Sportwear Company. 

There were some really interesting pieces in the BASCO line and I tried on a few of them... but my standout favorite were these gabardine trousers. I liked the pleated front, the button flap pockets, and the cropped ankle with side buttons.

Picked up the pants and am wearing them today (I couldn't resist). They fit great and are so comfortabe. 100% cotton + made in Italy...  you can check out the rest of the BASCO pieces here!

Buckle Brogue by Thom Browne: Things I Want

There is a lot of good Thom Browne news lately... first I found out he is launching a new lower priced line called Thom Grey (can't wait to head to Barney's to check that out). Now I've come across these brogues he's done for Fall. And I'm hooked.

Nothing too crazy about the shoe itself, just a great classic black brogue. But I love the silver buckle with the TB-esque grosgrain strap. Such a subtle but cool touch to the shoe.

They're available now at oki-ni for 850 GBP (definitely an investment shoe), but read more over at Hypebeast.

Cotton Sweater from Gant Rugger: Things I Have

I really think that Gant Rugger is not only staying consistent and on brand, but getting better and more refined each season. So it was no surprise that Christopher Bastin was just named Creative Director at Gant.... well deserved.

Recently I popped into the Rugger store on Bleecker street and picked up this great sweater from Fall '12. It's a really lightweight cotton and silk blend, a perfect transition piece between seasons.

And while it came in a few different colors, I of course went with the yellow. Couldn't help myself!

I wore the sweater for the first time last week over a white tee, but really like how they styled it for the lookbook... given how light the sweater is, it creates a transparency that lets you see the shirt + tie combo underneath.

You can see all of the colors (plus other great Fall finds) on the Gant site...

Belstaff RTW Fall 2012: Things I Love

Belstaff, the British company known for it's motorcycle jackets, just launched it's first RTW collection for Fall '12. Since being acquired by Labelux, and then with investments from Harry Slatkin and Tommy Hilfiger, the brand has been doing significant outreach to renew its image and expand its product offerings.

They're definitely keeping the moto heritage in the new collection, complete with leather pants, long dusters, as well as some great cropped jackets with shearling detail. I dig it!

Here are a few of my favorite looks -- really liked the cropped coat with the leather strips, I thought the quilted belted jacket was pretty great, and the super chunky knit paired with leather pants is a look I probably couldn't pull off by might try to.

Head over to FY to see the rest of the collection and stay tuned for more news coming from Belstaff.

Gant by Michael Bastian Fall 2012: Things I Love

While I was at the Michael Bastian show on Monday, I couldn't make it to yesterday's Gant by Michael Bastian presentation. Which is a shame because a) they're always very festive and b) I'm slightly addicted to both the MB and Rugger lines from Gant.

But I did follow the live tweets from Michael Hainey, Nick Sullivan, and Ray Smith at the event, which itself was quite lively. For yet another season Bastian has seamlessly integrated the two brands -- incorporating the sophistication and detail of MB with the more casual preppy playfulness of Gant.

My favorite piece in the collection (slightly hidden by the overcoat) was a deep red blazer. Tucked Style tweeted a photo of it, and the color just really spoke to me. As someone who only buys navy jackets, this piece would be a welcome addition.

There were definitely a lot of layers in each of the looks, as you can see here. I loved the texture on these pants, the subtle grid giving it some depth (and reminding me of some key MB collection pieces!).

And of course, I had to call out a DB blazer. This one, with the pattern and the notched lapel was too cool to pass up. I assume it's wool (wish I'd been there in person to find out!) and would be a great piece to layer over a sweater come Fall.

Now I've given you a taste (and your eyes are going bonkers from the Mod set), check out the rest of the collection at GQ.

Public School Fall 2012: NYFW Review

They're back! Public School, participants in the CFDA Incubator program unveiled their revamped line at Milk Studios last weekend... a tight 26 piece collection that was mentored by none other than Nick Wooster.

Shown in a darkened space that really helped to evoke the mood of the Fall palette, there were some really great jackets -- overcoats, leather, varsity. Paired with easy wovens and cool marled knits, the styling by Eugene Tong really pulled the whole collection together.

Drawing on my current double-breasted obsession, this blazer was my favorite piece in the collection.

With the designers' own experience, plus the CFDA and Wooster in their corner, this is a line that is sure to get some attention... keep an eye on Public School!

Michael Bastian Fall 2012: Just One Look

Michael Bastian has exploded, and at yesterday's Fall 2012 show it was everywhere you looked. From the amazingly elaborate set (there was snow), to the venue packed to capacity, to the sheer size and thoroughness of the collection.

There was incredible corduroy, some whimsical knits (the chess pawns were a favorite), and a variety of double-breasted pieces that had me drooling. Oh and the footwear -- I don't even know where to begin.

But until I can fully digest the whole thing, here's one look I have to have. High-buttoned DB jacket, embroidered corduroy pants, a fun bow, and the slippers that you're seeing everywhere, but which Bastian did in his own way.

GQ has the full collection, and I'll be back soon to share more of my favs and thoughts on what the Bastian man will be wearing come Fall.

Loden Dager Fall 2012: NYFW Review

For Spring 2012 the Loden Dager palette definitely popped... and it seems designer Paul Marlow is continuing that into Fall. Get ready for color!

Their Fall show, held at Good Units, opened with a bright red suit (below) that set the tone for the rest of the collection. As a fan of the tailoring in their suiting, I am looking forward to seeing this look up close.

There was also some great knitwear -- this piece worn by Clement Chabernaud had some fantastic back detailing that this photo doesn't do justice. The knits had a streak of whimsy, but also a thoughtful intricacy. When I met with Marlow a few weeks ago he alluded to some interesting knits for Fall... and he delivered.

This suit really stood out -- a gold thread in the fabric gave it some shine, and I loved the three button jacket.

Overall a consistent collection, shown in a packed house. I'm looking forward to getting my hands on some Loden come Fall! Check out the rest of the looks at GQ.

Tim Coppens Fall 2012: Just One Look

Last night I attended the Tim Coppens presentation -- his sophomore collection in what has been a well received and much talked about brand launch. In fact Coppens recently won the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation grant, further bolstering buzz about the line.

Clearly leveraging his background at both Adidas SLVR and Ralph Lauren RLX, there was an intricacy and use of detail that blew me away. Mixed textures, patterned seams, zipper detail -- the collection brought an edginess and restrained sophistication.

Since my photos would not do it justice, for now I'm sharing just one look. This amazing double-breasted trench, belted (naturally). Love the shoulder detail, the side flap and cinch, and the silver zippers.

Will definitely be sharing more on Tim Coppens, and I know you'll be hearing a lot more about him... stay tuned!

Shades of Grey Fall 2012: NYFW Review

Yesterday kicked off New York Fashion week for the Fall 2012 collections and first up for me was Shades of Grey by Micah Cohen. This is a line that I've written about before, and that I own some pieces from... it's a line without a lot of gimmick but with some solid tailoring, and infusion of trend.

To that point, as I walked in I noticed takes on the varsity jacket, a lot of quilting, and great corduroy. In what appears to be a common theme for Fall, there were a number of striped pieces (Justin Berkowitz at Details referred to them 'blanket stripes').

Not to start with my favorite look, but well... I really got into this corduroy vest and jacket. Of course it's navy, which was a draw, but also liked that the jacket is a little cropped. The sweatpants are cool, and add an interesting contrast to the whole look; but the top half is just right for a day outing or a few meetings.

In what was a fairly staid palette (it is Fall after all), I liked the inclusion of these rust colored pants.

Always a fan of a marled crewneck, and this was no exception. The wool flannel blazer of it had an equally soft hue, which made it feel like a great Summer to early Fall transition piece.

Overall a well thought out and easy to wear collection. More photos to come, and an inclusion of some of the quilted pieces, which I thought were fantastic. Stay tuned for more NYFW news!

Suits from Ana Locking: Things I Love

I've been following label Ana Locking for a while and was excited by their Fall '12 collection. And no, not because they featured Clement Chabernaud (well, maybe a little).

I am always attracted to color and pattern, and they did a great job here of blending it with classic pieces and a buttoned up "gentlemanly" aesthetic.

There's great tailoring, and I'm really into the three piece suits, especially the red plaid shown below. Of course the pops of yellow are also a draw, and I think an interesting color selection to bring into Fall.

Overall a concise collection that stays true to it's theme... and I'm going to keep my eyes out for that red suit (and raffia wrapped briefcase!). More info via Hypebeast...

Belted Vest from wooyoungmi: Things I Want

This morning I took a look through the images from the wooyungmi Fall 2012 collection and immediately gravitated towards this belted vest.

I really liked how slim it is at the top, then has the larger outer pockets at the bottom. Styled with a wider leg pant also pulls it all together (and is such a trend for Fall).

I'm not normally one for vests (be they sweater or otherwise), but this is a look I could definitely rock come Fall.

On a side note, there's been a lot of chatter lately about the large scarf trend for men, and I thought it was really well executed here... again, a look I want to try!

Check out the rest of the wooyoungmi collection at Coute que Coute!

Padded Jacket from NUMBER:Lab: Things I Have

Recently I wrote about my three favorite pieces from Capsule, of which one was an incredible jacket from NUMBER:Lab. So it was only natural that when I heard about their sample sale last weekend, I knew I had to stop by.

Actually I've been passing their new store on 10th Avenue every day on my way to work, and needed to go check out the space... so this was the perfect opportunity!

The brand does a great job of creating items you can wear every day, but that have an outdoor technical side. Their site very accurately calls it "tech + tailored".

At the sale I tried on a padded vest, which I loved. When the salesperson told me it came with sleeves (aka was a jacket with removable sleeves), I was sold. I loved the crop fit, the super warm double lining, and the double collar.

Wore the jacket out Saturday night, to great reviews, and again on Sunday... it's quickly becoming a staple in my closet and I'm so happy I grabbed it!

It's not too late to pick one up on the NUMBER:Lab site...

Maison Kitsune Fall 2012: Things I Love

I'm still in the process of re-reviewing all of the European men's shows over the past weeks... and wanted to give a shout to personal fav Maison Kitsune. They consistently deliver well done collections, with a subtle French twist, and Fall 2012 was no exception.

Only this time they hooked me even more because their theme was a "chic man riding his bicycle in the city...". As an avid cyclist I've been loving the surge around brands like Rapha; Kitsune's use of particular fabrics and construction to enable sartorial cyclists gets my endorsement.

A few key favorites were the collared sweater in a bright red, the patterned scarf (BPMW just wrote this morning on the large scarf trend), great layering with a buttoned down club collar... and my must have, the "Parisien" cap.

As I've written here before, I'll now anxiously wait for the famous Kitsune video lookbook, mashing up models hurriedly dressing in the collection with songs produced by Kitsune musical label artists.

Go to GQ to check out the full collection + get your bicycle geared up for Fall!

Givenchy Fall 2012: Things I Love

My favorite show out of Paris so far has been Givenchy. Granted, Thom Browne hasn't shown yet... but I had to give a shout to Riccardo Tisci for the amazing work he's done at the house in general, but specifically with men's. It is not a collection that skews towards my personal aesthetic but I totally appreciate what he's doing and do want to give it a try!

As with Spring he shows a consistent threading of themes, staying on point with the general nuances he's introduced (skirts, leggings, printed tops) while tackling more subtlety for Fall '12 (no birds of paradise here).

Going through the collection I really fell for the more monochromatic looks and pulled out a few of my favorites to highlight below.

I really loved this coat and can't wait to see (and touch) it in person.

Something so nice and clean about this black shirt + pants, but with that striped belt holding it all together.

This leather top is fantastic! Again there are common tones in the whole look, which I didn't mind given the change in material and hue.

Red on red on red on... for someone like myself who appreciates a bold color statement, this is it!

Check out the rest of the collection (it is totally worth it!) at Style.com. Go Riccardo!