Summer Print Shirt from Loden Dager: Things I Want

Last year I wrote about the Loden Dager Spring '12 show, which was one of my favorites that season. I particularly liked the striped print that the they showed on shirts, tanks, and totes. 

The print is a lot of fun -- a nice mix of bright colors, and a blocked look to the stripes. I came across the short sleeve button down shirt on the Loden site and think it'd be a perfect addition to my summer beach wardrobe. 

Pair it with some denim or white shorts + you're good to go!

Check it out here + snag one to brighten your summer look!

Striped Anchor tie from Haberdash: Things I Have

While in Haberdash (the Chicago menswear store), I picked up a little piece of Spring. Well at least that's the best description I can give to a blue and white striped tie, with red anchors on it.

My fascination with anchors (or all things nautical, really) hasn't subsided and so when I saw this I knew I needed to add it to my S/S '12 rotation.

Yesterday it was forecast to hit 61 degrees in NY and so I thought it'd be a good opportunity to give my new tie a wear... here with a Uniqlo oxford and Loden and Dager blazer.

Stay tuned for more Spring looks as temperatures increase...

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.

Behind The Scenes: Loden Dager

As a follower of menswear there are two things that never fail to excite: seeing a collection on a runway and meeting with a designer in their studio.

The former is pretty obvious -- there is the music, the crowd, and seeing the pieces as the designer envisioned and styled it. The latter is the most unique opportunity to have a one-on-one conversation about the line, but also to see the environment that drives their work... fabric swatches, sketches, samples.

So when I had the invitation to meet with Loden Dager designer Paul Marlow in the brand's studio, I didn't hesitate to accept. I'm a longtime fan -- smart tailoring, unique detail + function, and a well balanced infusion of color and prints.

Sitting in the studio, surrounded by the aforementioned swatches, buttons, and Fall 2012 samples (my lips are sealed), I got to dive into what the brand is up to, and where they're headed.

Marlow (right) with Oliver Helden

The customer: "They want consistency", Marlow explained. Taking key silhouettes each season and changing the fabric or the details gives men reassurance the pieces will always fit as they expect, but keeps their look updated and fresh.

The collection: "I started making the pieces I'd want to wear...", but as the brand matures it seems important to Marlow that while everyone may not identify with each piece, the entire collection fits what his customer is looking for.

The production: "It makes it really easy having most of the collection produced seven blocks away", allowing for tweaks and modifications that would otherwise take a plane ride or a month of e-mail. Certain items are done in Los Angeles, Peru, Portugal based on the core production strength of those regions.

The show: "It really takes you away from everything", commenting on the subterranean venue where they've been holding their runway spectaculars (including personal fav Clement Chabernaud).

What's next: All I can say is... it's exciting. From what Marlow described about his plans for Fall 2012, as well as some expanding categories they are looking at, there is definite growth and excitement coming from the Loden Dager camp.

Stay tuned to more news via their blog, and for my recap after their Fall 2012 show in a few weeks!

NYFW Review: Loden Dager S/S 2012

I went to the Loden Dager show yesterday to see their Spring 2012 collection. It rocked.

But read my review here: Dispatch from NYFW: Loden Dager.

And of course a little Clement shout out...