Cashmere Blazer from Eidos: Things I Have

I've been waiting for a while for Eidos, the new label from uber-luxe Italian company Isaia. Helmed by a Michael Bastian alum, Creative Director Antonio Ciongoli has a sophisticated yet approachable point of view, and a price point that is a bit easier to swallow than it's brother brand.

So it was with a lot of excitement that I stopped into Carson Street Clothiers last week and fixed my attention on the rack of gorgeous cashmere blend blazers. 

I tried on this deep green one first and fell in love. Beyond the obvious softness of the fabric, the soft shoulder silhouette and front pockets help keep it a little more casual. 

After a few nips from the tailor I was ready to throw it on for a California wedding and felt like a pro. Highly recommend you stop by Carson Street to see the goods in person (and they just launched MTM suiting), or peruse their website. 

Michael Bastian Spring 2014: NYFW Review

Yesterday menswear maestro Michael Bastian showed his Spring '14 collection and he continues to show he knows his sweet spot and how to pivot from it.

The sweet spot -- whimsical knits, well tailored jackets, short shorts, and a continuation of Stubbs & Wooten slippers -- were there and updated to reflect Bastian's Parisian inspiration. 

The pivot -- a fantastic pineapple print, more athletic driven pieces, and a bag collaboration with Frank Clegg -- rounded out a very solid collection for Spring.

Three of my favorite looks:

Those damn pineapple pants! Bastian did the print in shorts and a hat, but the pants are totally me and I'll be coveting them come Spring.

The backgammon sweater. He's always in for a playful knit and this one has just enough subtlety that it takes you a minute to know what you're looking at.

Peak label printed tuxedo jacket. Bastian continues to design tuxedo jackets that don't take themselves too seriously, and I love it. What better way to stand out at a 'black tie' than in a white tie and eye-catching jacket!

Another strong showing and gives me something to look forward to next season... check out the whole collection over at GQ.

Preview: Menswear Designers do Duffels for CFDA x Details

Last Fall the CFDA and Details magazine partnered to have men's designers create an exclusive pocket square. One was framed and signed and auctioned off... 100 more of each design were available through Bonobos. Not only did I bid (and lose) on a number of them, I ended up buying the Billy Reid design for a friend.

Well the collaboration has returned and this time the accessory of choice is a duffel bag. An Army standard issue duffel bag. Twenty designers participated, making the duffel their own, including Marc Jacobs, Ovadia & Sons, Michael Bastian, UNIS, Gilded Age, and many more. 

Details gave me an advance peek at the bags and here are my favs (and the ones I'll most likely be bidding on!)...

Public School -- before I even knew who designed this bag it stood out to me. Turning the whole bag + hardware black, I loved the quilted leather side pocket. Oh and these guys just want the CFDA Swarovski Menswear Award.

Tommy Hilfiger -- I saw the photos of this bag and loved the bright red leather handles, and the black leather end caps. Then I looked closely at the blue patch on the side and saw that signature "TH". Classic, subtle, sophisticated.

Simon Spurr -- while his own line shuttered (fingers crossed for a re-launch), Spurr has continued to consult Hilfiger's men's collection and I've long been a fan of his work. He took the duffel and added some lux touches -- a white leather handle and leather croc-print side pocket. The studs on the Army issued strap (see below) add a touch of punk.

Todd Snyder -- saving this one for last because I thought Snyder had the most innovation in his design. Literally turned it on its head... the bag now goes vertical and the top and bottom are trimmed with leather. A leather shoulder strap and rope closures give this a vintage military feel, and the TS brand stencil rounds it out.

The bags will be available for auction via eBay and go up on Monday, June 10. So just a few more days + you can start your bidding!

Uniqlo x Michael Bastian Polo Shirts: Things I Have

I'd been waiting for yesterday to arrive ever since the collaboration between Uniqlo  and Michael Bastian was announced. May 20 was the release date for the polo shirts the designer had done with the Japanese retailer. In a seemingly endless combination of colors, prints, and styles -- and all for $19.90 -- I knew I had to stock up for summer.

While scanning the perfectly stocked shelves at Uniqlo on 5th Avenue, I was impressed with the small tweaks and attention to detail. One style had pearl buttons and chest stitching for a "western" look; another was a series of v-necks with striped collars. 

These are the three I picked up yesterday, but Selectism has photos of (most) of the overall options, for your perusal. And Uniqlo has a somewhat limited selection that you can purchase online. 

Listen, you're getting Michael Bastian's expert eye and design aesthetic at a great price, so grab a few of these + enjoy them this summer!

2013 CFDA Swarovski Menswear Nominees: Just One Look

Last night the CFDA announced their nominees for the 2013 CFDA Awards... and while on the women's side there were no real surprises, I was excited to see some of my favorite names in men's. Michael Bastian, Thom Browne, and Duckie Brown were all nominated for Menswear Designer of the Year. I've been longtime fans of all three, and I was interested to see Duckie make the jump to nominee this year, as they just started a much talked about collaboration with Perry Ellis.

For the Swarovski Award for Menswear, the nominees were Todd Snyder, Tim Coppens, and Public School. All so different in their aesthetic, and all three I have been talking about incessantly as of late... so am really excited to see each of their names!

Thought I'd share a favorite look of the Swarovski nominees' Fall 2013 collections, as we wait for the June award ceremony to see who takes the prize.

Tim Coppens showed quilted shorts for Spring and I loved it even more as pants for Fall:

This shearling-collared belted jacket blew me away at Todd Snyder's Fall presentation:

The layering and street-influenced look at Public School always impresses:

Images: Fucking Young, Selectism

The Tents at Project: My Favorite Brands to Watch

Wishing I was in Vegas this week for the Project trade show, and specifically to check out The Tents. Billed as a new show that offers a highly curated selection of brands, The Tents also happen to include some of my favorite men's brands... so I thought I'd share a few that I wish I was there to see!

Michael Bastian: his ability to weave together a story in one collection is inspiring, moving from beautiful suiting (below) to leather pants and fur lined coats.

Billy Reid: continues to bring the Southern gentleman to points North and West, and does so with increasing success. A favorite look from his recent show, I loved the color and texture of these pants for Fall.

Ian Velardi: Bringing together luxury + comfort with his smoking jackets, sweatpants, and tailored pieces. 

Todd Snyder: I left his presentation totally blown away -- he definitely took the collection to a darker place, but it remained refined and beautifully executed. This coat with shearling collar was by far my favorite piece from Fall. 

Public School: I've been a fan of these guys since they launched, and the accolades keep coming. There is always a dark palette and a street wear eye that they stay true and consistent to. 

Grayers: A recent discovery, I'm so intrigued by another Southern based brand, Grayers. Bringing a casual look with a great attention to detail, at an accessible price these guys have gone after an interesting part of the men's market. Cannot wait to see what they deliver for Fall '13!

Stay tuned for how my favorite brands fare this week in Vegas, and check out the Project site for more information on the show. 

Michael Bastian Fall 2013: NYFW Review

Before showing his Fall 2013 collection, Michael Bastian hinted it would be about the darker side of New England. And there was definitely an edge to his looks on Tuesday night -- from eyeliner on the models, to a more somber palette, and some styling techniques (read: skinny suspenders + buttoned up polos) that gave me a little British goth influence. 

Bastian delivered on the amazing suiting he has become known for -- here with this double-breasted version worn by model Tom Bull (who has been everywhere this season). The tartan duffel is nice complement, and would be a spirited bag for Fall.

In a more casual suited look, this styling is pure Bastian -- the pants a little low-slung, the iconic belt buckle, and layered vest.

Here was another sweet spot -- gorgeous knits infused with an eye-catching pattern. Paired with these shockingly red pants and light overcoat complete a rainy day look, and one that I could definitely see myself in.

An example of the 'darker' side of this collection, this quilted black jacket (with extensive fur collar, naturally) and black leather pants. While Bastian's version of the pant is a little less fitted than what I saw at Todd Snyder, it's an interested trend for Fall. I also like the stitched knees (something Bastian also used on the Gant side for Spring).

Overall a strong continuation of the Michael Bastian brand, seen through such a clear lens that you see it and just know it's him. The edgier side is a nice translation for Fall and is in line with what a number of men's designers are channeling... go here for all photos of the collection.

Fahlgren Tie: Things I Have

A couple of weeks ago I stopped by the GQ pop-up store done with Nordstrom... it was in the Treasure & Bond space and the team did a fantastic job of merchandising a wide selection of product, from some of my favorite designers. There was a lot of Todd Snyder, a great Michael Bastian double-breasted jacket, and a vintage watch case (which I wasn't expecting).

They also had stocked a number of Fahlgren ties, and Brett Fahlgren himself was in the shop that day, helping customers with products and dong some visual merchandising. So I thought it was a great chance to pick up one of the pieces from his line...

Of course my instinct was to grab something in navy, but I stopped myself and instead chose this red and gray striped tie. It still complements the abundance of navy I own, and is a nice staple to have.

Even though it is better suited to a little later in Fall (when the temp drops), I couldn't resist wearing it and so rocked it to the Michael Bastian show... I loved how the whole look came together + can't wait to give it another wear soon.

Check out Brett's site for more details on the rest of the line -- and you can buy one directly from Nordstrom here.

Michael Bastian Spring 2013: NYFW Review

I still remember the first Michael Bastian show I attended, in a cool warehouse building. He ran the show multiple times, so you could arrive at any time and see it. Well, times sure have changed!

Bastian's show is now one of the most anticipated on the NYFW men's circuit, and his move from Exit Art to Milk this season has amped it up even more. And as expected, Spring 2013 did not disappoint. Partially inspired by being poolside in Fire Island, there was a definite ease and flow, which was seamlessly integrated into the suiting and knitwear. 

The first thing I noticed in the collection was the use of cross-body kimono style tops. I liked how they felt more loose and casual, but fit right into the Bastian aesthetic.

 Double-breasted knitwear. That's all I needed to see and knew I'd want it.

Continuing with the double-breasted, this single button jacket really stood out. It continued the relaxed feel of the collection and I could imagine pulling on this beautiful piece with a pair of shorts and having lunch beach side.

There were also some really interesting knits in the mix for Spring -- while the giraffe spotted shoulders got a lot of attention, I really liked this one with the soft mix of color and the jagged lines.

The final look was this fantastic evening jacket with a slim black shawl collar. Worn by Noah Mills, with giraffe print Stubbs & Wooten slippers, it was not what I'd wear to dinner on Fire Island, but definitely got me in the mood for summer soirees.
 

Overall another very strong showing from Michael Bastian -- a collection that was consistent and very on-brand, while stretching and expanding so as to remain fresh and new. Can't wait to see it in stores come Spring and have that single button DB high on my want list! 

Check out the rest of the collection at GQ...

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.

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.

A Bright (And Tropical) Spring at Michael Bastian for Gant: NYFW Review

I've seen the future (or at least Spring '12) and it includes yellow denim and zinc oxide. For his latest collaboration with Gant, Michael Bastian took us to Hawaii, and I don't want to leave.

The whole presentation was fun and playful, and stayed so well within the Bastian aesthetic and the Gant range.

First thing I noticed when I walked in was this plaid cotton blazer paired with the over-dyed yellow jean. I loved the colored lips on the women, reminding me of applying brightly colored Zinka on the beach.

I was really drawn to this tonal seersucker blazer (I never say no to seersucker) and the printed turtle shorts.

Another super blazer (I mean, my whole closet may just become jackets), casual and light with the elbow patches to add some contrast.

Okay fine, another seersucker look... this time in both the jacket and pants. And I loved the sandals!

Style.com has the full collection for your viewing pleasure...

MB for Gant Double-Breasted Blazer: Things I Want

Perusing through Park & Bond tonight and came across a great fall look... all by Michael Bastian for Gant (quelle surprise!).

I'm hooked on getting a navy double-breasted blazer for Fall, and I love this one, in moleskine. Makes it just casual enough to pair with the camo pants (which I also love).

To be honest, I'm never one of those "shop the look" guys... I prefer to buy pieces and put them together myself. But whoever did this one (Mr. Wooster perhaps?) rocked it out!

See the whole look at Park & Bond.

Michael Bastian for Gant Madras Shorts: Things I Have

I always love when I can turn something "I Want" into something "I Have". Tonight I picked up the Michael Bastian for Gant madras shorts I had written about in April.

They have a slim leg and fit perfectly! While I still do want the coat to have a complete madras-fied look, I am so excited to get these shorts some beach, BBQ, poolside time this summer.

In case you (somehow) missed it, here's my original post. MB for Gant continues to consistently 'wow'!

Madras Coat + Shorts: Things I Want

While I was at Barney's over the weekend looking for a swimsuit, I also perused the Michael Bastian for Gant selection. I saw this fantastic madras coat (with gray elbow patches), and then I saw the matching shorts.

Had. To. Try. Them. On.

The result was totally amazing. These two items just rocketed to the top of my "want" list for S/S '11. With a white shirt and some loafers this would be *the* outfit of the season.

Given they pieces were designed by Mr. Bastian, they of course fit perfectly. The shorts were snug around my waist, but not too tight in the leg. The jacket hit me right in the shoulder and was not too boxy.

For now I'll just imagine myself at a summer party rockin' this look...

Images from Barney's, go check these items (and the rest of the MB for Gant range) there.

Michael Bastian for Gant Spring 2011: Things I Love

If you haven't yet been convinced of the brilliance that is Michael Bastian's collaboration with Gant... well, here's one last shot. It's the video lookbook for the S/S 2011 release...

Bastian continues to inject core Americana into the line -- you definitely see his design DNA in there, all while staying true to Gant's history and branding. When you see this collaboration at retail it lives so harmoniously with both the Gant Rugger line.

After watching the video a few times, I am putting quite a few items on my wish list. But I think the seersucker pants are my #1 must have. After that I love the multi-colored panel striped shirt, the canvas jacket, and the worn denim.

Kudos to Bastian and his team, both for another fantastic collection and for the recent GQ Menswear Fashion Designer of the Year nomination!

Check out the video + then make your own S/S '11 wish list.

Michael Bastian for Gant Varsity Jacket: Things I Want

While sadly I am not at Pitti this year, I have been tracking all of the great pics being posted from those who are there. And it is definitely getting me excited for F/W 2011!

Yesterday Sartorially Inclined posted a short video done by GQ which focused on one of my favorite lines right now... Michael Bastian for Gant.

The video did a great job of showing the mood and inspiration for next Fall's collection and even included a short interview with Mr. Bastian himself!

While there were a lot of great pieces shown, and while I don't know what is in the collection that didn't make the video, this varsity jacket was a standout to me.

Love the burnt orange color, with the cream colored leather sleeves. Would be so perfect for Fall, I can't wait to try it on! Oh and that yellow cardy underneath of course caught my eye (why am I so obsessed with yellow!)...

Stay tuned for more Pitti related updates and of course any new news from the Bastian camp!