Burberry Prorsum Duffle Pouch: Things I Want

Watching the livestream of Burberry Prorsum's Spring '14 show, I was taken with the small leather pouches the models carried. Simple and functional and in a range of bright colors.

Since under-the-arm portfolios have been a thing the past few seasons, I liked the versatility of these bags: to carry your lunch, as a dopp kit, or just throw in your phone and daily essentials.

I've been waiting for these to hit retail... and today I found them available on Burberry's site. They are available in a variety of colors -- although I'd been eyeing the yellow, and what was shown on the runway translated into a less bright and more mustard color in production.

But the green is nice + bright and will be an awesome accessory for Spring... once I actually buy it, that is.

 

If you need a refresher on the rest of what Burberry showed for Spring... you can peep it over on Style .com.

Leather Tote from Black Fleece: Things I Want

A few months ago I saw a preview of Brooks Brothers and Black Fleece collections for Fall 2013. Some really great stuff, especially from Black Fleece which followers of this site know I have a slight obsession with... 

Apart from continuing with strong apparel pieces also love the accessories Thom Browne designs for the line (guilty disclosure: I have two duffels already). This pebbled leather tote caught my eye -- using the now signature red, white, and blue stripe it is simple yet exudes quality and craftsmanship. 

The tote comes in black and brown, and it's definitely on my "want" list for Fall. Check out more of the Black Fleece offerings here... 

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!

Todd Snyder x Seavees Sneakers: Things I Want

Todd Snyder is on a roll... each of his collections is better than the last, he had a collab at the Gap last year (creating the only pair of cargo pants I'd be willing to wear), and an upcoming partnership with athletic wear brand Champion.

So it's not a surprise that I want his latest release -- sneakers, produced with Seavees. The low sneaker (below) is covered in gray jersey, and I'm obsessed with the thick leather laces.
 

Evoking a bout in the boxing ring, I can easily see wearing these with khakis on a casual Friday, or for a ride in the park. Very cool -- and limited edition, so snatch them up now!

Hand Sewn Leather Slippers from Feit: Things I Want

The folks over at Feit are doing it right... hand made, small batch footwear and accessories. For a given project they measure a piece of leather (that they've carefully sourced for quality) and figure out how many shoes they can make from it. Once the number of pairs is pre-sold, they'll begin producing them.

I've been following (and drooling) over their craftmanship for a while now, but haven't quite committed to a pair. Yet. 

This week they released a hand-sewn slipper and I am obsessed -- with the soft rounded shape, the high last, the seam along the back connecting the leather to the welt and then to the sole. 

The design of this slipper reminds me of the kilim rug slippers I bought in Turkey last summer -- casual, inviting, and perfect for a warm day in linen pants or shorts.

As of this writing there are only 67 pairs left... so head on over and check them out!

Carven x Porter Backpack: Things I Want

Two of my favorite brands -- Carven and Porter, have collaborated on a backpack. Dream come true. 

I've been obsessed with Porter for years, and on my last trip to Japan picked up a couple of pieces... the "problem" is that Porter collaborates with so many different brands, designers, artists that there is always something to want. Saturdays Surf, Margaret Howell, Comme des Garcons, the list goes on.

This piece with Carven is awesome -- I love the quilted body, leather pocket, and fabric side panels.

More info at Hypebeast, and you can pick one up at Matches.

Scotch Grain Loafers from Sid Mashburn: Things I Want

Yesterday as I was wearing my navy Sid Mashburn loafers I decided another pair may be in order. I get comments all the time on the color, and they are super comfortable. 

In perusing his other footwear offerings, I came across these scotch grain loafers. I love how they already look slightly worn, the burnished toe contrasting with the leather grain.

Made in Maine, these beauts will be joining my closet very soon.

Japanese Leather Wallet from Damasquina: Things I Want

One of my favorite California men's stores, Unionmade, has launched a small collection with Japanese leather goods brand Damasquina. Using vintage leather and brass hardware, the patina and craftmanship on these pieces is incredible. Make it in navy and add a nautically inspired anchor strap, and you have me sold. 

The large accordion wallet is super functional with space for cash, receipts, and the assorted oddities that accumulate...

But the kicker is the removable coin pouch, an awesome addition that lets you store cards or change within the wallet.

Check out the rest of the collection at Unionmade and head to Acquire for more coverage.

Black Fleece Fall 2013: NYFW Review

Frequent readers know how fanatical I've become about Black Fleece, the Thom Browne designed collection for Brooks Brothers. It is a fantastic integration of Browne's unique design aesthetic positioned for the BB customer. The line was featured prominently in my Week of Wearing Thom Browne -- so I was excited to see what would be on offer for Fall 2013. 

Maybe I'm becoming too accustomed to the Browne's style, and am less "shockable" because I found next season to be somewhat muted. Especially when considered with some of what is in store for Spring!

This black and white jacket and trousers was part of a large story Browne did in that palette, contrasting the use of each color to have it really pop.

Seems I can't get enough tartan in my life -- this double breasted jacket and shorts was my favorite look of all. I loved the rich colors for Fall and the v-neck sweater underneath complements it nicely.

Continuing the black and white, here in more refined suiting, can also produce dizzy spells. I actually liked the subtlety of it from afar, and how you get a different sense of the houndstooth up close. It reminded me of the black and blue gingham suit I ordered last year from Sid Mashburn.

I've acquired quite a few of the accessories Browne designs with the collection: here, here,  here. The pebbled leather pieces are especially great, and so this tote for Fall quickly became a must have. Pebbled brown leather + the Thom Browne red/white/blue stripe, a winning combination.

Overall I found the collection to be a strong continuation of the brand and perhaps focusing on converting even more Brooks Brothers loyalists. Austin Wong at Why You Mad blog has more photos.

Tim Coppens Fall 2013: NYFW Review

For Fall 2013, Tim Coppens was inspired by periods of his adolescence and particularly around skateboarding and graffiti. It meant showing a paint splatter graffiti print + voluminous sleeves like "the padding and volume of a youth's skateboarding gear". 

But all of that was rooted in silhouettes and design themes Coppens has slowly laid out each season... so back were the leather shoulders, the folded over collars, strong and robust hardware, and seams that create a paneled geometry. 

To the point of evolving from some already determined themes -- the zippers and rounded copper buttons on this shirt are being revisited from seasons past, creating a look one starts to identify strongly with the label. And these quilted pants caught my eye and were instantly added to my 'want' list. Seen a lot of quilting this season, but these pants (with the elastic cuffs) are too good.

This wool and leather jacket definitely stood out -- again a take on a piece Coppens delivered for Fall '12, but pushed out into the skater inspiration for this collection. I'm always taken with how he mixes materials, and uses seams and stitching to create texture and contrast.

My third favorite look was this navy cashmere and leather snap varsity jacket. Again, great use of materials and the leather shoulders are a Coppens trait seen season after season.

What I liked the most was the continuation he took from Spring '13 -- with a crossover on the color palette, where I felt I could definitely wear this sweatshirt I recently tried with the quilted pants for Fall. A more refined collection + excited to see where he goes next! All of the looks here... 

Sweatshirt from Tim Coppens: Things I Want

As most of you know, I've become slightly obsessed with the designs of Tim Coppens since he launched his label a few seasons ago. His outerwear for Fall '12 was incredible with a use of stitching, mixed materials, and the highest quality hardware I've seen.

When he showed his Spring '13 collection I was equally wowed and had a few standout pieces -- bomber jackets, a continued infusion of technical fabrics, and stitched leather.

So yesterday when I made my bi-weekly trip to Barney's, I was thrilled to see some pieces from this Spring collection in the store. I picked out this navy and black sweatshirt with leather arm panel.... it was (unsurprisingly) incredible. 

Fairly lightweight despite the layering of materials, it fit me perfectly, and was extremely comfortable. The leather pocket on the sleeve, with Coppens now signature gold hardware, was a mix of fashion and function that made the piece stand out.

Now when Coppens showed it in his Spring presentation it was paired with quilted leather shorts, that I was salivating over (and still am). 

Barney's didn't get those in yet, but I will put both pieces on my wishlist... and here's to hoping! See all of Tim Coppen's Spring collection here.

Billy Reid Fall 2013: NYFW Review

Billy Reid's knack at delivering classic silhouettes with an infusion of Southern tradition was on full display again for Fall '13. Included were rugged leathers, layers in a range of browns and oranges, and more of the outerwear that Reid did so well in Fall '12.

A standout look for me was this gorgeous overcoat and the amazing red/rust colored pants. Must have those pants! The slim leg with a slightly larger ankle opening is perfect for the boots Reid puts out regularly... but the color has a subtle wear to it, toning it down but still catching your eye.

If you now me, you know I can't resist a shawl collar. So this was a no-brainer -- plus the toned pattern and sheen make this a perfect black tie jacket. Although even here, where it's paired more casually, it totally works for a less formal night out.

Another shawl collar -- this one all black, and styled with black pants (again with a slightly wider ankle opening) and a black knit. I appreciated the simplicity of these pieces all together, and how they conveyed such confidence... helped of course when worn by Clement Chabernaud.

I definitely steered more towards the tailored looks in Reid's collection -- but get over to GQ to see the full lineup and his breadth of Southern goodness.

NYFW Review: Todd Snyder Fall 2013

Since launching his eponymous line, I've been a huge fan of Todd Snyder. Given how many people tell me they've bought his collection because they've heard me talk about it, I'm glad others are becoming TS converts!

Showing his Fall '13 collection yesterday at Lincoln Center, Snyder continued to impress -- venturing into a little more edge than seasons past while still delivering on the outerwear, suiting, and classic tailoring we've come to love.

I think my overall favorite piece, it literally made me pause, was this double breasted coat with (huge) shearling collar. Just amazing, and I love the shine and deep color combined with the contrast of the (warm) shearling.

Another standout was that Snyder moved past leather jackets and into... leather pants. Seen styled a few different ways (by the one and only Bruce Pask), this look stood out because of the windowpane cardigan and black shirt. Plus it was modeled by a favorite of mine, Clement Chabernaud.

This knit was fantastic, with the two pockets and neck closure. Given how often I have been layering this winter and going without a coat, I could definitely see wearing this next Fall just as it's shown here.

At first this striped sweater caught my eye, and then I noticed the other pieces -- these slouchy gray pants and the navy neckerchief. Rounds it out for a pulled together look that offers a lot of comfort. Was also really into the custom Vintage Shoe Company boots seen throughout...
 

I got a quick snap of part of the lineup -- where you can see the continuation of what Snyder rolled out for Fall... leather jacket, navy tuxedo (yes, please!), and a pony hair coat.
 

Todd Snyder continues down a very strong path -- bringing a well-rounded collection filled with tailored suiting, strong outerwear, and more casual pieces that give something for everyone. Can't wait to see this hit stores -- that double-breasted shearling coat will be mine! Check out the rest of the collection...

Just Two Looks: Neil Barrett Fall 2013

Seeing photos of the Neil Barrett show from Milan, I really enjoyed the coats he sent down for Fall '13... but what really caught my eye were the mixed media knits.

I loved the ones below -- the way Barrett pieced together the different materials, the use of leather, and the general geometric visual of each one. I will say that these and a few other pieces in the collection seemed inspired by Riccardo Tisci's past collections at Givenchy, and a smattering of Dries too.
 

But overall I think it was nicely done, and encourage you to check out all of the pics (and Matthew Schneier's review) at Style.com

Leather Baseball Cap: Things I Have

Last summer a friend was wearing a navy leather baseball cap, I loved it and I wanted one. Alas the store he had gone to was sold out and so my 'want' went unfulfilled.

But yesterday I opened a few early Christmas presents and there it was -- navy leather cap!

 

You can find it here...  and of course I couldn't wait to try it on!

More holiday gets + surprises to come...

Strap Billfold from Black Fleece: Things I Have

Well my CdG zip around wallet fell apart a while back, I reverted back to the Goyard credit card holder, and I have been on the hunt for a new wallet to take its place. 

I tried out a few including this bright one from Dior, and this cube print from Pierre Hardy, but none of them seemed right. 

Then I came across this strap billfold from Black Fleece. Not that I need more accessories from this Thom Browne designed line in my possession, but I couldn't get it out of my head. 

With a french calf lining, pebbled outer, and elastic strap in the quintessential Browne red, white, and blue. It has plenty of room for cards and cash, and fits easily in my back pocket.

Needless to say I took it home and have started using it... so far so good! Check it out along with other accessory offerings from Black Fleece. 

Penny Loafer from Rancourt: Things I Have

This past weekend I stopped by this year's Pop Up Flea, newly located in Chelsea and showcasing an even stronger group of brands than last year. One of the booths I stopped by was Rancourt, the shoe company crafted in Maine that in addition to its own line produces for Ralph Lauren and Club Monaco.

Perusing the wares, their Beefroll Penny Loafer caught my eye and I had to try them on. They were so comfortable and fit perfectly, it was an easy decision to take them home. Handsewn in the U.S. -- and from everything I've heard, amazing customer service to keep them repaired and in great shape for as long as they're in my closet.

I already took them out for a spin (above), and here is another look from the Rancourt site.

Be sure to check these out, plus the other great styles they offer (and they do Made to Order)!

Just One Look: Public School Spring 2013

Okay, well actually two looks... I am definitely coveting the jacket with leather sleeves, below. But the dinner jacket with shawl collar also caught my eye.

Public School was high on my list to see for Spring '13, as I'd really enjoyed the vibe they showed during their re-launch last season.

So about this dinner jacket... the favorite piece currently in my closet is a Patrik Ervell navy tuxedo, and the jacket has a black satin shawl collar. So how could I not obsess on this version from Public School.

And given that Noah Mills closed the Michael Bastian show in his own version of a light colored dinner jacket with black shawl collar, this is looking like a trend for Spring.

But for me the real winner in the collection, and a piece that seemed to connect to the brand's ethos, is this cotton jacket with leather sleeves. It's not your regular dark denim jacket: the washed fabric gives it a well-worn look. And the color of the leather sleeves is light enough to keep the contrast from being too harsh. 

This is definitely a jacket perfect for Spring, and one that can be worn any number of ways.

GQ has all of the looks from Public School and stay tuned for more info via the brand's website.

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