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.

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.

Quilted Slipper from Gap 1969: Things I Want

On a recent trip to L.A. I popped into the Gap 1969 store on Robertson. The 1969 segment of their business has been a standout -- great denim (they had some awesome colored jeans for Spring) and a nice mix of other brands/items on offer.

The first thing I noticed when I walked through the door was these quilted slippers. I loved the pattern and the simple construction. I definitely knew I could wear them with shorts and a tank top. Except... they were only made for women.

So my plea to Gap is to source these in men's sizes -- from the response to the tweet I sent out that day about this slipper, I know they'd have a lot of takers.

In the meantime, if you're in L.A. or NYC check out a 1969 store to see what other gems you can find.

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.