Photos by Nathan Michael
Thinking back on this past Saturday’s NorthernGRADE Chicago pop-up, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. Gratitude to the vendors for participating in it. Gratitude to the bloggers and publications that helped promote it. And, above all, gratitude to every person that came to be a part of it. I’ve always liked NorthernGRADE more than the other menswear events because of how laid back it is. It’s an easy place to strike up a conversation with a stranger, and actually enjoy it. And I think that carried through in Chicago. It seemed like everyone was having a pretty good time. I know I was. A few of the many people and products that made the day what it was are after the jump. Hat tip to Nathan Michael for the photos.
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For as long as there’s been a NorthernGRADE, I’ve been a fan of it. Launched back in 2010 by Pierrepont Hicks and J.W. Hulme, the Minnesota-based event has grown from an intimate gathering of American-made-o-philes to a full-on menswear mecca. And now, it’s coming to Chicago. I’ve had the great privilege and pleasure of working directly with PPH to co-produce the Chicago premiere of the pop-up, and if I do say so myself, it’s shaping up to be quite an event.
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Photos by Nathan Michael.
It’s hard to believe it’s been less than two years since George Vlagos launched Oak Street Bootmakers. In that short time, his label has accrued an impressive line-up of high profile stockists, developed a fervent, near cult-like fan base, received countless glowing blog and forum mentions, and, sold an absolutely ridiculous amount of shoes. Though rapidly achieved, OSB’s success is still well deserved. Combining classic design, top-notch materials and impeccable construction, Oak Street’s range is an easy one to like. Add to that tasteful branding, and a price-point that’s $20 – $40 less than most comparable brands and that like can quickly turn to love.
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