Articles – Well Spent

Happenings: C.H.C.M. Shop

January 26, 2011

It’s a funny thing, the “Heritage” trend. As anyone in the fashion industry (er, I mean ’style’ industry – got to keep it menswear blog appropriate) will tell you, everything that’s old will eventually be new again. And so, the current popularity of utilitarian garments from the 1930s – 1950s amongst the modern non-utilitarian set isn’t all that shocking. What’s funny, though, is that the items that make up the trend were never intended to be fashionable. They were designed and built purely for functionality. That’s why they’re still around, decades after their inception. That these items are now a part of a trend, and, as such, suddenly have a shelf-life – well, it entirely defeats their purpose.

Comments (2)

Happenings: Left Field NYC

September 1, 2010

Long before L.L.Bean went Signature, Lands End went Canvas, or J.Crew went Red Wing, there was Left Field NYC. Founded by Christian McCann, the Brooklyn-based label has been churning out rugged, American-made goods since chambray was still putting the blue in blue collar. “We have been in business for over 10 years,” explains McCann, “and have always strived to make quality, made in America clothing at a fair price.” Unfortunately, being so ahead of the curve (just think about what you were wearing in the late ’90s), meant that the majority of people who initially took advantage of those fair prices lived elsewhere. “The Japanese have been great supporters of our brand,” notes McCann. “And, they’re a good litmus test for authenticity.” Despite the lack of a domestic audience, McCann believed enough in what he was doing to keep his label going, never deviating from his original vision.

Comments (0)

Happenings: Pierrepont Hicks

June 23, 2010

We should all be so fortunate to have a year in our lives like the one currently being enjoyed by the tie makers at Pierrepont Hicks. Faster than you can say “made in the USA,” the two-collections-old label has built itself a devoted – if not cult-like – following, counting many of the menswear blogosphere’s top names among its loyal customers. “It’s completely humbling and emotional for me,” says brand co-founder, and lead designer, Kat McMillan. “I am in love with this path I am on and feel really happy. And it’s completely a result of the menswear bloggers who are so passionate and creative.”

Comments (0)