“It’s just me.”
At first sight, Left Field NYC founder Christian McCann is kind of an intimidating dude. Tall, a boxer’s build, countless tattoos; basically exactly what you’d imagine – or hope – the man behind his brand would look like. However, once you get him talking, it doesn’t take long for the menace to fade. Beneath the tough exterior is one of the most genuine and thoughtful guys in the menswear business. It might seem funny to say, but he’s actually a lot like his clothes: earnest, pretense-free, and steadfast. Despite our being over an hour late, he warmly welcomes my sister and I into his studio. “I’m sorry you had such a hard time finding the place,” he says. “I’m glad you guys are here.”
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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.
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Every now and then I’ll come across an item that so perfectly encapsulates my own tastes and wants, I’m rendered tongue-tied (finger-knotted?). It’s not so much a lack of things to say, as it is too much to communicate at once (ie, where do I even start?). When this happens, I have found the most effective way for me to relay all that needs be said is to make a list, as my adrenalized state has left me no good for prose. So, with that, I give you my list of what’s great about the Reigning Champ Recycled Fleece Crewneck. Read More »
No matter how gruff, rough or tough, I think every man can stand to have (at least) a little bit of cozy in their lives. And it doesn’t get much cozier than the new Shawl Collar Cardigan from Cincinnati’s Velva Sheen. Cut and sewn in Los Angeles from American slub cotton, the sweater – like all of the offerings from the recently resurrected manufacturer (thank you Japanese investors) – is a great looking and solidly made update of an old classic. Read More »
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.
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What’s on sale RIGHT NOW.
Vancouver’s Roden Gray has just knocked 30% off its remaining stock of Wings + Horns organic sweatshirts. Each top is expertly crafted in Canada from exclusive terry fabrics. Sizing is on the smaller side, so make sure to take that into account when ordering. And, uh… yeah. That’s about all I can think to say; great sweatshirts, at a less face-palm inducing price than usual. Get at ‘em. And have a great weekend. Read More »
Can anyone tell me why it’s so damned near impossible to find a decently made sweatshirt that’s also affordable? Seriously, if you know, leave a comment, because I cannot, for the life of me, figure out why a simple crew neck sweat should be so expensive. I guess you’re getting what you pay for, but really? Anyway, accepting that shelling out more than seems right is an inevitability, the Utility Crew from Welsh brand Howies looks to me like a pretty solid investment (see what I did there – a true salesman at work). Read More »
There are three concerns that drive the design and construction of Finisterre’s peak-performance technical apparel: the surfer, the product and the environment. Founded in 2002, the UK-based company has continuously endeavored to produce high quality athletic gear with the least amount of ecological impact possible. The label’s Mid Layer collection is made from an exclusive, double-faced organic cotton / merino wool fabric. Read More »
The moderately and (very) immoderately priced goods that I’d rather spend it on this month.
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I realize the price point on this thing is pretty rough – at least for anyone in my tax bracket. I’m also aware of the fact that it’s one of the few pieces from the brand that isn’t made from organic cotton. But, on the other hand, look at it. The Canadian-made Tiger Terry Button Down Cardigan from Wings + Horns is just one of many excellent pieces from the brand’s much-lauded SS10 collection. Read More »
