Since 1863, the Frye Company has been manufacturing a wide array of leather shoes and boots with a simple traditional style. I have found that many other shoe companies are trying to reinvent the wheel with their footwear designs, instead of sticking to the tried and true classics. The Frye Wallace Oxford is a fine example of shoe that doesn’t have any embellishment, but doesn’t need any because it’s simple design is so well done. This style of shoe has been around forever, and still is fashionable today, especially with the contrasting red rubber sole. The oiled suede finish also gives it a nice vintage touch.
Here a line of really cool looking needle point belts by Tucker Blair. Inspired by the “whimsical” belts him and his buddies used to wear in college, they have a whole variety of designs from nautical flags to bulldogs. My favorite is the American flag, because the Stars and Stripes look good on damn near anything.
There are few things more beautiful in the world menswear than Horween Cordovan leather. Made in Chicago since the early 1900′s, Horween Cordovan undergoes a top quality process of tanning and fabrication producing some of the finest leather available in the USA. It is well known for its lustrous burgundy hue and fine texture. Form Function Form has made a very handsome watchband from this legendary leather which will pair nicely with any vintage watch. [BlackAndTannedNY]
Inspired by 1960′s-1980′s surf and outdoor wear, Batten sportswear makes a full line of apparel, gear and accessories right here in the USA. The one item that caught my eye is the Beach Bucket Bag, a simple duffel bag made from bright red nylon and beautifully contrasting navy straps. Perfect for the upcoming summer season, this bag has a great amount utility for trips to the beach or many other outdoor activities.
Many menswear stores in Los Angeles carry a variety of apparel and products, but none have a full offering of goods as does Standard Goods on Beverly Blvd. And I do mean FULL offering of goods. We’re talking clothes, books, accessories, vinyl records, skateboards, household items, fresh preserves and art, nearly all done by independent designers and many sourced locally. It takes someone from a different part of the country to put together a “general store” such as this, and upon visiting last week I felt a strong Midwest vibe from this place. Well my suspicions were true, because the proprietor of this fine establishment, Garret Colton, hails from none other than the great state of Oklahoma. If you find yourself in the Mid Wilshire or Miracle Mile area, head on down to Standard Goods and take a gander for yourself.
In very West coast fashion, one of my new favorite things to do on my annual trip to New York City is to visit Manhattan’s only proper surf shop, Saturdays Surf NYC. Founded by two West coasters and an East coaster, their shop, which also seconds as a coffee shop, is a breath of fresh air in the chic high fashion world of the SoHo neighborhood. In addition to selling surf gear, they have designed their own line of clothing bringing a casual California style to NYC. Here is a preview of their Spring/Summer line over at the blog Por Homme. If your ever down on Crosby St. go by and say what’s up.
I really admire things that serve a dual purpose. The Hankie Notebook is a shining example of how an everyday item can be re-invented into a new piece fulfilling two uses. Instead of storing a normal notebook inside of your coat, the Hankie Notebook can be put in the chest pocket of your jacket because it’s designed to look handkerchief. Practicality and fashion statement all rolled into one, fantastic. [Uncrate]
Oxfords, denim and accoutrement all hand made in California. Taylor Stitch offers a fine line of heritage style menswear with simple stylings and high quality. Here is their mission statement, of which I am in full support: We promise never to chase trends, but to modernize the timeless staples of dress. By creating a classic shirt with impeccable craftsmanship, we are not just offering a shirt but a wardrobe staple worth investing in.
Founded in the late 1800′s by baseball player Albert Goodwill Spalding, A.G. Spalding & Bros. has been historical known as a quality sporting goods company. Over time, they expanded their products to include accessories, leather goods and my favorite, the watches. I really like the bold numbers and vibrant colors of these timepieces, embracing the american heritage style the company was originally founded on.
Made in the USA is now becoming a mainstay in the world of American menswear. With a focus on quality, build and sense of national pride, clothing designers small and large are trying to manufacturer some, if not all, of their garments here in the United States. Jack Robie is the passion project of two former wall street financiers that decided they wanted to embark down a more entrepreneurial and innovative path by starting a menswear brand. Their line of fine sport shirts designed and made in the USA, offer classic heritage styling with a variety of solid chambray and colorful plaid. [WellSpent]
Happy New Year America! CXXVI Clothing Co. out of New York City is dedicated to American made products with matching heritage aesthetic. Check out their collection of fine clothing, bags and other accessories.
There is a growing movement of bag companies that are designing their backpacks and totes in a simple vintage style. Altadena Works is the newest one to add to the list headquartered right here in California, and made in the USA. Their mantra is the bag should be an extension of what you are wearing, with minimal design and slimmer profile. The end result is a sleek design with classic color schemes, a very americana/heritage feel. [LAI'mYours]
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