Heralded as the last stronghold of denim in the United States, Downtown Los Angeles’ rich history of denim design and manufacturing have gone largely unnoticed. To bring attention to Downtown’s denim tradition and be apart of it’s current revival, Gap 1969 has setup their denim design studio on Pico Blvd in Downtown to produce a new line of denim focusing on quality of design and finish. I heartily applaud the effort Gap and many other companies have made to embrace our Country’s the roots of fine craftsmanship and production.
Arguably responsible for the resurgence of proper men’s tailoring here in the United States, Duncan Quinn crafts some of the finest bespoke suits and tailored dress shirts available. Exposed to fashion from his father while growing up on Savile Row in London, Duncan brought his masculine and timeless style stateside to his first boutique in NoLita New York in the early 200o’s. The combination of fine classic sports cars and sharp looking menswear present an undeniably cool motif.
For Keds, the best design is one that is timeless. A majority of their shoes haven’t changed their style for over half a century, and they are still revered in the fashion world to this day. One of the newest re-introductions is the Booster, first made in the 1930′s as simple, sharp looking and affordable footwear, reminiscent of the saddle shoe. With the help Mark McNairy, these kicks have been brought back to life adopting clean colors and a preppy sensibility, bridging the gap between sneakers and shoes. [Kempt]
Buying American made goods is one of the best ways to show your patriotism. Over the years we have become accustomed to buying clothes made over seas because some of them are cheaper and easier to attain. Now with the resurgence of americana and heritage style coming back into the world of fashion, there has been a great amount of focus placed on classic american clothiers and an influx of new brands that design and manufacture their clothes here in the United States. Esquire magazine has compiled comprehensive list of these brands, educating all of us how to shop like an American.[ValetMag]
Hot, Reckless and Totally Insane. Uncle TNUC’s devotion to keeping the spirit of the 80′s alive and well in our modern era is unmatched, and his newest creation brings this fever to masses with the Uncle TNUC shirt. Described as “the shirt that parents and nuns are calling an outrage,” these threads are sure to get you seen and cause a scene. “The Manimal” is available for purchase by clicking the link above.
Even amidst all the turmoil with the current ownership of the Los Angeles Dodgers, we can still show our pride with the Think Blue shirt. Designed by the Cooler Collective, its a very combination of the classic Dodgers and the slogan “Think Blue.” Now i’m getting in the mood for a Dodger Dog.
Quality first and American made, that’s the mantra of fashion blog Simple Threads. As a source of inspiration for designers and craftsmen seeking the genuine Americana look, this blog is a fine collection of photographs highlighting clothes, shoes, leather goods and accessories staying true to this style. The inclusion of detailed shots of each item gives an intimate understanding of the texture and craft of the goods.
The search for American made goods is becoming more fruitful of late with domestic designers, clothiers and craftsmen taking the effort to produce their products here in the USA. Started by a group of outdoor enthusiasts, Topo Designs adheres to these values by designing and manufacturing their backpacks in Colorado allowing for a high level of quality, while still acheiving a reasonable price point. Their backpacks are classic and sleek in aesthetic, and appropriately outfitted with modern refinements. [Valet]
Japanese designer Bag’n'Noun carries a collection of handsome looking bags and accessories adhering to the highest level of quality and craft. Built to last, this Tool bag is made from heavy duty cotton, durable leather handles and riveted at stress points to be able hold an ample amount of tools and supplies. [WellSpent]
A French shoe designer that sources their raw materials from small cotton and wild rubber producers in Brazil along the Amazon River. Veja shoes has gone to great lengths to create ecological sneakers, bags and accessories that respects both humans and the environment. From their Summer 2011 line, the Mediteranee shoe in particular, as seen above, has a very refreshing colors and sleek look combining the styles of a sneaker and a boat shoe. [Hypebeast]
Democrats have donkeys, Republicans have elephants, but who has the moose? For all those outside of or in between the two major political parties, I present Moose Political Party T-Shirt. A wonderful satire on our country’s political system.
For the sartorially inclined man, seek out General Quarters for your clothing, supplies and services. Located in a blossoming retail district on La Brea, proprietor Blair Lucio has assembled a boutique of particularly fine heritage style apparel, many of which are hand made in the United States. Ranging from shirts made in Downtown Los Angeles, to sharp looking bags design and assembled in Tennessee, the products available at General Quarters exemplify the classic American style honoring our country’s tradition of fine craftsmanship. At the boutique you can also find some of Blair’s great old family photos and vintage fixtures, including a Mobil sign and motorcycle, giving it a very authentic feel. Visit General Quarters at 153 S. La Brea Ave Los Angeles CA 90036.
