At One's Discretion

Carhartt Squire Coat.

2011-10-14T00:01:00.004+01:00

Carhartt is a brand that's been on everybody's lips recently, what with their heritage collection proving a huge success it seems people who knew about the brand before but never really took much notice are starting to realize the 122 year old company are capable of reworking their classic pieces and bringing them into the 21st century.

Last year I bought the chore coat and it got me through winter, this year Carhartt brings out a slightly modified version with a distressted look called the Squire Coat, unlike the chore coat it has enforced elbow patches and ribbed storm cuffs with a lived in look, the jacket is incredibly warm, a great autumn colour and an absolute timeless piece.

The Carhartt Squire Coat is now available at Attic for £190

and if you're still not sold, watch below.

Sam Sherwood.

Nike swoosh logo: 40th birthday.

2011-06-17T04:41:00.003+01:00

"Well, I don't love it, but maybe it will grow on me." - Nike co-founder Phil Knight.

Sam Sherwood.

Kieth Haring book: flick through.

2011-06-08T18:20:00.006+01:00

A million bloggers have given their very interesting insight to this book, but one thing I found when googling was that hardly any had shown the inside of this 500 page mammoth. See below for a very quick "in the bookshop" flick through which I hope intrigues you into buying this great book.

Sam Sherwood.

R.I.P Gil Scott-Heron.

2011-05-28T17:48:00.003+01:00

Page 1 Page 2

Heard the sad news this morning and it reminded me of a double page spread about the man himself I have in a copy of The Face magazine from 1983. R.I.P.

Sam Sherwood.

Nike Vintage: Cortez

2011-05-27T12:32:00.005+01:00

Recently across the blogworld a lot of attention has been on Jerry Seinfeld’s choice of Nike trainers during the hit sitcom Seinfeld, but to me one of the best and most certainly overlooked Nike models of the show was George Costanza’s (Jason Alexander) infamous navy Nike Cortez’s, which he wore in every episode and apparently when the show ended in 1998 Alexander asked if he could keep the pair as the most legendary artefact of the show.

I knew that a couple of years ago Nike had released a vintage version of the shoe and because of this there would be no hope in anywhere still stocking it, therefore leaving me to keep an eye on eBay. With a bit of luck last week a pair popped up in my size, brand new and at the bargain price of £32.

Sam Sherwood.

Plywood 2.

2011-05-07T14:39:00.006+01:00

A small update from a previous blog post of mine.

It's been a slow year for me and Supreme decks. When I heard of a John Baldessari collab I initially had high hopes, after stumbling upon this blog post, and instantly became a fan of the images he used with bold, bright colours but the final design proved to be very poor and a huge let down. The George Condo decks were a little too Yeezy for my liking so that was another easy pass, however 2011 brought out the best deck since the Damien Hirst spin paint set from 2009 and was a no-brainer, with Robert Longos men in cities deck "Eric".

Sam Sherwood.

Surf Photography

2011-05-03T16:22:00.004+01:00

Brilliant book with brilliant images. It has inspired me to buy a pair of these from Saturdays Surf NYC, only because these Yellow Rat were out of stock. I may however return for one of their l/s pull over shirts. It is surprisingly difficult to find older-style trunks

William Fox.

Not just the sneaks...

2011-04-17T02:04:00.002+01:00

William Fox.

Trust me, I know the look.

2011-04-07T00:26:00.003+01:00

Nike Air Structure II

Nike Air Challenge

Nike Air Jordan

Nike Huarache

Nike ACG Mowabb

Sam Sherwood.

Bike chain.

2011-03-15T23:36:00.002Z

I’m no Grease Monkey, but I love vintage racing bikes, I recently took delivery of a 1960’s Mercier in turquoise blue and after a hard days graft the bike is gleaming back to, somewhat, it’s original former glory. But there was something missing, I wanted something to bring it into the 21st century whilst being practical at the same time. I’ve wanted this Supreme chain which was released in 2007 for a couple of years now but never been able to find one, luckily enough however after a few weeks of searching one popped up for sale, I may have overpaid a tad at the price of $160 but it looks great with the bike whilst offering the heavyweight security it will need in an urban environment.

Sam Sherwood.

IN THE FACTORY WE MAKE CLOTHES, IN THE SHOP WE SELL HOPE

2011-03-08T08:28:00.003Z

William Fox.

Present Christmas 2010

2010-12-02T23:27:00.005Z

Diversification is the theme running through PRESENT at the moment. For christmas everything from notepads and bike saddles to stink bombs and slingshots have been taken into stock, to turn the Shoreditch out-fitters into a high end knick-nack shop. This has of course come at the same time as the release of the pioneer collection. I have already picked up a couple of the Bob Caps, and a plain Elbow Patch Jumper and next on my hit-list are the Corgi Fair Isle Socks as well as a Woolrich Fabric Laptop Case amongst others. The quilted cruizer jackets and lined chinos are also impressive spectacles which finish off the collection nicely.

The full collection can be seen here,

http://www.present-london.com/present/

William Fox.

Vintage Stüssy adverts.

2010-12-02T18:10:00.013Z

I love these vintage Stüssy ad's, every time I see them it reminds me of why I'm still very much a fan of the brand despite the truckloads of churned out unimaginative stuff in recent years.

(1984)

(1985)

(1986)

(1987)

(1988)

(1989)

(1990)

(1991)

Sam Sherwood.

J-Press for Urban Outfitters USA

2010-11-04T17:26:00.002Z

Although this is a slightly surprising partnership the preview comes off fairly well. The shirts, sweaters and scarves look like good basics, and if the collection comes in at UO prices then I cannot really see where this will go wrong. One could say it lessens J-Press, but these two are such different spheres that I feel it will have little impact. I am already excited to see the full collection in detail as well as prices, which we can hope to be closer to UO prices than those of the Madison Avenue outfitter.

William Fox.

E.G. Workaday Cords

2010-11-03T23:04:00.007Z

Ordered a pair the other day from the Bureau and delivered within 24 hours. Easily the finest pair of corduroy trousers I have owned. With a pair of USA made Jack Purcells, 501's, rugby shirt and my Beams anorak I feel like I belong at Harvard forty years ago.

E.G. Workaday Cords, £140 Available at The Bureau

William Fox.

College Scarf

2010-11-03T22:35:00.005Z

A lot of the time trends make people dress up as things they are not. In various metropolises across the world you will see people wearing mountain parkas and hiking boots, but they will rarely be used appropriately (I am not calling this a terrible thing, merely commenting). My most recent acquisition is actually something I should be buying, well I at least have every right to. It is my University's Union scarf in University colours. It is also completely on point with the way I want to dress at the moment, cottoning onto ivy trends, and the best part is thats appropriate.

William Fox.

J-Crew Chamois Shirts

2010-10-25T18:59:00.006+01:00

I hate regurgitating info from other sites but whilst reading Mister Crew I spotted these new J-Crew moleskine-a-like shirts. Applying the chamois fabric to their every successful Utility shirt template they have created what looks like a very elegant hunting shirt. A garment originally associated with LL Bean, shirts made of chamois have been a staple for fishermen and hunters alike for almost a century now, gaining popularity due to their flexibility whilst at the same time still being as warm as wool. If the price is right, internationally that is, this may very well be my next acquisition.

$69.50, Available at J-Crew

William Fox.

Navy Wool - Post Overalls

2010-10-24T15:24:00.005+01:00

This winter one thing is going to dominate my dressing habits, and that is navy wool. Daiki Suzuki based most of his winter Woolrich Woolen Mills collection on his memories of early Comme, that is using a lot of dark navys with thick wools. The collection has come out looking very fresh, and the navy/wool combination seems perfect with the cold weather. With this obviously at the fore in my mind I have picked up the Post'alls Cruzer shirt-jacket, from Present's winter delivery from the aforementioned. I am not sure whether I will wear it as my sole outer-layer, as I am not sure if it could suffice when the weather truly turns but either way it is going to be an essential part of my layering in the foreseeable future, as well as more navy and wool.

William Fox.

Teruyoshi Hayashida.

2010-10-20T18:33:00.003+01:00

Take Ivy the book which captured timeless Americana college style has recently been reprinted in English for the first time. I’m sure anyone who hasn’t been living under a rock for the past 6 months is aware of this and now owns it, but, if you still don’t you can order it from Amazon for a mere £10.99. If, however, you feel like owning an earlier edition, you can get that here.

Sam Sherwood.

Witch Doctor

2010-10-19T02:05:00.000+01:00

William Fox.

For A Few Dollars More.

2010-10-08T01:00:00.000+01:00

Sam Sherwood.

Double RL Forestry Overshirt.

2010-10-05T17:56:00.003+01:00

Having spent the best part of the past week in Manchester I finally got to visit Oi Polloi, after many orders from the online store with impeccable service it had been on my list of shops to pay a visit to for a long time. The best thing about visiting the boutique was that I got to check out some of the new Double RL stuff the shop had just got in, specifically the Forestry Overshirt, although the price seems high at first the quality and design is amazing and I’d be happy to pay the price for such an amazing piece of clothing.

Double RL Forestry Overshirt Multi Navajo Print

Sam Sherwood.

Beams x Champion College Knit

2010-09-25T22:12:00.004+01:00

A nice surprise from Japan along with the North Face Purple Label jacket I posted a couple of weeks ago is this Beams Knit made by Champion. In navy wool, it features an older fashioned wide neck, and a lovely big red B on the chest as well as a small faded Champion emblem on the sleeve. Some of the pieces Champion and North Face Purple Label have been making in Japan are really quite fantastic and I hope they can export them (selectively) out of Nippon soon.

William Fox.

Heritage Research X Present : Stadium Jacket

2010-09-24T18:33:00.002+01:00

Heritage Research have come together with Present to create some exclusive pieces by tweaking items from their Winter collection. Of all of the specials this is undoubtedly my favourite and my most recent purchase. The charcoal colour is a lovely compliment to the melton wool and shawl colour and the quilted inside is going to keep my extra toasty. The P also replaces the H which is a nice touch.

H.R. Stadium Jacket, £395 Available at Present

William Fox.

Fashion in film.

2010-09-22T21:39:00.007+01:00

Blow (2001)

The Graduate (1967)

Inception (2010)

La Haine (1995)

Trainspotting (1996)

Trading Places (1983)

Three Days of the Condor (1975)

Risky Business (1983)

Serpico (1973)

Basquait (1996)

Annie Hall (1977)

American Gigolo (1980)

Sam Sherwood.

Filson Mackinaw Crusier

2010-09-12T23:57:00.002+01:00

If it can keep a man living in a wood-cabin 90 years ago warm then its good enough for me, thats why I have one on the way.

William Fox.

Crescent Down Works Hooded Down Sweater

2010-09-11T23:23:00.005+01:00

One thing that I have always wanted for the winter is a thick puffer-type jacket not made by a commercial mountaineering brand like the North Face. After getting the down vest by CDW for Present last year I know how reliable their jackets can be. A down jacket, with 60/40 outer and ripstop inner would no doubt keep me toasty when the cold weather arrives, and makes a nice change from the many parkas I now own. The only question is whether to go for a black or navy version?

William Fox.

J.Press Shaggy Dog Shetland Knits

2010-09-10T13:38:00.007+01:00

With the cold weather drawing closer and closer these Shaggy Dog Shetland Knits from J.Press are the perfect accompaniment. All made in Scotland, they come in a full range of colours and after seeing them in New York last Christmas I can confirm that they are as soft on the skin as they look. I passed on them back then but I think that might be a little too hard this time, I would not be surprised if I choose one of these to keep me warm this winter.

Shaggy Dog Shetland Knits, $160 Available from J.Press

William Fox.

The Ivy Look

2010-09-10T13:13:00.003+01:00

I recently received this book as a gift from some visitors to Colette in Paris. Not yet in print in the U.K., but retailing at £12.99 when it will be, The Ivy Look is a brilliant pocket sized guide to everything preppy. The book explains the history behind the Ivy League look, stretching from clothing and shoes to music and its wider influences. It features many old photos and adverts, a lot involving the royalty of that look, the Kennedys. It is a book I would highly recommend, and is the perfect guide to add to any library.

William Fox.

Joya Landis

2010-09-07T19:32:00.001+01:00

William Fox.

Reigning Champ Sweatshirts

2010-09-04T22:32:00.009+01:00

In preparation for the winter I have started buying warmer, more sensible, clothes. These Reigning Champ sweatshirts are very similar in shape and texture to what some would call the original sweatshirt, a reverse weave Champion one. Whereas the Champion sweats of equal quality are now very difficult to get hold of these are relatively easy. The heathered charcoal colour really conjurs up memories of an 80s Athletic sweat, while the navy is a timeless classic. There is even a forest green that I am very close to adding to my new collection. I am sure I will get plenty of wear out of these over the coming months

William Fox.

Scott Nichol Socks

2010-09-03T23:05:00.010+01:00

As previously mentioned socks are a little obsession of mine. Over the past few months I have acquired pairs from J Press, J Crew, Burlington as well as the age old favourite Uniqlo. My most recent pair are from a sock company I had never come across before, Scott Nichol. Over seventy years old, and originating from Leicestershire, everything they make is made in British Mills. Their country collection is the highlight of their sock repertoire with calf length thick, speckled, merino wool socks being exactly what I will need in the winter, and exactly what keeps my sock obsession happy.

William Fox.

North Face Purple Label

2010-09-03T21:40:00.004+01:00

I throughly dislike posting regurgitated blogged news items but every so often one really grasps my attention. Any news on North Face Purple Label is usually very interesting, mainly because its exclusively Japanese and therefore in a way shrouded in mystery, but also as it looks like very nice stuff. The most recent pieces of the collection take inspiration from Americana hunting gear. With all 3 jackets made with 65-35 material, the red hunting-like coat with elbow patches and brown coloured collar looks marvelous. With a possible trip to the East potentially in the offing I know exactly what will be at the top of my wishlist.

William Fox.

Trickers x Duffer of St.George - Winston Boot

2010-08-11T23:57:00.005+01:00

The Winston Chukka Boot, built by Trickers, was a shoe I was unaware existed, that was until just yesterday. An old shoe no longer wanted by its owner, an owner with far too many shoes, it was given to me as it needed a home, and that is what I am happily giving it. This particular shoe was a special one off collaboration many years ago, with the Duffer of St.George, who themselves have a rich history of a working partnership with the Northampton Cobblers, very much fore-running the current trend of both Japanese and European designers. This shoe comes in a lovely dark sand suede, a colour never repeated (as far as I am aware) on this shoe by Trickers, making them both exclusive and elusive.

At the moment, even in the summer months, my most worn shoe is probably a Clarks Desert Boot, but in the winter, with harsher rain, something a little more heavy duty will be necessary otherwise I may be going through a pair a month. These are just that, built with all the same materials as a pig farmers brogue, these are built to last, and I am quite excited to see just what I can get out of them. They shall be keep stored away for a little while yet, but their time will come soon enough.

William Fox.

Woolrich Woolen Mills Upland Shirt

2010-08-11T23:10:00.007+01:00

I recently spent a few, very pleasant, days in Leeds. Aside from having the best Italian food I have ever experienced outside of Italy I did a little bit of shopping. As per usual HIP was first on my list of the boutiques I wished to visit, and it turns out it was the only one I really needed. Old friends Bert and Everton always make me feel very welcome, and a viewing of their latest delivery of WWM, that had not even hit the shelves, was a very kind gesture. Sorting through it I immediately spotted this, the newest variation on the Upland Shirt. A thick winter shirt, it comes in a beautiful small blue check, with a very subtle hunting patch on the shoulder, and an interesting breast pocket multi button arrangement. With winter temperatures approaching I felt it was a worthy investment and so wasted no time in adding it to my wardrobe, leaving both HIP and Leeds a happy man.

Woolrich Woolen Mills Upland Shirt, £135 Available at HIP

William Fox.

hurt so good.

2010-08-07T19:04:00.002+01:00

Sam Sherwood.

Make your Own Moccasins

2010-08-01T23:50:00.005+01:00

Earlier I was reading through Mister Crew and found this. It may be from 1937, but it is a guide as relevant as any. In fact its simplicity may make it even more useful so I think I might give it a go.

William Fox.

RRL Cargo Pants

2010-07-29T23:16:00.006+01:00

A lot of my posts recently have been about bits I have bought, so I thought for the sake of freshness to change that. After buying some olive chino shorts I have realised that a dark shade of green could suit the lower half of my body much more than I had previously thought. After having a look for some at the usual places I came away slightly un-impressed and put my search on hold. Recently however I was searching through old RRL and I came across these. They are cargo pants which can be found on ebay as they are a couple of years old, but they come with a steep price. I was also slightly apprehensive about the cargo pockets on them, fearing they were a little garish, but after seeing a similar pair of trousers made by Wings and Horns worn by a colleague regularly I know they can look very good. Whereas a year ago I would have never gone near a pair of trousers which were so baggy, now I relish the opportunity to wear a pair of trousers so close to a classic original fit. I look forward to possibly hunting a pair down.

William Fox.

Palace Fall/Winter 2010.

2010-07-28T17:04:00.005+01:00

Ever since my fellow Blogger first showed me the Palace promo vid in his post a few months back I knew there was something exceptional about this brand and that I had to get involved. Since then Palace tees and decks have appeared all over the country in independent skate shops instantly standing out with their bold logos and striking, almost hypnotic prints.

Palace have just dropped their 2010 fall/winter T-shirt collection and I'm glad to see the return of the Tri- Fergadellic logo, something I hope the brand sticks with. One Particular T-Shirt which stood out to me was the CoCo Loco and instantly got my hands on one, and to no surprise it's very well I did as you'l be hard pressed to find this still in stock anywhere in the country.

To anyone who's still not familar with Palace, founder Lev Tanju gives his insight to the brand in this interview courtesy of Spine TV.

Sam Sherwood

Mustapha Dance

2010-07-27T14:38:00.002+01:00

William Fox.

War and Peace 2010

2010-07-25T20:30:00.019+01:00

Last week I visited the War and Peace military festival at the Hop Farm in Kent. I saw many wonderful things, some very interesting things and other slightly shocking things. The camouflage on a few of the re-enactors was marvelous. Here a selection of my photos from the day.

William Fox.

Bullseye Bill Duck Hunting Jacket

2010-07-23T14:00:00.004+01:00

Searching through old military clothing at the War and Peace festival in Kent I found this gem on the stall owned by the same people as the Vintage Showroom in Notting Hill. I have been a fan of this type of camouflage for a while now, and I am even looking for a pair of the HBT WW2 USMC pants which are very similar. The duck hunting jacket I found yesterday contains many pockets including a large one on the back as well as a pocket that stretches all the way around the inside of the waist, originally for keeping caught game. It also comes fully water resistant and waxed, and with an attachable hood . I personally think it is lovely, and at a market price instead of a shop price it was a very easy decision to add it to my growing collection of jackets.

William Fox.

Umbro For Present - Footballs

2010-07-18T20:30:00.007+01:00

Umbro have kindly created some footballs for Present in a one off collaboration for the World Cup. They take inspiration from an old fashioned leather football, but instead adopt a red and black colour-way, the colours of Present. Many different teams are represented by the boys in the shop, and almost all are massive football followers, and two of them were even lucky enough to play at Wembley a month ago thanks to an invitation by Umbro. Need-less to say I have already nabbed one for myself as this is such a brilliant collaboration especially for such a big football fan. Although they are not for sale they can be seen in-store at PRESENT.

William Fox.

Beams Anorak

2010-07-16T10:21:00.008+01:00

Yesterday I returned from a quick trip to Firenze. Aside from the 35 degree weather and brilliantly sharply dressed Italians was WP Store. After looking into Beams earlier in the year I had discovered that it was the only place, well for the time being, that one could purchase Beams in Europe, and the INVENTORY article after Pitti reminded me that my visit to Florence would not be complete without popping in. After getting my own shirts made just around the corner, by one of the best bespoke shirt-makers in the world, I had a good look at the current Beams collection, which was all on sale. Almost all of it took my fancy, with some subtly spotted chino shorts a highlight. However I have far too many shorts, but not enough anoraks. This 1950's replica anorak with 3 pockets, one of which a Kangaroo pocket, is just what I was looking for for the summer after finding the winter RL anorak. Upon my return to London I was looking forward to a downpour so it could be put into use...

William Fox.

Vintage RL Sailing Anorak

2010-07-15T22:10:00.002+01:00

The other day a friend sent me a link for this, an old fleece lined Ralph Lauren sailing anorak, complete with cookie patch. It may fit a tad boxy like most old Polo but it is definitely worth it for such an original design. When winter, which seems a million miles away at the moment, comes it will be just the shell I have missed in recent years.

William Fox.

Foot Patrol - July 2010 Re-Opening.

2010-07-12T16:09:00.004+01:00

I’ve just received this info from a friend via a trade magazine giving more insight into the eagerly anticipated Foot Patrol 2010 re-opening, read for yourself below…

Sam Sherwood.

better late than never.

2010-06-30T07:42:00.007+01:00

I finally got my hands on the Supreme x North Face Expedition Pullover last week when it turned up on my doorstep from my good friend across the pond. As soon as I saw the leaked photos of this colourway I knew I had to have it and no other colour or design would make me think otherwise, I’ve been obsessing over the DPCU Australian camouflage ever since Supreme used it last year on a pair of box caps. The pullover is made with a 100% waterproof nylon 3 layer faille weave shell with tricot backing and fully taped seams which is perfect for those wet days we are regularly blessed with here in the UK.

The quality on this jacket is superb and even though I won’t be able to get much use out of it over the up and coming months I couldn’t be happier with it and recommend everybody to take advantage of the cheap prices during the summer to pick one up as I’m sure it’ll be a key piece of my wardrobe come autumn.

Also I had to get the Supreme edition of the recent Rizzoli published book, for a big fan of the New York skate brand it was a no brainer, the slip case is clean, simple and will keep it pristine for the many years I’m sure to own it.

Sam Sherwood.

Barbarian x Hideout Rugby Shirt

2010-06-25T23:33:00.003+01:00

I know it is far from the weather for it, but I have this thing for rugby shirts at the moment. A couple of days ago I popped by Hideout whilst scouring the sales and picked this up. I think I am aiming for some kind of skater steeze and this fits right in and although if I wore this right now I would probably melt, I need to try and tie it into an outfit at some point.

William Fox.

tiger style.

2010-06-17T19:45:00.009+01:00

The weather in England has been incredible recently and I’ve been getting that summer vibe from venturing out in only a shirt and shorts till late at night that us brits are rarely treated to, but this sudden change of weather made me realise that I only had one pair of shorts and even though I’ve been meaning to pick up some more for a long time I only got round to it a few weeks ago. These were picked up from a military outlet store in the U.S for a mere $17.99, a real bargain and I can see myself getting plenty of wear out of them.

Needless to say made from 100% Ripstop cotton these BDU tiger camo shorts are really tough and I can tell these will last me many more summers to come.

Sam Sherwood.

visvim 08.

2010-06-15T06:24:00.006+01:00

I just rediscovered these Visvim lookbook photos which I’ve had saved on my computer for awhile. I’m pretty certain they’re from S/S 08 although I could be wrong but it goes without saying they’re the sublime shots visvim always deliver, unfortunately this has reminded me that I still need the saga shirt.

Sam Sherwood.

San Francisco knights.

2010-06-07T01:57:00.002+01:00

Most played track of last summer, hoping to beat my own record this year.

Sam Sherwood.

Joe McCoy's Hooded Full Zip Sweater

2010-06-03T22:41:00.006+01:00

Superdenim have just received their Joe McCoy's delivery and there are lots of lovely things in it. For me the McCoy brands do basics best and this grey sweat is just one of those things. The loopwheeled 12 oz fabric is the finest material a sweatshirt could be made of, and the design owes itself to an original army blueprint. And of course you never go wrong with a plain grey sweat...

Joe McCoy's Hooded Full Zip Sweater, £165, Available at Superdenim

William Fox.

Present - Mark Mcnairy

2010-05-25T17:03:00.003+01:00

PRESENT have just seen a delivery of Mark McNairy bucks. The already seen blue and camel suede red brick soled shoes and joined by the new saddle shoe. As I mentioned a few months back, the blues are a shoe I really like, and so I have already got a pair sitting aside waiting for me.

Mark McNairy - New Amsterdam collection, Available at PRESENT

William Fox.

Bapex.

2010-05-22T05:25:00.023+01:00

Having had this watch now for 6 months I can say I'm really happy with how its held up, it still looks as new as the day I bought it and it's kept time flawlessly. For a first watch I think it's an excellent start - especially if you're a young gentleman who doesn't want anything too serious. I was really lucky and got a superb deal on this only paying a mere £300 as opposed to the £400+ UK RRP.

Hopefully this will last me till I can justify the big boys version.

Sam Sherwood.

Summer Madness

2010-05-21T15:11:00.004+01:00

William Fox.

Gitman Brothers BD Check Shirt

2010-05-21T15:00:00.002+01:00

Recently I acquired this BD Gitman Shirt, and it couldn't have been bought at a better time. Almost every day I seem to be wearing on oxford shirt of some kind, and so this is the perfect purchase. The check is as nice as any out at the moment, the colours in particular stand out wonderfully. It is also a brilliant shirt to throw on at the moment, in the heat-wave we appear to be just at beginning of.

William Fox.

The North Face Purple Label - Old Kilim.

2010-05-20T15:40:00.008+01:00

I've been meaning to pick up a Purple Label rucksack for a long time, the solid colour releases are an easy pass for me as similar leather based vintage rucksacks can be picked up from eBay for around $50, however the more interesting designs always catch my eye. Taking inspiration from tapestry-woven rugs from the middle east this Purple Label release titled "Old Kilim" will definitely make me get my act together and contact a Japanese proxy ASAP.

Sam Sherwood.

Real McCoys Camouflage Shirt

2010-05-18T16:59:00.004+01:00

Although Inventory only got this shirt into their stockroom a couple of weeks ago it has already sold it, and to be honest I am not at all surprised. Although initially one might look at it and think it is a little garish, it really is a beautiful spectacle. For a while now this type of camo has been appealing to me, and the brown and yellow look wonderful together on a shirt. If it is ever re-stocked on Inventory I think it is a must have.

William Fox.

Atelier de Production et de Creation.

2010-05-11T00:30:00.009+01:00

Two repairs, Three years wear and a number of washes.

Quite easily the best jeans you can buy for just over one hundred pounds. As with most A.P.C products the New Standards hold the trademark less is more approach - made from raw selvedge denim with no external branding (excusing the top fly button engraved with 'APC, Paris pres de Luxembourg') or gimicky factory made distressing... but don't let the simple design fool you, these jeans are outstanding quality that will last you years. It sounds like a lot of work just for some fades but to have a pair of jeans totally unique is really special and well worth it in my opinion.

Buy them here.

Sam Sherwood.

Black Fleece S/S Tartan Button-Down Shirt

2010-05-08T23:30:00.006+01:00

The Black Fleece collections have seen Thom Browne hitting another level. The (in part at least) Ivy League inspired collection has unsurprisingly created some fantastic button down shirts, which does make sense when thinking of the heritage of Brooks Brothers. This short-sleeved plaid button down does well in conjuring images of Princeton or Harvard and I personally think it is lovely, and just perfect for this summer, even if one is not spending August on a Massachusetts island.

Black Fleece Tartan Short-Sleeve Button-Down Shirt, $125 available at Brooks Brothers

William Fox.

Gang Starr

2010-05-08T23:00:00.001+01:00

William Fox.

2010-05-06T20:04:00.004+01:00

Make it count.

William Fox.

Quoddy x South Willard

2010-05-05T18:17:00.005+01:00

I know its another pair of shoes but I seem to have a fixation with them at the moment. These are a proper pair of moccasins, not like the LL Bean Signature pair I bought recently which are good fun for the mean time, but I am by no means expecting them to last until the end of the summer, and to be honest I would be a fool to think they would for the price I have paid for them. Of all the colour/material combinations Quoddy have out at the moment these are my favourites and would be a wonderful alternative to deck shoes in the upcoming summer months. The colours sit perfectly together and the suede, as apposed to the chromexal leather on some other versions of the blucher, looks so well suited to brown.

Brown Suede Brick Sole Bulcher, $218 available at South Willard

William Fox.

Sierra Designs Burnt Orange 60/40 Mountain Parka

2010-05-03T13:19:00.006+01:00

I cannot count the amount of days I looked on ebay hoping to find this jacket and failed to, but finally I got hold of one. In my size and in excellent condition, this is a Sierra Designs 60/40 Burnt Orange Mountain Parka from sometime in the 1970s. As schtoops also said in a previous post about his favourite Sierra Designs pack, every since I saw the Deer Hunter I knew I had to have this jacket. Of all the old Sierra jackets colour-ways it is easily the nicest. It is also perfect for the Spring weather we are currently in the midst of.

William Fox.

Sperry Top-Sider Laceless Striper

2010-04-29T13:15:00.004+01:00

Over the past few months I have gotten a little bit boring. Whereas once upon a time I would be getting excited over a new pair of Jordans, now I find the simpler, plainer sneakers much more interesting and appealing. These, the Sperry-Top Sider Laceless CVO's fall right into this category. At only $55 they are a really basic shoe that will look lovely in the summer, and they are also a very modestly priced, recent addition to my trainer collection.

Sperry Top-Sider Laceless CVO, $55 Available at Sperry

William Fox.

Nike All Court Low Suede - A Closer look

2010-04-25T23:14:00.008+01:00

Following up from my fellow bloggers post my order for the Dark Sage colourway of Nikes suede All Court Lows turned up earlier this week, I'm really glad Nike has put more focus on this, in my opinion, underrated model as of late. The fact that these can be worn with such a wide range of outfits and not look either too casual or too smart is the reason they're my top Nike shoe by far. The unusual colour of the suede used in this release looks great in contrast to the white rubber toe cap and with british summer just starting to kick in, I can tell these will be key beer garden attire for the next few upcoming months.

Sam Sherwood.

Reigning Champ - Spring 2010

2010-04-25T14:52:00.006+01:00

Reigning Champ, the in-house label of Canadian Designers CYC, recently released their Spring collection. The collection sees a continuation of the staple sweatshirts and t-shirts that have gained Reigning Champ a reputation for well made simple garments. It also sees some more exciting, but yet simple pieces. One of the highlights is this red candy stripe coaches jacket, which also comes in a blue stripe.

More images available here

William Fox.

WANT - Olive Chino Shorts

2010-04-25T13:47:00.004+01:00

Chinos, in one form or another, seem to be dominating my life at the moment. When its chilly my Wings + Horns navy chinos are my trouser of choice, and if the sun is out my pale legs are accompanied by a preppy chino short of some sort. One colour I do not have in either though is olive green. Finding a pair of good quality olive green chino shorts is surprisingly difficult. I am aware that Wings + Horns are to release some olive west points shorts but I have no idea when. Norse Projects have also created a pair, as seen above, but the colour I am looking for is slightly lighter than that. I may need to delve into the vast collection of Ralph Lauren found on the internet to attempt to find something I am happy with, whether it be current or ancient.

William Fox.

Nike All Court Low - A/W 2010

2010-04-22T15:46:00.013+01:00

A good friend has just sent me some images of the All Court Lows Nike plan to release later this year, first up is an all leather court low which bears an uncanny resemblance to the Premium leather Nike Blazers released earlier this year. The other pictures aren't very clear but it shows Nike have chosen to do another "vintage" effort which proved popular with the recent Vintage Nike Blazers, its a good thing the distressing can be cleaned off as I have my eyes on the green colourway.

Also shown are some more suede colourways, these ones more basic than the recent suede colourways nike have produced but still inviting, the white metal lace holes really set off the red suede nicely.

The leather All Court Lows are due for release in December whilst the Vintage All Court Lows and the suede colourways are due for a November release.

Sam Sherwood.

Buzz Rickson Sweat

2010-04-19T12:29:00.006+01:00

I read somewhere recently that there is an ever continuing search for the perfect sweatshirt, just like there is for the perfect pair of chinos or denim. I think here I may have found just that. The Buzz Rickson 4-needle 1930s sweatshirt is probably the finest sweatshirt I have ever owned. The vintage fit means the neck does not sit too low and the quality is just brilliant - in my opinion second to none. I swung by American Classics last week to pick one up after hearing them mentioned in a few places, and the one I left with lives up to all expectations. I knew there and then I needed to buy it, especially as it was the last in my size.

Buzz Rickson Sweat, £85, Available at Eastman Leathers

William Fox.

Vans Vault Surf Shaka Pack

2010-04-17T22:25:00.004+01:00

For the last few days I have been on a proper Vans trip. My focus has been on older or funkier Vans - like those seen above. I have scoured the inter-web and found some fantastic designs, through collaboration Packs like those with Supreme to vintage made in USA trainers. After all my searching I came to these, but they are neither vintage nor a collaboration. Employing a simple surfing signal and therefore staying true to the essence of the brand and the California roots, these would be beautiful in the summer sun accompanied by a pair of dark chino shorts. They come out at selected Vans Vault in June.

William Fox.

STORE - Trunk Clothiers

2010-04-14T22:10:00.006+01:00

August 2010 sees the opening of Trunk Clothiers, another independent shop stocking very exciting brands. Against recent trends they will open in London's West End. Rumors are that they have secured one of London's only Woolrich Woolen Mills accounts, as well as one with Beams Plus, who are rarely found outside Japan. I for one cannot wait until they open their doors, just to see what other brands they have on offer. The rise of independent menswear stores continues...

Trunk Clothiers opening August 2010, www.trunkclothiers.com

William Fox.

Javelin

2010-04-14T00:17:00.007+01:00

William Fox.

Nike All Court Low Suede

2010-04-11T21:38:00.002+01:00

Although no full shot has been taken of these I already know they are a must have. All courts are a trainer I have been really feeling recently. My collection already consists of both the blue and red colour-ways of the APC x Nike collaborations and I shall try my hardest to add these to it. This one, which shall be released as a quickstrike release sometime in the summer, sees it covered all over in mustard/yellow suede, which sits beautifully with the white rubber toe cap. I think it is the toe cap that always attracts me to this specific style as it gives it a smarter edge not see with more modern shoes like Air Max's. More information on it can be found here, via Highsnobiety.

William Fox.

PRESENT ELBOW PATCH KNITWEAR

2010-04-11T19:12:00.005+01:00

This week PRESENT see their knitwear collection extended with these sand patched jumpers, adding to previous navy and black patch knits. This particular one sees a combination of 100% scottish lambswool in a grey/chalk stripe contrasting the high quality suede patches. It is a simple idea which has come out particularly well, and if the weather was not changing I would be jumping all over it. Hopefully there is more simplicity to come from the PRESENT collection.

PRESENT Elbow Patch Knitwear, £105, Available at PRESENT

William Fox.

Our Legacy Corduroy Shirt

2010-04-08T22:59:00.003+01:00

I think corduroy shirts are given a tough time. When this shirt came out last year it received little to no attention and in my opinion that was quite harsh. I really like it and if I had found it a little earlier I would have tried my hardest to get hold of one. Both this and last years Our Legacy collections have been very strong, with some nice check BD's sticking out as strong pieces, but this one appears to have slipped through the net in terms of publicity, yet it is still sold out mostly everywhere. Once again my belated awareness is my downfall.

William Fox.

J.Crew Red Chambray Selvedge Workshirt

2010-04-02T17:36:00.005+01:00

After next week I will have both blue and grey chambray shirts for summer, all I need now is a red one. This J.Crew effort is perfect, especially as it only costs $98. Or maybe instead I should say it used to cost, as it has been sold out for a while now. I will have to keep hunting to find what I am looking for.

William Fox.

Destroywerk.

2010-04-01T09:57:00.007+01:00

Tim Green, also known as Destroywerk is an artist who creates digital collages, such a simple method with a huge impact.

Sam Sherwood.

Supreme Store - London

2010-03-31T13:27:00.006+01:00

Allegedly, later this year, under the management of Michael Koppleman, Supreme will open their first store outside NY and Japan in London. The shop will sit just down the road from both the Bape store and Hideout, taking the space which was once a Benjy's coffee shop. The expansion will open the brand up to a whole new audience, but will that be good exposure. I have a horrible feeling this may be the beginning of the end...

William Fox.

USN A-2 Deck Jacket

2010-03-30T21:42:00.007+01:00

A while ago I spent quite a bit of time pondering the idea of an M-65, but eventually I decided against it mainly for the reason that that particular design is all over the high street nowadays. Recently this type of jacket, the A-2 Deck Jacket, was brought to my attention and personally I really like it. Its a very basic design in a timeless colour, that is so easy to wear. It was also made to serve a purpose therefore I can guarantee the warmth and sturdiness of it. The older me would have waited months to get hold of the Supreme one that was released in 2005, but now my tastes have matured slightly and a real older one is what I am aiming to get hold of. The one I have my eye on dates from the Vietnam War, giving it that extra guarantee of quality. A lot of inspiration comes from military clothing of this era anyway so why go for something new when I can go for the real thing?

William Fox.

deathbowl to downtown (download).

2010-03-29T20:12:00.013+01:00

Created by Coan Nichols and Rick Charnoski this documentary is like no other in it's league, narrated by Chloe Sevigny it goes deeper than just skate footage with an incisive and artful exploration of this culture, what makes this film even more unique is how it shows the evolution of skateboarding - from empty backyard pool's in the 70's, to ramp skating in the 80's then covering the big apple itself in the 90's as the films central figure from a New York-centric perspective.

Featuring exclusive interviews, never-before-seen footage and a periodic soundtrack to go with it, it really is an entertaining, thought provoking take on why the action on New Yorks dirty, grimy and hectic streets reperesents skateboarding to millions of skaters and non skaters worldwide.

The movie can be downloaded here.

R.I.P Andy Kessler

Sam Sherwood.

Take Ivy

2010-03-28T22:19:00.004+01:00

Take Ivy must be one of the most common entries on fashion blogs ever. For that reason I will not bore you with details and scans (which can be found here if one is really interested). Then why have I brought it up you wonder? I have brought it up because it is being re-released in English and is available to pre-order at the reasonable price of £15 for release in September. It is the perfect coffee table book, especially at that price.

William Fox.

THE VELVET UNDERGROUND.

2010-03-28T04:37:00.005+01:00

Sam Sherwood.

Wings + Horns West Point Chino

2010-03-27T14:33:00.003Z

For a while now I have been attempting to vary my wardrobe and recently this has been applied to my leg-wear. Having worn APC New Standards solidly for the past year or so, and before that Supreme denim, trousers are something I am relatively in-experienced in knowing anything about. These Wings + Horns navy chinos are a pair of trousers which perfectly suit what I have been looking for. A navy pair, over lets say khaki, allow me to wear similar clothing to that which I would wear with denim, but give it a completely different, in a way smarter, complexion. The fit of the West Point chino is also relatively slim, something which is fairly hard to come by from a brand in a similar bracket as the of Wings + Horns. These were money well spent, especially as there is surely always a space in my wardrobe for a pair of navy chinos.

Wings + Horns West Point Chino, £175 Available at PRESENT

William Fox.

Pharcyde

2010-03-27T12:49:00.001Z

L.L. Bean Ranger Mocs Update

2010-03-22T23:28:00.002Z

Last week I received them and they have been very much worth the money I paid. I know they will not leave my feet for some time.

William Fox.

Albam: Islington

2010-03-22T23:09:00.006Z

Word on the street is that Albam are close to moving into their third shop, in none other than my stomping ground - Upper Street in Islington. Last week Diverse menswear left their own shop (286 Upper Street) to move to the second floor of the womens shop due to what I believe to be financial problems and Albam have already arranged a move into N1. At the moment there is no offical date on a move-in date but if their last shop is anything to go their rustic shop fit may take a few months to re-recreate.

William Fox.

John Frusciante

2010-03-19T23:27:00.006Z

William Fox.

L.L. Bean Buck Chukkas

2010-03-16T23:38:00.005Z

The L.L. Bean Signature site went live today and with it comes the first proper look at the collection, all that had seen before was the ranger moc's that I wrote about a couple of weeks ago. The footwear collection is quite impressive and for me this is the highlight, the Buck Chukkas. The red-brick sole compliments the tan boot and these would be the perfect summer boot, maybe even better than a sand desert boot.

Buck Chukkas, $115 Available at L.L. Bean Signature

Polo 1992 Parka : Lo Life Fo Life

2010-03-15T23:52:00.005Z

In one of my first posts I wrote about how the split colour design had been used for inspiration for many jackets up until today. The most recent Supreme x North Face collaboration has brought this to the fore again with a similar colour combination. This collection has reminded me of one of my favourite jackets that has been sitting at the back of my wardrobe for a few months. I have, to date, found no better jacket for wearing in the summer weather with shorts and a simple t-shirt. It is the perfect shell to summer rain, weighing less than a sweatshirt. My own personal one has seen a lot of wear as the very old date of issue and cookie patch can vouch for. This jacket was created in both a red/cream and blue/cream colour-way, both of which are very hard to get your hands on nowadays. I guess I was just fortunate that I found this one when I did.

William Fox.

Free & Easy X Warehouse Overshirt

2010-03-14T17:21:00.006Z

This winter I have constantly been hunting for clothes appropriate for layering. I have often glanced at thicker over-shirts, in particular almost pulling the trigger on an Burgundy Albam effort. Last week, whilst trawling japanese websites trying to put off doing work, I found this, from the Free & Easy x WAREHOUSE collection, the Wool Shirt. Personally I prefer the brown version, which I think is nicer to layer with in winter, but it does also come in a royal blue. Coming from Japan one would also think it might come at an extortionate price, but even via a proxy in comes in at a similar price to the Albam shirt which can be bought by simply walking to the shop.

Free & Easy x WAREHOUSE Wool Shirt, 13 200 yen, Available at Rugged Store

William Fox.

j.rocc for supreme take 2 (download).

2010-03-11T05:12:00.009Z

Whilst my good friend was at Supreme L.A earlier this week picking up my bits and pieces from this season he was handed the second mixtape by J.Rocc for Supreme, this one simply titled "take 2", enjoy.

Sam Sherwood.

Wings + Horns X Quoddy

2010-03-09T18:07:00.010Z

Wings and Horns have teamed up with Quoddy to create both a boat shoe and chukka boot in a couple of original colours. As of yet there is no news of a release date or stockists but expect to see them arriving in stores over the next few months.

William Fox.

Born to shred.

2010-03-08T16:11:00.009Z

Tony Hallam is about as serious as a collector gets, his obsession started in 1975 when he got his first skateboard and went on to not only compete but win several skate competitions in New Zealand and Australia in the early 80's.

His collection holds everything from Vans ankle guards to lunch boxes, not to mention the 800+ boards he's accumulated over the years, his childhood passion has now become his livelihood with his day job of designing skateparks, something which he obviously has alot of love for.

Tony's incredible collection can be found here.

Sam Sherwood.

L.L. Bean Handsewn Ranger Moc

2010-03-03T23:14:00.012Z

The second these were brought to my attention I knew I had to have them, especially as they are limited to only 100 pairs. These are very similar in shape and colour to the Redwing Chukkas which I have tried to get hold of for a while now. They are also a much cheaper alternative to the Yuketen moccasins which have been gaining praise in the past few months. The only negative point is the two weeks I have to wait for them to arrive from the U.S., but at least they make the effort to send them over the pond.

Handsewn Rangers Moccasins, $79 Available at L.L. Bean

(Update: Now Sold Out)

William Fox.

Palace

2010-03-03T01:38:00.007Z

PRESENT has forged a close link with Palace, a relatively new clothing label born out of the skate troupe Palace Wayward Boys Choir. They have stocked the label since its inception, and a couple of the Palace members even work there. Last week they released this fantastic promo video, There Is Nothing Else, which proves just how much of an exciting prospect the brand is.

Palace - www.palaceskateboards.com

William Fox.

Baracuta G9 Harrington - Acorn

2010-03-01T16:02:00.005Z

Last year Junya Watanabe, in partnership with Baracuta, created a G4 harrington in a lovely green colour. Those, unfortunately, are long gone so I must look for something similar. After an extensive search this has been the closest to the Junya version I have found. The colour is almost identical but the fit is different - being a G9 over a G4. Never having owned a harrington jacket I can only read about these things, but from my research the G9 does not fit as well as the G4. This is, however, a slim fit G9 so perhaps the difference is fit is not so substantial. Either way whilst the weather stays as it is this jacket would be perfect for layering and I may well have to pull the trigger on it sooner rather than later. I've seen people who own harringtons from well over 20 years ago and they still seems to find a place for them in their wardrobes in this day and age so there is obviously the potential for this one to find a place in mine in 20 years from now.

Acorn Baracuta G9 Harrington, £125 Available at Baracuta

William Fox.

want - sierra designs rucksack.

2010-02-28T18:01:00.021Z

Ever since I saw Deniro rocking a 60/40 Sierra Designs parka in the 70's cult classic movie The Deer Hunter I've had a real interest in this brand. Simple but functional pieces of classic American design stemming back over 40 years it will, for me, be the original US outdoorwear brand. It's just a shame that these days the only way of obtaining many pieces, including the 60/40 parka, is from Japan or ebay.

Personally I'd really love to see Sierra Designs re-releasing some of the vintage pieces, but I won't hold my breath.

Sam Sherwood.

Ralph Lauren Rugby University Chino Skull Shorts

2010-02-28T13:34:00.008Z

I gave no preference of what I wanted from NYC when some friends visited last week. These are one of the things they picked for me, a pair of skull and cross bones Ralph Lauren Rugby shorts in khaki. Personally I really like them and they will be perfect for the summer, if it ever comes.

University Chino Skull Shorts, $70 Available at Ralph Lauren Rugby

William Fox.

Nike Air Max 180

2010-02-26T16:41:00.005Z

For a while I had been trying to get my hands on a pair of Air Max 180's in the ultramarine colour, and thanks to a conversation with my fellow author, Stooops I now have a pair in my possession, he very kindly gave me the pair he no longer wears. Even though I have been wearing Air Max's less and less, preferring now Blazers or shoes, these have been stuck to my feet since they have arrived. Unlike most other Air Max's they suit both denim and chinos hopefully meaning a branch of the Air Max tree will find a constant place in my wardrobe again.

William Fox.