Thom Browne / 100 Hudson St.

While Thom Browne has received more good press than he probably knows what to do with this year,  I still really haven't seen too many photos of the inside of his New York boutique. When I visited New York last month, the 100 Hudson location was on the top of my list to visit. Having not seen many images, I wasn't sure what to expect, it was a really interesting little space that definitely reminded me of a small bank from the 1980s. The rolling racks held beautiful sweaters and suits construction all around the world, featuring materials from an even further reach. It was incredible seeing each piece having a 'Made in Scotland', 'Made in Egypt' and so on. It seemed like each different color had a reason to be made somewhere different. The decor was almost non existent, but managed to work. The old couch and coffee table were complimented nicely by the unused glass ash tray to separate two racks of $4,000+ pieces. Like many, I'm a sideline fan of Mr. Browne's work, and his retail location was no different. I do plan on getting into a piece or two when I can, but for now, I'm happy to look.

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Monocle 2nd Anniversary Fashion Spread

Monocle's fashion spreads are probably my favorite of any publication. I tend to look at them about 10-15 times each issue and try to figure out why I like them so, how they are shot so well? If it's the great designers, classic models, or great printing of the magazine? I found it's probably better to just enjoy, and not think about it too much. This March's issue is also a big one, or two - as it's Monocle's 2 year anniversary issue. It's pretty amazing what the publication has accomplished in only two years. Print, audio, video, retail and products - all of the highest caliber and seemingly appreciated by a few folks out there. Besides loving the fashion spreads like this one, I have been really enjoying the Monocle Weekly pod-casts on the website. They are easier to digest than reading about some of the topics, and with interesting perspectives and a nice sense of humour, I am starting to actually wish there were daily episodes. Anyways, the color palette of the spread is perfect. The navy, natural tones look great and are pieced together really nicely. Brands include; Visvim, North Face Purple Label, Needles, and Woolrich Woolen Mills. I really appreciate how wearable these looks are, and while I may not be able to afford many of the items, the general atmosphere of the spread is whats inspiring. Thanks to Selectism for the images.

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Supreme S/S Preview

Supreme are about to drop their spring collection in the next few weeks and I am also into something they are doing. Whether it's the marketing side of the brand, a specific collaboration or the increasingly good cut and sew pieces. The brand is essentially cool and I feel it always will be, no matter how many more people find out about it. Mr. Jebbia and his tightly knit crew have done an impressive job season after season on all angles, so this spring should be another step forward. While this handful of items are likely not the most exciting to come, they give us an idea for the vibe of what's going to be hitting the shelves in the near future. *I am a sucker for their product shots as well. I'm not trying to wear a fitted hat, but the crispy colors and clean details make me want to sometimes.

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We're Back

I'm not sure how many of you noticed the lull in posts or might have actually tried to come to the website and not even found the server. In the madness of the last few weeks, I actually hadn't been checking my 4th email account, which coincidentally had been getting "renew your domain" emails for the last three weeks. I have been pulling my hair out trying to figure out why I couldn't make a blog post or check my email, let alone see a single page of the website. So, I'd like to apologize for the lack of organization, and blog reading you might have had yesterday. I hope everyone will join us again with regular coverage and commentary on our favorite things. Thanks to Jeff at Selectism for trying to help me out as well at Capsule. They have some good coverage of the show worth checking out. *That also means if anybody has emailed me in the last day, it didn't make it through. Thanks to everyone for  understanding.

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Nom de Guerre Anti Exposure Coat

As Nom de Guerre’s spring items start showing up in select retailers, we can get more of an idea of what each item can bring to the table, or your wardrobe. The collection definitely has a lighter feel this spring with a different use of patterns and black and white stripes. The pieces I’m personally more drawn to are the monochromatic outerwear, knits and shirts. This short jacket looks really nice, probably technically sound, and I’m sure it can handle more than just spring weather. The main visible feature would have to be the button down front overtop of the zipper. It’s been extended tastefully and with e nice sized button, the jacket has a very subtle, but different look. The military shirt is now a staple in the Nom de Guerre collection and the light blue color looks great with the sleeves rolled up. Definitely an easy wear for seasons to come.

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Swim Trunks

I am supposed to go on a family trip to Hawaii this summer, I'm in Vegas now and the weather is definitely getting warmer. What are some good swim trunks? I have come across Birdwell Beach Britches a few times and I like the general look and feel, but they happen to have THE worst website I've ever see, and I can't tell if they have a model with an elastic waist. For some reason I am thinking the elastic waist is a cool look. Throw in some lining, maybe a drawstring and some pockets and your set. I think navy blue or soft red would be the best colors, but I'm fairly open. I thought I would get the search started early this year, any tips would be nice. So far these are the best I've seen, but something a little more interesting might be in order.

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Our Legacy / Tres Bien Re-Launch

Well, Our Legacy is officially all of the daily blog right now, but I have no problem with it. The more I see, the more I like. Although its not the full collection, a lot of great pieces are now available on Tres Bien Shop's new website which launched today. The shop was awarded retailer of the year by us here at h(y)r collective in 2008, and it seems they are on pace to continue their path. They have added Martin Margiela, Woolrich Woolen Mills, Dries Van Noten and Head Porter Plus to the list this spring, among a few others. I feel it's safe to say they carry the closest to my dream stock list as any store in the world. The new store is nice, easy to navigate and surely will be filled up with a lot more great spring pieces for you to spend your money on, I am pretty sure I will be. Remember that lovely VAT for us non EU members as well, 25% the listed retail price at checkout. Our Legacy's suede oxfords and wingtips with natural leather sole are also stand out items, as I have been searching for something just like it lately, great job.

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Haversack Spring

Haversack is one of the more interesting brands to be hitting in both the Japanese market and the European market, yet there is no sign yet in North America. We heard it was going to be showing up at Opening Ceremony, but this has yet to be confirmed. The price tags on the collection are definitely high, but they come hand in hand with some high quality, great cottons, nice detailing and an overall great look. Without much surprise, some of the inspiration comes from hunting, fishing and military references in the materials, details and cuts. I'm personally a big fan of the shawl cardigan and sand colored shirt. Now available at Oki-ni

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