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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Red Wing Black Chome Leather

Red Wing boots have become a house hold name in menswear the past two years for those on the outskirts of civilization as well as for those in the heart of it. The classic 875 has been the most publicized and purchased model, with other round toes, chukkas and boat shoes following suit. It has been quite hard to locate any of the models in black leather, at least north of the border. I have always loved black boots the most myself, and I would love to have a pair of either of these Red Wings in black. I think the color and change in leather makes for a much different feel, while the models remain the same. Despite what some people say about their comfort level, I find them to be quite nice on the foot, and I would be happy to put these models in black to the test. Available at United Arrows.

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Our Legacy Leather Accessories

Our Legacy are giving us a peak at what is coming shortly in their spring collection. With the addition of footwear and the extension of their accessories, the collection is growing into more of a complete lifestyle. The leather duffle, briefcase and woven belt are looking great. The color of the leather is perfect for the spring/summer months and would compliment those washed out denim pants nicely. Our Legacy's prices are quite fair coming from Sweden, where Tres Bien is able to showcase the entire selection. That is definitely rare to find, especially online, so we can look forward to the re-launch of the new Tres Bien Shop website in the next couple of days, likely filled to the brim with Our Legacy goodies.

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Inverallan Knit Aran Sweaters

Museum Ark has tracked down another great heritage brand for their shop. These hand knit Aran sweaters from Scotland look great. Inverallan claims to be second to none when it comes to quality and complex Aran patterns. The style of knit came from Scotland has been recorded as far back as the 9th Century and perfected by fisherman's wives over the years in the cold Northern UK. Inverallan seems to have a great idea of their color palettes and very tasteful use of the cable pattern and shawl collars. I think this navy blue cardigan is one of my favorites. The sweaters are pretty much  the best thing to have in cold weather. They are made to withstand the elements and test of time - and they look beautiful.

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