SHOWROOM VISIT - MASON'S FALL/WINTER 2015

During the 1970s, the American marcatino in Livorno was a slice of America on Italian ground, a collection of objects, military garments, and gadgets of all kinds admired by collectors with passion or simple curiosity. America was literally within reach of the community. It was in this precise context that the Mason's Brand matured: the idea of creating civilian garments that conserve the aesthetic characteristics, durability, and functionality of military garments.

An undeniable style was being born, that which would last through the years and exemplify the excellence and artisanship of Made in Italy along with the functionality and avante garde of those military garments. This was the essence of the Mason's character, a resistant and essential wardrobe of the highest quality in both style and materials.

Awareness of the potential of this combination of a strong Italian artisanal tradition with military inspiration did not occur immediately: it was followed by an instinct and an application of great know-how and intuition. We knew the starting point, but, in that initial moment, the horizons were many. Today we know that the way was indicated and the evolution circulated and brought back to its origin not by accident: it brought us to the Italianity, taste for beauty, and importance placed on quality and significant details that make Mason's 100% Made in Italy.

J.CREW'S LIMITED KICKS - NEW BALANCE 990 V.1 PACK

Original ad from the 90's

Everything you need to know about the latest exclusive, limited-edition collaboration with New Balance: the 990 V.1 Pack. Featuring one of the Boston brand’s most famous styles, reworked by the J.Crew designers in two color ways.

The 990: Then

When the style first launched in 1982, it was the most expensive design in New Balance’s history, retailing at over $100. That price point reflected the years of research & development that went into the shoe, including a new patented stabilization device in the heel that made the 990 the height of sneaker technology at the time.

The 990: Now

In the years since then, New Balance has released three versions of the 990, but for this collaboration, they returned to its original design, or “V.1” silhouette. To give it a signature touch, they replaced the sneaker’s nylon mesh with suede and created two collectible colorways (hence the pack). It’s the first time anyone outside of New Balance has ever been allowed to update this sought-after model, so needless to say, these are going to go quick.

CLUB MONACO POP-UP @ NOMA COPENHAGEN

Chef René Redzepi​ has elevated Nordic cuisine at Copenhagen's Noma by foraging for the best, local ingredients to use in his dishes. Now, Redzepi has sourced high-quality goods of a completely different nature by pulling in a pop-up shop from Club Monaco.

The restaurant is already ranked number one in the world, but for three weeks, until March 13, it's adding another dimension to its world-class dining experience by hosting Club Monaco. The pop-up shop will include Club Monaco clothing, home goods, and books, which will be on sale alongside vintage finds from Paris, London, and Morocco. The wares are nestled in next to Noma's coffee, Koppi Kaffe, and wine bar, Ved Stranden. 

LET ME HELP YOU WITH YOUR COAT, SIR!

Recently, I visited the Paltò Italia showroom, a coat is a base of each wardrobe. Paltò, which means in Italian “a coat”, brings tradition, heritage, detailing and craftsmenship to reality. Designed by Luca Paganelli and inspired by some icons like the Duke of Windsor, James Dean and Jean Paul Belmondo, the collections is packed with Tweeds, Herringbone and Checked overcoats in a broad range of styles and lengths. I loved the nylon vest in yellow with wool details.

BEAMS+ LOOKBOOK SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Beams Plus has unveiled its Spring/Summer 2015 lookbook; and for this season , the Japanese brand has infused its signature Americana style with military influences.

Titled “Plus Spec,” the new collection draws inspiration from mid-century innovations, specifically the technological developments by the U.S. armed forces and the muted color palette they are commonly associated with.

The collection has that typical Beams Plus look with pieces which are unmistakably American Prep. Like you have the plaid shorts, knitted green cable sweaters, button-down shirts and seersucker suits.