APRONS FROM WORKWEAR TO FASHION

The apron hasn't been always been woman's thing. Actually, its official wearing by ladies began in the 17th century before that, it was used only by men. Blacksmiths, carvers, leather smiths, cobblers, metal forgers, fish mongers and clock makers were only a few jobs in which a sturdy apron was very useful for both protection and cleanliness. 

Many jobs that required working with metals were quite dangerous and a thick, heavy leather apron could protect its wearer's body from sparks and the heat of the flames and blistering metals. These such aprons were typically made out of heavy leather but also duck cloth or canvas. Nowadays aprons are in fashion, brands like H.W. Carter & Sons, The Stronghold, Stanley & Sons and Gant Rugger they all bring fashion to your kitchen.

OPENING GANT STORE HAARLEM - THE MOVIE

Above you find the movie of the Grand Opening of the GANT Campus Store in Haarlem

Enjoy Fashion Food & Fun.

THE BUTCHER - IT'S BLOODY DELICIOUS!

Right in the heart of Holland’s most famous market: the Albert Cuypstraat in Amsterdam. The happening scene of young urbans in ‘De Pijp’ as the perfect setting for this new concept. A Stylish burger bar serving top-quality burgers, prepared on the spot using only the freshest ingredients without losing perspective of good value for money. The relaxed atmosphere of The Butcher and the professional service level make for the ideal trendy yet relaxed meal out.

‘The Butcher’, the name says it all. The chefs choose to work only with the best quality meat: Aberdeen Angus beef thus committing to creating the ultimate burger. From the choice of meat, to the selection of herbs, the freshest vegetables, the magic signature sauces, right down to the homemade bun, The Butcher stands for quality, quality and more quality.

Attention to detail at all levels, from presentation of menus to food wrappings, napkins and more gives The Butcher a distinctive tone of voice and standout appearance in Amsterdam.

It’s bloody delicious!

HARD AT WORK SINCE 1889 - CARHARTT

History Lesson 

In 1889, Hamilton Carhartt founded the Carhartt company in Detroit. His first products were work overalls made of denim fabric and duck, commonly called canvas. This later became Carhartt´s trademark fabric. Since the early years the brand became dedicated to providing “Best In Class” apparel, tailored to meet the highest standards of quality, durability and comfort.

In the 1930s the Hamilton Carhartt Co. of Detroit brought out a sub brand of sports clothing, with sports meaning hunting. The products were made of a waterproof canvas called "Super Dux" and the logo was a flying mallard. That's the reason you see now an then a logo of a duck on the garments.

Founded in 1994, Work In Progress initiated a distribution network for Carhartt across Europe, introducing a selection of classic products from the original work wear range into a new market. Success was immediate; the authentic Carhartt products quickly became popular with both fans of traditional US heritage garments and with the nascent European urban culture scene.

I met Milco Schermer, the Dutch agent of Carhartt for a cup of coffee and he told me all about the brand, the spring/summer collection 2013, the Carhartt by Diemme collection, and how he ended up in the business (which is a great story). 

CAPPELLO BROS. - FRACAP

History lesson

As a renowned craftsman Antonio Cappello opened his first workshop in 1908 in the country side of Monteroni di Lecce, Italy. Antonio left his inheritance to his two sons, Alfredo and Giovanni. In 1948 the two sons changed the name of the family business to Fracap, put together from FRAtello CAPpello (Cappello Brothers). In 1987, Alfred's sons, Anthony and Michael, took over the reins of the family business and expanding their portfolio by launching a line of shoes that became a rapid military success, ranging from the Italian Army, the Airforce and the Navy. Until a few years ago Fracap was known for only producing locally and for the Japanese market where they became a European favorite for their hiking boots. For Spring/Summer Fracap stick to their roots of boot makers, but also embraces the boatshoes, you can choose from different soles and along with that a full range of uppers, yes even a leopard print. For more info about the brand and where they are sold in the Benelux  fracapbenelux@gmail.com

MEET THE COUNTRY GENTLEMAN

A weekend in the country. Luxurious sweater knits in traditional fall patterns are paired with rustic jackets for an outdoorsy feel, while tailored tweed vests are worn with logging pants for a textural look that is at once rugged and sophisticated—the perfect look for the country gentleman. When planning a relaxing trip to the country, your primary focus should be on packing for leisure—and there are many options that provide both comfort and style. Luxurious sweaters in cable knits and Fair Isle patterns can be dressed down with denim or dressed up with a tweed jacket. An oilcloth coat is a versatile outerwear option that will protect you from the elements while keeping you warm in cooler weather. And, of course, a rugged boot is essential to any weekend getaway that includes outdoor activities. (text via Ralph Lauren)

CHAD'S TREASURES FROM BROOKLYN FLEA

Happy to show you my treasures I found @ the Brooklyn Flea 2 weeks ago.

Lucy the Elephant -  Cast Iron money bank from the 50s

Breakstones wooden Cheesebox filled with wooden letter stamps from the30s

Vintage Brass Laundry Pins

Baseball hand counter from the early 50s

Miniature Pepsi Cola Mini Salesman Sample

Woolen Patch from the Standard Pennant Co. (Pennsbury High)

Woolen Princeton pennant 50s.

DENIM & COFFEE @ MANN

What a great combination Coffee & Denim. Today Mann - Almere let us taste some great coffee from Heilig Boontje and a great selection of Denim, like Lee 101, Edwin, RedSeal, Denham etc. You can compare a good black coffee with a raw denim or what to say about a broken in denim with a cafe latte. This season Mann added some nice brands to it's collection like Red Wing, Gant Rugger, Herschel, Carhartt & Penfield.

GANT RUGGER FREESTYLE

Not so long ago I had the change to do some styling for the recently opened GANT Campus store. We, Dirk-Jan, the sales rep. of Gant Rugger and I had a lot of fun that day. Above you can see the results, yes we love ties!!! Let's call it GANT Rugger Freestyle