*Side note: I’m actually looking forward to wearing my mocs this spring as well.

Fit details: Coat- thrifted, shirt and scarf- B.R., belt- Tanner Goods, jeans- A.P.C, and of course Bean boots on the feet. Nothing really interesting to talk about except that the coat was an insanely cheap find that I had to get tailored, which then made it a not-so-cheap find. However, I love the way the coat is designed. It has a nice thick collar that stays up when lifted, it fits over the body great and the side pockets are just absolutely genius.

L.L. Bean Signature:  Recently L.L. Bean unveiled their new project, L.L. Bean Signature, an extension of their existing brand. This line features items of modern fit and updated style inspired by their archives. I’m really excited to see where this is going. It’s a very smart idea that gives L.L Bean some versatility. I would love to see them really dig into the archives for some of their sweet gems and modernize them. They actually did a waxed canvas Bean boot for this line that came out really nice. The full line releases on March 15th, so get your cards ready.

Photo showing Leon Leonwood Bean & Friends in their Maine Hunting Boots looking quite dapper.

Source: Taylor Stitch

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]]> http://streetetiquette.com/2010/03/09/all-season-etiquette-the-bean-boot/feed/ 31 http://streetetiquette.com/2010/02/15/sewn-from-the-soul-2/ http://streetetiquette.com/2010/02/15/sewn-from-the-soul-2/#comments Mon, 15 Feb 2010 05:43:00 +0000 admin http://streetetiquette.com/?p=2697 JKISSI : February-recognized as the shortest month of the year. It is also recognized as Black History Month, which embodies the progression of African American culture in various ways. Some people may find grief in recognizing the month as its own separate entity, yet to others the month provides a spotlight that shines on many African American notables from the past and present, who’s waves of accomplishment have sounded throughout the world. African American history is a single patch of the multi-patterned metaphorical quilt we call America which has seen contributions by many other ethnic groups.  To pay homage to these great African American individuals is an honor and to re-echo the great contributions of these individuals in our own special way is a quite remarkable feeling.

CLICK TO VIEW SEWN FROM THE SOUL EDITORIAL

Sewn From the Soul is an online editorial project brought to light by seven friends who have all collaborated together in order to see a bigger picture; ultimately meshing and intertwining Style and History.  History is important as it gives us the ability to trace back what has occurred previously to help us better direct ourselves to the future. Style contributes to one’s overall character and truly dictates our persona in everything that surrounds us. We all contributed our individual style to this editorial and used a primarily monochromatic palette to assist the Black History Month theme.

The video below is a behind-the-scenes look of what occurred at the photo studio, starting off with an amazing poem by Brooklyn resident and Street Etiquette friend Joekenneth Museau . There is no way to emulate the magic of that exact date, but to know that something tangible resulted from this gathering allows us, at long last, to begin to write our own scripture in history.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW SEWN FROM THE SOUL EDITORIAL

Sewn from the Soul from Alejandro on Vimeo.

This video is meant to honor individuals from Miles Davis to Dr.Cornel West with a splash of our own Street Etiquette style. We hope you enjoy the editorial just as much as we did. I would like to thank everyone who took part in this , it will definitely form into a bigger project in the future.

“In essence, this is the time of the year when all blacks, be they African- Americans, Haitians, Liberians, Nigerians and all people of color need to reflect on their African heritage, culture and how far they have come in understanding the struggles and sacrifices others have made during the days of yesteryears in America.”

- Edmund Zar-Zar Bargblor

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]]> http://streetetiquette.com/2010/02/15/sewn-from-the-soul-2/feed/ 137 http://streetetiquette.com/2010/02/01/accessories-are-a-necessity-the-necktie/ http://streetetiquette.com/2010/02/01/accessories-are-a-necessity-the-necktie/#comments Mon, 01 Feb 2010 16:57:23 +0000 admin http://streetetiquette.com/?p=2581 JKISSI : About every man has one in his closet.  It can be found mixed in with other clothing items or neatly hanging adjacent to other accessories. From remote memories of wearing tacky clip on ties when I was younger; to present day where I carry a slight obsession of purchasing neckties in the most intriguing of colors; the necktie has always been a part of my life and the overall male identity. But one of its more recent, essential uses is to compliment a dandified suit. Originally, the necktie never thought of as a fashion accessory could state ones’ status, occupation and identity. The military is a perfect example of this where Terra Cotta Army would loop silk cloths around their necks. The history of the necktie is just as vivid as the tie itself as researchers state the origin descends from 17th century Croatia.  After the first installment of the series post  “Accessories Are a Necessity,” covering the pocket square, we were well aware that we would have to do another post and the necktie was the perfect choice.

TM Design – J.Crew oxford – 3 sixteen Black Magic Wool Flannel Tie – Black/White braided belt – TM Trousers – Clarks Desert boot

Fit Description : As you all know, I like to play with different patterns. I’m no stranger to them so the purchase of this black and white speckled topcoat isn’t a surprise to many. Details such as the enclosed buttons when buttoned up give this jacket a clean profile. Unfortunately, that detail isn’t visible in this post. One of my favorite ties from the great people at 3sixteen is the wool tie made out of stout material. It’s my preferred width measuring in at 2.5 inches wide. In regards to another accessory, braided belts have once again gained my favor. This came after rediscovering my very own collection locked in an old box in my basement. The functionality of braided belts speaks for itself as adjusting to the correct waist size is just another braid stitch away.

The characteristics of neckties have also changed just as much as the time revolving around the accessory. From silk white-lace bow neck scarves to the simple universal shape we see today. The necktie can become a complex problem only if you allow it to be. I safely assume that every male of age has encountered their own scuffles with the necktie – whether it was selecting your perfect tie width – or having issues tying that much needed knot. The ‘Four in Hand’ knot was the first tying method I learned. It was taught to me by my Dad after my numerous failed attempts

One of my favorite photograph portraits on the Internet depicting a exquisitely dressed family from New York City. First thing I took notice to was the gentleman’s collars and ties.  -  from Scott Schuman’s blog

Below is my collection of ties. The brands vary from Gant, Hill-Side, Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren and vintage ties which still need to be shaved down to desirable dimensions. That is one of the great advantages of purchasing vintage ties, because they provide you with the opportunity to wear it present day and incorporate your own style into it at the same time.

Vintage tweed blazer- Uniqlo oxford- vintage tie- Topman trousers- Tanner Goods belt –  Clarks desert boot

Fit Description : I picked up this tweed blazer for about $10 just a few months ago and, of course, had it tailored. I love it and I’m actually thinking about adding some suede elbow patches to give it a little extra pop. I’m not really a fan of Topman’s quality but i must say that these specific trousers are very well made and the fit is perfect.

Vintage Woolrich coat – Pendleton Shawl sweater – BR Utility shirt – APC New Cure Jeans – Bostonian Saddle shoes

Fit Description :  From time to time you search all over the retail landscape, from in-store to online, looking for a piece that’s just simply not produced anymore. I was exploring eBay for vintage goods, hoping to find something eye catching for an unbeatable price when I came across with this beautiful tweed coat. This vintage Wool rich coat was bought for a single digit price, and although in need of  drastic tailoring, it was another fantastic vintage find.  The slightly over-sized lapels, wide sleeves and unfitting body gave away the piece’s vintage past, but after taking it to our friend/tailor Pablo, the jacket was perfect.

Tweed garments seem to last the test of time and age beautifully especially after witnessing Josh’s great vintage find . The great aspect about vintage finds is that after tailoring the piece’s history is now apart of you.  Pictured below is a young Stephen Fry in a fine tweed blazer.

The letterman is an American staple that seems to never diminish in style. The letterman as an individual, whether it be in U.S. sports, performing arts or academics, is a high school or college student who has achieved a specific level of participation and/or performance on a varsity athletic team, marching band, or in other school-sponsored performance activities. Originally, letterman jackets were only awarded to elite athletes, but in more recent years they have become more accessible to all members of the student body participating in a school activity.

Vintage lettermen jacket – Vintage golf tie –  BR shawl sweater – Uniqlo T-ooo &  Corduroy Shirt  - Tanner Goods belt –  Dexter loafers

Fit Description : It seemed I found my “vintage store heaven” when I laid my eyes on this jacket grouped in a disheveled rack of other vintage letterman jackets. I proceeded to try on the jacket and was surprised that it fit flawlessly, almost as if it was made for me but labeled for the “‘63 – ‘64 Trinity Lutheran Playoff Champs”. The mocha-colored body was a hit for me as I’m an admirer of any variation of the color. Recently I have been on the search for various neck-wear to broaden my already growing collection, including this great piece, and the tanner goods natural leather belt is one of the sturdiest belts I have come across and it should build great character with regular wear.

The Brooklyn Circus recently released a fantastic letterman inspired by the  movie Cooley High, which personifies High School life in the 1960s.

Timeline – The letterman sweater was first regularly used by the 1891 “Nine”  Harvard baseball team and was black with a small Crimson ‘H’ on the left breast. Letter sweaters were a predecessor to letter jackets. The letter was usually quite large and centered (if the sweater was a pullover); stripes on one sleeve designated the number of letters won, with a star indicating a team captain.

I was on the search for a nice black coat , to the point of losing sleep, when i had the opportunity to purchase this BR Heritage toggle coat at a very reasonable price. I must say, this coat has some of the best toggles I have ever seen. They are made of real rope and are extremely sturdy. The coat is definitely worth the price tag. The only negative aspect about this coat is that there is no hood. Josh is wearing the 3sixteen Duffel Coat- Camel another well made coat that is worth the penny. I love the cut of the 3sixteen duffle, it has a nice slim, tailored cut that fits well with the overall design of the coat. This coat actually comes with a detachable hood, a great idea on their part.

The toggles on the coat were originally designed to make it easy for the seaman to easily remove and fasten the toggles while still wearing his thick gloves. The big over-sized hoods that we still see today on many of these modernized coats were originally designed to easily fit over a seaman’s hat. Some lucky people are able to actually get their hands on an original duffle coat and it’s interesting to hear them speak on how heavy it is (5-7lbs). Obviously these coats had to be pretty heavy and sturdy to protect the average seaman but its still funny at how we pay so much more for so much less.

Fit Details: BR coat, RL shirt, Uniqlo jeans, Sperry x Band Of Outsiders Boots. I got my Sperry boots last winter and didn’t wear them as much as i should have. They are finally being served some justice this winter. I love how they keep the boot shoe design in boot form. I also like the woolly material used to construct the outside of the boot, you don’t see that everywhere. Josh is wearing 3sixteen coat, Topman shirt, A.P.C nc, and some killer boots he got from the army/navy store. Keep your eyes out for a post right here on boots coming real soon.

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]]> http://streetetiquette.com/2009/12/30/winter-etiquette-the-duffle-coat/feed/ 62 http://streetetiquette.com/2009/12/19/genesis-of-style-teaser-video/ http://streetetiquette.com/2009/12/19/genesis-of-style-teaser-video/#comments Sat, 19 Dec 2009 07:09:12 +0000 admin http://streetetiquette.com/?p=2389 JKISSI :  With the new year approaching rapidly it was only necessary to cap off the year, and the future of Street Etiquette, in a grand way.  As many of you are aware, Street Etiquette teamed up with Photographer/Videographer TONE to conduct a  brief video interview with us. Travis and myself sought out to invite some of our closest friends, those that we felt embodied our definition of ’style’, to be part of the video (this was not only relying on the physical element of style, but the integrity and character of all those individuals that influenced us in some way or another).   We pitched the original plan and rundown to TONE; what ended up taking place would be considered one of the most inspirational moments of our lives.  The photographer for the project was Alejandro Perez a good friend of ours who’s photography speaks for itself, it was great working with someone who is on the same wave length.

Genesis of Style –  Coming JAN 2010.. (Full Video)

Location in picture  - Harlem

Check out the video teaser below

Michael Andrew, a good friend of ours residing in Harlem by way of Austin, Texas, goes into detail on what the word ’style’ means to him. What I most admire about the video is that he gives his definition of style effortlessly, as if we rehearsed previously. The internet is one of the most powerful engines ever created giving us the ability to link to individuals all around the world simply because we posses  something in relation.  The fact that in the early stages large companies chose to ignore the might and impressionable power of the web displays why many of them are now looking for  ways to get inside a loop that, at this point, is almost closed.

Genesis of Style - Genesis –  ’a coming into being’ or ‘the beginning of’ and when you think of it in relation to style –  ’a way of expressing something that is characteristic of a particular group or period of time’. This “genesis”, so to speak, is not about convincing different individuals to dress similar to us; from the video you can see the variation in style from person to person, but more about a revival of awareness of personal style. This multi-borough video project, starting out in the Bronx, should change the face of Street Etiquette and everyone involved.

*From the Bronx to Harlem  to Lower Manhattan to final destination of Brooklyn*

Fit Description – 3sixteen duffel coat & Billy Kirk Bag - Everyone seems to love this duffel coat it definitely a nice camel wool that is well constructed. The leather bag made my the brothers of Billy Kirk gives off a sleek masculine look and is a great travel bag to compact items inside but at the same time look comfortable.

“There’s a sense that this return to style, or to a consciousness of how you look, is an attempt by young men to recover a set of values that were at one point very much present in American society and then lost.”

- Professor Samuel Rascoff of NYU

Taken from the New York Times article “Dressing for Success, Again.” This is an article I think everyone should read as it talks about the return of gentlemen into style.

Timeline – Originated in 1876, Bass shoes have become an American standard for comfort, durability and their own unique style. The company’s formal name is GH Bass + Co. and was named for its founder, George Henry Bass. Everyone knows the Bass Weejun penny loafer, a company staple.

JKISSI – Brixton hat – Uniqlo turtleneck – TM 3/4 jacket – Dexter hand-sewn loafers

Fit Description – I should have probably formed a post on head wear prior to this post as I have been on the search for great selections to throw on top of my cerebrum. I came across Brixton, a brand I have known since their humble beginnings back in 2006 when their head wear couldn’t really fit into my then-street-wear-oriented outfits. Yes , I’m in white jeans after Labor Day. For me, this so-called “fashion crime” has polluted some people’s minds regarding what they can and can not wear depending on the season. As you can see, I disregard this traditional notion as it’s outdated. When you think about the loafer who doesn’t think of the late legend Michael Jackson known for his black loafers and white socks accompanied with cropped trousers.

Trav pictured above with tassel loafers from Sebago

The penny loafer has been a American staple and classic go-to for decades now. There seemed to be a time when every boy and teenager would wear penny loafers comparable to the sneaker game of today’s generation. It was interesting to learn about what the extra leather slit provided on the penny loafer; from money for the payphone back when dimes were enough to make a call to a simply stylish approach. Even my Dad was pretty convinced to give the penny loafer a chance and change up from his usual selection of oxford shoes. The penny loafer is versatile being the perfect medium between casual and formal.

Schott NYC (Schott Bros.) the first company to place zippers on jackets started back  in 1913 by two brothers Irving and Jack Schott in New York City.  The two brothers sought out to produce quality driven products with a function more than appealing to fashion and style world. The company produced garments for the US Military during World War II and continues to produce the classic naval pea coat for the US Navy.  Schott NYC is considered a American classic manufactured right here in the United States, it’s great to see a company withstand many years and still stay true to it’s roots.

JKISSI – Schott NYC Leather Bomber – Topman Gray Herringbone cap – GAP Flannel – A.P.C New Cures – Ralph Lauren Ranger Boot – David Z exclusive

Schott NYC were great enough to add a promo code just for Street Etiquette readers – Promo code: Street09 – 15% off reg. priced items – Take advantage guys

Fit Description : – : The Schott bomber was the perfect choice even in the midst of many jackets to choose from, I wanted to stray away from my usual  love for biker style jackets. The details on the jacket were vital to my decision the triple thick collar, multiple zippers on the front and hand warmer insulated pockets were perfect. When it comes to leathers it seems people are more comfortable to pick black, of course going with anything you pair it with. The brown also gives off a classic bomber feeling which I really thought would work well with what I had in mind. New Cures have just experienced their first treatment at the dry cleaners, faded beautifully. Classic Ralph Lauren ranger boots more known as ‘Cookies’ in gray a collaboration with Ronnie Fieg of David Z and Ralph Lauren. I recently wrote a short article on our Hypebeast blog about the Lo-Lifes in correlation with Ralph Lauren.  I know you guys are still awaiting that much anticipated Boot post we’re still working hard on that post.

Biker jackets are probably my favorite style of the leather jacket. Here are a few pictures which I think personify the jacket style.

Chosen Few Motorcycle Club – TheSelvedageYard

Trav – Ralph Lauren Houndstooth shirt  | Uniqlo turtle neck | Nudies | L.L Bean Rubber Mocs

Fit Details: I’m wearing a Polo houndstooth wool shirt,  I actually purchased this shirt for next to nothing from a thrift store. I had to make a appointment with our tailor Pablo (Stanton Tailor Shop) to get the shirt taken in a bit for a more tapered slim look.  With the fall season comes relentless layering  calling for the cream Uniqlo turtleneck underneath a brown uniqlo v neck shirt. The bracelets are  produced by brothers and leather makers Billykirk. We recently stopped by their Jersey City studio and had the chance to spectate on how everything comes to fruition.   The shoes are L.L. Bean Rubber Mocs, they are definitely one of my favorites. The sizing on these bad boys are really off so if anyone is planning on purchasing size down two. I wear a 9.5-10 and an 8 fits perfectly.

* UPDATE * – To view how LL Bean boots are made click this link – very interesting *