The Shape of Things to Come

Woolrich’s collection for this Spring and Summer is looking great, and it’s good to see the brand famed for creating some of the best winter pieces around transcend the snow for the sun effortlessly.

folk ss10 from Folk Clothing on Vimeo.

I am a huge fan of Folk, my favorite brand of the last year without a doubt.  Although generally quite expensive, the quality and attention to detail is second to none.  I picked up a lovely cardigan this season, with some hand sewn buttons spelling Folk down the front of the garment, it’s one of my favorite pieces in the wardrobe.  The collection for Spring Summer looks fantastic and this video look book is beautifully put together, I would expect nothing less from Folk.  I am yet to visit the new store on Dray Walk which filled the recently vacated space once home to Butcher of Distinction. Butcher of Distinction failed for me on so many levels, but the selection of product they stocked was generally very good, and the shop fit was beautiful, but poor customer service prevented me from spending in there and I’m sure it was the same for many other potentially loyal customers. I’m certain Folk will be much more successful, yet the move East for me is a little annoying as once again a hidden gem will now be more readily available but I shouldn’t let my own personal vanity and dedication to oneupmanship get in the way of Folk’s success, and I bet Folk care little about that either.

This Fjallraven backpack is fantastic. I have many bags, brief case, rucksacks, and recently my Uniqlo day pack has been taking a heavy pounding. This is on the new year purchase list. Recently the Sweedish brand has opened a store in New York which surprised me greatly. I would love the brand to come to London but a great selection is available at Manchester’s World beater Oi Polloi.

This new YMC jacket has just arrived at Oi Polloi and I presume It’s also available at their flagship shop in London’s Soho. I think you’ll agree with me that this is an essential purchase for when the winter months slowly depart and a sense of spring approaches on the horizon. I particularly like the large pocket on the back and the detailing on the front.

Andrew Bunney is one of the leading creatives in Britain, and has been involved in a number of really interesting projects over the years. The Creative Director for product with Dr. Martens and his involvement with Stussy, Gimme 5 and i-D magazine in the UK, he’s up their with the best of ‘em. For those of you who are familiar with Honeyee the amazing Japanese web platform, make sure you check out Andrew and his fantastic blog.

Recently launching his jewelery and accessories range, Bunney, which is now available at Dover Street Market. All made in the UK, the line looks very interesting, and if Andrew is involved you know it’s going to be steeped in integrity and quality craftsmanship.

Handmade in Maine, I’ve been on the hunt for some new durable footwear, to switch up the wearing of my Red Wings with. These look fantastic.

Find out more about this wonderful brand HERE

I want one of these jackets. The Berghaus jacket is a northern staple. Many a kid in Manchester would be seen throughout the 90s wearing a Berghaus Jacket, some kind of waterproof tracksuit bottoms with the strings pulled in at the ankles, while sporting an expensive pair of Rockport boots. Northern street kids made walking gear look pretty hard, giving ramblers outfits an almost military composition, with peeked hoods, and tough boots for the harshest Moss Side street terrain.

Vans have collaborated with the fantastic Taka Hayashi on this moccasin come chukka boot for the Vault Akat LX. Using Native American imagery as a theme, the shoe is pretty amazing when it comes to the details.

These are available now over at The Original Store.

The one essential item I’ll be buying for this winter is a Grey Crew Neck sweatshirt. While knitwear should always take precedent, especially for that smarter look, the Merino and Cashmere crews are worthy investments. Yet needing something a little more durable, especially to withstand the often tough punishment inflicted, you should look no further than a classix crew neck. Off set these with a good shirt, some fresh raw-denim, a good pair of boots and you’re set.

Here are two of my favorites finds:

Buzz Rickson

Albam Crew Neck Sweatshirt

Some inspiration from the winter wardrobe. It’s all about having a durable coat throughout the winter months, an investment in a Barbour or Woolrich coat are well worth the expenditure. Although the cost can be daunting, these two items will last longer than you. Seriously rugged items which will provide a staple winter garment that surpasses any trend and fleeting brand, not only will it be good this year, but the year after and so on. A solid pair of worn in jeans are perfect right now, the touch of washes and light blues with browns and khaki provide the staple for my look this winter. Alongside a pair of Redwings, you can’t get much better for the colder months approaching.

More after the jump.

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Classic American footwear brand PF Flyers have a classic silhouette not a million miles away from the Converse All Star, however these Center Hi Ballistic Nylon take a stylistic keynote from the Redwing, and unlike the bastarized Bape version of the workwear stalwart, infuse an already classic shoe with a touch of ruggedness.

Attention all UK menswear buyers, please, please can you make a trip to Japan in the near future and bring these back:

Unfortunately you will not be seeing either of the below brands anytime soon unless you visit Japan.

Nonnative

Phigvel Makers & Co.