Stash Studios

The West is Dead.

In the spirit of celebrating other designers with similar goals and vision, The West is Dead is a new line of American Workwear. Denim, chino, and knit. All made in the USA with thoughtful cuts and details. 

Made by two men - Will and Kaelen - who didn't originally consider themselves designers but became friends while living in Northern Montana and embarked on an 8,000 mile road trip learning all they could about denim brands and figuring out their own line.

The last thing about their story that strikes a chord with me is their effort to invest a portion of their profits to help repopulate Native American lands with Bison. That's pretty cool.

 

Dana Lee

I identify most with designers who began their career filling a niche for something they were seeking. Dana Lee, rising star and men's workwear designer is throwing her collection into the ring. As you can see from the photos, a relaxed personal style infuses her collection of classic, textured and potentially enduring pieces. The OEN® has a great interview with Lee. 

Opening Photography by Maya Villager and Spring 2011 Lookbook Imagery shot by Jody Rogac.

F.Y.M.

If your sensibilities are delicate and you cannot handle sailor mouth meets funny literate fashionable man, then resist clicking here. Thanks for the heads up on this Sweeney.

Shop-o-Rama

When we are in town, we head over to Monica Pope's farmer's market on Saturday. We used to be able to grab a taco and get our produce and head out for the rest of our Saturday. But now, we find ourselves lingering as there is so much more to do and friends to visit. Midtown Houston is seeing new life with a bevy of construction and new shops. Of course the revitalization of Midtown did not begin yesterday. Stalwart, visionary kids have been running businesses like Sig's Lagoon, the Continental Club, Shoeshine Charley's Big Top Lounge, Tacos a Go-Go, and t'afia in that vicinity for some time now.

However, these guys are getting some cool new neighbors. One of the new kids on the block is Shop-o-Rama, a resale co-op located at 3622 B Main Street on the Red Line. This resale shop is very neat and well-organized with vintage clothing, accessories, oddities, and overflow vintage vinyl from their friends at Sig's. Included here are a few shots I grabbed on a recent weekend while visiting with proprietor Bill Shirley.

Now, be sure to mark your calendars because these kids are going to be throwing a block party of sorts to celebrate their grand openings this coming Saturday, October 16. Check out 3622 Main Grand Opening and stay tuned. Tomorrow look for shots from my friend Judy's shop, My Flaming Heart.

 

 

 

Hostem

Warm tones. Washed out Swedish linen curtains. Exposed bulbs. Raw restored floorboards. Hand-painted hessian wall panels. The London design outfit, JamesPlumb has created a dusty vintage cool interior for Hostem's new shop in Shoreditch, London. But it is more than that. This ideal backdrop is accomplished with restored materials that give the canvas of the store both a history and a timelessness. My favorite style.

The interior had to be stunning, it serves as the background for such unique and bold brands as Ann Demeulemeester, Visvim, Rick Owens and Casely-Hayford. 

 

Backyard Bill

via www.backyardbill.com

Why break tradition? Always inspired by Backyard Bill. 
Have a great evening,

 

Stag, In All Its Glory

[photo credit mine but found on www.stagaustin.com]

I've had to travel to Austin on business several times in the last few weeks, so I finally got to stop by and see Stag in person. Don gave the me the tour and asked me to snap a few shots for their blog. What a fantastic shop and a fun time. The staff is outstanding, helpful, friendly. Great vibe. The goods are so meticulously selected. I made it out with some vintage vinyl and other miscellany but I need to get back because there are a few articles that I'm kicking myself for leaving behind.

Thanks guys,

 

Backyard Bill

[ photo credit: www.backyardbill.com]

Always love what Backyard Bill has to offer. Now the site is redesigned and featured is Adam Pedersen-Doherty. Adam is into collecting, free love and country living. Groovy.

 

Backyard Bill: Quetzal Saunders

via backyardbill.blogspot.com

  

La Merde

 

 

Another great thing out of Portland, La Merde.

"La Merde was born in the void that existed between urban and urbane. The line consists of premium hoodies and jackets that utilize luxury materials, high-end satin finishes and rich detailing. The range features a tailored fit and fine fabrics in a sophisticated palette. La Merde unites the classic elements of sophisticated dress with refined street sensibility."

Good stuff for boys and girls.

Later,