What to buy this week
Releases you don't want to miss, how I might be back on wearing Vans again, a brand that's making my favorite bags is back with a new hit, and a new collection featuring sharp tailoring
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Today’s letter is overflowing with recommendations; upcoming releases on my radar, how I might be back on wearing Vans again, a brand making my favorite bags right now, a new tailoring collection for those who just finished the newest series on JFK Jr, and other great recommendations as usual.
AM I BACK ON VANS?
I’ll be honest, I haven’t worn a pair of Vans in a while. Not for any specific reason except just needing a personal break from a classic in footwear—overexposure and just not wanting to look like everyone else was definitely at play. So, I took a break.
I did however just receive a gift from HAVEN and OTW by Vans; a pair of their Authentic 44s, which has reigninted my lost love for Vans. Now, this isn’t a promo post or anything like that, I was just really surprised by the premium quality that these Authentic’s had.
Crafted using premium nubuck leather with a hint of hairy suede wraps the toe box that feels insanely smooth on foot. All of that is sitting on an extremely comfortable leather insole that’s wrapped around with a Vibram outsole—a level of comfort that feels different from Vans, and that’s exciting.
Dropping on HAVEN’s website March 20th - 1 PM EST and through an exclusive HAVEN NYC pop-up at 213 Bowery.
MY FAVORITE BAGS
At this point I own four different bags from Colin Meredith, and I’ll probably continue to acquire more. Colin continues to elevate his bag designs season after season, giving me no chance to hide my wallet.
His new SS26 collection just hit his site, featuring The Bubble Roll bag that I couldn’t say no to.
I got the black but it also comes in plaid and red wax cotton finish. The material is sturdy and definitely designed with durability in mind. The construction continues to be really great, something that I’ve come to expect across any of Colin’s products.
The bag itself is pretty big. You can roll the opening on itself and lock it with the strap around it. There is a snap button at the top if you choose to keep it unrolled for even more storage though. This thing has a lot of space, with extra pockets, and compartments large enough for that extra large water bottle.
It’s different and nothing like I own right now, and it’s versatility will allow me to use this as a daily and on those outdoor adventures as needed.
THE MEN ARE GETTING DRESSED AGAIN
Many fashion bros who have just finished watching the newest JFK Jr. series are now looking to shift their style into the more dressed up territory; flowy slacks, nice quality button-downs, or a sharp blazer that you can throw over top that perfectly cooked vintage tee you spent too much money on.
The men are down to get dressed again, and I love to see it. For many of us who aren’t dressing like that everyday, we will need these options available when the inevitable invitation to a formal event with your name on it hits the inbox.
The great guys behind Ecole de Pensee just dropped part 2 of their SS26 collection that’s filled with relaxed tailoring and loose fits throughout. Whether you’re getting dressed in classic tailoring, or just want a pair of nice trousers to wear on vacation, Ecole will have exactly what you need.
If you’re ever in Montreal I highly recommend stopping by their flagship store to experience the clothing in-person. They were there for me when I needed a full suit for a wedding, and I ended up looking and feeling great. Awesome experience and even better clothing.
PENNON AQUILINE DERBY
Acquiring a new derby has been long overdue. I have been rocking the same leather shoes for years, so I think it’s finally time to retire those and get something fresh.
Pennon is a footwear brand out of South Korea that I have been following since they first started—between you and me, I was the first person to talk about them. It’s awesome to see how far they’ve come since then, continuing to elevate and focus on creating great quality footwear that’s priced well.
I wanted something classic, well made, and that didn’t cost too much—Pennon’s Aquiline Derby has checked all of those boxes for me. Now, I haven’t properly wore them yet, but they are pretty comfortable on first try. Some wearing in is needed though. I got a size 10 US and I’ll say that I would have benefited by sizing up by .5.
The black box calf leather is going to break naturally, so I’m not worried about the sizing too much. The Vibram outsole is finished with resistant grip, which makes these street-ready out of the box—something that a lot of dress shoes don’t have. One less thing I have to worry about.
JUST WHEN I THOUGHT I WAS OUT
Supreme x MM6 Maison Margiela is dropping later today, and I haven’t seen a single “supreme fell off” hater in sight. Life is good! Listen, I get it, this isn’t for everyone and that’s totally ok. I myself will remain focused ahead of today’s drop on two items from this collection.
A box logo feels satirical right now, and that maybe true, but it’s still fun and in today’s world I need more of that in fashion. It’s as simple as that. Plus, the all white dipped skateboard I got from the last Supreme x Margiela collab needs friends.
Supreme x MM6 Maison Margiela will be dropping on the Supreme website Thursday, March 19th 11 am EST.
LQQK SASSY PETS
Spring time calls for some new graphic tees in the rotation. I like these ones from LQQK’s newest collection.
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, THEY GOT ME
I was perusing the rare 25% off sale over at Neighbour when I got hit with a bunch of things I suddenly wanted. I’m trying my best to say no, so instead I’m going to put you on in hopes of you taking my size.
I don’t really need boots right now, but I do love the shape of these Chukka Boots from Our Legacy—they are nice and simple, that hint of the natural leather outline is calling my name. It’s currently on sale for a very good deal. Don’t sleep.
Camiel Fortgens is one of my personal favorite obsessions so I naturally freaked when I saw this Fleece Anorak on sale.
This Lamb Leather Blouson from Auralee is going to be absolutely exceptional but also detrimental to my retirement fund.
TWO HATS FROM THE GOAT
Two Double RL hats came across my desk that I think you should know about. Very straightforward stuff, but could make for a nice little addition to a basic white tee + jeans outfit—the corduroy one has to be the favorite.
What style cap is the corduroy cap from rrl?
Any reccs for black derbys similar to the OL trampler?