Category Archives: News – Musings

Allen Edmonds Bought by Caleres

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Allen Edmonds, one of the most popular and most beloved of the brands discussed on Styleforum, has just been purchased by Caleres for $255 million. Caleres, the parent company of Famous Footwear, also owns several handfuls of not-quite-fantastic women’s footwear brands such as Vince, Diane Von Furstenberg, and Franco Sarto. This puts Allen Edmonds in an interesting place in the Caleres portfolio – or rather, at the top of it, from a very Styleforum-y perspective. Allen Edmonds may have retail storefronts  at numerous malls across the country, but it is an undeniably higher-quality product than those with which it now shares a room.

Of course, you’re probably wondering what this means for your beloved shoe company, and whether you ought to be panicking. Well, maybe not quite yet. Paul Grangaard, the well-regarded CEO of Allen Edmonds, will stay on in the same role, which indicates that Caleres is less interested in re-structuring Allen Edmonds than on capitalizing on the brand’s solid growth and Grangaard’s leadership. Additionally, their portfolio skews heavily towards womenswear, meaning that Allen Edmonds is something of a feather in the cap.

Here’s the one potential source of worry – the statement from Diane Sullivan, president and CEO, reads as follows:

“The addition of Allen Edmonds to the Caleres brand portfolio allows us to rapidly increase our exposure in men’s footwear, solidifying a new revenue stream to drive overall growth…Over the next several months we will work together to identify ways to benefit from each other, including brand and product development, materials sourcing and design capabilities, to name a few.”

For a paranoid fashion hobbyist such as myself, “materials sourcing” sounds a bit like trying to use Caleres’ larger network of producers to lower one element of production costs. And of course, “growth” is a dubious buzzword for the Styleforum member, since we generally don’t want our favorite brands to grow – and modern perceptions of American business have trained us not to trust anything that sounds like, well, business. However, in some cases the concerns have been founded – many well-regarded brands have lost some of their luster following an acquisition, and many hobbyists expect the worst when a beloved brand changes hands.

Mr. Grangaard took to the Ask Andy About Clothes forum to allay some of the concerns shared there. A selection of his response is below:

“Our strategies will stay the same but grow, and the team is all staying in place. Caleres bought us because of what we could do with them, not what they could do to us…So the changes you’ll see will be those of intensifying who we are and what we do in good ways — more marketing and customer development because of their longer term time horizon.

Manufacturing in Port Washington is our core commitment. It’s not going away. Period. Count on that one. The “materials sourcing assistance” they can give us is in componentry. They know European tanneries, sole makers and last manufacturers that we don’t really know but who could be helpful.” (Full response here)

Despite Caleres’ retail success, the brands sharing the stable with Allen Edmonds are not brands that I would associate inspiration or production quality, which is, I think, a fair source of concern. Mr. Grangaard’s qualified statement that access to material providers could be helpful is, well…pretty qualified.  However, Allen Edmonds has traded hands several times over the last decade, and has remained a go-to source in its particular corner of the market while seeing growth in reach and name recognition.

Based on the last decade of progress, I’ll choose to assume that Allen Edmonds’ very successful leadership will continue to find success, and that five years from now I’ll still be recommending Allen Edmonds to friends searching for affordable, quality footwear.

For further reading, check out this 2013 Styleforum interview with Mr. Grangaard

Best of Styleforum Classifieds, 12/21/2016

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Every week, enterprising Styleforum member @razl takes time out of his busy schedule to search for what he can call the best of Styleforum’s classifieds. Out of that glittering company, we’ve picked our five favorites to share.

 

1. Ralph Lauren “Anthony” Shawl Lapel Tux, 699EUR – sold by @dijor (NEW)


We spent all of last week teaching you about the ins and outs of black tie, and this is one heck of a timely opportunity. This tux hits all the right notes – single button, shawl lapel, welt pockets, and a lovely trim cut – and at under 800$ (vs. $2500 at retail), this is quite a deal.

2. Crockett and Jones Connaught Oxford, Sizes 8.5 & 10 US, $349 – sold by @jreigen (NEW)

Speaking of classics, these beautiful Crockett & Jones “Connaught” oxfords in black calfskin will give you years of use if you take care of them properly. And again, for 50% of retail, you’re getting some serious mileage.

3. Begg & Co. Cashmere Scarf, $200 – sold by @dsutton (NEW)

Since 2016 is seeing itself out with a freezing blast, we definitely recommend avoiding frostbite with fine Scottish goods. Take, for example, this Begg & Co. scarf: cashmere so supple it feels almost liquid, and a pattern complementary to almost any outfit. We’re sold.

 

4. High End Fall/Winter ties (Vanda and Drake’s), $95 – sold by @TweedyProf (LIGHTLY USED)

One of Styleforum’s resident masters of neckwear, @TweedyProf, is selling what we think is a very handsome selection of ties appropriate for the winter season. They’re certainly robust enough in both fabric and design to stand up to your cold-weather wardrobe, and you’ll save a bundle over the retail price. If you’re looking to supplement your winter tie selection, look no further.

 

5. John Lobb “Chapel” Prestige Edition, $1,200 – sold by @MrVenneri (NEW)

Oh, baby. If you’ve got the budget for a pair of shoes that tops a thousand dollars, take a look at these beauties. John Lobb’s famed quality and craftsmanship, in a gorgeous and totally not Pitti-hashtag-worthy double-monk makeup. Yes, they really are that gorgeous.

 

Those are our picks for best of the bunch, but you can see @razl’s full list here.

Christmas Shopping Deadlines

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christmas shopping deadlines styleforum

Christmas is less than ten days away, which means that your last minute shopping is officially last minute. Here are the Christmas shopping deadlines for America’s major shipping companies:

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16: FEDEX STANDARD GROUND, AMAZON FREE SHIPPING

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19: UPS STANDARD, AMAZON STANDARD

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20: USPS FIRST CLASS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21: FEDEX 2-DAY, USPS PRIORITY

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22: FEDEX OVERNIGHT, AMAZON PRIME 2-DAY

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23: USPS PRIORITY EXPRESS, UPS NEXT DAY, AMAZON 1-DAY

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24: AMAZON SAME-DAY, AMAZON PRIME NOW 2 HOUR DELIVERY

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25: FEDEX SAME DAY

 

And the deadlines of a few of our affiliates:

Wednesday, December  21.  No Man Walks Alone (www.nomanwalksalone.com) UPS Second day shipping Thursday, December 22 No Man Walks Alone (www.nomanwalksalone.com) UPS next day air

Sunday, December 18 House of ΚΥΔΟΣ (www.kydos.gr),  DHL 2-3 days

Tuesday December 20, 4pm Standard & Strange (www.standardandstrange.com)  USPS Priority Express

Tuesday December 20, Ehaberdasher (www.eHaberdasher.com) USPS Priority Mail

Thursday December 22nd (order must be placed by noon EST) Ehaberdasher (www.ehaberdasher.com) Express mail (must be added to cart):

 

To take advantage of sales before Christmas shopping deadlines pass, why not head over to Styleforum’s Sales Alert Thread? You’ll be certain to find a last-minute deal or two – or three or four.

 

 

Your Guide to a Very Black Tie Holiday

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the holiday rig black tie tuxedo outfit grid holiday black tie

Wearing black tie is an exercise in understated elegance. A tuxedo is not a particularly “flashy” outfit by design, which can be confusing for some due to internet #menswear’s focus on peacocking. Black tie, however, is not an occasion to push the boundaries. While there is certainly room for individual style in the way that the tux is worn, and there are now more acceptable variations in what is a very rigid code, wearing a tuxedo well is all about the details: are the elements correct? Is the fit perfect? If so, there’s a very good chance you’ll look great. And, if you are accompanied by a female companion, her outfit will stand out all the more. Here, we’ve detailed a black tie outfit that treads between the traditional and the modern for an ideal blend of elegance and convenience. Let’s go over the elements below.

1. Hackett tuxedo from Mr. Porter

This is about as classic a tuxedo as you can find, and the details are correct: the jacket has a single buttoning point, has no vent, and boasts a structured shoulder and silhouette. We’ve foregone braces in favor of trousers with side tab adjusters, for the sake of a slightly less complicated and more forgiving setup. Both jacket and trousers will require the hand of a good tailor to make themfit you perfectly, as is the case with almost all tailored clothing.

In this case, alterations are worth it, since tuxedos are not generally something one collects, and one perfect set-up will last a lifetime.

2. Sid Mashburn bib front shirt 

We’ve chosen a pleated bib front shirt with a spread collar (the appropriate collar choice for black tie) as well as a button-out placket, meaning you can choose to wear it with or without studs (we suggest with). The bib extends to the bottom of the shirt, meaning it can be worn without a cummerbund for a look that is still elegant without verging on the precious.

3. Vanda Fine Clothing black satin bow tie

It’s no secret that we are huge fans of affiliate Vanda Fine Clothing’s hand-made neckwear. This black satin self-tie bow tie is the perfect accompaniment for the satin peak lapels on the jacket, and will be the only tie you need for decades of elegance.

4. Carmina wholecut oxford

Here, we’ve made another slighest of breaks from tradition, and chosen a high-sheen wholecut oxford over a patent shoe. While not quite as formal as an evening pump, an oxford is certainly acceptable, as well as a bit more forgiving for the wearer. We’ve chosen Carmina’s wholecut as it has a narrow waist and a slightly chiseled toe, and the absence of side seams elevates it above a standard oxford.

5. Onyx shirt studs from Turnbull & Asser 

and

6. Kent Wang onyx cufflinks

Don’t overlook studs and cufflinks when finalizing your ensemble. This is an opportunity to add some personality to your final appearance, but that does not mean that it is an excuse or occasion for gaudy jewelry. Onyx and mother-of-pearl are both acceptable, as are gold and silver. Just make sure that you’re not mixing styles.

If you’ve nailed the list above, you’re sure to be a hit at your holiday black tie affair – or wherever your tuxedo takes you.

You’ll note that we’ve foregone braces, a cummerbund, and a pocket square. While a square is not required, should you prefer to wear one, we suggest crisp white linen. We also recommend that your forego a timepiece – even if you have a dress watch, a black tie event is an occasion for socializing, and not for worrying about the hour. Where else do you have to be?

Shopping for Shoes at Leffot with a CM Guy

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Standing in front a long wooden table, I observe the items carefully lined up each next one another, and the people handling them to inspect their features and quality.

No, I’m not at an Apple store, but at Leffot in Christopher St., Manhattan, a shoe boutique for men.

Alan (my husband) and I decided to take a day off to do some shopping together – a rare treat, since we shop almost exclusively online. If you are into classic shoes, you know how hard it is to shop for them online, as it’s hard to know whether a last is going to fit you.

Right, the last. Before marrying Alan, and after a life dating dudes that spent their existence in beaten Converse, I had no idea what a last was. As a woman, I only knew two types of shoes: those that hurt, and those that don’t – with uncomfortable slim shoes winning in number.

Women, you know, have a weird relationship with shoes – a love/hate type of relationship. They love them, especially when it comes to Disney-esque, dreamy stilettos that make them feel like a princess. However, like any respectable love story, it is a troubled one. The most uncomfortable shoes – stilettos, open sandals, thigh-squeezing boots – are the most loved and appreciated, and at the same time the most uncomfortable. You’d think that, being part of a civilized species that always privileged comfort and practicality over struggle and torment, we’d stay away from torture tools that butcher our lower limbs.

Wrong.

Like Goethe’s moth, attracted to the deadly flame, women are condemned to gravitate towards painful footwear, or else suffer social alienation and live miserably but comfortably in a pair of UGGs.

Alan snaps his fingers in front of my face, interrupting my thoughts.

“Hey, you there? What do you think of these?”

He points his finger to a pair of oxford shoes in brown suede that are lying on the wooden table.

“They’re beautiful!”

The voice is not mine, but Lorenzo’s, the sale assistant that has been helping Alan trying on shoes for the past 20 minutes. “Let me fetch them for you!”

Lorenzo disappears behind a curtain and comes back with a pair of the same shoes in size 8.5 placed on a red, plushy pillow. Seriously? A pillow? What are these, the Crown Jewels?

Before handing them over to Alan, he brushes them with expert hands to revive the look of the suede. His hands move so fast that you can barely see them. In fact, he polishes the shoes so vigorously that I wonder if he expects a genie to come out of them.

Alan carefully slips into the shoes with the help of a shoehorn. I thought shoehorns disappeared at the end of 19th century, along with sun umbrellas and monocles, but I was clearly wrong.

Looking at the two men in front of me, it is clear how the evolution of mankind has changed the reasons why men bend: they no longer bend forward to grow and harvest crop, to work the earth with their naked hands. They bend on expensive Persian rugs to inspect the fit of ridiculously expensive, handmade shoes that are at the very top of the pyramid of superfluous things.

A sudden movement interrupts my musings. Alan stands up to walk a few, confident steps wearing the suede Oxfords while the sale assistant leaves us for a moment to go fetch some suede conditioner.

My husband gives a furtive look around to make sure nobody is looking at him – beside me – and then he slowly starts bending his ankles in a low-squat position.

Oh my god.

“Ari, come here”, he whispers, encouraging me to get closer with a gesture of the hand.

I reluctantly walk towards him, who is now bouncing on his squat position with his arms reaching forward.

“What are you doing?” I ask, uncertain whether I actually want to know the answer.

“I’m checking that the in-step is high enough to accommodate my ankle”, he replies, candidly.

“Does it fit?”

“I don’t know yet.”

Alan steps the right leg forward, bending the front knee and straightening the left leg. I nervously look around, worried that somebody is going to record this on video and upload it on YouTube. “Ashtanga yoga at a high-end shoe boutique in Manhattan.”

“For the love of God, do you really have to do this? Can’t you just walk around like normal people?”

“I can’t. You know that.”

He hands me his phone to show me a thread on Styleforum: How should a shoe fit?

Fine. At least it’s comforting to know that there are other nutjobs out there performing Warrior II in order to understand if their shoes fit properly.

“Does it crease in the right spot?” my husband asks, panting.

I lift my eyes off the phone and gasp. Alan is standing on his tiptoes, his face as red as a tomato in the effort of not losing balance.

“What…Alan, please! They’re watching us!” I whisper anxiously, noticing that a couple of customers are staring at us in dismay.

“Just…tell me…”, he wheezes, reaching to the toe box in one last, extreme endeavor to understand if it creases in the right spot.

“Yes…YES!” I shriek, praying he’ll quit the ballerina move.

Alan collapses on one of the giant leather chairs and grabs a glass of wine that the sale assistant generously poured for him when we entered the shop. He looks satisfied, and I sigh in relief. The sooner we leave this store, the sooner I can reward myself with some make-up from Sephora.

“Oh, there you are”, says Alan, smiling at the sale representative carrying a few pots of leather cream. “I think I’m ready to pull the trigger on these. Toe box creases just where it should, and the instep fits like a glove.”

He raises the glass and winks at me.

Ah, look at him now. Acting all Steve McQueen, when just a moment ago he was walking on his tip toes like Laurie Hernandez in Dancing With the Stars.

Well, at least it’s done. He has his shoes. Sephora, here I come!

“Excellent, sir”, replies Lorenzo, brushing off some invisible particles of dust from the shoes, and I smile radiant, offering him my hand as to say “It’s been a pleasure. Goodbye!”

He deliberately ignores me and asks Alan: “Would you like to go through the leather book now?”

Wait, what? The leather book?

Alan nods enthusiastically and the sale assistant leaves again.

I must look devastated because Alan bursts into laughs and kisses me on the forehead.

“Don’t worry – it’ll be a minute. And this is the fun part! You gotta help me choose the color!”

“But…didn’t you just try on a pair of shoes? That fits? What’s wrong with them?”

I am confused and I’m not even trying to hide it. It is frustrating enough to see how men take the fit of their shoes seriously, instead of suffering like us women and carrying a packet of Compeed, and now this.

“These are made-to-order, honey. You’ll see. Ah, nice!” his face lights up when Lorenzo comes back carrying a huge volume that looks like a grimoire from Hogwarts.

Lorenzo opens it, slow and ceremonial, and despite my frustration I find myself peeking inside. What will the book reveal? From the way it looks, I wonder if it contains a series of spells to summon shoes out of the closet, or socks out of the washing machine (now, that would be useful).

“What are you laughing about?” Alan gives me a weird look and I hide my grin.

“Here it is,” Lorenzo announces theatrically. “The suede page.”

Both Alan and I lean towards the book and I hold my breath.

Well. I can’t say I’m impressed. The two pages feature a couple dozens of small leather rectangles, meticulously glued to the thin, cream color paper.

“Outstanding,” Alan comments, his tone reverential. He takes the book out of Lorenzo’s hands and points at three pieces of leather on top of the page.

“Which one do you prefer?” he asks me.

“Between brown, brown, and…brown?” I squeeze my eyes in the attempt to capture the difference between the colors, but they all look like pieces of jerky to me.

“These are snuff, fawn, and clay.” I wonder how he can be this savvy about different colors of leather, but when I ask him to bring me the shampoo in the shower he comes back with the conditioner.

“You’re not helpful at all” he scoffs, and I feel outraged. How dare he say I’m not helpful?

“If I may interrupt, sir…” Lorenzo is pointing at the fawn leather and I shoo his hand away. I’ll show him.

“Get the snuff,” I say. “You’d wear these mostly with jeans, and the orange hue is complementary to denim blue. Because the color is warm, it would go well with both your winter and summer wardrobe, especially with green and blue, which you tend to wear more often.”

They both look at me in awe and nod vigorously.

“Since when do you speak CM?” Alan jokes, taking out his wallet.

“Since I bookmarked Styleforum on the phone and started browsing it while you’re not watching.”

“I love you.”

“I love you too. Now let me take advantage of your remarkable understanding of colors: I need a foundation with a cool undertone.”

All photos courtesy Leffot

STYLEFORUM BLACK FRIDAY SALE LIST 2016

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styleofrum-black-friday-guide-list-coupon-code

Welcome to Styleforum’s comprehensive list of Black Friday 2016 sales and coupon discount codes for all the men’s clothing and accessories that are fit to buy (and some more to boot). We will be updating this list throughout the weekend, so drop in often, or just keep on hitting F5.

P.S. This year, we have (and will be expanding) our women’s sales section, directly under the menswear sales listings.

3Sixteen

10% sitewide

Code: BF2016

 

Abercrombie & Fitch

50% off storewide + Free Shipping – no code required

 

Acrimony

30% off

Code: SUPERTHX

 

Adidas

30% off Techfit items + up to 50% off other items

Code: TECHFIT

 

A Fine Pair of Shoes

25% off non-sale items

 

Alpha Industries
Up to 50% off on Cyber Monday

Code: BLACKFRI30

 

Allen Edmonds

Up to 50% off on selected styles

 

Alternative Apparel

Black “Week” 40% OFF with code THANKS40

Antic Boutik

Black Friday happens once a year. And on this day, at Antic Boutik, it’s 30% off on a huge selection of items in store and online!

 

Apolis

Up to 30% off

 

ASOS

30% off everything

Code: THANKFUL30

 

Baker’s

10% off sitewide

Code: CYBERWEEKEND

 

Baracuta

Up to 30% off a selection

 

Barney’s

40% off designer sale

 

Banana Republic

50% EVERYTHING – no exclusions

 

Beckett Simonon

1 pair of sneakers: $99 with code TURKEY99

2 pairs of sneakers: $189 with code TURKEY189

1 pair of shoes: $169 with code TURKEY169

1 pair of boots: $199 with code TURKEY199

2 pairs of shoes: $329 with code TURKEY329

1 pair of shoes + 1 pair of boots: $359 with code TURKEY359

 

Billy kirk

-15% off $199 or less

-25% off $200 or more

-40% off $750 or more

 

Billy Reid

25% off sitewide

Code: THANKFUL  CYBER25

 

Bloomingdales

20% off $200

15% off $150-199.99

 

BlackBlue

15% off and free shipping with code THANKSGIVING2016

 

Blue and Cream

20% off sitewide

Code: THANKS CYBER

 

Blue Button Shop

30% off

Code: THANK30

 

Blue in Green

20% off entire inventory

 

Bluefly

Up to 85% off + free shipping

 

Bodega Boston

22% off Thanksgiving until Monday

Code: DEUCEDEUCE

 

Bodileys

20% off the London collection

Code: BOD20

 

Bonobos

30% off select style

Code: GETAWAY CYBER2016

 

Bread & Boxers

40% off + free shipping

 

Brooks Brothers

 

Additional 10% off on Cyber monday

 

Brown’s Fashion

sale ongoing!

 

Buttero

Black Friday Exclusive 15% off – Promo Code BU15BFCM

 

CAMO

30% everything

Code: CAMOBLACKFRIDAY

 

Calculus Victoria

Sale up to 50% off FW16 goods + Free DHL express shipping exclusive for Styleforum

Code: FREEFRIDAY

 

Caliroots

30% off everything

 

Carmina

Free belt + free iPad sleeve and leather mouse pad + free shipping

20% off clearance

Code: BLACKFRIDAY2016

 

Centre Commercial

up to 50% off select items

Century 21

$30 off $150

$40 off $200

Code: BLACKFRIDAY

 

Circle Seven

25% off Alden shoes

Code: PASSTHEPEAS

 

Cloggs

30% off everything

Code: BLK20 BLKFR30

 

Club Monaco

30% off sale styles

Code: WINTER16

25% off $150

30% off $250

35% off $400

Code: THANKS THANKSAGAIN

 

Coach

30% off select styles

Code: THANKS 2016

 

Coggles

25% off AW Collection 30% off

Code: AW25 CYBERMONDAY

 

Colette

50% off

 

Context Clothing

20% off everything until Monday

 

Corridor NYC

20% off with code OVENROASTED

 

Costume Limitè

15% off everything

Code: BF16

 

Craighill

20% off

 

Cruvoir

10% off

Code: RMYH4WN10

 

Cultizm

20% off

Code: BF16

 

Da Luca Straps

25% off  entire order

Code: GOBBLE CYBERSALE

 

Daniel Wellington

Complimentary strap with any watch

 

Danner

Up to 60% off + 25% off sitewide

 

Dapper Classics

30% off everything 30% ALL SOCKS

Code: BLACK16 CM16

 

David Fin

25% off everything on Black Friday

Code: BLACKFRIDAY

 

Dent’s

Up to 60% Off

 

Deo Veritas

25% off sitewide (minimum $150)

Code: BLACK25

 

Dodd’s Shoes

Save 15% on select regular priced items from Born, Sorel, Ugg, and Frye with code BF2016

 

Dope Factory

Sales up to 70%

 

Dressspace

BLACK FRIDAY TILL MONDAY
-50% for orders over 400 €
Code: blk50
-25% for orders over 100 €
Code: blk25

 

Drinkwaters

Engineered Garments Sale starts Friday 25th @10am and ends Sunday 27th @ 5pm.

 

Dutil Denim

20% off everything black Nov 24-27

Code: BLACK20

 

E35

20% off all items

 

eHaberdasher

10% off

Code: THANKS16

 

East Dane

Spend $200+ Save 15%
Spend $500+ Save 20%
Spend $800+ Save 25%
Code: GOBIG16

 

Editions M.R.

30% off + free worldwide shipping on $200+

Code: BLACK30

 

Edwin

20% off selected products

Code: ED20

 

END.

20% off a selection

 

Epaulet

Black Friday sale

ESK

20% off

Code: OBSIDIAN

 

Everything Hip Hop

25% off everything

Code: BF25 CYBER20

 

Farfetch

Up to 50% off

and Enjoy 10% off your wishlist
One day only
Enter code below at checkout:
BF10

 

Finisterre

25% off

 

Firmament Berlin

30% off all footwear

 

Flannels

20% off everything + £40 gift voucher every £200

Code: BF20

 

Flatshop

30% off sale

 

Frances May

30% off

Code: BOOKENDS

 

Frank + Oak

Up to 75% off Cyber Monday

Code: BLACKFRIDAY35 HOTDEALZZZ

 

Freemans Sporting Club

30% Discount online and instore

Code: 30PUMPKINS (FRIDAY – MONDAY.)

 

fwrd

Sale up to 50% off

Code: PLUSH, BLUE or CANDY for extra 10% off most brands.

 

GASMY

30-40% off a selection

 

Gentlemensfootwear

Black Friday deals

 

Gentry

Clearance + extra 20% off

Code: INSTANTKARMA

 

Golden Fox

45% off everything

Code: TURKEY ONLINE

 

Graduate Store

Black Friday Sale 30% off

 

Gravity Pope

10% off permanent red sticker markdowns. Use promo code BFWEXTRA10 at checkout.
15% on regularly priced merchandise. Use promo code PREXMAS16 at checkout.

 

Gustin

Markdowns

 

Happy Socks

40% off  + free shipping

 

Harmony Paris
30% off on FW16 items

Code: BLACK30

 

Haven

20% off

Code: BLKWKND

 

HBX

30% off regular price items – 15% OFF SALE ITEMS

Code: BF30 CYBER16

 

House of Fraser

Up to 50% off, no code required

 

Hervia

20% Off

Code: CYBER20

 

Hilditch & Key

25% off everything

 

Huckberry

Up to 50% off Black Friday through Cyber Monday

 

Hugh and Crye

Up to 50% off

 

Hunting Ensemble

30% OFF everything including sale (Brands: Norse Projects, A.P.C, Our Legacy, Nanamica, Etudes, Han Kjobenhavn and more)

Code: BLACKFRIDAY CYBERMONDAY

 

IAN Shop

20% off everything

 

Ibex

25% off select items

Code: CYBERMONDAY16

 

Independence

20% off

 

Idol Brooklyn

Sale now up to 40% off!

 

Jack Spade

Up to 75% off

25% off sale items

Code: FREEZE

 

James Perse

New markdowns

 

J. Crew

40% off everything

Code: HOLIDAY MONDAY

 

J. Crew Factory

50% everything, price as marked

 

J. Fitzptrick

20% off

 

Jean Shop

Leather goods sale! Up to 70% off

 

Jeeves

Midseason sale ongoing

 

John Elliot + Co

20% off

Code: JEPRE20

 

Jonathan + Olivia

Sale up to 50% off starts on Thursday, 11 am Eastern Time.

 

Kafka

20% off with code BLACK20

 

Ka-pok

25% Off sale

 

Kinfolk

Up to 50% off select item

 

Kinoko 

20% off with code BLACK20

 

Kiriko

20% off with code KINYOUBI

 

Kith

Sales on a selection on Black Friday only

 

KNYEW

50-80% off plus use code TAKE30 for an additonal 30% off

 

Kurt Geiger

20% off Crockett & Jones

 

Lanvin

50% off FW collection

Code: LANVINFW16

 

Lapstone and Hammer

30% off storewide “except Nike and Jordans”

Code: pre30 CYBER30

 

Lawrence Covell

25% off FW collection

Code: TURKEY25

 

Le Rayon Frais

40% off everything Nov 24-27

Code: BLACK40

 

Levi’s

40% off everything

Code: HOLIDAY40

 

L’inde Le Palais

30% off

Code: BLFRID30

 

LN-CC

Markdowns

 

Lodge Goods

25% off sitewide and free shipping

code: MANSHOP (Filson and other USA made goods)

 

Luisa via Roma

Extra 20% off on CYBER MONDAY

Code: BFNL20

30% full price items €300+

Code: BFFB30

 

Luxire

$1200 GiftCard for $1000 here. Use code GIFTCARD2016

20% Off all orders above $600. Use code HAPPYTHANKSGIVING

15% Off all orders above $300. Use code THANKYOU15

 

Maas & Stacks

25% off selected items

Code: GIVETHANKS

 

Macy’s

20% off + free shipping at $50

Code: THANKS

 

Maison Margiela

40% off AW collection

 

Machus

Black Friday sale40% off shoes, 30% off outerwear, and an updated sale section

 

Makker

30% off

Code: HOLIDAY2016

 

Malford of London

Extra 30% off sale items

Code: BLACK30

 

Matches Fashion

50% off FW

 

Meadow

15% off shirts and jackets with code BLACKFRIDAY

 

MEYVN

20% off (+ 10% goes to ACLU) starting Thursday, November 24th and ending Wednesday, November 30th.

Code: BFS2016

 

MISMO

20% off everything

Code: BF16

 

Mohawk General Store 

20% off

Code: MOHAWKFRIDAY

 

Mott & Bow

10% off $96+ Code: SMALL

20% off $200+ Code: MEDIUM

30% off $300+ Code: LARGE

 

Mr Porter

50% off a selection

 

Mutiny NY
25% off on Wednesday night to Saturday midnight

Code: TURKEY16

 

Native Ken

15% off frames

Code: NKNY15

 

Need Supply

20% off sale items || 25% off CYBERMONDAY

Code: BLACKFRIDAY CYBERMONDAY

 

Neighbour

15% off AW collection

 

Neiman Marcus

$50 off $200 (includes fragrances)

 

Neiman Marcus LAST CALL

extra 40-80% off the whole site

 

New Balance
25% off & Free shipping on Cyber Monday

 

Nifty-do

20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY16

 

Nike

25% off clearance items

Code: EXTRA25

 

No Man Walks Alone

A large selection, all on sale!

 

Nordstrom

Markdowns starting Thursday 24

Extra 20% off selected styles

 

Nordstrom Rack

30% off clearance items starting Friday 25

 

Norse Store

Up to 80% off past season items

 

North American Quality Purveyors

25% off select items

 

Notre Shop

30% off

Code: BF30

 

Nowells Clothiers

20% off

Code: GIFT

 

Number Six London

30% off with code BLACKFRIDAY

 

OAK NYC

50% off everything + OAK strap bomber $150 (reg. $450)

 

Oi Polloi

Use the promotional code ‘SNOWBLIND’ for 15% off for one day only

 

Oki-ni

30% off

Code: BF30

 

Oliver Wicks

$150 off custom suits, shirts, and ready-to-wear suits

Code: BLACK

 

Opumo

30% Off Store Wide

Code: BLACKDEAL

 

Other-shop

25% off one day only

Code: BFW25

 

Ovadia & Sons

30% off a selection

 

Pediwear Shoes

20% off all items. Offer is valid for 48 hours from 00:00 hrs GMT on 27th November 2015.

Code: BLACK20

 

Portland Dry Goods

20% off everything on Monday

Code: LEFTOVERS

 

Post Imperial

20% off

Code: PITHANKS16

 

Present London

20% OFF use code: BLACKFRIDAY

 

Puma

30% off entire order

Code: CYBERMONDAY16

 

Quality Shop

€100 and up = -10%  code: BLACK10
€200 and up = -20%  code: BLACK20

 

Rag & Bone

25% off everything

Code: BLACKFRIDAY25 CYBER25

 

Ralph Lauren

 

40% OFF $ 125+

Code: CHEER1

 

Rakuten Global Market

Get 1,500 Japanese Yen discount with an order of more than 11,000 Japanese Yen.
DT1F-DM4P-CU1L-ISCB

Get 2,000 Japanese Yen discount with an order of more than 14,000 Japanese Yen.
DKPZ-XBEZ-SWSK-JL00

Get 3,000 Japanese Yen discount with an order of more than 20,000 Japanese Yen.
FGL1-MWKM-RYQ7-21IF

 

Reeves
25% off any bespoke orders placed on Black Friday ONLY, in a black cloth.
Contact [email protected]

 

Res Ipsa

15% off

Code: GIVETHANKS

 

Revivemi

15% off with code THANKS  24th and 25th only

 

Revolve Clothing

Up to 50% off & 20% off cyber monday

Code: CYBER20

 

Rogue Territory

30% off select styles

Code: RGTBLKFRI2016

 

Roden Gray 

Up to 50% off on Fall/Winter items online and in-store.

 

Rooney Shop

25% off
Code: THANKS2016

 

Saint

Up to 60% off

 

Saks Fifth Avenue

60% off designer sale

 

Saks Off 5th

Up to 75% off

 

Sartoriale

25% off everything

Code: 25BLACK

 

Savait

From now to Sunday you can shop FW16 Collections up to 50% off with promo code BLACKFRIDAY

 

Scarosso

Up to 50% off shoes

 

Self Edge

Starts Friday: 16% off along with free shipping worldwide

Code: LetsDrink2016

 

Serie Noir

Markdowns

 

Seven

30% off

Code: CYBERDARKNESS

 

Shockoe Atelier

20% any item

Code: GOBBLE20

 

Shoehealer

20% off from Midnight Thursday through Sunday evening

Code: SHBF20

 

Shoebuy

25% off

Code: BFPREVIEW

$40 off $99 + Free shipping

Code: EMLTHANKFUL

 

Shoes.com

30% off sitewide

Code: HUGEDEALS2016 CYBERM2016

 

Shibumi

Free pocket square on orders $200+

 

Sivasdescalzo

Up to 75% off

10% off 2 items

15% off 3 items

 

Skoaktiebolaget

15-30% off a selection

 

Sky Valet

40% off regular priced items

Code: THANKSGIVING

 

SlamJam

40% off

Code: BLACK40

 

Sneakerboy

30% off with code BLKFRDY30

 

Soludos

25% off

Code: BLACK25 CYBER25

 

Soto Berlin

30% off everything

 

Spence

25% off sitewide

 

Sprezza Box

60% off subscription plans, 40% off store purchase

Code: GETSTUFFED

 

Spring

20% off everything – exclusions apply

 

Ssense
Sales up to 50% off

 

Stag

20% off select items

 

Standard & Strange

26% off Thursday

25% off Friday

20% off Saturday

15% off Sunday

10 % off Monday

Code: AHOI

 

Steven Alan

Up to 40% off

 

Stylebop

25% off

Code: CYBERMONDAYUSA

 

Sunspel

Black friday “event” at Sunspel. About 30% off selected items.

 

Superdenim

20% selected items

Code: BLACK

 

Superdry

25% off sitewide, no code needed

 

Suspensionpoint

An extra 20% off store-wide for a limited time (November 25 – 28)

Code: EXTRA20

 

Sydney’s

Up to 50% off

 

Taft Clothing

Up to 50% off

 

Tanner Goods

20% off everything

 

Taylor Stitch

20% off

 

Ted Baker

25% off selected items

 

The Arrivals

$50 off $200,

$100 off $400,

$200 off $800

 

The Bespoke Dudes

10% off

Code: HOLIDAY

 

The Bureau Belfast

15% off

Code: BLACK15

 

The Class Room

25% off

Code: TCR25BLK

 

The Content Store

20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY

 

The Hanger Project

Up to 70% off

 

The Hill-Side

30% everything

Code: BLACKFRIDAY CYBERMONDAY

 

The Hip Store

20% off selected brands

 

The Loit

40% off full priced items

Code: BLKFRILOIT

 

The Next Door

Black Week sale up to 50% off!

 

The Outnet

Clearance sale

 

TheRealReal

30% off mens!

 

The Shoe Mart

10% off your order

Code: BFRIDAY10 CYBERWEEK

 

Theory

Up to 40% off selected items + 10% off $500+

Code: EXTRA10

 

Timberland

Footwear under $99

 

Tiziana Fausti

30% Off on all FW16 collections

Code: BLK16

 

Tommy Hilfiger

40% storewide 50% off sitewide

Code: TYTOMMY CYBERGIFT50

 

Topshop

Up to 50% off

 

Tres Bien Shop

Black Friday Sale
20% off on all items 28, 2016

 

Ubiq

25% off of all sale.

 

UGG

30% off

Code: GIVETHANKS

 

Uncle Otis

25% off with code BLK25

 

Understudy

25% off

Code: BLK2016 CYBER16

 

Uniqlo

New markdowns + free shipping

Code: THANKS

 

UNKNWN

Up to 40% off sportswear and footwear

 

Urban Outfitters

$50 off $150+

$15 off $75+

 

Viola Milano

20% off

Code: BLACKFRIDAY

 

Voyager San Francisco

15% off with code COMETOGETHER

Free shipping Code: GRATEFUL

 

VRNTS

40% off

Code: BLACKFRIDAY

Cyber monday free shipping Code: CYBERMONDAY

 

Welcome Stranger

30% off $200 with code BLACKFRIDAY CYBERMONDAY

 

Will Leather Goods

Up to 25% off until Nov 28

 

Wings + Horns

20% off a selection

 

Winter Session

30% off with code SHOPSMALL

 

Working Title

20% off with code BF20

 

Wrong Weather

Up to 25% off a selection

 

Y-3

Sale! 30% off and free shipping.

 

Yellow Hook

10% off

 

Yoox

35% off using the app

 

Zadig & Voltaire

40% off selected styles

 

Zampadigallina

Selection of articles up to 40% off

 

WOMEN’S

Though many of the above sell both men’s and women’s clothing, the below are strictly retailers of women’s clothing, footwear, and accessories.

 

Ann Taylor

50% off everything

Code: CELEBRATE

 

GAP

50% everything

Code: TGIF50

 

Genetic LA

Buy 3 get 1 free + 35% off

Code: BLACKFRIDAY35

 

Joie

25% off

Code: THANKS

 

Kate Spade

Up to 75% off

 

La Garçonne

New markdowns 30-40% off

 

LOFT

50% everything

Code: BERRYGOOD

 

Lululemon

Up to 75% off

 

Madewell

25% off entire purchase

Code: THATSALE

 

Michael Kors

25% off $200 and 30% off $300

Code: HOLIDAY

 

ModCloth

20% off everything

Code: FRIDAY20

 

www.net-a-porter.com

Sale up to 50% off.

 

New York & Company

Up to 75% off

 

Nine West

20% off heels

 

Paige Denim

20% off

Code: CYBER20

 

Parker

30% off everything

Code: CHIC30

 

Rebecca Minkoff

25% off orders $100+

 

Revolve

Up to 65% off

 

Samantha Wills

30% off everything

 

Shopbop

Spend $200+ Save 15%
Spend $500+ Save 20%
Spend $800+ Save 25%
Code: GOBIG16

 

The Limited

60% off everything + free shipping

Code: HOLIDAY

 

Topshop

Up to 50% off

 

Tory Burch

30% off $250

Code: THANKS

 

Vestiaire Collective

up to $200 off

Community Design: The Massdrop Chukka

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If you spend time on Styleforum, you understand what it’s like to be part of an enthusiast community. You know the archetypes – from noob to tastemaker – and the abbreviations, from BB, ESF, and OCBD, to C&J and GMTO. You’ve also probably seen users band together to get the products they wanted – this is a core piece of any enthusiast community, and it’s why we created Massdrop. I’ve been a Styleforum member since 2011, and I’ve often been a part of those groups that are looking to put together something unique.

massdrop styleforum allen edmonds unlined suede chukka boot

That’s me, wearing the Massdrop x Styleforum x Allen Edmonds chukkas we put together.

Here at Massdrop, our job is to work with community members and help them engage with each other to find the products they want. You may recognize us from our affiliate thread on Styleforum, where we share some of our community-driven creations. By getting the community to work together (like they often do already), we’ve been able to get them the quality products they want for a better price. We’ve also found that if we work directly with brands to create new products, we can do even more to get the community what they want. If you’ve spent any time on Styleforum, you know that the people here are quite discerning. Almost any product, no matter how great, will inevitably be met with “if only this aspect were different, this would be perfect.” With our collaborative projects, our goal is to work with the manufacturers of these products to “tune” them to the desires of the community and offer them at a great price, resulting in an exclusive product that caters to what the community’s wants.

When we decided to kick off collaborations in the Massdrop Men’s Style community, the biggest question was who to partner with. We wanted to work with a brand with a strong forum following, as well as in-house manufacturing. Allen Edmonds quickly came out as a ideal choice – they have a huge fanbase on forums and beyond, and are a great go-to for those just getting into fine footwear. And while the quality of their products is quite high, many of the designs are less catered to the hardcore shoe enthusiast. Which led us to the question: what if they made a shoe specifically for us, the community?

The next step was landing on a style to pursue for the Massdrop x Styleforum project. We decided on the unlined suede chukka due to its popularity, as well as the fact that Allen Edmonds had released a few models that were ripe for tweaking (you can find many threads on the forum discussing the pros and cons of Allen Edmonds models like the Amok and Mojave). I reached out to Fok and pitched the idea to him. He has a long history of partnering with Allen Edmonds on the forum, and was able to perform the critical step of getting Massdrop in touch with Paul, the CEO of Allen Edmonds, which got the ball rolling.

I worked with Allen Edmonds production and the Massdrop team to learn about what the community’s options were in terms of materials, design, and so forth. We started working on prototypes, and once I had some samples to look at I reached out to respected members on Styleforum. With their help, we were able to hone in on what exactly a forumite would want in these shoes. After a couple months of prototyping, we landed on a style we all felt was a winner, and from there it was pretty easy.

massdrop styleforum allen edmonds unlined suede chukka boot

As you can tell, a lot of thought and a lot of details went into making these.

The most important aspects that we worked on were the material and the last. For the the suede, we sampled a few materials from CF Stead’s Janus line, and quickly agreed that Janus calf was the right call, even with the increased cost. For last shape, we wanted to shoot for the middle ground and offer something with a comfortable round shape for casual wear, without being too shapeless. Allen Edmonds’ 511 last was the natural choice, and the fact that it fits most people well was the icing on the cake.

 

From there, it was simple – introduce the shoes to the Massdrop and Styleforum communities. The project went live last week, and we’ve since sold over 700 pairs. The best part, however, is that it’s just the beginning. With this powerful example of what happens when a brand partners directly with the community they serve, we’ll be able to continue bringing projects like this to fruition. Styleforum members are full of good project ideas, and we’re going to do our best to keep up.

The Massdrop Allen Edmonds unlined chukka is available for purchase here.

The Styleforum Journal is supported by retailers such as Massdrop. This article is sponsored content.

Join the $3,500 Modern Luxury Giveaway

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modern luxury giveawayJoin the Modern Luxury Giveaway, and win $3,500 worth of prizes!

Styleforum has teamed up with some of our favorite online brands and communities to offer one lucky winner the following:

– $250 gift card for any affiliate shop hosted by Styleforum
– $500 gift card for Norwegian bag and watch brand Linjer
– $500 gift card for apparel company Grana
– $500 gift card for home essentials company Brooklinen
– $500 gift card for Italian shoemaker Velasca
– 1 bespoke suit from Italian suit-maker Lanieri ($760 value)
– 2 tickets to The Hustle‘s ConCon conference ($550 value)

TERMS: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Purchasing does not improve your chance of winning. Void where prohibited.

modern luxury giveaway

 

See the full list of Styleforum affiliates below

Continue reading →

RSVP for The Proper Kit!

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We’re doing it again. On November 5th, 2016, The Proper Kit will return to Gary’s Loft in New York City, both the Penthouse and 11th floor (28 West 36th St, New York, NY 10018).

For those of you unfamiliar with the idea, this is the yearly trunk show co-hosted by Styleforum and A&H Magazine that unites world-class vendors with you; the friends, fans, and aficionados that make the world of menswear tick.

For those of you who attended last year, you’ll have an idea of what to expect: a group of world-class menswear brands and retailers, setting up shop in a beautiful space that’s devoted solely to you.

Styleforum’s motto has always been “Come for the clothes, stay for the company,” and that’s exactly why you should join us this November. Not only will we have fantastic garments, shoes, and accessories for you to browse, but the real reason you should come is to celebrate our shared passion for style. Some of the best-dressed men on the forum – and in the country – will be visiting; not just forumites, but writers, bloggers, photographers, thinkers, and hobbyists of all strokes. We’ll be discussing our loves (and hates, certainly) over I.W. Harper’s excellent bourbon, some great beer and wine, and tasty food.

 

As with last year, you’ll have to RSVP to reserve a spot. To do that, follow this link and sign up: https://theproperkit.splashthat.com/

Just to tempt you further, here are some of the vendors we’ll have on hand:

Carmina Shoemaker
No Man Walks Alone
Epaulet NY
Vanda Fine Clothing
Hickey Freeman
Kent Wang
Bespoke Dude Eyewear
Beckett & Robb
The ShoeHealer
L’Arte Nascosta
Lanieri
Yellowhook
Pierpont Leather
Founders Footwear

Be sure to follow The Proper Kit to stay on top of event updates:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theproperkit/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theproperkit/

Styleforum’s Favorite Brands, Pt. 2

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Styleforum has a lot of “favorite” brands. Last week, we covered a small selection of standouts, and this week we’re taking a look at a few more of the most popular houses and designers on the forum. They wax and wane in popularity over the course of months or years, and because of the diversity of our members these brands range from the rigidly conservative to the breathtakingly avant garde. Although this isn’t a complete list, it does capture a snapshot of some up-and-comers alongside a number of old standbys. Let’s take a look at a second set of Styleforum’s favorite brands, and what they say about us – the people who love to wear them.

 

Blue Blue Japan

Styleforum's favorite brands: blue blue japan

The Dream: You live a simple but fulfilled life of meditative tranquility. You’re content with everything you own, and enjoy the simple pleasures of morning coffee and quiet walks in the woods. You don’t pay attention to what you wear, because to do so would be an unnecessary source of anxiety, and it all looks great anyway.

The Reality: You’ve completely lost all self-control, and you can’t keep yourself from buying yet another indigo-dyed bathrobe even though your closet is already full of identical items of blue clothing. Your friends are not pleased that you leave blue stains all over their walls, furniture, and pets.

 

 

Camoshita

styleforum's favorite brands: camoshita

Photo: No Man Walks Alone

The Dream: You’re a modern style icon; a living throwback to the halcyon days of movie-stardom and low-key Hollywood glamour. Your tastes are unique, your interests eclectic, and every time you post on Instagram a fashion subculture is born.

The Reality: You’ll never be Yasuto Kamoshita.

Drake’s

Photo: Drake's

Photo: Drake’s

The Dream: Everything you own is of the highest quality, including the meticulously-reconstructed Jaguar you drive as though it’s brand new. Everyone knows your name and smiles at you, and you often hold court at hotel bars. Your routine is such that your job gives you as much pleasure as your days off, which you spend shooting skeet, exploring dingy side-street markets, or restoring antique furniture.

The Reality: You collect interesting pocket squares because they are the only source of color, whimsy, and fantasy in the crushing grind that is your grim, quotidian existence.

Dries van Noten

Styleforum's Favorite Brands: Dries van Noten

Photo: Roden Gray

The Dream: You live on a fantastical, rambling estate that would make Tim Burton jealous, where you throw whimsical garden masquerades for your group of very close international friends, none of whom care about fashion but all of whom have innately good taste. Your house is decorated with art you personally purchased on every continent.

The Reality: Dries van Noten doesn’t fit you. It never fits you. Why doesn’t it fit you? If it fit you, you’d wear Dries van Noten exclusively. You think about wearing Dries van Noten so much that it’s as if you only wear Dries van Noten. Except you don’t, because Dries van Noten doesn’t fit you.

Edward Green

styleforum's favorite brands: edward green

Photo: @RogerP

The Dream: All of the exquisite leather goods found in your manor home are of matching shades; this was unintentional but the results are pleasant. Once yearly, you bring your collection of shoes and a bottle of fine scotch to an aged man in a dark, wooded basement room. He wears an apron and grunts approvingly, then cleans your shoes for you while you sip whiskey and talk about the old days when everything was made to impeccable standards. Not once has he remarked on the several newspaper articles that are written about you every year, which you appreciate.

The Reality: No one, not even once, has ever given your shoes so much as a second glance.

Isaia

styleforum's favorite brands: Isaia

Photo: Isaia

The Dream: You travel between your various vacation homes and yacht in a limousine full of half-naked men and women. You rarely wear a tie. Wherever you go, there is a glass of champagne waiting for you.

The Reality: Everyone you know is desperately sick of seeing your chest hair, but are still hoping it’s just a phase. Your doctor says you should drink less.

Maison Margiela

styleforum's favorite brands: maison margiela

Photo: Maison Martin Margiela S/S2010

The Dream: Your wardrobe is a fashion collector’s wet dream, and you own every archival piece worth owning. No one ever comments on your wardrobe, which you prefer – it lets you feel silently superior to everyone around you. Sometimes you’re stopped on the street by fashion photographers who are in the know, but you refuse to have your picture taken.

The Reality: You bought your first pair of sneakers after hearing “Margiela” in a rap lyric; now you talk about how Margiela was only good “When Margiela was there,” even though you have no idea when that was or how to pronounce Margiela.

Ring Jacket

Styleforum's favorite brands: ring jacket

Photo: Alex Scharf

The Dream: You spend your time jetting back and forth between New York and Tokyo, writing articles for men’s interest magazines in multiple languages the world over. Every coffee shop you go to knows your “usual,” even the ones you’ve never been to before. You still read newspapers that are made out of paper.

The Reality: You know, in your heart of hearts, that you are a size 40 – but the tailor at the dry-cleaner in the strip mall is getting really sick of sewing buttons back on your jackets.

Rick Owens

Styleforum's favorite brands: rick owens

Photo: Matthew Stone for Business of Fashion

The Dream: You live very simply in a very expensive flat in a cosmopolitan city, where you listen to experimental noise rock and melodic growling on speakers made of sculpted concrete. You wear one of a simple assortment of silk t-shirts every day, all of which are just sheer enough that unsuspecting bystanders are treated to a tasty view of your rock-hard abs. You collect rare architecture magazines and ultra-modern sex toys.

The Reality: “Working out is modern couture,” you say over and over under your breath as you ride your bicycle through your suburban neighborhood, hoping the over-long DRKSHDW tag in your shorts doesn’t get caught in the chain. Your dunks don’t fit on the pedals.

 

 

Saint Laurent Paris

Styleforum's favorite brands: saint Laurent Paris

Photo: Saint Laurent Paris

The Dream: Your industrial-chic studio apartment is full of collectable vinyl and artsy black-and-white photography, all of which has been signed by the artist. No one knows what you do for a living, and you’d be hard-pressed to explain it. Your famous musician friends regularly ask for your opinion on their beats, and every weekend you go to house parties played by bigger names than most festivals.

The Reality: You desperately wish Hedi had designed looser jeans, because you’re starting to lose feeling in your feet.