Attn: New Pierrepont Hicks S/S 2010 Styles

Blogosphere darlings and husband wife duo Pierrepont Hicks have just added some new styles to their already strong S/S 2010 cache of made in the USA neckwear.  The new selections are the perfect kind of neckwear for this time of year - bold patterns done in 100% cotton.  I was lucky enough to get my hands on The Skeet Shooter because Kat (Ms. PPH) foolishly thinks I am important and at 3" it really is the perfect width for both work and the weekend, though PPH's first ever silk formal piece is probably best left to the galas.  The bows are trimmed up as well to avoid the disastrous clown bow syndrome you often see on guys trying way too hard for their own good.  All the new styles are either up for sale or pre-order now so act quick.  Judging from the reception of their first collection and the limited runs this stuff will be gone before you can adjust your four-in-hand.  For more info on Pierrepont Hicks, check out this piece I did back in November - it might have actually been their first press which, if true, is something I am very proud of.

-L.A.S

Throwin' Bows

[Pictured: Recently snagged Epaulet black watch bow tie x Black Fleece club collar oxford.]

Bow ties have made quite the impression recently.  While some may view the neckwear as "quirky", "irrelevant" or inherently southern, I really don't see this as any reason to be up in arms.  In my eyes the bow tie is nothing more than a simple way to liven things up.  Any dandy will agree that the bow tie makes an instant statement and all guys should have at least a few in their arsenal to break out during formal occasions or otherwise.  The bow tie is not just reserved for proms and weddings, but instead it's a great alternative that when worn correctly can really pull an outfit together.  In these colder months, a heavier fabric bow tie combined with an oxford and jeans makes a great look even for a simple night out.

As with anything else, you want to keep your bow tie slim and simple.  I would stay away from any gaudy prints or massive widths so that the bow tie doesn't overpower the rest of what you have going on.  The bow tie on its own is going to be an attention drawer, which is a good thing, so there is no need to go overboard.  Don't buy a pre-tied version as they are much easier to tie than others will probably suggest, not to mention when you do it yourself you can "mess" it up for a little disheveled elegance.  There are a ton of great bow ties available (a little more on that tomorrow) and here are some of my current favorites...

Pierrepont Hicks Fergus...$59.00

Fine and Dandy Shop Burgundy Striped Houndstooth...$39.00

Epaulet Houndstooth...$45.00

-L.A.S

People Who Are Doing Things Right: Pierrepont Hicks

If you follow me at all on Twitter you'll know that I've been championing a few smaller, upstart brands that I think people should know about.  Let's be honest, "people who are doing things right" are much more worthy of your hard earned dollars.  Pierrepont Hicks is a relatively new brand making men's neckwear who falls into this very category.

Mac and Kat are a husband and wife team from Minnesota who run Pierrepont Hicks.  Kate has experience at both Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein, among other noted brands, and Mac's background is in real estate development and construction.  The birth of their daughter signaled a new direction for the couple and they formed Pierrepont Hicks.  Kat designs and Mac crunches the numbers, and together they have created some of the coolest neckwear I have seen in a while.  Just forward thinking enough, while still taking cues from the classics, these ties and bowties are just perfectly bold so you stand out.  The collection is something that I cosign 100%.  To top it all off, their ties are made right here in America, in the NY garment district, a place I know and love.  Mac is a great guy and is always looking to chat with customers and talk about his ties.  Check out the website here, follow them on twitter here, and be sure to check out the digital lookbook as it's really a treat.  Three cheers to Mac and Kat, Pierrepont Hicks and people who are doing things right.

-L.A.S