Getting Up To Speed

My apologies for being even more off the grid than usual - sorry if that comes off kinda like an absent father apologizing for missing another birthday.  Besides being kinda busy, I was abroad for a little R&R and I didn't really have time for the information super highway, not that I really wanted to.  Regardless, excuses are excuses.  Here has been what's going.

-The Chinese Democracy of webshops (yes, shots fired at Dr. Dre) is finally online.  Instead of heaping loads of praise on Sid in yet another Sart Inc post I feel it more apropos to say something about the selection of goods in this online shop.  Everything here, from top to bottom, is pretty much essential to a well dressed man's wardrobe.  Assuming you never needed to wear a sportcoat (which, I guess, some of you don't) everything here would create a foundation that I'm not sure any other single retail outlet can provide.  Especially, when you consider there is not anything unnecessary, in terms of apparel, also up for grabs.  At the end of the day, that's really the highest compliment I can pay any brand.

-I guess I now blog in a world where I am no longer the first dude you can complain to about wasting precious posts on Boglioli's newest gear.

-Right, right, so I was in Italy (not bragging, swearsies).  My itinerary was fuller than the belly of a tourist drinking gypsy beers on The Spanish Steps, but I did do some sartorial things.  I didn't really have time time to shop, but I did hit up Battistoni.

“Let me buy you a jacket.  When we get to Rome, there’s a great place - Battistoni.  Battistoni [speaking with an Italian accent].” - Dickie Greenleaf to Tom Ripley

“I’ve been watching The Talented Mr. Ripley a lot lately because I’ve been working on a spring concept called ‘Hello Ravello.’ As I walked down the Via Condotti, I heard Dickie Greenleaf’s voice in my head singing the praises of Battistoni. The 62 year old shop is tucked away through the cortile of a palazzo half way down said street. Its continued success, despite its discreet location speaks volumes about the cut and quality of their product. No doubt Dickie would still be a frequent customer.” - Kenny, who also provided the lovely image above

Kenny, being the good friend that he is, hit me with a few recs in regards to shopping Roma.  Despite my schedule the one shop I was NOT going to miss was Battistoni.  I mean, THE TALENTED MR. RIPLEY!  DICKIE FUCKING GREENLEAF!

I walked away with a couple of beautiful silk pocket squares and could not have been more pleased with the entire experience.  The staff was extremely helpful, the goods (both private label and otherwise) we’re 100% in line with my personal stylistic leanings, and despite not knowing much English a dude still went out of his way to compliment me on my dad jeans.

-And, finally, after spending time in the country most influencing menswear bloggers right now I had to comment on Hogan footwear.

While in Italy the most popular men's footwear option that I saw was Hogan footwear, aside from suede driving mocs worn without socks of course.  Even though many of us are hopping on, or helping navigate, the unconstructed, cutaway collar, 2” cuff bandwagon, I still sincerely doubt we are ever going to bring these stateside.  Though, I would be lying if I said I didn’t see a dude absolutely killing it in some Interactive’s paired with a kit normally reserved for double monks.  Sketchers for the sprezz set?  I’ll let you figure that our for yourself.

-L.A.S

What's New With Sid?

There's been a ton of recent developments for one of the best men's shops in the country.  First up, let's talk about the launch of Sid Mashburn's highly anticipated webstore, which happens on June 22.  Sid recently sat down with Bearings to talk a little about that (scroll down):

"Since October 2007, men have been coming to Atlanta to experience one of the country’s best haberdasheries: a highly edited collection complemented by an old-school priority on service. Starting Wednesday, June 22 gentlemen (and ladies) will have a little easier access to Sid Mashburn (and Ann Mashburn) with the launch of their e-commerce sites. We got an update from Sid on his launch and what makes him tick.

 
You've set a new standard in men's attire, what can we expect from your online shop?
 

We are really trying to re-establish some old standards that I feel have been forgotten or swept up into being "updated." We want to offer our online customer a resource that provides the best ingredients (fabrics, buttons, linings) from all over the world, the best quality – we stand behind our products 100%, and a fit that is not at all trendy but, rather, timeless & international – tailored but not skinny fit.
 
What types of items will be available on the site?
 

For men, we will be offering: dress shirts, sport shirts, trousers, denim, shorts & swim, footwear, belts & buckles and grooming tools.
 
When visiting your store it's clear that you've cultivated a unique experience, not just a purchasing process. How will you apply this approach online?
 

We're analog in our approach – we're like the liner notes on an album. Our new site will always continue to evolve with customer usage & feedback.
 
Your influence can be seen on the street and in other brands, what do you hope your legacy will be?
 

That we care about every person that crosses our paths – we put our customers first and take great care of people.
 
You're a man of depth and purpose; how do you find balance in life and keep everything in perspective?

My balance comes by the grace of God, a wonderful family, my wife and five girls, and a great job that doesn't at all feel like work. We are very blessed by the people that work with us and by the people that continue to come into our shops, trusting us to clothe & care for them."

You probably noticed that Sid Mashburn will not be selling tailored clothing online, which makes sense for a shop so tuned into the idea of being a destination.  It is a little unfortunate because Sid's new in house suiting line sounds amazing. My buddy DC who also acts as Sart Inc’s defacto “man on the street” recently made his, what seems like, monthly trip to Sid Mashburn and hit me with some details regarding Sid’s new in house line of suiting:

“So I don’t think it will be on the site, but the Sid branded suit was starting to roll in. Apparently it's been in the works for a couple years and it’s perfect - Italian made, Loro Piana fabric, ticket-pocket, 2 button/dual vent, canvas’d, soft-shoulder and partial hand-finishing…all for $995! Yes, $995 not $1995.  There were a few in stock and more coming this week…he’s doing grey and navy wool and tan and navy cotton.  It’s really light-weight…even a bit more-so than my Caruso sportcoat.”

-L.A.S

Attn: Sid Mashburn New Arrivals

Sid Mashburn has been quietly adding new items to their Taigan stock and this is as good of a reason as any to finally register your ass with these guys - at the very least you can start planning ahead for that eventually field trip to Atlanta.  The highlights for me include one of the most impressive chambray shirts of recent memory and a diesel pair of cap-toe, pebble grain boots that are insanely versatile for this time of year.  By this point I'm sure we're all aware how well made Sid's gear is, but for those of you who need a refreshed, the shirts are made in the U.S.A. and the shoes are made in England - the smallest amount of effort will even let you know exactly what manufacturers are involved.   Head on over to Taigan when you get a chance and be sure to scope the smaller ticket items as well (ties, pocket knife, clothing brushes, etc.) since they often make the best gifts this time of year.

-L.A.S

A Look Inside Sid Mashburn

Questionable post title aside, join Chad Temples as he takes us on a quick tour of one of the best men's stores in the country.  In related news, the Apolis guys stopped by Sid's as well and took some incredible shots for their travel journal.


Sid Mashburn, Take 1 from Chad Temples on Vimeo.

-L.A.S

Today's Headlines

Allen Edmonds Gets That Paper, Son

The good folks over at Allen Edmonds just got hooked up courtesy of the great state of Wisconsin to the tune of a $1.5 million Community Development Block Grant Economic Development loan.

Sid Mashburn's Face Time in Paste

"The Best of What's Next: Fashion Designer" talks about his plans for the future. Spoiler alert - he wants to bring the shop to new cities.

Marc McNairy 

Tres Bien has a little fun at their good friend's expense.

Bastin Tweets

The extremely talented and always hilarious Gant Rugger Head Designer hits Twitter.

-L.A.S

Attn: Sid Mashburn "Webstore"

While Sid has yet to set up his own official webstore you can buy the majority of his shop's stock (sorry, no tailored gear) online via Taigan.  You need to register of course, but it's free and if you don't find yourself in Hotlanta all that often this may be your best chance to finally cop some of Sid's lust worthy gear.  It's actually more of an online proxy/webstore/3rd party liaison in that you pick the item you want and then request your size.  I've never ordered from Taigan, though that will change quite soon, so I'm not sure what the deal is when you want an item or size that isn't in stock and the overall customer service in general.  Be sure to also check out some of the neat videos posted on the site that highlight the dopest of the dopest gear.  Time to start saving up for those $595 dub monks.

-L.A.S

Stumbled Across: The Man Of The House

Whilst browsing the information superhighway I stumbled across this interesting profile on Sid Mashburn and his family courtesy of what appears to be some online women's magazine.  Regardless, it does a wonderful job breaking down Sid's unique career path and gives the reader a quick peek into his personal life.  While you patiently wait for some superfan to draft up a Wikipedia page take a look.

-L.A.S

Meet Pete

Shea Parton of Apolis Activism wrote a nice little profile on Peter Samuelson, his close friend and Store Manager of Sid Mashburn.  The piece briefly touches on Pete's upbringing and gives you a look into why he is the manager of one of the best men's shops in the country, if not the world.  And to top it all off there are a few great photos of the shop.

-L.A.S

Father's Day At Sid Mashburn

Wondering what to get your pops for Father's Day?  Sid Mashburn has some ideas for you.  While it's a bold move to get your dad some white bucks or swim trucks, Sid has some pretty great suggestions here.  If your dad is like mine he likes nice things, but isn't the kind of guy to go out and buy them for himself.  And isn't that the best kind of gift anyway?  The kind someone wouldn't get themselves?  Anyhow, if you live in Atlanta swing by or if you don't give 'em a ring.  Either way, Father's Day at Sid Mashburn is so good you might just have to up your bid on that kid you've been scoping on eBay.

-L.A.S

Hickey Ties And The Sid Masburn Effect

Sid Mashburn has become the gold standard for men's haberdashers due mostly in part to his understanding of style.  This ability to recognize what's classic, while at the same time translating that to the modern man has played a huge part in his assent to the best in the business.  One of the elements Sid has really pushed is the tie twist, in which the smaller, more narrow end of the tie doesn't lay flush with the wider end.  This nonchalant move creates a casual attitude often described as "sprezzatura".  It's surely not for everyone, but for the guy that likes to wear neckwear on his day off it is a nice way to keep things decidely less stuffy.  Check out examples of Sid and my man Conor rocking this below.

When browsing the sale items at Hickey earlier today I came across these really cool knit ties on sale for a cool $50 and immediately thought how great they would look twisted.  With stripes on the narrow end they could be worn normal for a standard knit tie look or pulled out for a real punch.  I've always believed that knit ties lend themselves to the Italian sprezzatura look much more so than your standard tie so this option, presumably designed by Aaron Levine, really hits the mark without hurting that wallet of yours.  It's the weekend people, let's get a little twisted.

-L.A.S

The Pilgrimage, The Conundrum

In just about a week I will be heading to Savannah for a few days on business.  I am currently in the process of number crunching and schedule shuffling to determine if I will be able to make my pilgrimage to Mecca during that time (no offense to my readers of the Muslim persuasion).  Not only am I a huge fan of everything Sid's doing and stands for, but Ryan's recent fan poll confirmed that I need to get by ass back down to ATL asap.  They also have full nude strip clubs that serve alcohol, not that I'm into that sorta thing of course.   I'll let you guys know what happens. Until then, let's stare at some pictures courtesy of Fred.

-L.A.S

Tomato Soup

So it's more or less spring which means gingham, madras, seersucker and all the crazy patterns that come with them, but right now I am really feeling for solid red, tomato even.  It's not that red is my favorite color or anything like that (I mean, what grown man really has a favorite color or a style blog for that matter?), I just find myself strangely drawn to its boldness (some of those same grown men would call this "pop").  The two best instances of this I have seen come from the usual suspects - Steven Alan and Sid Mashburn.  Both of these guys make a killer shirt and while I haven't had the pleasure of owning a Mashburn original yet (that will be changing soon) I will vouch for Steven Alan's reverse seamers until I am blue in the face.  These shirts represent the same bold aesthetic equally, but are different in some respects.  Steven's shirt is a bold shade of red with his patented reverse seam, while Sid's is listed as a tomato red and comes with a great flap pocket.  As expected both are as awesome as they are "expensive", but when you think about it you only really need one shirt like this for your wardrobe so it's kinda like an investment - hey, whatever helps you sleep at night, right?  Try the shirt du jour.

-L.A.S

Prep Yourself For S/S

An oldie, but a goodie - this right here is 3 minutes of seriously sound advice from Mr. Sid Mashburn himself.  I agree with everything said here especially the whole "showing just the right amount of ankle this time of year" ethos.  Also, if you've just come into some cash you should really check out Sid's stuff because it is some of the most handsome gear around.  With my own birthday coming up just around the corner I am most definitely going to treat myself to a shirt or two - really, really amazing stuff.



-L.A.S

Lusting After: Sid Mashburn S/S Shirting

It looks as if Sid's got some new shirts online now.  Are they expensive? Yes.  Are they awesome? Hell yes. Can you buy them online? Nope. Here's to hoping you either live in Hotlanta or plan on visiting soon (and to think you thought a proxy was only for Japan).  The tomato flap pocket button down and both popovers are stellar.

-L.A.S

[Editor's Note: E-commerce is on its way, but until then call 404-350-7135.]

Lusting After: Sid Mashburn Silk Tartan Ties

[Pictured: Sid Mashburn silk tartan ties available at Sid Mashburn in Atlanta, Georgia for $95.00.]

I probably could have named this post "Lusting After: Everything Sid Mashburn", but as I was getting dressed for my company's Christmas party I found myself wishing I had a new tartan tie to pair with a crisp white oxford so I'm keeping this specific.  I ended up going with something completely different, but that didn't stop me from adding a new tartan tie to the top of my must get list.  Sid's ties are spectacular.  Indian silk is woven into authentic Scottish tartans and each tie is hand cut, handmade and individually inspected.  That's a lot more attention than most ties get and the end result is a piece of classic neckwear that adds the perfect amount of punch to any fit.  I don't normally even look at frayed ties and I don't think I'll ever buy any, but Sid's are the only passable ones I've ever seen.  Even Sid can take something I normally would never think about owning and at least make me think twice.  My only knock against Sid is the absence of  an online shop, but when you have such an amazing brick and mortar shop I guess you want people to actually stop by.  Looks like I'll be roadtripping to ATL a lot sooner than I thought. Who's with me?

-L.A.S

Double Monks Done Right

I've been lamenting the loss of a pair of Ralph Lauren double monk shoes (seen above) on Gilt since Wednesday and if you follow me on Twitter you've heard me soliciting recommendations for an affordable pair.  The RL's were there for the taking and I dropped the ball.  Double monk shoes are possible the most elegant, wonderful shoes a guy can own, but they are usually price out of what I'm willing to spend.  Not to mention they are a rare style so it's not everyday I can get my hands on a pair.  Since I'm currently still in mourning, I figured I'd throw up some examples of double monks done right (both the shoes themselves and guys wearing them).  Shed a tear with me as we bring in the weekend.

As with most things, Sid Mashburn does it better than anyone else.  At the moment I don't happen to have 59,500 pennies laying around to spend on shoes so I guess these will have to wait.  Apparently this shoe requires 200 seperate "operations" to make, which is about 199 more than any other shoe I currently own.

The British brand Loake makes a pretty good double monk model known as the Blackfriar.  It's available for around $240, and is looking like my most viable option.  My man David, who is Astor & Black's rep. down in Charlotte (and "the south" for that matter), apparently has these in stock so I have to swing by the showroom soon and get up close and personal with these.

As far as wearing a double monk is concerned, a confidence with one's self is pretty necessary.  These are not your everyday shoes and people will probably have some questions (most likely of the "where the hell did you get those shoes" variety).  Even though the double monk is a pretty dressy shoe, it can be worn with chinos or jeans to add a real punch to your everyday garb.  I mean, in my eyes, if you're going to spend at least 300 bucks you want to wear these as much as possible.  European men know what's up when it comes to double monks and should be your go to inspiration when it comes to making them work on a day to day basis.  Check out these pics from The Sartorialist...

-L.A.S