Fashion Director’s Picks: Capsule
A bipolar trek from my house in Harlem all the way down to Basketball City, the Capsule trade show is always worth the trip. Filled with some of the most innovative brands from established and emerging global fashion hubs like London, Paris, Seoul, Copenhagen and Brooklyn, Capsule’s the cool kids’ camp.
Sieg
Established more than 20 years ago in Korea, Sieg is the headlining menswear brand from the publicly traded Korean apparel company Shinwon (who also franchises Brioni). The garments are exceptionally well made in luxury fabrics and the line is strong across all categories. Retail prices range from $150 to $1,100.
Giles & Brother
This collection of cuffs and rings in brass and sterling silver from New York-based brother and sister Philip and Giles are appearing on the wrists and fingers of a not insignificant number of people I know, myself included. The industrial aesthetic and the engraving are engaging, and with retail prices ranging from $70 to $300, the pieces are accessible.
Soludos
Taking espadrilles to an elevated place, Soludos’ grey suede smoking slipper-inspired pair are outstanding. Leather and pops of neon color round out this collection of summer essentials. Prices range from $40 to $110.
Stance
The hosiery talk of the town, Stance is a California-based sock company inspired by the skate industry. With made in the USA offerings as well as socks from overseas, Stance retails from $10 to $40.
Matthew Miller
This seventh collection from London-based designer Matthew Miller is his strongest yet. Raised up through the ranks of Fashion East and NewGen, Miller’s upscale utilitarian approach is well realized, mixing tailored pieces with sportswear. Retail prices range from $110 to $1,600, currently available at Dover Street Market and Barney’s.
Cmmn Swdn
Central Saint Martins alumni, this couple’s FW15 collection is their sixth. Blending sportswear with tailored clothing and athletic wear, the collection is hybrid with a progressive aesthetic. Retail prices range from $110 to $1,800, and the collection is available at Harvey Nicks in London, and men’s specialty stores.
Berthold
Raimund Berthold, another Central Saint Martins alum, worked in New York at London Fog back in that brand’s heyday. Now with his own London-based collection, the Austrian native presents a collection rooted in oversized pieces like a standout cape. Retail prices range from $160 to $1,900.
Alder New York
With a line of apparel and apothecary offerings, this Brooklyn-based brand was formed in 2011 by two Pratt alumni, David J. Krause and Nina Zilka. The clothing is well made in great fabrications, with a focus on comfort and fit, retailing from $198 to $845.
Il Bussetto
Italian leather goods brand Il Bussetto was established in 2004, using traditional manufacturing techniques to create wallets, coin purses, passport holders and iPhone cases in stunning colors. From $50 to $600.
Gloverall
British outerwear brand Gloverall is a heritage brand, founded in 1951, although recently it has upped the volume significantly. Duffle coats in both British and Italian fabrics, complete with finishing touches like varnished wood toggles and jute rope fastenings are this brand’s core, but they’ve recently introduced knitwear and accessories. Prices $50 to $550.
Parker Dusseau
Designed and manufactured in San Francisco, this brand produces shirts and tailored clothing in perfomance fabrics. $145 to $185.
Tourne De Transmission
Founded in 2012, Tourne De Transmission is a high-concept brand combining casual sportswear and tailored clothing. Available at International Playground and Hypebeast, $80 to $850.
Soulland
Always a personal favorite, the Danish brand’s Scandinavian sensibilities are rooted in progressive design, but never taking themselves too seriously. $80 to $950.
Tsovet
Based in SoCal and founded five years ago, this elegant watch brand offers both Swiss and Japanese movements at affordable prices, $175 to $420, currently sold at Barney’s, American Rag and Steven Alan.
