ROUND THE WORLD #9. SHADES OF GREY.
January 31, 2010
Location: London, England
Temperature: 2°C - 5°C
Weather: Pantone Cool Grey 3
Stephen Mann. I've really admired Stephen's work over the last year or so, in i-D and The New Order magazines. I'll be honest, I first noticed him in various WDYWT threads across the internet a while back, and actually wondered back then if he would make a good stylist. In the end, he accomplished that and more, working with some very respectable names in our industry - including Stussy UK, Aitor, Arc'teryx, and more. It's really great to see people like Stephen carving out a path for themselves in this industry, coming from a consumer background to working for the brands he once admired on the shelves. Sometimes I think dedicated consumers have the best eye for brands and can exhibit great understanding of product and design, moreso than even those working in the industry itself. Thanks for hanging out and the great conversation Stephen.
Stephen took us to his friend Steve's store PRESENT out in Shoreditch. Opened alongside Duffer of St George alumni and designer Eddie Pendergast, this expansive retail space has a rather wide menswear brand selection, from Tricker's to ALIFE to BBC to a full selection of Cire Trudon scented candles. The front of the store also features a small coffee/espresso corner, manned by world champion baristas - a nice touch and welcome break from the blustery rain and cold on that day. Judging from how many people had told us of this space before we went there, I'd say it's gained a formidable following.
Present
140 Shoreditch High Street, London
020 7033 0500
We took a quick visit to the Gimme 5 showroom where Stephen showed us through the FW10 Arc'teryx Veilance collection. Veilance is a recently launched arm of the Arc'teryx outdoor performance company, which takes its performance technology and product design philosophy and applies it to a fashion and style element for a more everyday environment, without compromising its core value of putting forward high performance, functional products first. Amazing concept, considering that Arc'teryx is arguably one of the world's leading outdoor brands, and a personal favourite of mine - I have a couple of Arc' jackets in my wardrobe. Unlike other companies who try to mesh "outdoor inspiration" with fashion pieces, this design is derived from an actual world-leading outdoor performance leader. I had heard of Veilance previously, but never had the chance to see a full collection in person - incredible. Look for more soon.
We caught up with Tommy again in the evening for a quick snack and cup of tea at the Nordic bakery. Tommy also took us to see Liberty, another iconic London establishment, housed in a beautiful Tudor building on Regent Street. She also gave us this great goodie package before we left - packed with some of her favourite London snacks. So good - you know the way to our hearts. Thank you Tommy!
Onward, to the next destination. Thank you London.
