Forum/The Substance of Style/FW 2017/18
MAKE AN ENTRANCE
IN FALL’S BEST FASHIONS INSIDE JOB
A LOOK AT ETON’S CUTTING-EDGE PRODUCTION
SMART DRESSING
FOR WORK AND WEEKENDS
Official menswear of the LA Galaxy Jelle Van Damme / Ariel Lassiter / Gyasi Zardes / Brian Rowe
#S amxGalaxy
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Rodes
Made to Measure
502-753-RODES (7633) rodes.com 4938 Brownsboro Road, Louisville, KY 40222
PUBLISHER
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Stuart Nifoussi
5 Fall Icons
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Karen Alberg Grossman MANAGING EDITOR
Jillian LaRochelle DESIGN DIRECTOR
Hans Gschliesser
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PROJECT MANAGER
Travel: Hit the Road
Lisa Menghi DESIGNER
Jean-Nicole Venditti
FEATURES 18 22 24 44 46
Employees: Oh “Sew” Special! Profile: Eton Made to Measure: Have it Your Way Gifts: Ultimate Luxuries Wines: Futures Tense
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Michelle Brown CONCEPT DIRECTOR
Andrew Mitchell DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION
Peg Eadie DIRECTOR OF PREPRESS
John Frascone
FASHION 16 26 30 38
What’s New Fabrics: Commanding Performance Dressing Up, Dressing Down 5 Fall Icons
DEPARTMENTS 4 6 12 14 20 48 52 54 56
Welcome Letter R World Events Ask Susan Ask Jim The Fashion Forum Travel: Hit the Road Wheels: Driving Nostalgia At Your Service End Page: Get Smart
APPAREL FORUM Andrisen Morton DENVER, CO Garys NEWPORT BEACH, CA Hubert White MINNEAPOLIS, MN Kilgore Trout CLEVELAND, OH Larrimor’s PITTSBURGH, PA Malouf’s LUBBOCK/SOUTHLAKE, TX Marios PORTLAND, OR / SEATTLE, WA Mitchells WESTPORT, CT / HUNTINGTON, NY Mitchells/Richards GREENWICH, CT Oak Hall MEMPHIS, TN Rodes LOUISVILLE, KY Rubensteins NEW ORLEANS, LA Stanley Korshak DALLAS, TX Wilkes Bashford SAN FRAN/PALO ALTO, CA
FASHION FORUM MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED IN 11 REGIONAL EDITIONS FOR
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Get Smart
MEMBER STORES OF THE APPAREL FORUM. ©2017 FASHION FORUM MAGAZINE, A UBM® PUBLICATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. UBM AMERICAS, 2 PENN PLAZA, FLOOR 15, NEW YORK, NY 10121. THE PUBLISHERS ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ADVERTISERS’ CLAIMS, UNSOLICITED MANUSCRIPTS OR OTHER MATERIALS. NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHERS. VOLUME 20, ISSUE 2. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.
T H E S H I R T M A K E R S I N C E 19 2 8
WELCOME
PASSION forFASHION
Fall 2017 ushers in another great season of tactile, fun clothing for him and for her. Featured throughout this edition of our magazine are the best clothes from the greatest designers in the world. But what are great clothes without great people? Everyone at Rodes, from our talented tailors to buyers and sales staff, shares the same passion to be the best. In our business, like in a hand-crafted garment, every detail is crucial. So while you enjoy the awesome fashions on the pages that follow, please remember that we could not provide such exceptional garments and incomparable services if not for our diverse, talented team of professionals. We are blessed to be part of such a great team!
See you around town, Sue and Howard Vogt
R WORLD
DERBY DIVAS The 11th-annual Derby Divas event was held in Rodes in April. Diva honoree Betsy Barefoot knocked it out of the park as she shared her breast cancer journey, which began at the age of 25. Her story transcended genders and generations; the women in the audience felt for her as moms or sisters and the male “divas� as fathers and brothers. There was a silence that we have never heard before as Betsy reminded us that breast cancer holds no boundaries with respect to gender or age. Derby Divas and the Norton Cancer Institute breast health program were privileged to be recipients of a donation from Churchill Downs and become part of the Survivors Parade on Oaks Day.
SAVE THE DATE 2018 Derby Divas April 19th
R WORLD
HASPEL SEERSUCKER SOCIAL Rodes hosted a “Seersucker Social” with familyowned American men’s brand Haspel in April. Haspel president/CEO Laurie Haspel and EVP/managing director Will Swillie were on hand to reintroduce the line at Rodes For Him.
FAHERTY BRAND BEACH HOUSE Hip beach brand Faherty brought their pop-up “mobile beach house” to Louisville in May for a spring/summer trunk show at Rodes For Him. What’s better than Faherty, food and fun in The Rodes Building parking lot?
R WORLD
AN EVENING OF FASHION TO HONOR SUG SCHUSTERMAN Patrons enjoyed an evening of food, wine and fashions, featuring Derby season looks from Lordes Chavez with styling by Joseph's Salon. We also honored Sug Schusterman, a longtime Kentucky Derby Museum supporter, board member and gala chair.
KMAC COUTURE Main Street in downtown Louisville turned into a fashion runway when the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft hosted its annual KMAC Couture fashion show in April. Models wore pieces deemed “wearable art,” and guests dressed in white to represent the artists’ blank canvases.
Seasonal Calendar of
EVENTS SEPTEMBER 7TH
OCTOBER 26TH & 27TH
SAMUELSOHN FALL TRUNK SHOW
MULTI-VENDOR CONTEMPORARY EVENT: - LAGI NADEAU FALL & SPRING 2018 - VINCE FALL & PRE-SPRING - WGACA VINTAGE HANDBAGS, FEATURING CHANEL, LOUIS VUITTON, GUCCI & OTHERS NATURA BISSÉ FACIAL EVENT
SEPTEMBER 7TH & 8TH
MEASURE UP SHIRT SHOW SEPTEMBER 21ST – 23RD
LAFAYETTE 148 NY FALL/RESORT TRUNK SHOW SEPTEMBER 28TH – 30TH
CRESCALA FASHION DEVELOPMENT FALL TRUNK SHOW FEATURING THESE DESIGNERS: NHA KHANH, LANDERO, SNIDER, JULIANA BASS, ALLISON MITCHELL, WAI MING & ESSIE ET CIE OCTOBER 4TH & 5TH
CHRISTINE MOORE FALL HAT SHOW FOR BREEDER’S CUP OCTOBER 5TH – 7TH
LOURDES CHAVEZ FALL TRUNK SHOW OCTOBER 12TH & 13TH
CLARA WILLIAMS JEWELRY SHOW OCTOBER 12TH – 14TH
ESCADA AND BASLER SPRING 2018 TRUNK SHOWS OCTOBER 12TH
FUNDRAISER FOR THE NATIONAL STEM CELL FOUNDATION OCTOBER 19TH – 21ST
KINROSS CASHMERE FALL SWEATER SHOW VINCENT PEACH JEWELRY SHOW OCTOBER 19TH & 20TH
HUDSON JEANS SHOWING (HIM & HER) OCTOBER 20TH & 21ST
ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA FALL TRUNK SHOW
OCTOBER 27TH
OXXFORD FALL MADE-TO-MEASURE SHOW OCTOBER 27TH & 28TH
ETON SHIRT EVENT NOVEMBER 2ND
“SIP & SHOP” EVENT TO BENEFIT THE LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA NOVEMBER 3RD & 4TH
ST. JOHN SPRING 2018 TRUNK SHOW NOVEMBER 9TH – 11TH
ORLANDA OLSEN COUTURE JEWELRY SHOW NOVEMBER 10TH
GILDA’S NIGHT @ RODES FUNDRAISER FOR GILDA’S CLUB LOUISVILLE NOVEMBER 16TH – 18TH
ALGO SPRING 2018 TRUNK SHOW NOVEMBER 30TH & DECEMBER 1ST
DONNA DEGNAN SPRING 2018 TRUNK SHOW NOVEMBER 30TH, DECEMBER 2ND
DIOMI FURS AND M&R MODA IN PELLE FIRENZE EXOTIC HANDBAG COLLECTION DECEMBER 2ND
RODES’ CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY CINDY BORDERS JEWELRY SHOW
EXCLUSIVELY AT
VISIT RODES.COM FOR DETAILS!
ASK
Fall 2017 fashion tips for her Italian vendors, Diomi. The coat comes in luscious colors, featuring rain-resistant nylon on one side and warm, elegant fox fur on the other. Roll it, place it in the overhead bin, then shake it out and slip it on when you arrive. Bon voyage!
Cool jeans have been all over my favorite Q: fashion magazines and blogs recently. What should I look for when choosing a new pair? The word basic does not apply to our denim department this year. From rips and raw-edge hems to appliques, novel-
Q:
How do you pack light for a quick-yet-stylish winter getaway?
Packing for a weekend away is always tricky business. I look
ty is what’s new. Washes range from light to dark, and we’ll be carrying fits to flatter everyone, from skinny to straight to boyfriend, full-length and cropped.
for items that are lightweight and can be rolled to take up minimal space in your weekender or carry-on. The best
We offer tons of great styles from a wide variety of vendors—come in and find your new favorite!
travel jersey I’ve found is by Collection Iris, which offers four must-pack items: black jersey pants, jacket, sleeveless shell and long-sleeve shirt. They feel like pajamas on a long
Q:
Which brand at Rodes for Her has something really special to offer this season?
flight—but they look much better! When you arrive at your
We carry many amazing designers—over 40, in fact—so
destination, they can take you from day to night with ease
choosing one is just too difficult! I do love Kobi Halperin
and elegance. (These items are also washable!) A crossbody
and Cinq a Sept. Both of these brands have designers who
bag from Hammitt is the best way to keep all the essentials
recently stepped out on their own after years of designing
on-hand for secure and stylish travel.
for others. The fits and fashions are cutting edge, and both
The perfect wear-anywhere dress comes from Chiara
offer the perfect blouses and date-night tops. But there’s so much more to love! It’s a fabulous year for
Boni, whose bonded jersey flatters the figure and won’t wrinkle; slip into Stuart Weitzman’s microsuede-backed
knitwear in silks and cottons, as well as sweaters. (Why not
boots for a sexy evening outfit. For a bit of fun, I found a
try a great, chunky, long duster that can also be worn as a
new line called Ania out of Germany; it’s high fashion but
coat?) Check out chic dresses from Shoshanna, Black Halo
low maintenance.
and La Petite Robe, as well as trendy sportswear from Luisa
Finally, you have to select the right outerwear that works
Cerano, J’Envie and Donna Degnan. There’s not enough
at both your departure point and your destination. My
space to list them all here, but I promise there are plenty of
choice is the lightweight reversible from one of our new
“toys” in store to play with!
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ASK
Fall 2017 fashion tips for him
Q:
I don’t wear suits too often anymore but would like to buy a few cool sport coats for fall. What specifically do you suggest?
We’d recommend one perfect deconstructed blue blazer (it doesn’t have to be navy; there are various new shades of blue) and one subtle plaid sport coat to pair with casual pants (or jeans) and sneakers. What makes a sport coat modern these days is fine performance fabrics, light canvas construction, interesting details and an attitude of nonchalance. There’s also an ineffable characteristic known as “expression,” which refers to the uncontrived way a tailored garment drapes and hits the body. Other things to note: modern fit is body-skimming but not tight, slightly shorter in the arm and body length but not extreme. Come into the store and we’ll help you figure out which models are most flattering for you.
Q:
Although everyone seems to be doing it, buying clothes online does not feel quite right to me. Am I crazy?
No, you’re not crazy: there’s nothing more satisfying than working in person with a professional personal stylist who knows your taste, your body type and your budget, and can therefore help you look
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your best. But did you know that there are numerous ways you can use technology to enhance your instore shopping experience? You can check out which designers we carry to save time when you arrive in store. You can email with your stylist to ask questions or set up appointments, and they can even send you photos of specific garments or outfit suggestions. Bottom line: the digital support we offer is intended to enhance and improve your in-store shopping experience. Take advantage of it and look better than ever before.
Q:
Sneakers seem to be everywhere, but I think they look ridiculous with suits and sport coats. So what should I wear on my feet?
Sorry to disagree, but we love sneakers worn with suits and sport coats, especially many of the newer styles that are clearly not meant for the gym! That said, there are numerous other nonsneaker options this fall, including chukka boots for an outdoorsy look, burnished leather lace-ups for a dressier look and good oldfashioned loafers for something in between. Another tip: choose neutral shades of brown, which pair perfectly with both navy and gray clothing (and are appropriate with everything but formalwear).
What’s
HAMMITT Hammitt handbags offer effortless style and a playful spirit. The collections are designed for a dynamic lifestyle, in iconic silhouettes with lots of functionality.
NEW
DISCOVER NEW DESIGNERS IN
OUR STORE & NEW COLLECTIONS FROM DESIGNER FAVORITES
LUISA CERANO The fashions of Luisa Cerano use exciting and intelligently chosen colors in combination with clever cuts and elegant materials, resulting in a distinctly feminine brand.
ST. JOHN A new season. A fresh start. Graphic patterns and luxurious fabrics in striking shades of blue and pink take you from day to night effortlessly. Chic, sporty separates make the perfect getaway easy to pack for. 16
LA PETITE ROBE
LOEFFLER RANDALL
Inspired by worldly, sophisticated women, Chiara Boni named her fall collection Grand Hotel. She explained that the pieces are meant for the woman who is an “international globetrotter. A guest of the most prestigious hotels in the world, she travels the globe in style.”
Loeffler Randall creates modern shoes and handbags that are the building blocks of a stellar wardrobe. Its go-to designs will never sit in the closet because they’re a little bit daring, beautifully well made and effortless to wear.
SHOSHANNA Shoshanna Gruss imagined her jet-setting Shoshanna girls perusing spice markets in Indonesia. That explained the fall lineup’s richly textured looks—heavy on embroidered laces and peekaboo eyelets— and its earthy palette of saffrons and fiery reds.
LAFAYETTE 148 NY The Lafayette 148 NY fall collection is a rich, optimistic palette and a mix of textures. Outerwear and underpinnings offer wearable silhouettes that are designed and tailored to fit with ease and effortlessness.
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EMPLOYEES
OH
“SEW” SPECIAL!
Sherron Bennett, David Amaya, Zsuzsanna Lorincz, Bruce Mayberry and Betty Czerwonka
W
BY SUSAN VOGT
hen I have a new vendor visit the store, I always make a point of showing them the heart of Rodes. I punch in the elevator code and head to the basement, passing through our receiving department, where Bill and Charlene are busy unpacking and marking new arrivals with care. Then, we head through the next door into our tailor shop, where I am always so proud to say, "This is where the magic happens!" Think about every garment that comes into our shop: Button holes need to be created and buttons sewn on to every suit. Pants and skirts need to be hemmed, waists need to be brought in (we don't discuss taking them out). Shirts must be fitted for the appropriate arm length. Almost every item we receive and sell will go through our tailoring department to custom fit each customer based on their needs. David, originally from El Salvador, is one of five pro-
fessional tailors/seamstresses. His country does not emphasize higher education, but he was encouraged by his mother and worked under a neighbor down the street who was an Italian suit-maker. David immigrated to this country at the age of 17 and has pursued his craft ever since. He believes his main strength is developing individual relationships so he can deliver high-quality work for each client. One of my favorites is Sherron, who has been with the company for 37 years. The youngest of five, she graduated from Manual High School’s distributive education program where she learned her craft. Her specialty is hemming men's pants, and she boasts her career high is now in the thousands of pairs. Bruce is our finisher. He learned the art of tailoring from the Paducah Vocational Eduacation program. Although he’s officially retired after 37 years, he has remained as our primary presser. Bruce has the ability to roll lapels and not just press them down: a lost art!
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erwonka Betty Cz
Charlene Dunlap
Bill Campbell
Sherron Bennett
David Amaya
Zsuzsanna Lorin cz
Betty is a self-taught entrepreneur. She learned the basics in high-school home-economics class and began doing small alterations out of her home. Betty worked on her own for 14 years before joining the She of Louisville tailoring staff, and later came to Rodes following our merger. Preferring to be in the background, she finds joy in the craft of sewing and gets an “accomplishment high” from completing a project from beginning to end. Zsuzsanna’s first child hood dream was to be a fashion designer and she loved working on wedding gowns. When I work with clients in the fitting room I always defer to her expertise. Her creativity often shows in
how she approaches her job as seamstress. We have observed her taking a size 14 ball gown to a size 4, sewing two dresses together to create one, and adding silk and tulle to a shorter dress to create a gown. The motto on our selling floor is "In Zsuzsanna We Trust!" Her favorite phrase—“We can do that”—inspires us all. The word in that phrase that describes the heart of Rodes is "We.” We’re a team of professionals. We’re a family, and working together we’re at our best. This is what sets us apart. Blending the talents of all those who understand the craft of tailoring and sewing, so our sales associates can shine and perform to give our customers an amazing experience.
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FASHION FORUM
the
READY, SET, SLALOM!
I
f you see someone heading down the slopes this winter on skis like nothing you’ve ever seen before, you’re not hallucinating. Pirelli Motorsport and Blossom, a leader in handmade high-performance skis, have partnered to create a remarkable pair of limitededition skis. They feature the iconic stretched P logo on top, an invisible layer of vibration-dampening rubber inserted by Pirelli into the sandwich construction, a double layer of Titanal for stability, and triaxial fiberglass for perfect torsion. The end result is a ski that provides excellent performance on narrow and sweeping turns due to improved fluidity and accuracy, as well as outstanding stability. —BSL
SPRING FEVER!
A DRIVE FOR GREATNESS
Although the leaves have barely turned, it’s never too soon to think spring! Fresh from the recent Pitti Uomo trade show in Florence and the runways in Milan, here are our top 10 men’s fashion trends for spring ’18:
What could make a Rolls-Royce even more coveted? A collaboration with nine of Great Britain’s most revered musicians on a series of bespoke, limited-edition Wraith cars. Among the artists who are taking part in this extra-special partnership are Ronnie Wood (of the Rolling Stones), Sir Ray Davies (of the Kinks), Dame Shirley Bassey and Giles Martin (son of George Martin, the socalled fifth Beatle). Bear in mind: these one-of-a-kind vehicles are more than beautiful objects or even great investments. Rolls-Royce is donating a portion of each sale to charities selected by the musicians. It’s a win-win-win that should be music to any auto lover’s ears. —BSL
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Happy whimsical prints on shirts and swimwear Variations on the banded collar shirt Shorter, wider trousers; shorts for leisure and business Bold stripes in both suits and sportswear Bucket hats, retro shades, lapel pins, bandanas, crossbody fanny packs 6. Open-knit sweaters in linen and linen blends 7. Modified double-breasted suits and sport coats that can be worn open 8. A return to classic footwear, including tassels, monk straps and loafers 9. Mixing active influences with soft tailoring 10. Lightweight, light-color suits with bold accents —KAG
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Few names carry the same weight in the world of fashion as Cristóbal Balenciaga, even 45 years after his death. A master of construction and design, the legendary Spanish couturier forever changed the clothing that women wear. In Shaping Fashion, now at London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, viewers can gaze upon over 100 pieces crafted by Balenciaga, including iconic ensembles made for Ava Gardner, dresses and hats belonging to socialite Gloria Guinness, and various pieces worn by one of the world's wealthiest women, Mona von Bismarck, along with work by his former protégées (such as André Courrèges and Emanuel Ungaro) and contemporary fashion designers working in the same innovative tradition, from J.W. Anderson to Nicolas Ghesquière. As an added bonus, the exhibition features a collaboration with X-ray artist Nick Veasey and a digital pattern-making project with the London College of Fashion, both of which reveal the hidden details that helped make Balenciaga's work so exceptional. —BSL VICTORIA & ALBERT MUSEUM, LONDON
CECIL BEATON STUDIO ARCHIVE AT SOTHEBY’S
LOOK INTO MY CRISTOBAL
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PROFILE
swedish
STYLE
“I would tell my American friends to consider the fit of everything they wear: not too long, too wide, or too boxy.” — Eton creative director Sebastian Dollinger
The story behind the world’s greatest shirt.
I
t was a difficult time to feed six children during the 1920s Depression. Annie and David Pettersson sat at their kitchen table in Ganghester, Sweden, trying to figure out how to support their family now that the mill was closed. They owned a sewing machine and started crafting dresses for friends, but soon realized that men’s shirts were less seasonal and thus more profitable. Their philosophy was to provide finished shirts to their customers only when perfect. This venture was the genesis of Eton shirts, renowned worldwide for their quality, creativity, performance and fit. Sold in more than 40 countries, Eton continues to expand into new markets based on the Petterssons’ original high standards. Eighty-nine years later, grandson and Eton CEO Hans Davidson and his dynamic team sit at a conference table in Stockholm with top American menswear merchants to discuss the Eton brand at an intensive three-day Eton College experience. In addition to the “academic” portion of the trip, Eton showcased Sweden’s culinary scene, culture and history by hosting meals at landmark restaurants and guiding tours of the historic districts of Gothenburg and Stockholm. Still, the highlight for most was experiencing firsthand the excitement, commitment and passion that Team Eton has for its
BY L E S L E Y RU B E NS T E I N
product and company. “Quality, service, sustainability and responsibility—these are the backbone of everything we do. We want customers to experience the feeling, to understand the heritage, to know that we care about more than product. We are a human company, with a commitment to the customer, the employee and the environment,” shares Davidson. In the design and production part of the presentation, retailers touched a sample of the exceptional cotton used in the making of the shirts. Eton is known for its high-quality fabrics in varied textures and weights as well as for its durability, impeccable styling and array of color options. But it is Eton’s crease-resistant finish that makes the shirts stand out. “The performance of the shirt is what separates it from its competitors,” explains Davidson. “Wash it, put it on, and 15 minutes later the wrinkles are gone.” Unlike most brands, all of Eton’s patterns and fabrics are designed in-house, ensuring exclusivity. White and light blue dress shirts remain the company’s bread and butter, but colors and prints are increasingly popular. For every Eton collection, designers create up to 100 different fabrics. Coupled with different color stitching, buttons and placket trims, there are 600 to 700 variations. Factor in the fit options (classic, contemporary, slim, super-slim) and various collar
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and cuff choices, and the collection literally features a few thousand styles! According to Eton creative director Sebastian Dollinger, fit is the secret to dressing well. “I would tell my American friends to consider the fit of everything they wear. It’s important to wear clothes that are not too long, too wide, or too boxy. The average American man wears his clothes on the wide side, whereas many Europeans wear clothes too tight. It would be great to have a happy medium.” For the 2018 Eton collections, designs are inspired by Dollinger’s recent travels, especially the brightly colored houses in Puerto Rico, beautiful tiles from Portugal, Dreams of Persia and Persian carpets, and various locales in Japan. On Eton’s unique corporate culture, Davidson maintains that employees need an inspiring environment to succeed. “People should be proud of where they work, whether it’s the boardroom or the warehouse.” In fact, thanks to a multitude
Howard Vogt (left) with Eton’s CEO Hans Davidson.
lowing employees to perfectly package the finished shirt. This machine was built inhouse in the 1950s to flip the shirt collars inside out and create perfect points. In fact, virtually everything at Eton mirrors the company’s philosophy of transparency and openness. Davidson says he’s tried to create an environment where his people are not scared to say anything, where they’re free to think, to challenge and to create. “We’re all striving for excellence in everything we do. I like to say that I’m the conductor of an orchestra, but I can’t play all the instruments myself.”
“Every Eton associate is passionate, committed and thirsty to do the right thing for the company and the customer. ” HOWA RD VO GT, RO D ES Thus, Davidson’s philosophy of making his employees part of the process. When there’s a reorganization in staffing, Eton lets its employees help decide where they’d like to work. “We see what their talent is, what they are burning for, and then we talk,” says Davidson. “In this way, employees grow and we see much innovation.” Just as Eton feels a responsibility to its customers and employees, they continually strive to honor the environment. “Taking care of nature is just something we do,” says Davidson. For example, the finishing process of the shirts is environmentally friendly. “We want the water to be the same after we’ve used it as it was before we started,” he says. It also comes down to details: covers for employees’ iPads are made from recycled materials, boxes in the warehouse are reused multiple times and ultimately recycled, a specially outfitted bicycle is used to transport boxes from the factory to the warehouse. “I’m very proud of what my grandfather, father and family have accomplished,” sums up Davidson. “But I’m equally proud of my amazing associates who are open, hardworking, creative and kind. This, more than the balance sheet, is the essence of the Eton company.”
of windows, the environment at Eton is all natural light and tree-filled views. Indoors, plants and wooden furniture abound. Another highlight is the cantina: employees eat in a bright, spacious room or dine outside on a covered patio. It’s a gathering place, and a place of community for Eton associates (that once served as a restaurant for the neighbors). Although thousands of boxes are stored and moved in and out of the warehouse, this facility is immaculate. The warehouse was built with windows on all sides so light streams through. To enhance working conditions, the building was made to preclude echoes. Companies throughout Scandinavia view this structure as a model warehouse; many visit the facility to observe its construction and design before building their own. Another Eton hallmark is its unique conveyer system, created years ago to keep up with demand as the company expanded into new markets. The automated system is built on the ceiling to move the shirts to each work station. This proprietary “Eton System” not only transformed the company but is now sold to other companies in various industries. Another unique invention: a folding machine al-
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MADE TO MEASURE
Let the world know how much you value yourself. BY B RI A N SCOTT LIP TON
HAVE IT YOUR WAY
Customize fit, fabrics, buttons and linings to your taste.
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SHUTERSTOCK
T
hat once-famous slogan now seems as applicable to men’s clothing as it does to the Whopper. Specifically, we’re talking about an increased interest in made-tomeasure clothing. Whether it’s picking fabrics, buttons, lining or lapels, more men than ever are taking the time to create a suit that expresses their individual style. Reasons for the growth in this business include more affordable price points than in the past (often only about 20 percent higher than off-therack) and increased visibility of made-to-measure suits on athletes and celebrities, whether they’re walking a red carpet, being interviewed after a game or appearing on a talk show. The primary raison d’etre for made-to-measure remains fit. MTM suits usually require taking anywhere from 15 to 40 measurements, a huge advantage for men whose physique may include droopy, mismatched shoulders, large midsections, muscular thighs, or extra-long legs. Most off-the-rack suits, no matter how well made and how much stretch is incorporated into the fabric, are less than forgiving to those without perfectly proportioned bodies, especially since many manufacturers (specifically Italian brands) are creating fits more suited to slim European bodies than to hefty, or even average, American ones. Today’s MTM customer is anyone from a high-school kid approaching prom to a college grad starting out in the business world to a successful investment banker —indeed, any guy who wants his wardrobe to make a lasting impression. Still, made-to-measure remains a particular favorite of men who work in more creative industries and who view made-to-measure suits as “an opportunity to dream out loud,” as one expert put it. In fact, Millennials, who have shown a desire for so-called “investment dressing,” are among those showing a fondness for made-to-measure clothing. Bottom line: made-to-measure suits appeal to those who want to be excited about what they purchase— and remain excited when they look in their closet later. A good made-to-measure suit can last for years, and can be dressed up or down. Above all else, a made-to-measure suit is a statement of confidence, proving that you know best what complements your style, your body type, and your unique personality. Try it and be uniquely you!
FABRICS
COMMANDING PERFORMANCE Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Suit (Again). BY TOM MASTRONARDI
A
decade or so ago, “performance fabric” meant that an enterprising menswear manufacturer added stretch to enhance comfort, perhaps Teflon to boost stain resistance, or a quick chemical dip to protect against wrinkling. Flash forward to today. The modern man lives a speed-of-light lifestyle, complicated by
climate change, confounded by cranky, cramped business travel. Yet his suits must carry him from day into evening with stylish aplomb. Fortunately, research and development has spurred impressive innovation in even the most traditional luxury fabrics, delivering elegant tailored clothing that performs like its casual brethren. But all that flex and fortitude can’t trump the single, immutable reality: Suits and tailored sportswear must still possess covetable curb appeal. “Customers care first about the look of the fabric—
Smart fabrics transition from city to country with ease and style.
IMAGES COURTESY OF SAMUELSOHN, ETON
performance is the ‘cherry on top,’” says Arnold Brant
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Snider
Esse Et Cie
Julianna Bass
DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW
Nha Khanh
Silverstone, president and chief creative officer of Samuelsohn/Hickey
dim memory. Eton’s North American sales director, Chris Donohue,
Freeman, one of the earliest (and most successful) adopters of luxury
believes that quality is the key. “We employ more quality control people
performance tailoring.
than design team members,” he shares.
In 2011, Samuelsohn partnered with Loro Piana, one of Italy’s premier fabric mills, to introduce a proprietary fabric called Extreme, and more recently with Colombo to launch a revolutionary
That rigor, in tandem with the company’s commitment to the exclusive
Luxury yarns use of extra-long staple cotton, informs its approach to innovation. ELS, are the key to Robert Talbott’s high-performing fabrics.
luxurious fabric called Ice Wool, which is subjected to repeated thermic shock during the manufacturing process. This naturally seals the fibers, resulting in greater resilience, a far more supple texture and enhanced color clarity. Ice Wool helps maintain an optimal body microclimate and offers exceptional water and stain resistance, all while maintaining the luxurious feeling of super-fine 150s wool. Ermenegildo Zegna offers its super-fine (and aptly named) “High Performance” fabric in a collection of suits and jackets, all of which are defined by high-twist yarns that render the cloth exceptionally resistant to creasing and create a satisfyingly springy-yet-soft hand and a remarkably lightweight character: notably
“Performance fabrics are more and more important in our
C
characterized by extra-fine and long fibers that result in durable yarns
collection, in both clothing and sportswear. We have
and elegant shirt fabrics, constitutes only 3% of the world’s cotton, yet
comfortable, packable and ideal for travel. anali, too, offers a mashup of luxury and innovation.
believed in the attributes of performance for some time,
accounts for 100% of the fabric used by Eton. The brand also employs a
and it is even more relevant today,” explains Giorgio Canali, director of
“textile genius” who joined the in-house team three years ago from the
Americas. The Canali collection features a pure cashmere field jacket,
venerable fabric mill Gruppo Albini. Although the company does not tout
distinguished by a “wave” effect achieved through the synthesis of two
“no iron,” Donohue is justifiably proud of the proprietary process that
traditional techniques. The first is “carding,” where the cloth is brushed
“changed the molecular structure to create a smoother, flatter, more
using natural thistles, creating the visual “wave.” Then, hot metal
wrinkle-free surface of cloth.”
cylinders are used to press the cloth, and finally the fabric is submerged
Mark Calder, creative director at Robert Talbott, believes in natural
in a hot fixing bath, which sets the pattern. The undulating result is
performance enabled not by technical synthetic yarns, but instead
visually compelling, with a hand reminiscent of fine sable fur.
through weave and construction. “For us, the only way to exceptional
The ascendance of performance tailoring has not gone unnoticed by
fabric is a commitment to luxury yarns. Our luxe fabrics continue to be
purveyors of some of the world’s finest fabrics. Dougal Munro, president
based upon Sea Island and Egyptian cottons, silk, super-fine merino wool,
of Holland & Sherry, which has supplied tailors and luxury brands with
cashmere and linen; we are grounded in that sensibility.”
cloth since 1836, notes that the firm hasn’t hesitated to enter into this
And in a global culture where “green” is not just the color of money, all
game: “We offer a range of fine cottons with 2% Elastane, which results in
the companies we spoke to assert that the objective is to leave an
8% to 10% of physical stretch for an elevated level of comfort. Beyond that,
invisible ecological footprint in their wake. It’s an ethos probably
our AquArret wool is water repellent and offers superior stain protection
summarized best by Eton: “For us, high quality equals sustainability... the
through a process that employs micro encapsulated nano-particles rather
first step to a more sustainable clothing industry is to promote durable
than Teflon; it remains viable for about eight cleanings.”
and timeless products.”
Dress shirts may have been the Founding Fathers of the performance
We’ll leave the last word to Silverstone, who rather adroitly sums up
fabric movement, offering wash-and-wear or no-iron options as far back
the prevailing sentiment: “If you can do luxury, and have it perform, what
as the 1950s, but the days of stiff polyester and toxic formaldehyde are a
could be better?”
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MAK IN G A G R A N D EN T R A N C E
UP DO WN DRESSING
DRESSING
WHETHER YOU’RE HEADED OUT FOR A BIG NIGHT ON THE TOWN OR SOMETHING A BIT MORE CASUAL, A LITTLE DRAMA GOES A LONG WAY TOWARD MAKING YOUR LOOK — AND THE EVENING — UNFORGETTABLE.
PHOTOGRAPHER SERGIO KURHAJEC HAIR | MAKEUP BERNADINE BIBIANO WARDROBE WENDY MCNETT
ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA
JOIE
BOGLIOLI
MAKE the WORLD YOUR STAGE
KO B I H A L P E R I N
EMBRACE TRADITION, But With a Modern Twist
VINCE
PETER MILLAR
LOSE YOURSELF in Fabulous Fall Textures
Build your wardrobe on a foundation of neutral classics, adding a few fresh pieces each season. Modern styling will keep you looking cool and current year after year.
FA L L I CONS P H O T O G R A P H E R Shane LaVancher F A S H I O N D I R E C T O R Michael Fusco P R O D U C E R Jillian LaRochelle S T Y L I N G A S S I S T A N T Leah Snow G R O O M E R Jojo McCarthy M O D E L Joe Weir for Wilhelmina
1 ELEVENTY COAT, FAHERTY SHIRT, RHONE JOGGER, LANVIN SNEAKER
THE JOGGER
This pant is the newest must-have in every man’s wardrobe: sleek, comfy and wearable in more ways than one. Elevate your look with a rich camel coat and luxe suede sneakers.
THE WOOL PANT
Neutral-color patterns are surprisingly versatile and so much more exciting than basic black. Wear with a texture on top to stand out from the crowd.
HARRIS WHARF COAT, FAHERTY SWEATER AND THERMAL, PT01 TROUSER, TO BOOT NEW YORK BOOT
2
3
THE OVERCOAT
CREDIT INFO ISAIA COAT, ETON SHIRT, ELEVENTY PANT
For your next outerwear investment, pick a print, then make it pop against lightcolored solids. A three-quarter length works over your suits and sport coats, yet it doesn’t look silly with denim (like your long black dress coat does).
4
THE SNAPFRONT SHIRT
ELEVENTY
Long considered a casual cold-weather staple, why not try this quilted piece between your shirt and sport coat? It’s an extra layer of warmth, and style.
ELEVENTY SPORT COAT, VEST AND BRACELETS, FAHERTY THERMAL, PT01 TROUSER, TO BOOT NEW YORK BOOT
5
THE BOOT In a broken-in, burnished leather, this style can be dressed up or down. Cuff your pants to show them off, or better yet: put your feet up and relax awhile.
GIFTS SANITOV E-CARGO BIKE From London-based Danish designer Alexander Host comes this stylish and practical commuter alternative (perfect for the beach house), already popular with celebs like Liev Schreiber and Kate Winslet. The SCB+ model links past and future with built-in smart functions like app-friendly GPS tracking and a hidden motor for hills or heavy loads (up to a whopping 440 pounds). Kid-friendly add-ons like a shaded cover and seat belts are available for safe, comfy rides. $3,400.
ultimate LUXURIES
We’re all about products and experiences that take your life to the next level. Here are some ways to elevate the everyday, with a touch of style. BY RO B ERT HAY NES -PET ERSO N
PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYERS CLUB
NOBLE AUDIO PRESTIGE
Enjoy one of the world’s top golf tournaments on a whole new level with the first package of its kind offered on the PGA Tour. Membership scores a weekly (Tuesday through Championship Sunday) VIP ticket to TPC Sawgrass (Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida) in May. The details for 2018 were still being finalized at press time, but sample perks include daily access to the TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse and luxury viewing suites along the 17th and 18th holes. Award-winning chefs and bartenders provide endless food and drink each day, and members receive a $500 gift card and private custom fittings at the pro shop. $5,000 per ticket.
Noble Audio has transformed in-ear headphones into high-tech, customizable pieces of art. The California-based manufacturer earned its stripes designing in-ear monitors for professional musicians. Their Prestige line is crafted from exotic woods and other materials, while still offering deep sounds, multiple drivers and precision forms. “Amboyna Burl” earbuds evoke the finest dashboard in a Bentley, or a classic 3-wood. “Spalted Tamarind” includes watch gears embedded in the varnish. Each style is distinctive and a definite conversation starter (if you’re willing to remove them). Starting at $2,800.
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LEICA M10
EASYPOSE YOGA Wouldn’t it be nice if the yoga studio came to you, whenever you wanted? Now it can: this online/app-based startup from founder Ruben Dia allows you to customize one-hour sessions in your home, yard, beach, pool or office. Choose from a wide range of styles, experience levels and local certified instructors (California and the New York Tri-State area so far, but expanding) and you’ll be striking a Downward Dog within the hour. Like Uber, users rate instructors and provide feedback for others. Starting at $80 per session.
The 2017 release of this high-end M-system camera brings together a lot of features of both favorite Leica analog and digital series into one elegant package. The 10 improves the M-series’ ergonomics, plus offers an enlarged field-of-view rangefinder, expanded menu for sorting files, integrated WiFi connectivity, and a new 24 MP, full-frame CMOS sensor unique to this model, improving all aspects of image performance. Most importantly, it still looks like the coolest digital camera on the block. $6,895.
PLUM WINE STORAGE
BODUM GOLD COFFEE PRESS Not every refined experience needs to cost an arm and a leg. This limited-edition golden Chambord Press from Bodum celebrates the company’s 50th anniversary. While it’s not crafted from actual gold, the dual coating process and bakelite handle ensures this sturdy press pot will wake you up with a touch of glam, even after you throw it in the dishwasher. $59.
Bring home the tech high-end bars and restaurants have been using to serve individual glasses of expensive wine without having to pour the entire bottle in one sitting. Plum attractively stores any standard 750ml wine bottle and its double-cored needle penetrates any closure without removing the foil. A replaceable argon gas canister, good for 200 bottles, injects gas into the remaining bottle space, preserving your wine at the exact temperature you prefer. Meanwhile, the integrated HD camera identifies the bottle label, varietal, vintage and region, and displays on the front. Pour a little, pour a lot: your favorite wine stays ready for another evening. $1,500.
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GINSTITUTE / THE DISTILLERY London has witnessed a resurgence of gin distilleries after more than a century without a new one. The creators of Portobello Road Gin have opted out of the traditional visitors’ center for an immersive experience dubbed “The Distillery.” Stay in one of three recently opened bespoke guest rooms (located in trendy Notting Hill), dine at Gintonica, a Spanish-influenced bar/restaurant, and top it off with masterclasses at The Ginstitute: a popular tour, cocktail class and opportunity to make your own custom gin recipe (which you can reorder online once you’ve quaffed the first bottle). From £60 to £120.
WINE
futures
TENSE
Welcome to the world of Bordeaux wine futures.
BY RO BE RT H AY N ES - P ET ERSO N
D
iving into any investment market—art, cars, Air Jordans—can be intimidating to a newcomer. Such is the case with Bordeaux wine futures, where participants buy into a vintage from a specific winery while it’s still aging in barrels, years before they can drink it. “There’s a perception that it’s only associated with four-digit wines and that you need to go big, investing a significant amount of money,” says Mary Gorman-McAdams, master of wine and North America market adviser for Bordeaux wines. “The reality is you can buy futures at all levels, particularly with vintages after 2014.” Though the concept of “wine futures” (or en-primeurs) began in Bordeaux some 200 years ago, securing the best wines of the region for negotiants (middle-man merchants), the modern version only became available to private collectors in the 1980s as a means of securing up-front cash for the region’s growers and vintners. “It made economic sense,” says Gorman-McAdams, “before the top wines were priced like they are now. Today it’s kind of a speculation sport.” The reality is, just as with art, there are many reasons to buy into a barrel of wine. But it’s important to know what you’re doing and why. Here are a few hints and tips from the experts: FIND A REPUTABLE MERCHANT: “In the past,” says Hortense Bernard, general manager of Millesima, USA, a French-owned, NYC-based wine merchant and one of the five largest buyers of Bordeaux Futures, “disreputable companies would sell wine they didn’t actually have, then use that money to buy wines for other clients.” (Think Ponzi scheme.) She recommends seeking out a company that has been successfully working with futures for many years and can satisfactorily answer any questions. DO YOUR RESEARCH: “Regardless of what price point you’re dabbling in,” says Gorman-McAdams, “read about the wines, get a feel for the vintage, find what’s written about the previous vintage and the producers.” KNOW WHAT YOU WANT: Perhaps you seek a piece of the hard-to-get Château Margaux first growth at a bargain for investment (prices for futures are almost always less than once the wine is bottled), but perhaps you just really like French wine. “In Europe, especially, I see more and more everyday wine selling on the futures market,” says Bernard.
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“I will have customers buy the same brand each year, just because they like it.” Gorman-McAdams agrees: “Looking back at inexpensive wines from 2010, I think, ‘Why didn’t I buy a case or two of that?’” Others buy into vintages that mark anniversaries or other celebrations. LEARN THE CALENDAR: Part of what makes the Bordeaux futures game both fun and challenging is the time-sensitive nature of each release. Excitement builds in the fall, when that year’s harvest enters the barrels, but it’s spring when the fun begins, with En-Primeurs Week bringing thousands of wine professionals and journalists to Bordeaux to try the latest vintage and report their impressions. By mid-July, the prices have been set. VINTAGE IS KEY: Each year’s sale reflects the previous year’s harvest, and Bordeaux is a region especially susceptible to weather extremes. But there’s another reason to know whether 2017 was a good year or bad: “I will tell some customers during a really good vintage to go with secondary labels, because the wines will be a really good investment,” says Bernard. “When it’s a smaller vintage, you’re better going with first growth wines.” IT’S OKAY TO NERD OUT: “When people come to us, one thing that’s very important to them is provenance, that the wines are in their original cases,” says Bernard. It’s akin to collectors of action figures wanting their possessions “mint-in-box.”
TOP AND CENTER IMAGES COURTESY OF MILLESIMA USA, BOTTOM IMAGE COURTESY OF BORDEAUX WINE COUNCIL
The reality is, just as with art, there are many reasons to buy into a barrel of wine. But it’s important to know what you’re doing and why.
FROM OUR FARM TO YOUR TABLE
FEATURING HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY FROM 4:30 - 6:00PM AT THE VOLARE BAR R E S ER VATIO N S 502.894.4446 • 2300 F R A N K F O R T AV E • V O L A R E - R E S TAU R A N T.CO M
L I K E U S O N FAC E B O O K
TRAVEL One of many ocean vistas to take in along California’s Pacific Coast Highway.
Maui’s tropical rainforest.
ROAD
Hit the
Forget the “friendly” skies and feel the earth move under your tires.
T
BY S H I RA L E VI NE
here’s freedom in witnessing the world from behind the wheel. No security. No schedules. No shared seats. When you’re road tripping, the decisions are yours to make. Check out these jaunts near and far to discover hidden treasures that can only be found on land.
T H E ALL-AM E R IC AN D R I V E
The Journey: Mendocino to Orange County in California The Distance: Nearly 656 miles What You’ll See: Glittery coastline dotted with idyllic beaches, coves and tide pools, undulating cliffs flanking dramatic curves, vineyards, farmland and a storied castle. The winding stretch of US Highway 1 known as the Pacific Coast Highway is divided into three very different regions: Southern, Central and Northern California. Pit stop options abound, from Carmel, Morro Bay and Pismo Beach to Hearst Castle, San Luis Obispo and Big Sur. SoCal’s beaches aren’t to be missed either. There’s Malibu, Santa Monica and Venice—just to name a few. (visitcalifornia.com) Pro Tip: Book a retreat. Esalen, with its clothing-optional healing cliffside hot springs, has reopened. Other famed favorites include Shasta Abbey, Tassajara and San Ysidro Ranch. (esalen.org, shastaabbey.org, sfzc.org/tassajara, sanysidroranch.com)
Amazing Alternative: From Santa Barbara, island hop “the Galapagos Islands of the North,” aka the Channel Islands. Once inhabited by the Chumash people, visitors now populate Anacapa’s sea grottoes, bio-diverse Santa Rosa and campsite-heavy Santa Cruz Island. (sierraclub.org)
ROA D TO HA NA The Journey: Kahului to Kipahulu in Maui, Hawaii The Distance: 64.4 miles What You’ll See: Along Maui’s winding, narrow north shore highway are 59 bridges connecting the tropical rainforest. Cruise by taro patches, seascapes, waterfall pools, botanical gardens and some very huggable rainbow eucalyptus trees. Designated the Hana Millennium Legacy Trail, the route along highway 36 is best driven roof down, music up and accompanied by the Road to Hana GyPSy Guide app ($4.99). (roadtohana.com) Pro Tip: Careful! One part of the highway alone has 620 curves. Amazing Alternative: A less meandering route is the drive to the Mt. Haleakala crater. Guides suggest departing at an absurdly early hour to catch the sunrise, but even better is the sunset—just bring a jacket as it’s freezing up there. Adventure junkies: cycle down with Bike Maui from the 10,000-foot summit for a 26-mile descent to the ocean in Paia. (nps.gov/hale, bikemaui.com)
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Castles and ruins abound in Wales
Natural stone arch in Los Cabos, Mexico.
SO UT H O F T HE BOR D ER The Journey: Tijuana to Los Cabos in Mexico The Distance: 1,100 miles What You’ll See: Within a single peninsula lies Mexico’s Highway 1, featuring a dramatic, transformative visual change from azure bays to a seemingly endless expanse of tumbleweeded desert. Witness the gray whale migration from December through April. Year-round check out the Cochimi Indian caves adorned with petroglyphs, fancy vineyards and gut-busting gastronomy ranging from two-taqueria towns to epicurean hotspots. There’s the real Hotel California, the kite-surfing mecca of La Ventana, 17th-century missions, and beaches with names like Lover’s and Divorce. The finale? The iconic natural stone arch that connects the Pacific Ocean with the Sea of Cortez. (bajainsider.com) Pro Tip: Avoid crossing one of the busiest borders in the world by car. Rent your vehicle in Tijuana to ensure Mexican insurance and other local paperwork. (cabaja.com) Amazing Alternative: Roll off the highway via motorcycle to take the interior dirt roads where mountains, waterfalls, pools and hot springs replace cactus and coastline. (bajaride.com)
AC ROSS T HE P ON D The Journey: Around the isle of Wales The Distance: Options vary What You’ll See: Literature and cinema have long depicted the romantic melancholy of the English countryside. But Wales is no longer a coal mining, industrial nucleus; rather it’s an awe-inspiring serrated coastline comprising lush greenery and shining sun. Pro Tip: Trade four wheels for two and saddle up with South
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Wales’ Drover Cycles. Pedal through the homeland of the Joneses (Catherine Zeta and Tom), where royal real estate dominates given the area’s sheer volume of regal fortresses. There’s a lot of stone to cover, but fortunately there are 2,000 km of National Cycle Network paths. The 20.5-mile cycle from folksy-chic Abergavenny to the famed Hay-on-Wye will take you through the sheep-littered Black Mountains. Then climb to Gospel Pass: a fairytale-like spot 549 meters above sea level ending in a steep, speedy drop. Further southwest is Pembrokeshire, where a ride along the 186-mile coastal path offers harbour seal sightings. Amazing Alternative: In Pembrokeshire stay at Preseli Venture’s eco lodge to experience the Welsh sport of coasteering. Outfitted in freezing-water wetsuits, guided groups scramble in and out of the water, grabbing onto rock formations, swimming into caves and jumping off cliffs. (drover.cc, preseliventure.co.uk)
ROCKY MOUNTAIN, HO ! The Journey: Banff to Jasper in Alberta, Canada The Distance: 147 miles What You’ll See: Some seriously epic topography. Think jagged ranges with pristine mountain lakes (Peyto, Bow and Waterfowl are among the best). Waterfalls? There’s Panther, Tangle and Athabasca. To journey across the Icefields Parkway is to pass sweeping valleys and vast wooded wilderness, winding through the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Don’t miss the Canadian treasures that are Banff and Jasper National Parks. (icefieldsparkway.ca) Pro Tip: Take a hike! The Athabasca and Saskatchewan glaciers have guided alpine jaunts over moraines and up summit ridges. Star-seekers should note that Jasper is home to the impressive Dark Sky Preserve—just beware of grizzly and black bears! (jasperdarksky.travel) Amazing Alternative: Forgo the highway and travel by rail aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. The Vancouver to Banff sojourn chugs through the Continental Divide and more. (rockymountaineer.com)
Locally rooted since
502-897-6551 • n an zkr af t. co m
WHEELS Moke America is the new fashion must-have! BY DAVI D A . ROSE
driving
NOSTALGIA
W
best part of this project is creating an American-built vehicle: we’re assembling in North Carolina and most of the parts are made in the USA.” Because the Moke is classified as an electric low-speed vehicle (LSV) with speeds up to 35 MPH, it’s not allowed on highways, but it’s perfect for driving around town or through the many gated communities popping up around the world. Says Rome, “For people who love these cool cars, it’s about the history, the memories of film and rock stars cruising the Riviera. Mini Mokes became famous as low-maintenance, fun cars to drive, especially in warm weather climates. And with the color schemes we now offer, the Moke is also a bit of a fashion statement.”
hat do Brigitte Bardot, Paul McCartney, The Beach Boys and Princess Margaret have in common? They all loved a small utility vehicle called the Mini Moke. In fact, in the ’60s and ’70s, numerous celebrities could be spotted driving these iconic cars around the French Riviera and other resort areas worldwide. James Bond even drove Mini Mokes in You Only Live Twice, Live and Let Die, The Spy Who Loved Me and Moonraker. (Of course, his other car was usually an Aston Martin, a Lotus or a Jaguar.) After a few decades out of production, the legendary Mokes are back, now offered with electric engines and power steering. The new Moke looks identical to the original, but with its modern updates, options and safety features, it’s the perfect modern-day beach buggy (available with automatic or manual transmission). Todd Rome, president and founder of private jet firm Blue Star Jets, has acquired the rights to produce Mokes for the USA and has already seen excellent sales. “As I travel abroad, I see the Moke in St. Tropez, St. Barth’s, Monte Carlo and throughout the Caribbean,” says Rome. “I’ve always loved these cars and rent them whenever I can. But for me, the
Above: Paul McCartney and Brigitte Bardot enjoy cruising in their Mokes. Insets: The newest iterations of the Moke look like the originals but use today’s tech.
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change artist
Beautifully crafted jewelry with a fine disposition and a magnetic personality
LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES
Trunk Show October 12th – 13th
AT YOUR SERVICE Going above and beyond for you is the heart and soul of Rodes’ culture. Here are a few of the services we offer to make your experience special.
STAY CURRENT
SPECIAL APPOINTMENTS
Be the first to know about special events, new arrivals and offers by signing up to receive our emails at the new rodes.com website. Stay informed by liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter and Instagram.
Whether before, during or after business hours, we are happy to work around your schedule for any of your shopping needs. Just call us and we’ll make it happen.
GIFT CARDS We’ll make it easy: stop in or give us a call. We’ll take care of the rest.
HOME/OFFICE VISITS Sometimes business or life gets in the way of finding time to stop by the store. But, no worries, we’re more than happy to come to your home or office, anytime.
WARDROBE/CLOSET CONSULTATION Is the closet full but you still can’t find anything to wear? Call in the style pros at Rodes for a personal wardrobe/closet consultation. You’ll get an objective view of your entire wardrobe and a friendly nudge to help you weed out the old, tired and worn to make room for the new.
PERSONAL DELIVERY/ SHIPPING Whether in Louisville, Southern Indiana, or anywhere in the United States, if you need a purchase delivered, rest assured you’ll receive it when and where you need it.
COMPLIMENTARY GIFT WRAP TAILORING/ALTERATIONS With highly skilled tailors and seamstresses on staff, we don’t mess around when it comes to the finished product. And even better, our expert alterations are complimentary with your new purchase.
There’s gift wrap and then there’s Rodes gift wrap: the unforgettable red box with a white ribbon! It’s always complimentary and is the perfect finishing touch.
Gilda’s Night at
November 10, 2017
END PAGE
GET SMART
Smart Casual is a notch above Business Casual: an uncontrived, pulled-together look for a day in the office or night on the town. A sales executive friend of mine confessed that he hasn’t worn a suit in years because he conducts most of his business over the phone or email. We can lament or rejoice over technology’s impact. But from a fashion perspective, an unintended casualty of its rapid rise is the demise of office attire. Clearly, many men have traded in suits and ties for the somewhat-too-casual, downgraded and downright sloppy look of jeans and T-shirts or khakis and polos. What’s next, Snuggies? Well, not quite. When confident self-styled men play it smart by dressing for work in Smart Casual, it pays off in spades. So, exactly what is the Smart Casual aesthetic? It’s looking neat, relaxed and pulled together without necessarily “matching.” It’s about investing in versatile sportswear pieces made from quality fabrics, and learning how to pair them. Actually, when you buy the right items in the right neutral shades, there’s not much to learn: you can create multiple looks by effortlessly layering shirts, sweaters, vests and outerwear with wool trousers, five-pocket pants or clean denim. Adding the right accessories (handsome cashmere scarf, patterned pocket square, distinctive watch, cool eyewear, burnished leather belt) will take it up a notch without looking contrived. Italians believe in la bella figura: putting careful thought into the image you present to the world, through one’s clothing, one’s attitude, one’s ability to make the ordinary extraordinary. With so many great options for Smart Casual this fall, attaining the extraordinary is easier than you think. — BY HANS GSCHLIESSER
SMART TIPS FOR SMART GUYS
jacket with khakis or jeans; slim suit trousers work with a knit cardigan or vest. Then, when you want to get down to brass tacks, wear the pieces together as a suit. (Advice: dry-clean both the jacket and pant at the same time, even if one doesn’t need it, so they age in unison.) T I E G A M E : Try a not-so-shiny knit, wool/silk or cashmere tie to make a casual-but-still “I mean business” impression. Pair a tie with a sport shirt rather than a dress shirt: a slightly lower knot is perfectly appropriate here and not stuffy. N E U T R A L T E R R I T O R Y: Fall’s neutral colors include gray, brown, black, navy and shades of olive and burgundy; stick to the neutrals in key pieces and add contrast with accessories. This way your tops (woven or knit) will always work with your bottoms. Winning combinations: navy and gray, navy and tan, or brown and gray. S O L E M A N : Get off on the right foot wearing this season’s updated cool sneakers, casual leathers and soft suedes . PAT T E R N R E C O G N I T I O N : Yes, solids are simpler to match, but sometimes it pays to stand out. (Advice: Consider a new soft plaid sport coat that plays well with dark-wash jeans.)
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IMAGE COURTESY OF ELEVENTY
S U I T C A S E : Invest in suit separates and wear them in different ways. Pair that classic suit
SIMPLE · BEAUTIFUL · LIFE
W W W . S T O N E WA R E A N D C O . C O M
RODES FORUM FW 2017/18