Ties and shirts by Sam & Dave (Hober & Mercer) to my own specs...

Black Sheep Shawl Knits.

Fairmount 'Ancient' Cordovan Loafers & Finsbury Scotchgrain Beefrolls...

Anderson Little made awesome Ivy sacks back in the '60s.  I have fantasized about the company doing a revival brand (Anderson Little "Heritage" line) for American style enthusiasts looking for something midmarket, something to bridge the gap between Rugby and Black Fleece.  Think J.Press with everything narrowed down an inch or so, or Van brought to the American market.  It's the least commercially viable idea in the world (next to perhaps Harvard's new clothing "line"), and that, my friends, is why I wouldn't do well in business. 

I was talking with a local vintage shop owner who was talking about the ever decreasing crop of vintage.  Got me thinking that there is a point down the road where I will have to start getting the stuff I like made for me.

Last edited by The Thin Repp (2009-09-12 19:49:55)

Last edited by Russell_Street (2010-03-09 10:54:06)

Great topic. I think I would become a regular at Moose's. Hank also throws in some interesting aspects.

What would my shop be like?

I would try to attract a blend of people like us, some "mainstream milk cows" who are open to "College Style" as it is called in Germany and who normally buy RL and Gant as a basis for business, younger folks who like the Ivy idea, maybe some folks from subcultures with leanings to the look like Mods.

Clothes offered would be a blend of Amercian brands like BB, J.Press, Bean, even some J.Crew - all stuff which is not available here. A few basic shoes. Some single items from RL and Gant. I would try to establish a "house brand" for some basics like Chinos.  Vintage items. Would try Van's. Some DNA Groove stuff. Maybe an exclusive coop for a few items? A bit of Armor Lux  tops. Some items from "hip" Scandinavian brands.  Stetson caps? I would try to establish a basic offer of brands and items and then throw in one-shots to test the water. For example bean boots in Winter, which also are not available here. 

I think such a shop should provide an offer which is unique, otherwise you won't have a chance against the chains and established  boutiques.   

For the interior I would try to create a sort of "Cape Cod meets International Style" flair: lots of white, wood like from those dear old saltbox houses, a bit nautical flavour by using a few navy coulours. Framed  pictures and posters from books like take Ivy, Clax etc. to get the spirit across. A book corner, some DVDs. Furniture would be used Scandinavian classics, some Eames..Paraphernalia like old pennants, copies from magazines.

Jazz and some soul in the background.

Ah, must find a location.

Let me know if you ever need an ageing Saturday boy.