Anecdotally at least, there has been a number of positive developments in the past year or so in favor of quality menswear. We’ve seen better distribution of existing products, as well as new lines of products. This is almost certainly driven by greater demand, which in turn has generated additional media coverage and exposure.
Some news and events to ponder:
- Edward Green’s recently launched Top Drawer made-to-order shoes are reported to be backlogged for months
- High end retailers are now stocking and offering quality shoes. Witness Paul Stuart’s new MTO and bespoke program and Bergdorf Goodman’s revamped shoe department now offering John Lobb. Within the past month, high-end retailer Gary’s in Orange County began to stock Edward Green and Bontoni.
- In the US, at least three new high-end men’s magazines have been launched in the past year: Classic Style, The Men’s Book (LA-based) and Men’s Vogue.
This interest in good clothing is perhaps not very novel, especially in Asia. In my visit to Southeast Asia recently, I picked up the anniversary issue of a Singaporean men’s lifestyle publication called August Man. Although not focused on bespoke tailoring, this and other recently launched magazines are expanding their coverage of quality clothing. All in all, a good sign.
Additional links
– Styleforum thread on Gary’s
– Styleforum thread on Japanese shoe magazines (Men’s Ex and Last)