Teak & Tides

Holiday Vintage Trip

2013-01-03T23:12:00.000-05:00

While I was back home for the holidays, I had the chance to spend the day at one of my favorite places in the world. This 15,000+ square foot (not a typo) appointment-only warehouse houses one of the most amazing vintage collections in the entire world. I wrote about this place before here, but I figured i'd post a few more crappy iPhone pics. No where near as many pics as last time, I was too busy having my hair blown back.

Rad patchwork selvedge 501's

This whole wall was just Levi's 501's, all merchandised perfectly by waist size

Cool Eddie Bauer half-zip pullover jacket

Amazing deadstock jeans with ridiculously raised slub denim

Great coaches jacket with hiking patches

Wish I took a better pic of this shirt. Amazing fabric that was kind of a woven cotton burlap

Sea of Patagonia fleeces

Basically what my closet at home looks like

Old Ski Jackets with some amazing/unusual color combos

Army jacket patched with leather from an unknown animal.

Found the perfect beat-up leather moto jacket i've been on the hunt for

Styling Home Run

2012-11-22T23:56:00.000-05:00

I came across the blog of Japanese web retailer Digital Mountain the other day called IRIE Standard, and I was pretty blown away by some of the on-model styling featured when posting new product drops. Usually sites tend to fall short in styling a product that actually entices someone to make a purchase (Union LA is an exception), but these guys do a great job in creating vision for how the item can be worn. Here are a few of my favorite looks. Definitely throw this on your blogroll for some constant personal styling inspiration.

JAPANESE FIRE: #1

2012-08-27T22:31:00.000-04:00

I'm going to start a series of posts entitled 'Japanese Fire'. Being pretty big into Japanese fashion, I'm always finding random shit or brands that I never knew existed, but are ridiculously awesome. Todays post is fueled by stumbling upon a Japanese e-store tonight called THE CONTEMPORARY FIX. They had a lot of dope brands i've heard of, and a few that I haven't. So, heres some Japanese fire to kick off your monday.

Mr. Gentleman

Habanos

Garbstore Sneak Peek

2012-07-02T21:26:00.002-04:00

Garbstore shot out a couple tasty teasers of their new line showing in Paris this week, and I must say - totally geekin' out over it. Makes me want to move to Venice Beach and rent out beach cruisers to tourists, introduce 'Hella' and 'Stoked' into my vocabulary (possibly 'Hella Stoked!' on special occasions), and never wear shirts...fuck shirts.

So stoked to check out the rest of the collection at Capsule NYC this summer.

Good Vibes: PRPS F/W '12

2012-06-21T22:10:00.000-04:00

First, I'd like to give a brief disclaimer that the pictures you are about to see are nothing particularly groundbreaking in terms of new ideas. Forest. Hiking shit. Navajo. Dudes that look awesome but kinda homeless. Seen it a million times.

However, there is something about this lookbook that makes me want to grab an Axe, grow my beard out, and leave it all behind to live a burly-ass life in a cabin in the woods. And thats really the purpose of a lookbook right? To create a mood. So, mission accomplished PRPS. Mission accomplished.

Brimfield Antique Show - May 2012

2012-05-13T11:36:00.000-04:00

We took the 5 hour drive Thursday night from Philly to a small town in Western Massachusetts, not far from where I went to college. Having never been there, I really wasn't sure exactly what to expect; I was just told to get there early, wear comfortable shoes, and bring cash. The next morning, we took the short drive to Brimfield, arriving a little after 6am. The Brimfield Antique Show spans close to a mile on Rt. 20, and the tents go back probably 50-100 yards on both sides of the street; so when driving down the antique-lined road on the way to find parking, all you can see are these bits & pieces of amazing shit that catch your eye, and the sheer volume of stuff tends to land an "Oh. My. God." type reaction.

The first hour of the show I was pretty overwhelmed, and couldn't properly pace myself. But once I settled down, I started to actually spend some time doing what I love to do most...DIG! We were on a total high the entire day, and while we originally planned to do the show in 2 days, we muscled through and finished in one long, tiring, and amazing day.

I cant express how inspiring this trip was, and I will do everything in my power to attend this show every year for the rest of my life.

I took a ridiculous amount of pictures, and tried to edit them down to what you see below. And yes, this is the edit.

Line at 7am for the first day of one of the tents.

Traffic heading towards the show.

My grandfathers name

This was my Great Uncle's fishing company. Almost cried when I saw this.

Tourist pose

Rad ninja pose

Backpack hopefully made from some type of endangered species

Coolest couple in the history of the world. Wish I got a better pic.

This hiking bro was killin it.

bomb.com

Picked up a couple of these old industrial lamp shades for the pad

Chatted with these guys for a few, apparently they have about 250 more of these chairs in storage in Miami

Hartford denim company. These guys were rad, and making jeans on the spot. Almost bought their Denim Kimono popover lined with vintage tablecloth fabric, but realized I wasn't cool enough to pull it off.

Vintage Selvedge 501's

Denim Chairs

These camo patterns were awesome.

See you in September, Brimfield!!

General Idea F/W '12

2012-03-20T22:30:00.000-04:00

Every once in a while, I see a line that I just cant get out of my head. General Idea's F/W '12 was one of those lines. While I was skimming through runway looks when they first posted online a while back, this immediately stopped me in my tracks for the first time since Junya's F/W last year.
Launched in 2004 by Korean designer Bumsuk Choi at the age of 26, this season was said to be inspired by archival images of hockey players participating in the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France. This line is the kind of stuff you look for as a buyer; something fresh and exciting, but also highly wearable to a wide range of customers. Prices seem to be high, but not outrageous; Oki-ni was retailing one of their parka's last year for £370.00.

Some of the details that I was really drawn to - Colorblocked patchwork on the outerwear, Knee patches on the pants, Waist-suppression drawstrings on the jackets, the effortless awesome, and the earthy/military inspired colors. Here are some of my favorite looks...

See the rest of the General Idea F/W '12 Lookbook Here.

New to the Scene: SAHAJA

2012-02-09T21:50:00.000-05:00

This brand just popped up on my radar, and i'm really feeling the aesthetic. Patterns are great, and its cool to see what typically lends itself to more rugged fabrics, but used in cashmere. Might be riding a liiittle too close to the Navajo tidal-wave, but screw it. Ride that shit til people die.

Heres a link to an interview with founder Serge Berliawsky, as well as some pics of his Fall '12 lookbook.

Industry Icon: Doug Bihlmaier

2012-01-10T23:14:00.001-05:00

Do you ever just look at someone for the first time, and immediately want to know everything about them? I came across a picture of Doug Bihlmaier today, and did a little digging around to find out who this guy actually was. The result was both unexpected, and completely perfect, all at the same time.

You wouldn't think that this disheveled guy is the reason that we all geek out over RRL. But this is the man that essentially defined the entire image, the aesthetic, and the general nostalgia that you get from the RL brands. Doug is one of the oldest members of the Ralph Lauren team, starting out in the 1980's as one of the original stylists; developing looks for their showrooms, stores, and Ad campaigns. Fast forward almost three decades, he currently holds the title of Head of Ralph Lauren Vintage. Now i'm not exactly sure what that job title entails, but i'm fairly certain that it is A) Awesome, and B) Exposes him to some of the most amazing vintage items on the planet. I hope one day to meet Mr. Bihlmaier, shake his hand, and thank him for....everything.

The Vintage Clothing Holy Grail

2011-12-30T21:36:00.001-05:00

This past week I had the pleasure of spending two full days in an appointment-only vintage warehouse near my hometown. How can someone spend two days in the same spot, you ask? Well when the warehouse spans 4 floors and probably 15,000 square feet, I easily could have spent the entire week there, and wouldn't have seen everything. While driving there, I envisioned just a sea of stacked boxes, and having to dig through each one. I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived though, as the space was very well merchandised, with all racks grouped together by clothing-type (ie. row of all tweed blazers, row of all Pendleton shirts, row of jean jackets, etc.). As many clothes that were on the racks, there was an equal amount still in cardboard boxes, that there was simply no more room for them on the racks. I spent the first full day going through all the racks, and the second day digging through all the boxes.

I could go on for days talking about a sea of mint naval peacoats, perfectly beat-up leather jackets, or deadstock jeans which was some of the most amazing denim I've ever felt; but i'll leave the pictures to paint that picture.

This easily has to be one of the single largest vintage collections in the entire world, and I cant tell you how inspiring my trip was. I would love to reveal more information about this gem, but I feel a certain loyalty to keep this place a hidden treasure. I'd like to thank Ed, who oversees the warehouse, for walking me through the space and allowing me to spend so much time there. Unfortunately I only have my iPhone pics, but enjoy.

CHUP Socks

2011-11-08T22:05:00.001-05:00

Looking around for some boot sock inspiration for next season, I came across these radical socks from Japan today. Pretty amazing colors, but not cheap at $38 a pair. CHUP Socks are available online at Union LA. Here are some of my favorites.

Marrianne's Handcrafted Watch Studio

2011-10-24T21:14:00.002-04:00

As the Men's Watch buyer at UO, i'm always in search of cool watches. As a guy that just loves watches, i'm always in search of cool watches.

I came across this Etsy shop the other day called Marrianne's Handcrafted Watch Studio, and let me tell you, the watches are much cooler than the name leads you to believe. These watches are handcrafted, and pretty much look like a WWII fighter pilot and a Blacksmith got together and started an Etsy shop. Prices range from about $129-$280, which seems pretty reasonable (although I haven't seen these in person, so can't speak on the quality).

These watches are undoubtedly a great discussion piece, and will definitely pay for itself in compliments.

Here are a few of my favorites.

Check out the whole collection at Marianne's Handcrafted Watch Studio.

Dr. Collectors Scarves

2011-10-10T22:15:00.003-04:00

These scarves from Dr. Collectors came across my desk today at work. I've been looking for something like this for a while, and until now, found that everything was either too literal, or way over-designed. The guys at Dr. Collectors hit the nail on the head with these; total effortless feel. I'll definately rocking one of the American flag scarves with my Levi's duck canvas Trucker Jacket very soon.

Here's a few words from the owner, along with some pics of the goods.

"We have always been fascinated by vintage American clothing and collectors.

After a Sunday at the Rose Bowl flea market looking for old bandanas,we arrived at home and opened the big bag of Bandanas, and we started ordering them by color. We suddenly had an idea: To sew the bandanas together to build a scarf .

Although the scarves appeared still too new, we washed the scarf with a special process and carefully dried it under the California sun.

This is how the scarves were born."

http://drcollectors.blogspot.com/

Vintage Heaven: Adamstown, PA

2011-09-05T20:22:00.003-04:00

Last weekend I ventured about an hour outside of Philly, to a small town in the country called Adamstown. Little did I know, that this speck on the map would house some of the most amazing vintage finds i've ever seen. Driving through the self-proclaimed "Antiques capital of the USA", the main road (Rt. 272) is lined with countless shops and outdoor fairgrounds all dedicated to vintage stuff. The most expansive spot was definitely Rennigers; If you only go one place, go there.

Aside for a couple hidden gems, the clothing selection was more quality not quantity. However this is definitely the place to go for anyone who is looking to score some interesting pieces to decorate their pad. Here are some pics I snapped; my body pretty much shut down when I saw the clothing, so I apologize for the lack for clothing pics.

Emerging: Leather Wallet Chains

2011-08-08T22:05:00.005-04:00

Remember the whole chain wallet thing? I remember in 6th or 7th grade riding my bike to the hardware store, and picking out different types of chain-link to swap onto my chain wallet, in a desperate hope to emulate Kurt Cobain.

Well, as all trends come and go, this one is starting to dust itself off in the form of Braided Leather wallet 'chains'. I first saw them about a year ago on SelfEdge, and have periodically seen them pop up from more and more boutique brands over the past year. While i don't necessarily think this is going to be the new BIG thing, I definitely see it picking up speed over the next year, and we will probably start seeing this more frequently among more brands.

Here are a few of my favorites. Figured I'd mash together both the real cowboy shit with the fancy-shmancy fashion nerd stuff.

Flat Head

Studio D'Artisan

Bikerringshop

Ponderosa Chain Wallets

Devilock

Carhartt

Hollows Leather

Summer thus far..

2011-08-03T20:39:00.012-04:00

Between work and trying to be as awesome as humanly possibly on the weekends, I haven't been posting much this summer. And while that is definitely going to change, for now, here are some Instagram freshies to show you what ive been up to all summer.

One inspirational Hour

2011-06-02T23:32:00.003-04:00

This 1993 interview with Ralph Lauren is one of the most inspirational things i've watched in a while. His words really resonate with how i grew up, and how I found my 'calling' in the fashion industry. Set aside an hour. Watch this video. Its worth it, I promise.

Teak & Tides Jr.

2011-05-30T23:39:00.003-04:00

For the few people that have followed Teak & Tides since the beginning, you know that it started out as strictly a photoblog. Along the way, I ended up wanting to actually say something, which eventually led to the type of posting I do now.

With the ridiculous amount of blogs I view on a daily basis, I come across so many amazing photos that I feel the need to share. Since Teak & Tides isn't a photoblog anymore; why not create another blog, right?

I present to you... Teak & Tides Jr.

Its a bare bones photoblog that is basically my collection of all things that are aesthetically beautiful.

T&T Jr. has been up for almost 6 months already; and I've been posting photos on a daily basis, as opposed to the main T&T blog being more weekly. So you guys will have a good gauge of the type of stuff i've been posting thus far.

Thanks for checking it out; and as always, enjoy the ride.

-R.W

Friday Hotness: LL Bean Signature Shirt

2011-05-20T17:43:00.003-04:00

This post was over before it started. LL Bean Signature's new linen s/s shirt with sailor knot print? Sold.

$65.00 at LL Bean Signature

Happy friday people!

Button-down Club Collars

2011-05-15T22:17:00.004-04:00

I'm currently in the market for a classic oxford cloth button-down. While the main intent is to purchase something pretty timeless, I can't help but want something that is slightly different then your classic Gitman, Gant, etc.

While snooping around for different options, I came across something that was perfect. Classic, timeless, but just different enough to stand out from the classic mold. The Button-down Club collar Oxford isn't as widely available as you might think, and I've only ran into a small handful of companies that make one. Here is the short list of options...

Bonobos Clubhouse - $88

Albam Club Collar Oxford - $129

Baron Wells The Eaton - $168

WHARF Clothing & Wares The Two - $69-$139

BKc's Chambray Half-Sleeve Shirt

2011-05-08T23:09:00.006-04:00

This shirt from The Brooklyn Circus is amazing. With the floral-thing creeping back onto the scene, there has been a lot of fantastic floral prints popping up. However for me personally, just because I like something doesn't mean I can necessarily pull it off. This shirt is a great example of putting a twist on a classic staple, making it both 'of the moment' and highly wearable at the same time. This may very well be a late-Bday present to myself.

The Chambray Half-Sleeve Shirt is available in Salmon, Blue, Green, and Grey; and retails for $140.

Summer Sneaks...more options

2011-04-27T22:49:00.009-04:00

I'm a total Vans Authentic guy. Classic, cheap, ~~company discount~~, lots of color options. However, sometimes it feels kind of lame when literally every one in the room is rockin' the same shoes. Here is a short list of some alternative summer sneaker options. Some of these are more common than others, but either way, its pretty unlikely you'll run into someone wearing the same kicks.

The Club by Warrior Footwear

Sperry Top-Sider Striper

The Deck Oxford by Amsterdam Shoe Co.

Generic Surplus X Obey

The Cousy by PF Flyers

Billy Reid X K-Swiss

Superga 2750

Supra Thunder Lo

Spring Court G2 Low Canvas

All Grown Up Sorta: Obey Clothing

2011-04-13T22:10:00.007-04:00

When Obey Clothing first came on the scene in the early 2000's, it was primarily thought of as a full on streetwear brand...and really, it was. But over the past couple years, I think they saw that their customer was growing up, and they decided to grow up a little with them.

I've had the chance to try on a lot of their stuff, and I really dig the slim-not-skinny cuts. They've managed to add random doses of sophistication and classic designs, while remaining true to their streetwear roots. Its one of the few brands out there that can both identify with that new streetwear kid, while retaining both the veteran streetwear guy who's tastes have evolved, and also the fashion guy with a more timeless or fashion-forward aesthetic.

Some of my favorite looks from this season.

Check out a wider assortment at Obey Clothing and Urban Outfitters.

Ebbets Varsity Jackets

2011-04-10T20:17:00.007-04:00

There has been a big resurgence in varsity jackets over the past year, and a lot of designers are turning out some really amazing, clean, and minimalistic jackets.

However, if your feeling more of a throwback 'authentic' style varsity jacket, with a bit more flare, you can't go wrong with Ebbets Field Flannels Authentic Jackets.

Ebbets jackets are exact re-creations of what you would find 50+ years ago. They are USA-made with 100% virgin wool, naturally-tanned leather, and silk lining. All jackets are made-to-order, and they are sized to the true style of the originals (so size down for a more tailored fit). The wool/leather jacket will set you back about $349, but this is something that definitely falls into the 'investment piece' category.

Few of my favorites...

See the entire collection Here.

Hiatus

2011-04-10T11:22:00.003-04:00

Yes, i'm still alive. Sorry to all my followers who have had the worlds most famous & amazing men's fashion blog abruptly pulled out from under them. Just kidding...kind of.

Over the past couple months, I moved to Philadelphia, and started a position in men's buying at Urban Outfitters corporate. In addition to putting in some pretty serious hours trying to suck in as much information as humanly possible; and familiarizing myself with a new city and meeting new people, I have admittedly neglected Teak & Tides on a serious level.

The good news is that the new gig is consistently an amazing catalyst for inspiration, so i'm really excited to get back on the posting wagon, and show you guys some of the extraordinary things i see every day.

Thanks, and enjoy the ride.

Ryan Wood
Teak & Tides