Classic. Modern. Style. Thoughts.
We review and test a variety of products here at OTC; bags to leather goods, clothing to accessories. More than anything, we are constantly on the lookout for something new and interesting. Brands that breathe new life or at least a new perspective into the classics. Salmon Cove does just that. The company was started…
This article was originally written in 2010 after Will Lisak, founder of ETWAS Bags first got in touch with OTC. It was in the form of a challenge. Will commented on a post about Jack Bauer’s bag, from the television show “24,” stating that his bag was tougher than Jack’s. After getting to know more…
As most of you already know, OTC is always on the hunt for a good bag. For a great deal on the bag pictured to the left, scroll down to the bottom. Today, men are carrying more stuff than ever and we need a place to put everything. Smart phone, wallet, iPad, pen and handy…
Raleigh Denim’s workrooms are not the only operation run by Victor and Sarah in Raleigh’s warehouse district. They also founded the Curatory, a highly edited shop which showcases both their own wares and a selection of other unique brands. The space was carved out of the front of Raleigh Denim’s workshop. The small shop also…
It’s always a cool experience when you meet someone so into what they do that their energy literally permeates the space around them. Bespoke clothier Jon Green is one of those people, so is shirt maker Ignatious Joseph. Jon is so passionate about creating exceptional tailored clothing for his equally exceptional clients, he nearly vibrates….
Off the Cuff was recently interviewed for a Washington Post Express article (below) on the impact of blogs on how men dress. Assistant Styles Editor Katherine Boyle, pulled together a great piece explaining how the rise of the menswear blog has helped guys become more comfortable with style. More importantly, many blogs, including OTC, provide…
San Francisco-based Timbuk2 lays claim to inventing the messenger bag. I have heard the same story from Manhattan Portage, New York born and bred, so it’s a good thing that each company has developed it’s own distinctive brand and style. Timbuk2’s three paneled bags have become an iconic talisman to many work-a-day commuters yearning to…
When you hear “Washington, DC lobbyist,” this is, perhaps, not the face that comes to mind. KR is an old friend of mine, a coworker who is indeed a true-blue DC lobbyist. More specifically, he is a dyed-in-the-wool son of the South who, by the sheer misfortune of life landed in the Yankee infested bastion…
One of the benefits of running a site such as this can be the occasional FedEx or UPS delivery that shows up on the OTC doorstep. Of course we disclose and of course we appreciate the chance to check out some pretty cool stuff. And when it comes to marketing, Nike Golf is a tough…
Issue 15 of The Rake, out now, has a wonderful profile of OTC friend and legendary clothier, Alan Flusser. Though not available in the United States, The Rake is having a significant impact on the modern meaning and execution of classic American style. Perhaps the only serious examination of classic menswear and men’s style on…