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Signs of Spring: Preppy Handbook & Lumina Bow Ties
Well, without a doubt a Spring here in the nation’s capitol. The cherry trees, a gift from the people of Japan to the people of the United States, are blooming across the city and tourists from around the world are flooding in. Though a little frustrating – please, please stand to the right on escalators…
Bruce Boyer on Tailoring
Recently, we had a vigorous debate on the merits of custom tailoring. Front and center was the very definition of “custom”; did refer only to completely bespoke handcrafting or could one call made-to-measure and its equivalents “custom”? Jon Green, the noted bespoke clothier and OTC contributor, sent along the following article written by G. Bruce…
OTC Recommends: Drakes’ Untipped Ties
A favorite friend of Off The Cuff, we like to make a statement with Drakes London. From scarves to ties, whether at work, in business or at a special event Drakes is the embodiment of English style. With a selection excellent handmade ties ranging from knitted to ancient madder, Drakes offers you something for every…
Indochino: Going Online to Get Custom
Late last year Kyle Vucko, one of the co-founders of the online custom tailor Indochino, contacted Off The Cuff about reviewing one of their suits. I had heard of the company and read about their innovative business model in the Wall Street Journal. I had also read some other reviews, all of which generally have…
Time to Break out The Polo Shirts
I think it’s safe to say that for generations now, polo shirts have been the cornerstone of a classic warm weather wardrobe. Though when they hear polo shirt most people think “Polo ™” shirt, the first truly branded version was developed in 1929 for tennis legend Rene’ “The Alligator” Lacoste. Lacoste wanted a comfortable shirt…
L.L. Bean Launches Heritage "Signature" Line
When L.L. Bean decides to create a heritage brand, it’s worth taking notice, and when they bring in Alex Carleton, founder of Rouges Gallery and former Bean design head, as creative director, it’s really worth taking notice. L.L. Bean Signature Collection is that brand and it launches this Monday. I spoke with Chris Vickers, L.L….
A Chat About Shirts With Ignatious Joseph
Ignatious Joseph is not a subtle man. I was on the telephone with him for nearly an hour – me in Washington, D.C., and he in Dusseldorf – and I barely got a word in edgewise. That was fine with me, because he knows how to tell a story, is passionate about his shirts and…
Jon Green: What Bespoke Means
OTC is honored to welcome guest contributor Jon Green. Jon is best known as one of the finest bespoke clothiers to be found anywhere. Jon is also a remarkable teacher, formally trained musician and a stellar arbiter of sartorial wisdom. We are more than happy to call him a friend. There are those who believe…
J.Crew + Monocle = Perfect Fit
The crew from Monocle, one of OTC’s favorite global culture magazines, has joined forces with J. Crew, one of OTC’s favorite menswear labels. In the latest issue of J. Crew’s catalog, Monocle’s editor-in-chief Tyler Brûlé and several of his editors and staff are seen in Monocle’s London offices, styled through the eyes of J. Crew….