In Part One of this column, we took a look at the philosophy and strategy behind the brand that is Vineyard Vines. Now, let’s look at the business side of that ubiquitous pink whale. A very important thing to note about Vineyard Vines is that they are opening brink-and-mortar stores while almost any other brand…
I grew up sailing 420s on Long Island Sound and still have a real love of the water. Sailing, as with many physically challenging sports, makes you appreciate the quality and construction of your equipment and accessories. For example, Sperry topsiders are beloved by sailors because they actually work well and last. They look pretty…
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.…
About two months ago OTC was contacted by Suunto, a watch company based in Helsinki, Finland. Suunto is best known as a designer of midrange digital sports watches that border on being wrist computers. Founded in 1936, Suunto has a long and respected history as an innovator in sports timing, especially in the field of…
Here at Off The Cuff, we are always happy to promote a great brand that most people have never heard about. With that, please meet Dunning Sportswear. Apparently designer Ralph Dunning is a fan of OTC. A Toronto native and lifelong athlete, Ralph Dunning draws inspiration from his passions for sport, music, fashion and modern…
I am often pitched by various companies to try out their wares and then tell everyone how much I loved them. While you do see the occasional product or brand review – usually not prompted by any product samples – trust me, there are far more that never make onto OTC. So when Casey from…
After some back-and-forth with a very nice PR rep, it arrived. Here, I thought, we have yet another “guidebook for guys.” After all, men finally seem to be getting their due when it comes to lifestyle guides, how-to books and advice sites (OTC being one of the earlier ones, thanks you very much!). So, when…
Those of you who are fans of the outstanding magazine Monocle (a global briefing on style/politics/culture/urban planning) are probably familiar with Drakes London. Monocle’s founding editor-in-chief, Tyler Brule, devoted a recent editor’s page to this remarkable neck wear firm. No mere affectation, the “London” portion of the name is very much a badge of honor.…
Every now and then I come across a company that is truly unique and catches my eye. It could be the products or marketing approach. Sometimes it’s their buzz factor or ability to hit the market with the right thing at the right time. In the case of Smart Turnout, it started with a watch…
It would appear that I’ve finally made it to the big leagues of blogdom. Workman Publishing recently contacted me to ask that I review The Official Filthy Rich Handbook, by Christopher Tennant. This pretender to The Official Preppy Handbook throne has been making the reviewer’s rounds and I have secretly hoped to be among the…
