NEIGHBORHOOD - Owl Visor / FCL-Helmet

Japanese label NEIGHBORHOOD brings a new technical helmet for Spring/Summer 2013: the OWL VISOR/FCL-HELMET. Fashioned in the style of antique motorcycle silhouettes, this helmet takes a stylish approach to a traditionally utilitarian design. On the exterior, the OWL VISOR / FCL-HELMET takes a gold base, overlaid with a simple black cross. On the interior is a plush material, collaged with black and white animation design. A unique chinstrap leaves comfortable room for the ears, reducing weight on the head while securing the jaw in place. Look for the helmet on NEIGHBORHOOD’s web shop.

Seiko Made In Japan Military Watch

Seiko has released a line of military watches as a part of their 5 Series. While not particularly aligned with BMW’s car series of the same namesake, the focus on quality and craftsmanship is similarly shared. The Made In Japan Military Watches celebrate Seiko’s Japanese heritage while also keeping a certain minimal, modern aesthetic. Said aesthetic is reflected in the five concentrations of the watch: shock resistance, water resistance (10atm), day and date keepers, and of course, automatic function. These pieces are composed of high-grade stainless steel, Hardlex crystal lenses, and also feature a clear back cover. All of the essentials are fused into one timeless piece that meets function with elegant form.

BEAMS 2012 Fall/Winter Collection

Tokyo-based retailer/brand BEAMS presents its Fall/Winter 2012 collection in its entirety. Focusing on faithfully recreating American classics using only the finest Japanese fabrics and craftsmanship, the collection also heavily employs Harris Tweed across an assortment of menswear staples – including coats, vests, sweaters and trousers. With an undeniable functionality achieved due in large part to the trim cuts, one can’t overlook the accessible colors employed which includes indigo, grey, green, brown and red. Expect to see the Fall/Winter 2012 collection from BEAMS at their retail shops all across Asia.

RATS 2012 Fall/Winter “BADMOON RISING” Lookbook

As a clothing label that strives to embody its “Way of Life” philosophy in each of its products, RATS takes its much acquainted approach in showcasing the latest fall/winter collection titled, “BADMOOD RISING.” Known to set a dark tone, while being rough around the edges, the brand’s consistent gritty image and nod to American biker culture does not go unnoticed — the lookbook title even pays homage to American rock band CCR’s foreboding single. Throughout the lookbook a full range of jackets, heavy tops, and knit headwear are introduced including a few accessories in the form of an anchor pendant and metal lighter case. Believing that life should not always be about glorious times and that life must be experienced like that of a rat crawling through the streets to survive, RATS has crafted these garments with just that purpose in mind.

LEE 101 – Heavyweight 23oz Denim Collection

For some, the weight of their denim is everything. If numbers matter when it comes to your jeans then Lee 101 has something for you. A small selection of goods made from their 230z denim “premium quality narrow loom selvage fabric” milled in Japan. Having seen their 101z jeans in this weight close-up I can tell you these mean business. Most definitely a winter months fabric, these thick, heavy jeans have a smooth look to the weave, a tight denim with a slight sheen and enough rigidity to head off down the shops on their own. The fabric is also available in a tote, holdall and backpack all with leather trim. Take a look.

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Untold - Medallion Work boots by CAUSE Fall / Winter 2012

The Japanese brand Untold joins Cause for their new collection for Fall / Winter 2012. A pair of Medallion Work Boots were the main focus of collaboration. Available in two colors (light brown / black), the pair is designed in soft leather, suede and canvas camouflage.

Edwin 2013 Spring/Summer Lookbook

Japan’s Edwin has unveiled its lookbook for 2013 spring/summer portrayed in the vantage point of a road-tripping crew of riders. Unabashedly revealing the preferred pastime of American author Ken Keseye, classic styling is central to this collection while durable Japanese fabrics are also a mainstay of each garment. Expanding on the label’s foundation in denim, we see a selection of five-pocket fits in combination with various jean-jacket pieces. Further rounding out the release; a partnership with Paris-based Blitz brings further visual appeal to the lookbook with the inclusion of custom hand-finished motorcycles.

WTAPS 'Better Than Yesterday' Spring / Summer 2012 - Endclothing

"Building upon the foundations of Spring/Summer’s first drop, the second instalment of this season’s WTAPS collection brings together a selection of accessible, essential clothing which harnesses the designer’s core values. Founded in 1996, the Harajuku-based label has garnered a cult following for its uncompromising pursuit of functional excellence, basing their whole design ethos on ‘Placing things where they should be’. This considered approach towards garment design and production results in pieces which, as well as sitting perfectly alongside one another, also work in tandem with the wearer. The second drop from Nishiyama fits perfectly with the collection’s name, ‘Better Than Yesterday’, which takes classic pieces from recent history and develops them with modern day materials and production techniques, essentially redesigning the product completely to enable it to fit seamlessly into modern day living. The backbone of the delivery is a range of simple, premium cotton tees, the standout of which being the baseball-inspired ‘Ian’ Tee, with its authentic screen printed branding and three-quarter length sleeves – available in Navy or Red. This range of tees works fantastically well with both shirts; such as the cotton twill Union Shirt which comes in a Red or Green Plaid Twill; and the military-influenced Buds Shirt, which boldly uses authentic military touches such as ID Tags to add a touch of character to the overshirt.

Similarly, the sweats in the collection work tremendously well alongside the rest of the range, with the vivid colour of the Hellweek Hoody and the military gym-influenced Offset Hoody both utilising premium cotton with unwavering attention to styling and detail. This uncompromising attention to detail is exhibited perfectly in the range of accessories with bookend the collection, the standout piece being the luxurious Tanker Tote Bag, constructed from Military spec cotton canvas and a premium pebble grain leather the bag takes great influeces from vintage Hermès design. Offering an incredible level of durability and utility, as well as a truly timeless look, this is a bag that will serve you faithfully for many years, if not a lifetime, whether used for short trips or your everyday carry"