Brand Profile: 3sixteen

BRAND: 3sixteen

SINCE: 2003

HOME BASE: Lower East Side, NYC

FOUNDED BY: Andrew Chen and Johan Lam

WHY WE COSIGN: Launched by two guys with no formal training in fashion (so you know they’re gonna make wearable clothing), 3sixteen started as a graphic-tee line before evolving into a full, hand-sewn collection. In addition to its overall high-quality, what makes 3sixteen especially noteworthy is the versatility of its pieces—they are basic, classic silhouettes that can be worn formal-casual or casual-formal and everything in-between. And as a bonus for all you Bible-thumpers out there: The brand is named for verse John 3:16 in the Good Book.

WHAT’S NEXT: To debut its new footwear line this fall, 3sixteen is releasing a custom deck chukka handmade by Quoddy Trail, a company with a long history of crafting moccasins the old-fashioned way. Also this fall, look for 3sixteen accessories such as bags, card holders, and bracelets made of English bridle leather and waxed canvas made by Tanner Goods.

WHERE TO FIND IT: The recently-relaunched 3sixteen web store, Self Edge, and Blackbird

See below for images from 3sixteen’s Fall 2009 collection….