CITY: Miami Beach, FL

SINCE: 2008

OWNED BY: Daai Lo, Mark Bolkovich, David Toribio

PRICES: $$$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: As of late, sneaker boutiques have been popping up like babies in the ’50’s. And if you consider yourself a sneakerhead that should be good news. But what we’ve noticed are a bunch of stores with no differentiating qualities, all peddling the same semi-exclusives. What happened to having design concepts as dope as the products you were selling? Looking to distance themselves from the rest of the kick pushers, the folks behind Miami Beach’s Air Traffic Control have done just that with one of the most inventive shop themes we’ve seen: an airport. What better place to get fly?

Opened by three homies who shared a love of sneakers, it’s obvious as soon as you walk through the doors that this isn’t one of those fly-by-night pop up shops. The first think you’ll notice is the cool stainless steel shelving that holds sneakers sick enough to make Bun B drool—If you can’t find a pair in this consignment-type shop, you probably can’t get ‘em. You’ll then peep the large conveyor belt that shuffles sneakers around much like the baggage claims found in real airports. Pretty genius. And, of course, they also stock dope t-shirts and hats to match with your newly purchased kicks. All in all, this is easily one of the coolest sneaker spots we’ve visited. If you wanna get your shoe game proper, Air Traffic Control can guide you in the right direction.

Read on for our interview with the Owners, pics of the store, and the address/web site…

BRANDS CARRIED: Jordan, Nike, A Bathing Ape, Adidas, Reebok, Puma, New Balance, Converse, Fila, aNYthing, Crooks & Castles, D.A.D.E., Mi Gente, Play Cloths, and Staple

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:
ATC x New Era 59Fifty Fitted

Complex: What is the aesthetic you’re striving for at Air Traffic Control?

Owners: Our goal was to bring concept to consignment. So mixing industrial stainless steel shelving with our check-in style register, conveyor belt centerpiece, and a pair of waiting room style benches, we felt we’d arrived at a good balance in carrying out our airport-inspired theme. As well as offering the largest variety of exclusive kicks in the Miami area.

Complex: Describe your favorite piece in stock right now.

Owners: The Nike Air Force 1 “Atmos” is a shoe commonly overlooked at our shop. To us it represents an era when collaborations weren’t a dime a dozen, before quality control seemingly went out the window and “Obsessive Sneaker Disorder” made its debut on Oprah, and when Flight Club was simply, www.vintagekicks.com.

Complex: Who are your style icons?

Owners: Collectively, we share an affinity for anything Ralph Lifshitz (Ed Note—that’s Ralph Lauren to those who don’t know). As far as sneakers go, we can’t go without acknowledging Tinker Hatfield. Elephant print is arguably as iconic as any LV or Gucci monogram print. Style icons are everyday people just the same, though. They walk the streets of New York City, and they’re the basis and true inspiration for our style.

Complex: What was the first designer item you bought or wore?

Mark: My prized possession as a youth were a pair of tan, Polo Country cookie boots, which I’m happy to say, I still have to this day in their original box. I break them out every now & then for nostalgia’s sake, but that quickly fades after an hour or so, when I realize my foot has grown some since then, and sacrificing comfort for the sake of style just isn’t a priority these days. I know, sad.

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?

Owners: Our business was born based on a shared love for sneakers, and while that’s currently the core of our shop, we’d be fools to pigeonhole ourselves to that category only. The market is forever changing. Versus being stubborn and essentially going down with the ship, we’re prepared to embrace change. ATC is beyond sneakers and we’re looking forward to building our brand and introducing products outside of the world of sneakers. Stand by.

Complex: Any anticipated collaborations?

Owners: Our focus at this point is really just on growing our own brand to a point where we feel comfortable collaborating with others. We’re essentially still newbies, and have a lot of ideas that we want to present on our own. When the time is right, and if it makes sense, you’ll start seeing ATC collaborations.

STORE INFO:
1601 Washington Ave. Suite 114
Miami Beach, FL 33139
305.531.2000
www.atcmia.com

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CITY: Montclair, NJ

SINCE: 2000

OWNED BY: David Dowd

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: As skateboarding culture melded with pop culture, a funny, but inevitable thing happened: skate shops began to shift their product to reflect the times. No longer did they only peddle grip tape, wheels and axles—they increasingly began to stock all the street wear brands that were derived from the function over fashion style of skateboarders. Soon a lot of skate shops began to look a lot like most cool kid boutiques. Montclair, New Jersey’s premier skate shop, Division East found themselves going that direction until owner David Dowd decided take the shop directly back to its roots…

Founded in 2000, Dowd recognized the necessity of a local skateboard shop after years of purchasing his equipment from a bike and roller skating shop. Taking advantage of a hole in the market, Dowd created a store run by skaters, for skaters. The store is completely dedicated to the art of skateboarding with all the best decks, videos, gear and kicks for sale. But more than a shop, Division East has became the local hang out spot for the towns skateboarders. Walk in and you’re likely to catch a bunch of dudes kickin’ it, watching skate videos. And, yes, they do still sell sick threads, as evidenced by the endless supply of dope t-shirts hanging from their walls and the future collaborations they won’t speak on just yet. But at the end of the day, their primary focus is providing a service to the skateboarding community, not the fashion world. Just the way it should be.

Read on for our interview with David Dowd, pics of the store, address/web site and the promo to their new video…

BRANDS CARRIED: Nike, Vans, Cons, adidas, Division East, Ipath, Dekline, Frank 151, Domestics

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:Vans Half Cab, Nike Dunks

Complex: What was the inspiration behind Division East, and how has it influenced the overall look and feel of your store?
David: I grew up skateboarding in Essex County, New Jersey and wished there was a skateboard shop in the area—in those days there wasn’t any. I used to get my skateboards at a bike/rollerskate shop in South Orange, NJ. After college I was still skating and my younger brother who also skated had no place to go. So, in the end, that was my inspiration. I wanted it to be a place where skaters could meet up before and after skating, chill out, watch skate videos, and of course, shop.

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?
David: We are down sizing to get more in tune with the hard core skater since that’s how we started. Over the past few years we drifted away from that a bit. We were still a skate shop but we started to focus on being a “streetwear boutique.” So now we are going back to what we’re all about: selling dope and functional skateboarding equipment and apparel. I would also like to continue to build the Division East brand. We are also very focused on the premiere and release of our third full length skateboard video. Visit the online site for more information regarding that.

Complex: Any anticipated collaborations?
David: You’ll see when it comes out. Just wait.

Complex: What are the next trends in men’s style?
David: Hopefully function over fashion at least as far as skateboarding fashion goes. I think if it’s functional it ends up looking good anyway… you don’t need to try that hard.

STORE INFO:
460 Bloomfield Ave
Montclair, NJ 07042
973.509.0083
Mon-Sun: 11am-8pm

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CITY: Chicago, IL

SINCE: 2009

OWNED BY: Don C, Marc Moran and Virgil Abloh

PRICES: $$$$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: After seeing what a clothing line designed by Kanye would look like, didn’t you wonder how a retail space would look with Mr. West at the managerial helm? We envision something akin to a brick and mortar version of his blog: minimalist design, a mix of high fashion and street wear collections selectively placed around pieces of exclusive art. Coincidentally, that’s exactly what his partner Don C’s boutique, RSVP is. We guess great minds think alike.

Opened this past August with Marc Moran, RSVP was devised to be much more than a retail space, ’cause, really, who the hell needs another cool guy shop? Don and Marc wanted to create a space that carried the rarified air of an art gallery, but still gave off the “warm, welcoming feel of an intimate retail boutique.” Which means while you shop, you’ll be surrounded by art from people like Mark Newson, Stephen Sprouse, Jeff Koons, Takashi Murakami, Kaws, and NoPattern. But that doesn’t mean there’s a lack of emphasis on stocking dope threads. RSVP carries one of the most unique and eclectic mix of brands out of any shop we can think of. What other shop do you know of can supply you with Chanel and Louis Vuitton, as well as Commes Des Garçons, Nike and G-Shock? With a super exclusive stocklist and an atmosphere to match, you would be doing yourself a disservice by not stopping by next time your in the Chi, even if it is just to look.

Read on for our interview with Marc Moran, pics of the store, and the address/web site…

BRANDS CARRIED: A Bathing Ape, Ambush, Chanel, Dee & Ricky, Drapes Earrings, G-Shock, Head Porter, Kaikai Kiki, Kdia, Nike, Original Fake, RSVP Label, Silly Thing, Super, Vane NYC, PLAY by Commes Des Garçons, Rizzoli, Incase, Boxed Water, Louis Vuitton, and Levi Strauss & Co.

Complex: What is the aesthetic you’re striving for at RSVP?
Marc Moran: We want to create an atmosphere similar to an art gallery that strongly emphasizes pop art, design, and luxury, while at the same time evoking the warm, welcoming feel of an intimate retail boutique.

Complex: Describe your favorite piece in stock right now.
Marc Moran: Tough to say, but probably the Kanye West x Bapesta sneakers because their style is a great reflection of our store aesthetic. BAPE is a brand that’s very pop art-influenced and Kanye designed the sneakers using the same colorway Louis Vuitton uses in their leather goods, so that adds to their luxury appeal. They were also the first sneakers Kanye designed, so that’s another cool feature.

Complex: Who are your style icons?
Marc Moran: Kanye West, for being able to mix high fashion and street fashion together so effortlessly. Ralph Lauren for defining true Americana fashion and Nigo for translating pop art into fashion.

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?
Marc Moran: We just opened at the end of August, so right now our future plans are really just to continue to grow and develop our brand. We established this unique identity of being a pop art gallery/luxury goods boutique because our objective has always been to put people on to something new. We just want to excel in carrying hard-to-find, well designed, all around dope merchandise.

Complex: Any anticipated collaborations?
Marc Moran: We just launched a project we’re doing with Lupe Fiasco called “Red Box,” what we call a “curation” that will feature pieces from his various collaborative fashion and design projects. All of the items are displayed in Lupe’s giant red Goyard trunk—(hence the name Red Box). It’s an exclusive project, so the items can be found and purchased only at RSVP. We’re also working with the artist So-me (known for his work with Justice and Kanye’s Goodlife video—Ed. Note: And Complex’s Keri Hilson cover! ), who will be designing logos for us to produce on various products—tees, broaches, etc.

STORE INFO:
1753 N Damen Avenue
Chicago IL, 60647
773.770.6666
Mon-Sat: 12-7 p.m.
Sunday: 12-5 p.m.
www.rsvpgallery.com

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CITY: Los Angeles, CA

SINCE: 2006

OWNED BY: Ilan Bitton

PRICES: $$$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: Take a minute and think about your favorite clothing store. Now think about why it’s your favorite place to shop. Not that we’re telepathic or anything, but we’re guessing the shop you envisioned is your favorite not only because of the product they push, but because of the shopping experience they provide. One trip to LA’s Legion and we’re sure you’ll place them on your short list of favorite places to blow your paycheck. Besides carrying some of our favorite brands like Comme Des Garcons, Engineered Garments, Rag and Bone, and A.P.C., Legion, with its expertly designed space, is just a real chill spot to swing through. “I wanted to create an environment that not only provided an exciting shopping experience, but also one that is basically a cool place to hang out,” says owner Ilan Bitton.

Established in 2006, Bitton wanted to create a space that had all the aesthetic elements he looked for when he would go shopping: nice decor, intimacy, great customer service and a selection worth leaving your house for. Despite the stately, old money look and feel of Legion, the boutique is anything but pretentious. Their friendly and knowledgeable sales staff won’t turn a shoulder or look down their nose at you if you don’t know about Woolrich Woolen Mills or Tsovet watches. They’re more than happy to go on and on about the brands they stock, fabrics and fits. Great brands, great atmosphere, great design and great service. What more do you want out of a shop?

Read on for our interview with Ilan Bitton, pics of the store, and the address/web site…

BRANDS CARRIED: Engineered Garments, Comme Des Des Garcons, Oliver Spencer, Rag and Bone, Nice Collective, Woolrich Woolen Mills, Paul Smith, Our Legacy, C.P. Company, A.P.C., Moncler, Hartford, Phenomenon Beyond Description, Rimowa, Steven Alan, Baxter of California, Tsovet

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:
1. Engineered Garments Chambray Workshirt

2. CPO Shirt Jackets

Complex: What was the inspiration behind Leigon, and how has it influenced the overall look and feel of your store?
Ilan: Legion has all the aesthetic elements that I am looking for when I go shopping. I am affected by everything in the store, whether it is the decor, the intimacy of a boutique, the selection, the welcoming and knowledgeable staff, the music, and the smell. Overall, I wanted to create an environment that not only provided an exciting shopping experience, but also one that is basically a cool place to hang out.

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?
Ilan: Our current plans are simple. Focus on what we have been doing since the beginning, and keep that up.

Complex: Any anticipated collaborations?
Ilan: Not at the moment…

Complex: What are the next trends in men’s style?
Ilan: Clearly, the internet has greatly affected the way people shop. With all of the information available on the internet, the customer has become more knowledgeable than ever, and concerns such as construction and fabric of clothing have intensified. We still hope for a consistent representation of casual elegance, but it could also be possible that because of the internet, an intensified demand for quality and good value could become a primary factor in deciding what the customer purchases.

STORE INFO:
141 1/2 North Larchmont Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90004
323.871.1900
Mon-Sat: 11-7
Sunday: 10-5

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CITY: Royal Oak, MI

SINCE: 2004

OWNED BY: Rick Williams and Roland Coit

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: With all the talk of the diminished auto industry and its effect on Detroit’s economy, it’s hard to think of any business prospering in the Motor City in 2009. Especially a small boutique that sells a cool crop of limited edition sneakers, t-shirts and fitteds. If you believe CNN and Fox News, people in the D are too cash strapped and depressed to conspicuously drop dough on the latest wares to stay fly, right? If that’s the case, no one told Rick Williams and Roland Coit, owners of one of Detroit’s hottest shops, Burn Rubber…

Originally founded in 2004, the shop struggled until Rick and Roland took over and completely turned the store around in 2007. Seeing the potential in the 680 square foot store, the new owners decided to stock the shelves with a wide assortment of brands and styles, making it clear that their motto is quality and quantity. Did we mention that the Burn Rubber x New Era fitteds have taken the nation by storm? The brand has also been getting shine from Detroit natives Big Sean and Mike Posner and has even managed to land itself in Northwest Airlines Skymiles magazine. Not to mention they plan on opening a new location. Seems pretty damn prosperous to us.

BRANDS CARRIED: Burn Rubber Private Label, Stüssy, 10.Deep, Crooks & Castles, Play Cloths, Acapulco Gold, Diamond Supply, New Era, UNDFTD, Concepts, Black Scale, Nike, adidas, New Balance, Supra, Puma, Pro-Keds, Gourmet, and Jordan.

MOST POPULAR ITEMS: Burn Rubber Private Label New Era Fitted Caps.

Complex: What was the inspiration behind Burn Rubber, and how has it influenced the overall look and feel of your store?
Rick Williams: Detroit is the Motor City and its culture is mainly inspired by the auto industry. Burn Rubber is a term that used to be used in street racing. Cars have tires and we have sneakers. That’s where the name came from. We try do do things that make sense for us here in the mid-west. We are proud of where we are from and we try to represent. 

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?
Rick Williams: We have another location in the works now.

Complex: Any anticipated collaborations?
Rick Williams: We definitely have some collaborations in the works. All I can say is that they are with some reputable sneaker and clothing companies. Stay tuned for more info.

Complex: What are the next trends in men’s style?
Rick Williams: I think that things are going to tone down. Not as much of the bright colors and crazy graphics. I think that there is going to be more focus on the smaller details and quality of materials.

STORE INFO:
202 West 4th St.
Royal Oak, MI 48067
248.543.3000
Mon-Thurs: 12-7 p.m.
Fri + Sat: 12-8 p.m.
Sunday: 12-5 p.m.

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STORE: Shotwell

CITY: San Francisco, CA

SINCE: 2008

FOUNDED BY: Holly and Michael Weaver

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: Like you didn’t already know, the quirky, vintage-heavy hipster style has been hotter than Phoenix in July and shows no sign of cooling off. Those who want to adopt the look for themselves are usually forced to rummage through small vintage boutiques with limited selections…or Urban Outfitters. But who said Urban Outfitters was the only retail spot that could hold this aesthetic down? Straight from San Francisco, Shotwell is giving the Starbucks of urban retail a run for its money. Which is good news for you as it brings a larger and more diverse selection of options to keep you looking cooler than New York in January (ICE COLD!).

Originally selling vintage clothes out of their house, Holly and Michael Weaver opened their first store (originally located at 36 Geary St.) back in November ’08. The shop’s immediate popularity drove the duo to relocate to a spacious and multi-floored spot on 320 Grant Ave., all within a year. Standing apart from other vintage shops, Shotwell makes a point of carrying the tightest blend of vintage pieces as well as new dopeness from contemporary brands like B. Son, April 77, and Surface to Air, giving you the best of both worlds. Not in or near Frisco? No problem—the Shotwell online store will be up and running within two months. Or you could keep browsing Urban Outfitters, the choice is yours.

Read on for our interview with both Holly and Michael Weaver, pics of the store, and the address/web site…

BRANDS CARRIED: B.Son, April 77, Surface To Air, Orthodox, Gytha Mander, Cheap Monday, Shades of Greige, and more

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:

1. GYTHA MANDER BUTTON DOWN SHIRTS, $138

2. SHADES OF GREIGE PERFORATED LEATHER JACKET, $228

3. SHADES OF GREIGE WOOL BLEND CARDIGAN, $168

Complex: What was the inspiration behind Shotwell, and how has it influenced the overall look and feel of your store?

Michael: We started selling vintage by appointment out of our house and had pop-up shops 1-2 times a month. So when we moved into our current store we felt that it was important to keep a healthy amount of vintage (reworked and original) mixed in with our other brands as a nod to where we started.

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?

Holly: We are launching an online shop in the next two months! It’s been a huge request from our international customers, so we are very excited about being able to offer that. Eventually, we’d love to expand Shotwell locations to other cities.

Complex: What do you foresee in menswear in five years?

Holly: I see menswear having more crossover in the next five years. There’s a definite movement toward more unisex and androgynous looks.

Complex: Any anticipated collaborations?

Michael: Brandon Scott (B.Son and B.Scott), and Anzevino and Florence.

STORE INFO:
Shotwell
320 Grant Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94108
Monday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

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CITY: Brooklyn, NY

SINCE: 2005

FOUNDED BY: Gene Han

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: As far as we can remember, Manhattan’s Soho district has been the place to cop the latest sneakers, T-shirts, fitteds, and basically anything else considered to be poppin’ in the streetwear world. But while Manhattan always held us down, until recently not much could be said about the other four boroughs (except Vinnie’s Styles, we see you!) Back in 2005, Gene Han noticed the void in Brooklyn and decided to fill it by opening his own boutique: Wealthy Ho$tage. Dedicated to stocking only the dopest product it can get its hands on and giving new brands a chance to shine, this shop is helping to make BK a desired cool-guy shopping destination.

Located just south of Prospect Park on Church Ave., Wealthy Ho$tage specializes in kicks, T-shirts and hoodies, denim, and accessories—basically everything you need to get fly. By being extra picky about what they stock, even well-known labels like ALIFE, Penfield, PRPS, HUF, and Sabit NYC have to come correct just to get their product on the shelves. No matter what your style, you’re guaranteed to get the best of best. And just when you thought things couldn’t get any better, these guys even stock Tier 0 Nikes. That alone makes this shop worth the trip over the bridge.

Read on for our interview with Gene Han, pics of the store, and the address/web site…

BRANDS CARRIED: 10 Deep, Adidas, Air Jordan, ALIFE, Amongst Friends, Clae, Creative Recreation, Converse, Crooks & Castles, Dr. Martens, Fiberops, Frank 151, Generic Surplus, Hellz Bellz, HUF, Incase, In4mation, Keds, KidRobot, Krink, Married to the MOB, Mishka, New Balance, New Era, Nike, Naked & Famous, Nooka, Nudie, Penfield, PF Flyers, Play Cloths, PRPS, Princess of the Posse, Puma, Red Wing, Rich Yung, Rocksmith, Sabit NYC, Sperry, Supra, Staple Design, Stone Throw, Stussy, Timberland Abington, TOMS, Undefeated, and Vans

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:

NIKE BLAZER HI VINTAGE
Click here to Buy It Now at Wealthy Ho$tage, $100

10 DEEP PADDINGTON PLUS HOODIE
Click here to Buy It Now at Wealthy Ho$tage, $95

DR. MARTENS X STUSSY TYLER BOOTS
Click here to Buy It Now at Wealthy Ho$tage, $135

Complex: What was the inspiration behind Wealthy Ho$tage, and how has it influenced the overall look and feel of your store?

Gene: What inspired us location-wise was the lack of good quality products in the Brooklyn area. I essentially wanted to bring the dope styles of Soho to Brooklyn. The name “Wealthy Ho$tage” came about when I was driving around in Coney Island. On a random day I witnessed shady undertakings by some interesting-looking Russian men and a jet-black van on a side street. I saw the name “Wealthy Ho$tage” flash before my eyes right there. I like to think of the name to signify how the “hype” of the market has basically made consumers “hostages” to the market itself. We want to be beyond the hype and provide quality, everlasting product as opposed to what’s in for just the season.

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?

Gene: There are so many plans that I don’t know where to begin! Overall, we plan to keep doing what we do and do it well. We will work hard and play hard. We will always be at the forefront of premium streetwear in Brooklyn and we’re aiming at taking over the globe!

Complex: What are the next trends in men’s style?

Gene: Currently I see a shift back to classic. Classic American brands like Polo are definitely doing well. I think the emphasis will now be more on longevity and value of the product especially because of the economy. Quality and the “story” of the product itself will be the defining difference in the market. I cannot stress enough the importance of the meaning behind any product. New brands and competition is at an all-time high right now and I believe only a unique story behind a product will make it stand out.

STORE INFO:
Wealthy Ho$tage
1924 Church Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11226
718.856.3043
Monday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

CITY: Santa Barbara, CA

SINCE: 2008

FOUNDED BY: DJ Vice, Nick Sakai, Asaf Dimant, & Mark Lawrence

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: It baffles us that in 2009, companies still don’t understand the importance of real-world and online synergy. Take sneaker boutiques for instance: Finding a dope sneaker shop is task in of itself. And harder still is finding an online store that stays stocked with the latest and doesn’t look like a GeoCities page. So when we discovered CRSVR, we knew we struck oil. This boutique’s owners understand the demand for exclusives and the need for a pleasing shopping experience. Sick brands matched with a sick in-store experience and a dope online design make for one helluva place to shop.

Meeting in ‘08 during a flight to Santa Barbara, DJ Vice and Nick Sakai immediately recognized their passion for sneakers and wasted no time setting up plans to open their own shop. Inspired by the culture they were very much a part of, these instant homies kept every aspect in mind when crafting the direction for the store. The shop features an in-house DJ to keep customers in the buying mood and a staff that has no problem answering your questions (no too-cool cocky types here). Also the lyrics to EPMD’s “Crossover” are written across the back wall, letting folks know that CRSVR will never sell out—unless your talking inventory. Zing!

BRANDS CARRIED: Nike, Supra, Five Four Clothing, Brixton, Ever Clothing, The Hundreds, Mishka, In4Mation, Orisue, Stussy, Future Heretics, Ransom Clothing, Fyasko Clothing, Dim Mak, G-Shock, and Nooka.

Read on for our interview with DJ Vice, pics of the store, and the address/web site…

MOST POPULAR ITEMS: DJ Vice: Nike Quickstrikes are hands down our most popular items. We’ve had customers camp out as long as six nights in front of the store to secure a spot in line to be the first to get their hands on these super-exclusive drops. Aside from them, our Future Heretics x CRSVR ‘I Uzi SB’ Collab is definitely next up.

Complex: What was the inspiration behind CRSVR, and how has it influenced the overall look and feel of your store?

DJ Vice: The concept for CRSVR was actually sparked on a flight to a DJ gig I had in Santa Barbara. During the flight I struck up a random conversation about sneakers with the passenger in the seat next to me. We chatted throughout the flight and upon landing decided we were going to open a sneaker store. About seven months later, CRSVR opened its doors. The store is definitely influenced by my DJ career, and also our own personal style. Growing up listening to and playing hip-hop, it was important for me to capture a piece of that lifestyle/culture. We try to nail the “dressed-up, dressed-down look” that is somewhere between streetwear and high fashion. Aside from that, my partner Nick and I are sneakerheads at heart. We both grew up wearing Nikes, Jordans, and Reebok Pumps. So to be able to open a boutique focused on sneakers is not only a hobby for us, but a passion that we’ve had since we were kids.

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?

DJ Vice: We just launched our website, crsvr.com, which has been one of our biggest projects since we first opened our doors. We kept the concept of the site similar to the store: simple, clean and fresh. We have added a couple of pretty dope features that will hopefully make us stand out a bit from other sites. We focus on our blog, our shoes, and our music. I want people to be able get our latest shoes, and also be able to download my latest mixes too.

Complex: Any anticipated collaborations?

DJ Vice: We are currently working on a Halloween event with Orisue, and just wrapped a project with Future Heretics. Future Heretics was nice enough to do a collab tee for us that’s exclusive to the store and online. We are definitely open to the idea and anticipate the opportunity to work with a lot of the brands we carry.

Complex: What are the next trends in men’s style?

DJ Vice: The dressed-up streetwear look seems to be pretty popular. Everything is getting really clean. The streetwear brands are putting out cut-and-sew pieces that look like they could go in Barneys but the price points are staying true to their roots. If that continues to happen for the next five years, I wouldn’t be mad at all. The shoes are tough to predict. Every time I go to Nike to see the upcoming lines, they always surprise me with classic shoes I haven’t seen in 15 years, and some sort of new technology that reshapes the direction footwear is headed. They are an amazing company that is able to stay ahead of the game and create stories and product that influences a lot of the other brands out there, and we are extremely fortunate to be able to work so closely with them.

STORE INFO:
632 State St.
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805.962.2400
Open 7 days a week, 10-8

STORE: Context Clothing

CITY: Madison, WI

SINCE: 2005

FOUNDED BY: Sam Parker and Ryan Huber

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: What DQM and UNFTD are to sneaker stores, Context Clothing is to denim shops. Not satisfied with just selling denim, these guys opted to head down the “boutique” path and make the in-store experience just as cool as the product. Much like sneakerheads, denim connoisseurs are often interested in the story behind the final product as much as the item itself. From the quality of the denim to the cut, Context knows everything there is to know and are more than happy to share the wealth (unlike their sometimes overly pretentious cousins in the sneaker industry).

Stocking brands like Atelier LaDurance, A.P.C., Dunderdon, Engineered Garments, Nom de Guerre, Nudie Jeans and Woolrich Woolen Mills, these guys have an eye for quality and that’s for damn sure. So get your denim game as proper as your sneaker collection and make sure to stop buy…if you’re ever in Wisconsin. You would be a fool not to, what else is in Wisconsin?

BRANDS CARRIED: Atelier LaDurance, Nom De Guerre, Nudie, A.P.C., Kicking Mule Workshop, Woolrich Woolen Mills, Wings + Horns, Somet, Shades of Greige, Quoddy, Momotaro, Krane, Kenton Sorenson Leather, Jean Shop, Band of Outsiders, Dunderdon, Canada Goose and Engineered Garments.

For pics of the store, an interview with the owner and contact info, see below…

Complex: What was the inspiration behind Context Clothing, and how has it influenced the overall look and feel of your store?
Ryan Huber: We opened in December of 2005 and quickly became popular among dry selvage denim fans. Our eye for fabric and heritage production stems directly from my interest and knowledge of vintage. Sam and I have a passion for customer service that is directly related to our experiences in the bar business. The web site and store layout are products of my art education (UW Wisconsin, Madison Art BFA) as I designed and built all the display pieces with my friend. We also have a full African Lioness displayed in our window just for kicks.

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?
Ryan Huber: Our future retail plans include launching the best denim repair service in the country, which we offer in the shop. We are also looking into bottling and selling the beer we currently brew for the shop. Our current focus on heritage production, fit, and fabrics is opening doors to offer more refined suiting and shirting. The denim head also wants the best shirt and wants to know how and where it was produced. We present our collections with what we call “transparency in production.” We pride ourselves on our product knowledge and only carry the best.

Complex: Any anticipated collaborations?
Ryan Huber: We are constantly working on collaborations and have a few in the works with The Hill-Side, Gitman Brother’s Vintage, and Alden Shoes.

STORE INFO:
CONTEXT CLOTHING
113 King Street
Madison, WI 53703
608.250.0113

Monday – Wednesday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday – Saturday: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.

CITY: NYC

SINCE: 2000

FOUNDED BY: Eunice Lee

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: Most up-and-coming brands like to advertise logos on their apparel, but UNIS designs its collection with a minimalistic concept in mind. “I wanted to make handsome clothes for guys that didn’t scream logos and graphics. Keeping it simple so it doesn’t overwhelm the person wearing them. Understated cool,” says founder and designer Eunice Lee.

Before Unis became its own shop, it started out as a collection sold at Barneys New York, Fred Segal Man, and Apartment Number 9. In addition to its own line, this Nolita shop carries the American casual and classic staple items you need for fall. Lee knows the cut and style for the modern dude. Her CV includes stints at DKNY, DKNY Jeans, and Emanuel Ungaro. Be sure to catch tomorrow’s launch of Unis’ online store.

BRANDS CARRIED: UNIS, Billy Kirk, Aprix, Bing Bang Jewelry, Coto,Common Projects, Helmet of the Will, BBlessing and Alex B

For our interview with the designer and founder Eunice Lee, pics of the store, its address, and web site, see below…

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:
FELIX RED OLIVE BUTTON DOWN SHIRT
Available at Unis, $190

ELLIOT BLUE GREY BUTTON DOWN SHIRT
Available at Unis, $295

Complex: What was the inspiration behind UNIS, and how has it influenced the overall look and feel of your store?
Eunice Lee: The original inspiration was pretty simple: Make clothing that is great quality, in great fits, colors, and fabrications. That said, I think that the shop has always been simple and clean. I do pull from a lot of military for inspiration and we do a hint of that in the shop as well.

Complex: What are your retail plans for the future?
Eunice Lee: We’ve just expanded to Brooklyn. We are inside the Smith and Butler store in Carroll Gardens. I’m always looking for great opportunities. But it has to feel as right as it did with this location. It’s been a long time coming, but I’m excited that our online store will be up and running by tomorrow! So all the guys emailing us from all over the place will have an opportunity to buy UNIS for the first time!

Complex: Any anticipated collaborations?
Eunice Lee: We’re brainstorming ideas with Smith and Butler right now. They have done such a great job with their collaborations, and we are definitely learning a thing or two from Marylynn. We’re looking for collaborators on accessories for SURE. We’re big fans of sunglasses and shoes.

Complex: What do you foresee happening in menswear in five years?
Eunice Lee: The average consumer has become more global because of the Internet. You don’t have to get on a plane to see what’s cool in New York City. I think that men everywhere will have more exposure to cool from everywhere all at once. Unis is nine years old. Fashion for cool guys has only shifted slightly. Guys will still always want great wearable pieces that make them feel good about themselves.

STORE INFO:
Unis, Nolita
226 Elizabeth Street
New York, NY 10012
212.431.5533
Monday – Friday: 11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: 12 p.m – 7 p.m.

Unis at Smith + Butler Brooklyn
225 Smith Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
718.855.4295
Tuesday – Thursday: 11:30 a.m. – 7:30 a.m.
Friday – Saturday: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

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CITY: San Francisco, California

SINCE: 1996

FOUNDED BY: Michael Brown

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: If you find yourself coppin’ bud on Haight Street in San Francisco, before you go roll up make sure you stop by this old school storefront that is known as the ultimate t-shirt shop. From brands like ALIFE and Diamond Supply Co., Miska, Mighty Healthy, among others, True SF stocks up on all the t-shirts you’d ever want and need. If you don’t see if here, there’s a good chance it’s no longer being made or it’s just not hot. They also carry a crazy collection of sneakers and fitteds if you’re looking for something to pair with your new tees. True SF not only embraces the culture and the clothing, but the music as well. This month, online retailer The Giant Peach opened a pop up shop at True SF in celebration of its 10th anniversary. For the few of you who don’t know, The Giant Peach has been providing the best in underground music and clothing via the web longer than most. Now, for the first time, you can purchase a sampling of what they offer at their store. And if you happen to be with your lady friend, make sure to stop by next door at True Sole for next level kicks and gear for her. You’ll can thank us later.

BRANDS CARRIED: Acrylick, Adapt, adidas, Akomplice, ALIFE, Alphanumeric, Altamont, Black Scale, Counter Balance, DGK, Diamond Supply Co., Dime Piece, Dissizit, DTA, FreshJive, Fully Laced, Gentle Fawn, Ghetto Rock, Hellz Bellz, In4mation, Incase, Insight, Jansport, Jordan, Kr3w, LRG, Levis, Luxirie, Manik, Married to the Mob, Mass Confusion, Mighty Healthy, Mishka, New Era, Nike, Oakley, OBEY, Ongaku, Penfield, Pops, Premium Label, Radii Footwear, Rebel8, Rogue Status, Royal Revelation, SE Racing, SFCA, Spitfire Sunglasses, Staple, Starks, Stones Throw, Supra, Tank Theory, The Hundreds, TITS, True, WSTSDMRKT, Xlarge and Zoo York.

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:
OAKLAND A’s CUSTOM NEW ERA FITTED CAP
Click here to Buy It Now at True Clothing, $38

KR3W FRONTIER LONG SLEEVE BUTTON UP SHIRT
Click here to Buy It Now at True Clothing, $56

NIKE CITY SHELL JACKET
Click here to Buy It Now at True Clothing, $400

STORE INFO:
TRUE SF
1415 Haight Street
San Francisco, CA 94117
415.626.2882

CITY: Philadelphia, PA

SINCE: 2007

FOUNDED BY: Philip Dupree, Justin Waller and store manager, One aka N.o.a.h.

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: A city as great as Philadelphia should have stores and shops to match. Residents shouldn’t have to trek all the way to NYC to cop the latest and greatest. Thankfully, over the past couple years we’ve witnessed the birth of a new fashion scene in Philly, with new boutiques and shops opening up to bring some of the hottest wares to the city of brotherly love. One of those shops is Made to Order.

Opened in ‘07 when co-founders Philip Dupree and Justin Weller found themselves making bi-weekly shopping trips to stores in the big apple that didn’t even treat them with the respect and kindness they thought every customer deserved. Especially ones that traveled two hours just to be there. Frustrated, they decided to open up a shop with a selection as diverse as the the city it’s located in with top notch customer service. Meaning, you can walk into Made to Order and walk out with gear from brands like 10 Deep, Maharishi, and even our ‘09 favorite Public School. They also listen (really listen) to their customers (who they prefer to call “friends”). If enough people request a certain brand or type of clothing, there’s a great chance it’ll wind up on the shelves.

BRANDS CARRIED: Public School, 10 Deep, Wood Wood, Black Scale, Fred Perry, A.P.C., Super, Fresh Melt Water, G-Shock, Mighty Healthy, King Stampede, J.Lindeberg, 3sixteen, Clae.

Read on for our interview with founder Phil Dupree, pics of the store and the address/web site…

MOST POPULAR ITEMS: Their G-Shock selection (which at any given time numbers at least 10 different watches to choose from), and anything from 10 Deep.

Complex: So how did you end up with your own shop?
Phil Dupree: We ended up with our own shop out of spite actually. We were very big shoppers, but due to the lack of a streetwear presence in Philadelphia a few years back, we were forced to do weekly trips to New York. And unfortunately, we encountered some crazy egos and a general lack of respect for our consumer dollar. It wasn’t like that everywhere, but a couple stores were out of control, so, when you don’t like the status quo, change it or shut up. We changed it.

Complex: What’s so cool about your shop anyway?
Phil Dupree: I think customers will agree is our emphasis on customer service, and our attention to our customers wants. When you step through the front doors, you’re always greeted, and treated like you’re our number one customer. We don’t even call them customers internally. They’re all friends to us. And we listen to our friends. They came in for months and said they wanted some good denim. So we brought in A.P.C. Our customer base is all over the board, so you can come in and choose across the board. No other store has a rack with a 10 Deep hoodie, a Black Scale crewneck, a Wood Wood zip up work shirt, a Public School Leather Jacket and a Fred Perry polo.

Complex: Any collabs in the near future?
Phil Dupree: We aren’t really big on collaborations as of yet, as we are still trying to grow our brand, but we have some exciting projects coming up. We are working with the most talented artist I’ve ever met, Ron Ackins, and we are currently working on a book where he will re-create historic moments in Philadelphia’s history which helped shaped the way the city is today. We are very excited about that. That is due at the beginning of the year. We are also in the beginning stages of an online magazine with an amazing writer, Nick Schonberger. I can’t give too many details about that, but its a different take on the industry. And last, our in-house brand 2nd & Delancey is going to be introduced for Spring 2010, so while we are short on “collaborations”, our hands are full.

STORE INFO:
817A North 2nd St.
Philadelphia, PA 19123
215.413.7080.
Tuesday – Saturday: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

CITY: Toronto, Canada

SINCE: 1991

FOUNDED BY: Roger O’Donnell, the keyboardist from The Cure, now Donnell Enns is the current owner.

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: Nowadays, it’s rare to find a store that is able keep a well balanced selection of fashion forward brands and streetwear apparel. Most stores either reach for the stars with looks straight off the runway or stay in the streets with brands only mentioned on blogs. Not Toronto’s own Uncle Otis. What may sound like a southern eatery is actually a store founded by the keyboardist from The Cure, Roger O’Donnell. Keeping their style to a minimum and never too over the top, Uncle Otis stays ensures their customers stay fresh by cultivating a selection of understated, luxury style. “We’re obsessed with details,” says new owner, Donnell Enns. “[As well as] fabric, fit, construction and a one-of-a-kind selection.” Sounds like the perfect balance to us.

BRANDS CARRIED: Surface to Air, Levi’s and Levi’s Capital E, Naked and Famous, Filippa K, YMC, Stüssy Deluxe, Mosley Tribes, Rokin, Red Wing, Canada Goose Japan, and more..

For our interview with Donnell Enns and pics of the store its address and web site, see below…

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:

PUBLIC SCHOOL PILOT LEATHER JACKET
Click here to Buy It Now at Uncle Otis, $250

SURFACE TO AIR TWO FINGER “A” RAW RING
Click here to Buy It Now at Uncle Otis, $85

CANADA GOOSE JAPAN MONTREAL VEST FOR UNCLE OTIS
Click here to Buy It Now at Uncle Otis, $250

Complex: So how did you end up with your own shop?

Donnell Enns: I took over from a couple of other guys who were done with high end street wear. Previous to 2000, I was working here and very much enjoyed offering clients great product that includes great customer service so I bought the shop from the previous owners in order to extend my personal touch.

Complex: What’s so cool about your shop anyway?

Donnell Enns: We’re located on a side street in Canada’s premier shopping area named Yorkville. But our vibe and customer service most definitely doesn’t mimic the other high end shops in the area – because we’re cool with everyone who comes through. Plus our space is very comfortable, and our selection is very classic and timeless in wear ability. Having “exclusive” merchandise is kind of bullshit these days – cause all you really need is clean and classic quality craftsmanship, but we do try to keep our merchandise as rare as we can without being stupid about it.

Complex: Where do you see Uncle Otis in the future?

Donnell Enns: Consistently pleasing our loyal customers and educating the new generation of fine apparel wearers.

STORE INFO:
UNCLE OTIS
26 Bellair Street
Toronto, ON
M5R 2C7
416.920.2281

Monday – Friday: 11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday: 11:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

CITY: Peachtree, Atlanta location in August 2003; Lenox Square, Atlanta in November 2008

SINCE: 2003

FOUNDED BY: Farshad Arshid

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: When you think of the fashion capitals of the country, the usual suspects quickly come to mind: New York, Los Angeles and Miami. Now thanks to shops like Standard, you may have to include Atlanta on your sartorial short list. Founded in ATL by Farshad Arshid , Standard features all the brands you’ve come to love and lust after like, Stüssy ,Play Cloths, and ALIFE as well as Gant, Public School and Generic Surplus. So you can go with the traditional streetwear look or go a little up-market with some cut and sew pieces. Or feel free to mix and match—doesn’t matter, whatever works for you, Standard can do. “Our goal is to push individuality and originality when it comes to fashion.” says Farshad. And no, the prices won’t have you eating Ramen for the rest of the month: t-shirts run from $24 to $100 and sneakers from $40 to $120. Sounds like that should be the standard for every store, no?

For more pics/info of the store and an interview with Farshad hit the jump…

BRANDS CARRIED: Nike, BBC Ice Cream, G-Star, Maharishi, DC, Creative Recreation, The Hundreds, Gant, Clae, 10.Deep, Stüssy, WeSC, Gourmet, Generic Surplus.

Complex: What was the inspiration behind Standard Atlanta?
Farshad Arshid: With the first store, we wanted to create a very clean minimalist space where the clothes and footwear took center stage and with the second location we got a bit more creative especially with the addition of synthetic turf and the comic style cells on the walls.

Complex: What styles can we anticipate for the fall/winter 2009 season?
Farshad Arshid: I see fall/winter having a lot of navy and charcoal colors. Hybrid sneakers are gonna be big, as well as the return of the penny loafers.

Complex: What do you foresee in menswear?
Farshad Arshid: Menswear is going back to the classics. Less loud and crazy and more subtle and clean.

STORE INFO:
STANDARD ATLANTA
Peachtree
1841 Peachtree Rd NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
404.355.1410
Monday – Thursday: 1 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Saturday: 1 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Sun: Closed

Lenox Square
3393 Peachtree Rd NE
Atlanta, GA 30326
404.846.8535
Monday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

CITY: Miami Beach, Florida

SINCE: 2007

FOUNDED BY: Milan Vukmirovic cofounder of Colette, Laure Hériard Dubreuil, and Frederic Dechnik.

PRICES: $$$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: If you’re vacationing in South Beach, don’t sleep on this super-luxe, three-level boutique. With a classic ’40s Caribbean art deco vibe, The Webster Miami houses brands like Billionaire Boys Club, Lanvin, Maison Martin Margiela, Marc Jacobs, and a bunch of other brands you’ll want to spend your rent money on. The store’s inventory is so official because founders Dubreuil, Dechnik, and Vukmirovic actually hit the bricks and hand-pick pieces from runway shows throughout the year. If you got some dough to blow after a couple nights on South Beach, you would be doing yourself a favor by swinging through. “The Webster is part of an elite group of multi-brand stores that have influenced the fashion industry and it has the ability to put Miami on the map as a destination comparable to New York, Paris, and Milan,” explains Vukmirovic. We agree. Besides, don’t you want to say you were down with the shop before it blows up?

BRANDS CARRIED: Acne, Adam Kimmel, Balenciaga, Balmain, Billionaire Boys Club, Givenchy, Lanvin, Maison Martin Margiela, Marc Jacobs, Neil Barrett, Pierre Hardy, Prada, Ralph Lauren, Robinson les Bains, Sundeck, Tom Ford, and Trussardi 1911.

See our interview with Laure Hériard Dubreuil and Frederic Dechnik and pics of the store, address, and web site, see below…

Complex: So how did you end up with your own shop?
Laure Hériard Dubreuil: We all have a very extensive background in fashion including Tom Ford, Balenciaga, YSL, Hermes, etc. With the natural evolution of our careers, we were all ready for something bigger and with our combined experience we were able to open a successful multi-brand boutique carrying the full collections of the very best designers including the ones we have worked for.

Complex: What’s so cool about your shop?
Laure Hériard Dubreuil: The Webster is dedicated to providing high fashion and unparalleled service. Our exclusive selections, variety of luxurious designers, art/ photography collection, acclaimed Parisian restaurant Caviar Kaspia, incomparable ambiance and elegant décor and devoted team make the Webster so extraordinary.

Complex: What was the inspiration and influence behind the Webster?
Laure Hériard Dubreuil: Our vision of fashion is the inspiration—our very specific eye and selection. The Webster is the most prestigious, luxurious fashion store in the world. It’s about the architectural and artistic decision that we really love all the buildings that only exist in Miami. Miami’s architecture is Caribbean art deco and only in Miami can you find such an historical art deco architecture. The building has a tropical minimalistic feel and has been restored to its original 1930’s design.

The décor of the store is a tropical minimalism with a classic art deco 40’s vibe. The Webster Hotel was built in the late 1930s by architect Henry Hohauser. The façade and lobby are classified historical landmarks. We used the original terrazzo floors, staircases and cavernous ceilings as well as the previous pastel colors of light pink and baby blue. We installed vintage wallpaper linings from the ’60s, a sleek stone fireplace, and the use of natural tones for the interior. The Webster has a very warm and inviting ambiance.

“The three of us share a love for photography and Milan Vukmirovic is a photographer himself so we started building a collection of pictures and photographs that we own and are spread throughout The Webster. We will also be doing temporary exhibitions and will allow special artists/photographers to create artistic installations. This is a very strong part of The Webster concept.”

STORE INFO:
The Webster
1220 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
305.674.7899
Monday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.

CITY: Honolulu, Tumon Bay

SINCE: 2001

FOUNDED BY: Edward Haus and Ian Ginoza

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: We’ll take any excuse we can to go to Hawaii, and if that means limited kicks, then so be it. Besides surfing and loose tourist ladies on the beaches, KICKS/HI is the go-to spot for all things Complex in the style world…

When the shop started in 2001, there wasn’t a spot to get solid Quickstrike Nike sneakers or the Stüssy gear Japanese tourists freak out on. “The inspiration was simply stocking the best footwear and apparel from around the world, and when you come to KICKS/HI you see just that. From our branded product offerings we have a huge love for music, art, and all things Hawaii we try to communicate that every season,” says owner Edward Haus.

“The coolest thing to me is that our staff and friends are truly helpful and genuinely nice, a sad rarity in this day and age. We are dedicated to stocking the finest footwear and apparel and will always continue to do just that. We also have a KICKS/HI apparel range that is sold exclusively at KICKS HAWAII in Honolulu as well as Tumon Bay, Guam. Something special and exclusive for the island lifestyle that we live and love.”

BRANDS CARRIED: Converse, Vans Classic + Vault, Generic Surplus, Clae, Nike + Nike SB, Reebok, Clarks, Timberland Abington, Visvim, Kicks/Hi Orange Label, Saint Alfred, HUF, Original Fake, DQM, Stüssy, Penfield, Medicom, Flying Coffin, Ransom, Play Cloths, Crooks & Castles, and Stones Throw

MOST POPULAR ITEMS: Kicks/Hi Essential(S) Collection.

STORE INFO:
KICKS/HI
1530 Makaloa St #A
Honolulu, HI 96814
808.941.9191?
HOURS: Monday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

1200 Ala Moana Blvd Suite 633
Honolulu, HI 96814
808.591.8018
HOURS: Monday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

GUAM
1275 Pale san Vitores Rd. #308
Tamuning, Guam 96913

SAINT ALFRED
1531 North Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 0622
773.486.7159
kickshawaii.com

CITY: New York, NY

SINCE: November 2008

FOUNDED BY: Andre Munoz

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: Consortiums founder Andre Munoz is an O.G. NY retailer, and we know him from his Union NYC days. His new shop brings all of its favorite designers, and a few of ours. “The way we’re working with the shop right now is showcasing new designers with old designers. We have young labels like Well Played, Sibel Saral, and Procede. Each one of these is different from one another, but then when we put them alongside classic and vintage designers like Ralph Lauren, Yves Saint Laurent, Burberry, and Christian Dior, we’re mixing things up.”

Founder, Andre Munoz started Consortiums as a way to stay in the scene but get out of direct streetwear retail. “I was in streetwear, and didn’t want to be a part of it coming out of 2007, the scene became something that wasn’t fun, wasn’t creative and it just became a job and lost its message. I wanted to do something cool, creative and different and also work them together. That’s where you get the name Consortiums,” he says.

Wikipedia defines a Consortium as, “An association of two or more individuals, companies, organizations or governments (or any combination of these entities) with the objective of participating in a common activity or pooling their resources for achieving a common goal.” Says Munoz, “We’re not a vintage store, we’re not a new store, we’re that great place in the middle where we don’t want to be defined by one thing. We have a lot of space and we’re going to be doing stuff with artists as the shop develops. It only makes sense to showcase them and move into that direction as well.”

BRANDS CARRIED: Well Played, Procede, Sibel Saral, Ralph Lauren, Yves Saint Laurent, Burberry, Pierre Cardin, Christian Dior and MCM.

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:

CONSORTIUMS PLIMSOLES
Available at Consortiums, $18

STORE INFO:
Consortiums New York
5 Delancey Street
New York, NY 100002
212.966.1441

CITY: Las Vegas, Nevada

SINCE: 2005

FOUNDED BY: Chris Julian (Undftd/Stüssy/Pastelle) and Samantha Alonso

PRICES: $$$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: If you’re in Las Vegas and you wanna go shopping you have more than a couple options at your disposal. You can hit up one of the malls, like the Fashion Show mall located on Las Vegas Blvd., right across the street from the Wynn Hotel. Or you can hit up one of the many high-fashion boutiques found in the glitziest hotels, also on the Vegas Strip. Or you can venture away from all the fake monuments and pumped oxygen and hit up one of the sickest clothing boutiques in the country, Fruition Las Vegas.

Founded by Chris Julian and Samantha Alonso, Fruition boasts a collection of clothing so diverse in brands, time periods, and styles that you’d hard-pressed to find another store that even comes close to its range. Fruition mixes archival Chanel, Ralph Lauren and Nike originals with the flyest of today’s fly shit, including Jeremy Scott, Dr. Romanelli, Henrik Vibskov, Cassette Playa and Ambush. You know all those vintage pieces you see M.I.A. rocking? And all those limited-edition, one- or two-of-a-kind streetwear pieces you see artists like Lupe performing in? Fruition has it all. But the clothes are only a minor part of what Fruition is pushing forth—they’re also putting out an entire aesthetic and a new way to think about style. “[It's about] leaving with not only a one-of-a-kind pop accoutrement but also a visual imprint of intellectual future and thought pattern,” explains Chris Julian. “It is the shoppers—from Eddie Cruz and James Bond, to Katy Perry and Jeremy Scott, to M.I.A., tAz Arnold and Kanye West—that create the intricate reflection of the spaces’ diverse limitlessness in street fashion high and low and an immediate siren that the underpinning theme of change is alive and growing.” This dude is deep!

BRANDS CARRIED: Archival Chanel, MCM, Vintage Ralph Lauren, Nike Heritage, Jeremy Scott, Dr. Romanelli, Cassette Playa, Japan Grade Stüssy Surf, Northface, Henrik Vibskov, Ambush, Abstract Originals and more.

Read more deep thoughts from Chris Julian and more pics of Fruition Las Vegas below…

What are your most popular items for the summer?
Many of the silhouettes including the designers we house are all pretty limited in number by design, so we aren’t really held to normal fashion and retail rules. Our most popular items are relative to what’s happening in your world, in your context and in your vision. You can find an artistically curated reflection of our space at Fruition Las Vegas.

What was the inspiration behind Fruition Las Vegas, and how has it influenced the overall look and feel of your store?
To encapsulate a vivid multi-tiered artistic vision of the young entrepreneur. Speaking words into life and being a true testament to a foundation rooted in passion and the constant search for perfection. Maximizing the power of fashion in order to paint a new language for the style of positivity and leadership in order to engage and empower people from the outside and then the inside. We understand that the look and aesthetic of our store grows in direct proportion to our own lives and so we push as hard as we can day in and day out seeking new ways to paint new pictures, creating new programs and finding new ways to package creative limitlessness.

What are your retail plans for the future?
To proliferate our message abundantly and to maximize the philanthropic and aspirational power of the retail establishment, some of our retail plans have already manifested through other forms unseen to the public. Many of our philosophies and programs are embedded into fashion as we know it and so you will find us constantly developing new, innovative approaches to unearthing our dreams in strategic and thought provoking ways. Not only with regard to our retail plans but more specifically to our collaborations. I think the power of mystery and wonderment are tools we covet in order to strengthen our potency for the future.

What trends can we anticipate for the Fall/Winter 2009 season?
Invigorated blazers and tuxedo jackets. The juxtaposition of formal wear and the attention and accuracy of the distinguished accoutrement.

What do you foresee in menswear in the next 5 years?
The influx of new technology and the unprecedented efficiency of information transfer will ensure that things will be pushed to the human limits. I foresee new tributaries and pockets of untapped gold being opened in menswear and high fashion in general. If not by me by someone else I will be involved with. The attraction to timelessness and the re-articulation of classic American style will always exist, but I am currently more concerned with the unknown. Moreover, the purity of art and the rigidness of fashion coalesce so symbiotically now that in the future it is not too far before the fusion of advanced technology in some form reflects and enhances fashion to create a new window and language. The future is in inspired hands.

STORE INFO:
FRUITION
4139 S. Maryland Pkwy
Las Vegas, NV 89119
702.796.4139
Monday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

CITY: NYC

SINCE: 1997 (Nooka)

FOUNDED BY: Matthew Waldman (Nooka)

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: Artist and designer Matthew Waldmen founded Nooka on the concept of innovative and futuristic design. This summer, Nooka (like rag & bone, Robert Geller and Engineered Garments before it) is taking up occupancy at concept boutique Den. The temp shop will showcase the brand’s latest digital wristwatches, along with modern belts, wallets, and its debut fragrance.

BRANDS CARRIED: Nooka

We talked with Matthew about his inspirations and what lies ahead for his brand. See our interview, pics of the store, and address below…

Q&A WITH NOOKA FOUNDER, MATTHEW WALDMAN:
In what ways do you differentiate yourself as a brand and designer?
Most fashion brands develop their products to fit established categories. Nooka develops its products to express a philosophy – we create products that not just look great, they tell a story that seems to resonate more and more with people – an optimism for the future.

What is the creative process like at Nooka?
I always start with a writing session to establish a goal set for a design project. We then brainstorm and research much like any other professional creative lab. Then we sort out the results much like a math theorem to see which results support/promote the goals. Then we sort again on which solutions are “Nooka.” This process is repeated for tangents if necessary until happy. Then of course, the production concerns and marketing concerns are factored in and designs are tweaked, revised, or scrapped altogether!

What inspired you to create a fragrance for Nooka?
It’s been about four years since I launched Nooka Inc., and this has created the perception (understandably) that Nooka is a watch company. The true story is that the Nooka watches are the end-product of a design exploration of interface design and universal communication. To me, Nooka is and has always been a design lab and fashion house. I wanted to challenge myself to create new Nooka products that express these ideals, creating a mindstyle brand in the process. I have a personal obsession with fragrance and on further inspection, “scent” fits the core philosophy of global language.

In today’s economic climate, do you feel that versatile, accessible brands like Nooka can flourish?
I do. I think economic downturns are a great opportunity for small brands to grow. When larger brands contract, they leave a space (metaphorically and physically) for new ideas and new products. Moreover, the cost of doing business goes down, which helps start-ups and small brands like Nooka.

Your most recent collaboration with SpongeBob was a huge success. Can we expect more exciting collaborations in the near future?
Definitely. Collabs are the best way to meet new creatives and help each other with a win-win approach. I think it’s like when royal families married off their children to strengthen cultural bonds between countries.

Any plans to open a flagship store?
Not at the moment. I think we need to be much more well-known first. Until then, we do have this pop-up shop, and will recreate the experience for other cities around the world all year.

Looking ahead, what trends do you foresee in menswear?
I see the complete death of neckties and pleats.

What trend would you like to see go away?
I want to see pants back up—pubic hair and ass crack are parts of your body, not your wardrobe.

STORE INFO:
DEN
NOOKA
330 E. 11th Street
New York, NY 10003
212.475.0079
STORE HOURS:
Monday – Saturday: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

CITY: Brooklyn, NY

SINCE: 2006

FOUNDED BY: Alec Stuart and Celeste Wright

PRICES: $$$ (out of 5)

WHY WE COSIGN: When business and art find a balance, the result is usually very appreciable. Such is the case with Stuart & Wright. The boutiques founders, Alec Stuart and Celeste Wright, met while working at Steven Alan and an immediate connection led to the two of them conceiving what would become their Brooklyn-based male boutique three years later. Thanks to Stuart’s design experience and Wright’s buying expertise, Stuart & Wright puts forth a clean, cool, prepster aesthetic that is perfectly matched by the brands that fill their shelves. If you’ve been looking for a one-stop-shop to get your high fashion prep look poppin’, Stuart & Wright is it.

BRANDS CARRIED: A.P.C., ACNE, Band of Outsiders, Engineered Garments, Mason’s, Opening Ceremony, Rachel Comey, rag & bone, Shipley & Halmos, Unis, Wings + Horns.

See below for key items and pics of the store…

MOST POPULAR ITEMS:
ENGINEERED GARMENTS BLUE CHAMBRAY GHURKA SHORT
Click here to Buy It Now at Refinery29 Shop, $178

BAND OF OUTSIDERS WHITE BUTTON-DOWN OXFORD SHIRT
Click here to Buy It Now at Refinery29 Shop, $198

STEVEN ALAN SINGLE NEEDLE RED, BLACK AND GREEN PLAID SHIRT
Click here to Buy It Now at Refinery29 Shop, $168

STORE INFO:
STUART & WRIGHT
85 Lafayette Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11217
718.797.0011
STORE HOURS:
Monday – Saturday: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.