Brand Profile: Shipley & Halmos

BRAND: Shipley Halmos

SINCE: 2008

FOUNDED BY: Sam Shipley and Jeff Halmos

HOME BASE: New York City

WHY WE CO-SIGN: Frank Lucas said it best: "The loudest man in the room is often the weakest." When it comes to fashion, we believe ultra-flashy is not always the way to go. Low-key times call for low-key measures, and for that we turn to brands like Shipley & Halmos. It has mastered the art of effortless style, with an attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.

Originally known for co-founding and designing for popular L.A. brand Trovata, these two college friends relocated to the Big Apple to start anew. Their move to the right coast has inspired a more refined and tailored look. We got our hands on one of the lookbooks for S&H's Spring 2010 line hitting stores this January, and it's straight blue magic. The line features ill sweaters and jackets that can make any outfit pop. If you're too pressed to wait 'til the new year, make sure to peep its fly fall releases at Barneys, Odin, and American Rag.

WHERE TO FIND IT: Odin, American Rag, Barneys, and Revolve Clothing

Keep reading to see some of Shipley & Halmos' new collection.

Complex: What is the inspiration behind the overall look and feel of your designs?
Jeff Halmos: Our aesthetic is really based on the idea of reinvention. We take classic things and try to give them a modern feeling.

Complex: You have been long time friends, has that affect your relationship as business partners?
Sam Shipley: Not really. We've known each other for 11 years, and have worked together now for about 7. The important thing is that we started first as friends. The "business" part came later.

Complex: What are your most popular items?
Jeff Halmos: Our guys love our suits and shirts. They're consistently top sellers in the collection. We have some customers that buy them season after season. It's all about the fit.

Complex: In your opinion, what styles and trends will we see in menswear in 5 years?
Jeff Halmos: Hmmm — that's hard to say. Men's trends move so slow! The turning around of the economy should definitely bring with it a movement toward a cleaner, stronger, more polished silhouette.

Complex: What do you believe are the 5 must haves every man should have in their wardrobe?
Sam Shipley: The go-to black suit, a white dress shirt, a cashmere sweater, a great bathing suit and the perfect leather motorcycle jacket.