In general, I don't really trust the sort of "fashion label started by someone who has no idea about fashion" business model. Maybe I'm just closed-minded. The same skepticism came when I received a pitch for The Arrivals, a new outerwear brand based in New York. The brand was started by two decidedly non-fashion guys: an architect and an investor. The former architect and now The Arrivals' creative director, Jeff Johnson, co-founded the brand late last year and has already launched an outerwear line that covers almost all the bases.
The concept is simple: Make outerwear for the mid-20s professional. That means it's not too bulky, suitable for commuting and, most importantly, not exorbitantly expensive. The most spendy item in the debut collection—the women's perfecto, which I would wear without a fucking second of rational thought—clocks in at under $700 and is made in New York (the men's version is $585). That sub-$700 pricepoint is crucial as it represents the metaphorical barrier between "regular" and "good" leather. In person, the pieces impress. Each is supple and flexible, the leather is outfitted with some extra cotton cuffs for mobility and the rain gear is fit for a storm without weighing you down. Following Johnson's background, each piece is named after the particular architectural detail they were inspired by. Yes, the line is small, but focused and well-constructed (double zippers!), with pieces for both men and women that give off a sort of Burberry Prorsum-esque vibe at a much more digestible price tag. The brand officially launched with F/W 14 today, so you can order online directly from them starting right the fuck now.
