“It is a shoe brand like Levi’s in denim: the Holy Grail, the real McCoy,” Menno Van Meurs of the Amsterdam boutique Tenue de Nîmes says of Red Wing. The Minnesota-based footwear brand has been newly imported to Amsterdam by way of the former and given its own standalone store, which recently opened with a reception full of burgers and whiskey. Housed in 17th century digs, the spacious boutique contains glass vitrines full of charcoal and various vintage tools from around the world. And to honor the Red Wing heritage, a vintage coalmine birdcage from the early 1900’s can be viewed from all points of the store.

Also stocked in the newly opened digs: bags from Heritage Leather, Royal RepubliQ and Duluth Pack. There are accessories from Tanner Goods, scarves, pocket squares and neckties from The Hill-Side and space pens and glasses by American Optical. For a long time “accessories were something only for women, not men,” says Meurs. Now, “we’re experiencing an enormous growth in the demand for men’s accessories like laptop bags, belts, wallets and also neckties, socks and work wear inspired suitcases. This is why we chose Red Wing, combined with a great selection of accessories, to become our new unity brand store.” As for how long the shop will last: Meurs says, “Forever I hope! Red Wing has been around for 105 years already. Let’s keep it going!”

Photography Joachim Baan at Anothercomany

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KEYWORDS: fashion, shoes

Ralph Lauren has recently extended the reach of his classic Americana lifestyle label to La Rive Gauche. Set within a meticulously restored hôtel particulier, a mid 1600’s Parisian townhouse, the picture perfect boutique spans over 13,000 square-feet and houses all of Lauren’s premiere collections: including the Black, Purple and Blue Labels, the prep perfection of Polo, and the Ralph Lauren Home Collection. But while Mr. Lauren is recognized for his clothes and décor, it’s his latest venture into the world of cuisine that has our mouths salivating. Complementing the boutique is Le Restaurant Ralph’s – combining quintessential Parisian décor with classic Americana cuisine. Guests are invited to sun themselves in the rich courtyard, formerly the horse stables of French elite, creating a unique experience to accompany every meal. With burgers and steaks reportedly imported from his very own range in Colorado, Lauren has the ability to give any established Parisian bistro a run for their money.

KEYWORDS: FOOD, RALPH LAUREN, RESTAURANTS

ITEM: Burberry Military Green Stonewashed Canvas and Leather Holdall
DESCRIPTION: I love this military inspired carryall from Burberry. The mixture of canvas and leather gives the bag a classic feel, while maintaining complete luxury. And, I love how it’s large enough to fit all of the unnecessary things I feel I need on me at all times.

burberry.com

KEYWORDS: accessories, BAGS, Burberry

Launching tomorrow, the first delivery of T by Alexander Wang Fall 2010 collection will be available to purchase through the brand’s online store shop.alexanderwang.com.

Right now it’s just the basics: cotton tees, tanks and long-sleeves, all of them loose-fitting and easy. But next month will see the addition of knits and pants, along with more interesting fabrics and constructions.

Alexander Wang has long ruled the downtown it-girl set; bout time he made a few things for us guys.

KEYWORDS: alexander wang

Swedes love to drink, and the country boasts more than a few great vodkas to choose from. But one more never hurts. Particularly since the latest—it’s called Kanon Organic Vodka—is well, organic. The spirit company producing it took us and a few friends out to Scandinavia recently to give it a swill. Upon landing in Stockholm, we toured through the old town, speed boated through the archipelago, and ate some delicious meatballs. Day two found us packing our over night bags and heading west to the gorgeous little town of Marifred; the main draw there being the famed Gripsholm Castle, situated on Lake Mälaren and easily visible from Sweden’s oldest inn, Gripsholm Inn, where we happily stayed and loved every minute of it. Read more