When it rains, it pours. End just started their end-of season sale, where you can take 25% off select items with the checkout code SALEPREVIEW. There are some exclusions (the code won’t work on Common Projects or already marked-down inventory, for example), but it applies to most of the store.
Perhaps the most exciting inclusion: Barbour, where export restrictions have now been lifted. For the last two years, Barbour hasn’t allowed EU retailers to ship to the US (mostly as a way to protect their other distributors). End confirmed with me this morning, however, that US orders are now fine and the code applies to mainline models such as the Bedale and Beaufort. If you need more info about how the jackets differ, refer to the Barbour buying guide I wrote for Put This On.
I also like Margiela’s German Army Trainers. They’re little old-hat at this point for style enthusiasts, but easy to wear and incredibly versatile. Additionally, Inis Meain, Inverallan, and SNS Herning make wonderful sweaters, while Nigel Cabourn and Mackintosh are always good for outerwear (I like especially like Cabourn’s Surface and Aircraft jackets). Filson’s canvas bags are also really useful.
Some other notables floating around:
- Outerwear: Field jackets from AMI and Aspesi; raincoats from Stutterheim, Patagonia, and MHL; parkas from Battenwear; leather jackets from Our Legacy; motorcycle jackets from Belstaff; and technical outerwear from Ten C. Lastly, although I’m sick of seeing them in the city, Alpha’s MA-1 bombers are a bit trendy at the moment and relatively affordable. Another good, affordable outerwear option: Bleu de Paname chore coats.
- Knitwear: Jamieson’s of Shetland is nice for Fair Isle sweaters, while Champion has a line of archival-inspired sweatshirts. Interestingly, these MKI brushed Shetlands look like they could be an affordable alternative to J. Press’s Shaggy Dogs.
- Shirts and pants: A good selection of Velva Sheen tees (be sure to size up), Blue Blue Japan indigo shirts, and Portuguese flannels. For jeans, I really like Our Legacy’s First Cut, which is slightly fuller through the thigh and tapered below the knee (a little more interesting of a cut, I think). For something more classically styled, check Levi’s Vintage Clothing. The 1947 and 1954 versions of the 501 are good starting points.
- Shoes: Tons and tons of sneakers from Nike, Adidas, Vans, and Reebok (I was tempted by this Reebok x Garbstore collab last night). There are also retro runners from Spalwart (I find these fit true to size), as well minimalist sneakers from Buttero and Our Legacy. For leather shoes, check Yuketen for off-beat versions of heritage styles (I like these Maine Guide chukkas), and Oak Street Bootmaker and Red Wing for work boots. Oh, and Superga and Shoes Like Pottery are pretty great. A good option for guys who find running shoes to be too casual.
- Bags: Backpacks from Master Piece and Epperson Mountaineering; cases from Porter-Yoshida; and totes from South2 West8. I also use this Aspesi Market Bag every other weekend to carry things back from the farmer’s market.
- And the Rest: Finally, Jason Markk is a godsend for cleaning sneakers (see an old post here). I also like Anonymous Ism’s marled socks (interesting without being whimsical); Orlebar Brown swim trunks (good for a swim and then going straight to lunch given the more tailored looking waistband); and sunglasses from Persol, Ray Ban, Randolph Engineering, and Retrosuperfuture.
Note, End is in the UK, but you shouldn’t get hit with customs or duties if your order is less than $800. Shipping is also free for orders over $250.