I'm not going to bother trying to peg down Mother Nature and her woeful ways these past couple of months in the Northern hemisphere. The only certainty I know, is that Winter will cease to be up there, reigning in Spring, the warmer months, and one of my favorite times of the year for menswear. This transition period is quite turbulent susceptible to all types of weather, so designers respond in stride, producing everything from punchy swim trunks to chunky knitwear. Classic silhouettes get refreshing updates in lighter Spring hues while suiting gets stripped down for breathability and mobility, and most importantly, all the menswear publications trend back toward pieces that are more suitable to the tropics.
Spring is synonymous with renewal and excitement, finding new ways to experience the old and old ways to experience the new. My menswear ethos has always been to root myself in classics while adding some 21st Century flair, which can be a taxing effort at times. One of the latest trends that fits hand-in-hand with this ideology has been adding statement pieces in with more traditional fare; think a loud graphic tee with a suit or a embroidered bomber atop a white tee and jeans.
When I recently came across Res Ipsa, I immediately recognized their unique spirit and impassioned story. Two former lawyers left the often drab hustle and bustle of the courtroom to pursue lives embracing individuality and a never-ending thirst for new experiences, to start fresh and create something new and exhilarating. Today, Res Ipsa is best know for their Kilim Footwear, made from vintage Turkish Kilim rugs, but they also provide a comprehensive assortment of travel and everyday carry goods that will get you and all of your belongings from point A to B with some pizazz. Each item being up-cycled from a truly vintage piece means that each creation is different from the next, which means you may find other stylish folks wearing Res Ipsa, but you'll never find someone wearing YOUR Res Ipsa. The pair you see here is the Kilim Sneaker, handmade in Turkey and more comfortable than any slip-on sneaker you can find right now with some extra swagginess to boot.
There is plenty more to come from this young and exciting brand as they discover their path through the menswear landscape. Be sure to check out their latest releases (they go fast) by signing up for the mailing listand stay tuned on their blog, filled with tons of helpful style and travel tips as well as some great pieces on the heritage of the Res Ipsa brand. And as always.
Be Dapper, Be Different.
Special Thanks to Res Ipsa and Cole Crouch
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