RED CARPET: BLACKBIRD 5th ANNIVERSARY SKATING PARTY

To celebrate 5 years of selling pants and having fun doing so, we skated our little hearts out at the Lynnwood Bowl & Skate this past Friday. Thanks for everyone who showed up and everyone that dressed up! What a fun time. I'm still smiling.

And to all of our friends (customers and fans), we've grown a lot of the past 5 years but we're still a small shop and still Ballard. Thanks for liking what we do. You are all appreciated.

Always,

Nicole Miller

Owner, Blackbird

(Leah and Nicole)

(L to R: Adam, Luke, Darren, Leah, Josh, Cody, Jeff, Nicole M. & Nicole B.)

(behind the scenes)

REMINDER: BIRGITTA PRIVATE SHOPPING EVENT

Sunday is quickly approaching. Don't forget to R.S.V.P. to the

Birgitta Holiday Shopping Event.

Enjoy 20% OFF everything you need for the holidays. Join us for

an evening of Hot Toddies, Champagne, Personal Shopping, Make-up Consultation,

and Holiday Recipe Ideas.

All of our stores will be participating in this event with activities and special offers.

Wander through Blackbird, Blackbird Candy Shoppe and

The Field House for the full experience.

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 22, 2009

FROM 4 - 8PM

BIRGITTA

5410 22ND AVE NW

SEATTLE, WA 98107 206.547.2524

R.S.V.P. birgitta@blackbirdballard.com

WHAT'S BLACK AND BLUE AND SUPER-SOFT ALL OVER?

Wings + Horns' 85% cotton, 15% cashmere shirts, hats, and scarves of course! Check it out:

(In order from left to right)

WI-2044 LS Cotton Cashmere in charcoal.
$128. Click here to shop.

WI-7033 Cotton Cashmere Beanie in charcoal (top center) and indigo (middle center).
$48 each. Click here to shop.

WI-7009-8 Cotton Cashmere Scarf in charcoal (also available in gray).
$84. Click here to shop.

WI-2044 LS Cotton Cashmere in indigo.
$128. Click here to shop.

THE HOLIDAYS ARE A COMIN'

The video is a little choppy because that's how it was.

THE FIELD HOUSE: FREE SUNDAY CLASSES

We are excited to announce that, starting this week, The Field House will host free, informal classes every Sunday. This week's class is Fresh Herbs and Spices for Pennies and will be taught by owner, Nicole Miller.

Class begins this week at 2pm due to events happening at all Blackbird stores but will be every Sunday at 4pm starting Nov. 29th. Classes are on a first come basis, so get your farmer's market shopping done early this Sunday and come on over to The Field House before the class fills up. All you have to do is show up at The Field House before the class begins. Classes will range from 15 minutes up to an hour.

Be sure to check the blog or come into The Field House next week for more details and a full list of scheduled classes through 2009. Next week will be How to De-bone a Chicken. Stay tuned folks.

WINTER CHAMBRAY: WINGS + HORNS WI-8025 CHAMBRAY SHIRTS

Wings + Horns - WI-8025 Chambray Shirt
available in khaki (pictured) and black
DETAILS: 100% cotton chambray work shirt with button tab collar detail and mismatched pockets in drab. Fixed with unexpected details like contrasting black buttons, two left hand side front pockets, gusseted armpit panels for ease of movement, and that old school button tab collar style, this chambray stands up from the pack with signature subtle Wings + Horns style. Try this heavy work friendly cotton shirt with contrasting fabrics to add a dose of fall's diverse texture options to your mix. We like it paired with soft flannels and boiled wool in the wintertime. Come spring, this piece can switch into warm weather mode with ease when you throw it on with lighter weight, tonal fabrics like linen, seersucker, and summer denim.
Made in Canada.
$252

shop

STANLEY IS TAKING YOUR TAILGATE TO THE MAX. CAN YOU HANDLE IT?

Stanley - Lunch Box Cooler Set
DETAILS: Stanley's Lunch Box Cooler Set sets you up for all the picnic, camping, and tailgating you'll ever do. Fully loaded with the Seattle company's legendary Vacuum Bottle and heavy-duty lunch cooler which features a durable folding handle, divided 7 quart inner compartment for easy organization, and foam insulation for hours of cold storage. Fill it up with all your lunchtime goodies and go. With Stanley's Built for Life Lifetime Warranty, this baby's guaranteed to last for decades of football and camping seasons.
$75

shop

FALIERO SARTI: TEXTURE, PART DEUX

Faliero Sarti - Fabiola

in chocolate
DETAILS: 48% cashmere, 31% cotton, 21% silk scarf in cocoa/gray on one side and mottled dusty seafoam gray on the other. Hand finished for unique character, each Faliero Sarti scarf is a one-of-a-kind creation. More traditional in proportion, this piece's incredible texture and tone completely set it apart from its tamer contemporaries. Ideal for a number of different styles, it can augment any aspiring sartorialist's individual look and aesthetic. Hint: We love seeing it twisted and wrapped to show off both side's unique shade.
MEASURES: 55cm x 175cm.
$279

shop

Faliero Sarti - Gamon
in ivory
DETAILS: 100% cashmere scarf in ivory and black stripe. Hand finished for unique character, each Faliero Sarti scarf is a one-of-a-kind creation. This gauzey shawl's dramatic knit makes for a spectral appearance when liberally draped, and its simple pattern allows it to take on a number of different appearances whether it's tightly wrapped about the neck or knotted and worn loosely. Hint: it's a perfect shot of light in your dark ensemble, but its pattern will also add structure to any textural, tonal look - you want versatile? You got it.
MEASURES: 100cm x 200cm.
$320

shop

SUNDAY MORNING REBUS PUZZLE

+

@

WINGS + HORNS @ BLACKBIRD

Lots of new Wings+Horns items arrived this week at Blackbird. Woven and knit shirts which include the new cotton cashmere collection to keep you toasty this Winter. Check it all out here.

APRIL in AUTUMN - JEANS WHEN YOU NEED THEM

Oh April 77... if you could only have a giant warehouse of jeans down the street from me to sell all year round to anyone that wants that perfect jean for the perfect price. But no... you are in France and that is far.

Please take this moment to welcome back April 77 to the Blackbird denim assortment and know that they always sell out fast every 6 months when we get them.

APRIL 77 - JOEY COLORDRIVE

in black cloudness

DETAILS: 98% cotton, 2% elastane unisex five pocket skinny jeans with signature guitar pick holder at right-hand front pocket, and tarnished copper colored rivets, button, and zip fly in faded black. This super skinny's pegged cut and low rise sets the standard for rock club kids worldwide - Paris to London to soggy Seattle, WA. They fit right in with a shrunken silhouette's tiny blazer and button up, but this shape's potential contributions to your wardrobe don't stop there. We love playing their narrowness against chunky boots or sneakers and a ratty loose-fitting top.

sizes: 27 - 34

$186.00

APRIL 77 - Dictator

in new morning dust

DETAILS: 100% cotton slim straight leg five pocket jeans with signature guitar pick holder at right-hand front pocket, and tarnished copper colored rivets and button fly in vintage washed indigo. This faded straight leg comes with an authentic looking wash that gives them a worry free worn in look without the years of effort. Slouch them around your hips and wear them with a loosely tucked oxford, work boots, and a wool jacket for a country boy vibe or do them up with a pair of streamlined sneakers and a heavy wool sweater.

sizes: 26 - 34

$186.00

APRIL 77 - Joey Drugstore

in garage

DETAILS: 98% cotton, 2% elastane unisex five pocket skinny jeans with signature guitar pick holder at right-hand front pocket, and tarnished copper colored rivets, button, and zip fly in dusty washed indigo. April 77's authentic wash makes this pair of super-skinny jeans look like they've been yours for years even though you just took them off the rack, and the look is nothing if not versatile. Wear them with a drab M-65 jacket or a brown leather bomber, a simple button-up, and a long knit scarf for the hip kid look that's not going to have every other show-goer in line rolling their eyes - leave that to the kid in the Day Glo sneakers and neon keffiyeh.

sizes: 29 - 33

$186.00

THE REVIVAL - SEATTLE PREMIER NOVEMBER 15th

Tomorrow night brings us the long anticipated premier of our very own Tyler Johnson in...

THE REVIVAL

a fixed gear film

In between selling menswear, modeling and attending fashion design school, Tyler gets his kicks tooling around on his bike in his beat up designer clothes. In this film you will see Tyler wearing Odyn Vovk, Nom de Guerre, Coal, Robert Geller, Cadence and Blackbird.

THE REVIVAL PREMIER

Seattle

Central Cinema

November, 15th

9:30

Premiers to follow:

11/20 Manchester
11/21 Leeds
11/22 London
11/23 Paris
11/27 Rotterdam
11/29 Cologne

BLACKBIRD SUGGESTS: MUDHONEY W/ UNNATURAL HELPERS AND BROTHERS OF THE SONIC CLOTH

Hey, Seattle, may we humbly suggest that if you're out and about tonight you check out the Mudhoney show at Neumos. They're playing with Unnatural Helpers - featuring our very own Leo Gebhardt on guitar - and Tad Doyle's (formerly of Tad) latest project, Brothers of the Sonic Cloth. It's sure to be a killer show - we'll see you there!

MUDHONEY
w/ UNNATURAL HELPERS and BROTHERS OF THE SONIC CLOTH

November 13th, 2009

$12 adv.

Neumo's
925 E Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122

STAND BY YOUR MAN: BUY YOUR MAN SOCKS HE CAN STAND

BlackbirdBallard.com's sock section is nothing if not well stocked at the moment. We know the holidays are still a ways out, but if you're looking for an easy gift for almost any guy, think high quality socks from reliable brands like Marcoliani and Punto. As a dude, I can say with confidence that socks are one thing that most dudes can definitely appreciate but almost never think to buy for themselves - just a little food for thought. With that, here's Tammy Wynette with some good solid dating advice:

MUST HAVE: THE HILL-SIDE SELVEDGE CHAMBRAY SCARVES

Our innovative friends at The Hill-Side are always hard at work churning out fresh new ties, pocket squares, and bandanas in beautiful old fabrics. For the upcoming holiday season they've outdone themselves with a run of scarves in their colorful signature selvedge chambray. Now available for pre-order at Blackbird and The Field House, these super-special pieces will only be available in limited quantities. If you like what you see, shoot us an email at info@blackbirdballard.com - we'll be taking deposits on each of their four stunning colorways, so make sure you reserve your favorite ASAP. Now, feast your eyes:

The Hill-Side - S70-003 Selvedge Chambray Scarf
in plum violet
DETAILS: 100% cotton 5 oz. washed chambray scarf with red-line selvedge along one edge. MEASURES: 70" x 21". Made in New York City, U.S.A.
$80

The Hill-Side - S70-002 Selvedge Chambray Scarf
in Kyoto violet
DETAILS: 100% cotton 5 oz. washed chambray scarf with red-line selvedge along one edge. MEASURES: 70" x 21". Made in New York City, U.S.A.
$80

The Hill-Side - S70-001 Selvedge Chambray Scarf
in indigo
DETAILS: 100% cotton 5 oz. washed chambray scarf with red-line selvedge along one edge. MEASURES: 70" x 21". Made in New York City, U.S.A.
$80

The Hill-Side - S70-002 Selvedge Chambray Scarf
in black
DETAILS: 100% cotton 5 oz. washed chambray scarf with red-line selvedge along one edge. MEASURES: 70" x 21". Made in New York City, U.S.A.
$80

For questions or to place your pre-order, call 866-500-2524, email info@blackbirdballard.com, or pay a visit to Blackbird or The Field House in beautiful Ballard, Wa.

OOPS! MISSED ONE: QUODDY 1003S DECK BOOTS

Whoah! We unpacked those Quoddy boxes fast and - whoops! - we completely skipped over these awesome boots. Better late than never though, right? Get 'em while they're hot, guys:

Quoddy - 1003S Deck Boot
in black
DETAILS: Horween Chromexcel water-resistant leather six eyelet boot with deerskin tongue, glove leather lining, and grippy camp sole. This high boot offers all the protection you'll need from fall's wet weather with the added flexibility and comfort of Quoddy's classic deck shoes. With a traditional moccasin construction up front, heavy triple stitched seaming at the waist, thick 63" leather laces, lacquered eyelets, and heavy duty tabs to pull them on with, they'll look the part with any style this season. We like what they have to add fall's military and workwear inspired looks, but unlike some of the heavier footwear on the market right now, the Deck Boot will fit right in with your go-to jeans and a button-down with consummate ease.
$280

shop

FIELD HOUSE GRAND OPENING PARTY RECAP

Last Friday, The Field House hosted a grand opening party with wood and apple carving, a live ukelele performance, free cans of Rainier and Olympia brew, and special giveaways wrapped up in hobo-style bandana bags. Much fun was had by all. Sneak a peak:

Field House salesguy, Jon, hangs with neighborhood friends.

Blackbird/Field House owner, Nicole Miller, chats it up.

Hobo gift bag!

Scented candles provided by Diptyque sweetened the air throughout the night.

Jon brought the fam.

Another satisfied customer.

Thanks for coming everybody! Hit the lights!

The Field House by Blackbird

Now open every day from 10am til 7pm.

206-297-6093
5465 Leary Avenue NW
Seattle, WA 98107

BLACKBIRD GIVES YOU WINGS (+ HORNS)

Just in from our B.C. based buddies at Wings + Horns, these two shirt styles are guaranteed to please or we'll blame Canada. Wings + Horns' simple slim fit and beautiful construction quality shine through in winter weight chambray and crazy soft flannel. Hopefully we'll have these up on BlackbirdBallard.com by the weekend, but don't count on core sizes to last that long. Score yours quick by dialing 866-500-2524 or hit us via email at info@blackbirdballard.com.

Wings + Horns - WI-8025 Shirts
in khaki (left) and black
DETAILS: 100% cotton chambray work shirt with button-tab collar and mismatched pockets in drab olive or charcoal. NOTE: the colors are a little off in the above photo. In person, the black is a dark charcoal gray - not blue.
$252

To order or for questions, call 866-500-2524 or email info@blackbirdballard.com.

Wings + Horns - WI-8027 Overdye Flannel Zip
in navy (left), wine (center), and charcoal
DETAILS: 100% cotton super-soft flannel shirt with Ideal zipper and signature Wings + Horns button dual closure.
$192

Click here to order, or for questions, call 866-500-2524 or email info@blackbirdballard.com.

HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY FROM BLACKBIRD

Happy Veteran's Day, veterans! Thanks a lot!

PUNK UNCLE: APRIL 77 MOUNTAIN SPRINGFIELD CARDIGAN

April 77 - Mountain Springfield Cardigan
in black gray

DETAILS: 80% wool, 20% polyamide five button cardigan with metal studded alpine pattern. This punked up twist on your Uncle Ed's favorite winter sweater takes the traditionally tame garment in a fun new direction. Fashion savvy pop punks everywhere rejoice in how easy this piece is to mix with any of their other studded black garments, but we like it styled a little more subtly. Try pairing this sweater's barely noticeable hardware and off-kilter asymmetrical pattern with a basic oxford, faded jean jacket, and slim trousers. We bet it comes off a little cooler and a lot less obvious.
$310

shop

Editor's note: I just want to shout a "happy birthday" to my very punk rock little brother. Hope your day was rad, Morgan! -Kris

FALIERO SARTI: BRINGING TEXTURE UP FRONT FOR FALL

Faliero Sarti has been family owned for over fifty years. Producing their scarves and textiles exclusively in Italy, they have created pieces for designers like Ann Demeulemeester, Julius, Vivienne Westwood, and Giorgio Armani to name a few. Hand finished for unique character, each Faliero Sarti scarf is a one-of-a-kind creation.

This season their luxurious silk and cashmere scarves add popping color and mindboggling drape to every ensemble they're thrown into (or on top of), and with fabrics this soft and easy to wear, we're certain they're going to be a serious hit as the weather starts encouraging you to bundle up. Check out a couple of their most textural offerings below:

Faliero Sarti - Petra M
available in emerald (top) and gray
DETAILS: 70% cashmere 30% silk scarf. Lightweight and soft to the touch, this scarf can play multiple roles. Fold and wrap it carefully for a luxurious, dressed up look or throw it casually about the neck and shoulders for a cool, unaffected feel. Any way it's worn, this eye-catching piece is a show stopper for the adventurous gentleman or lady.
MEASURES: 90cm x 200cm.
$318

shop

Faliero Sarti - Dorita
available in charcoal (top) and dark brick
DETAILS: 100% modal silk scarf. This lightweight scarf's large size and super-fine construction lend themselves to incomparable drape and wearability. Wear this stunning piece as a hood or a shawl, or wrap it multiple times for ultimate volume.
MEASURES: 130cm x 200cm.
$175

shop

QUODDY: FROM THE SHOEMAKER'S WORKBENCH TO YOU

Blackbird is very proud to introduce Quoddy footwear:

Inspired by the authentic leather moccasins, birch bark canoes, and woven ash baskets produced by the skilled craftsmen and women of the Passamaquoddy tribe of Downeast Maine, Harry Smith Shorey founded Quoddy in 1909, and the company has been family-owned and operated since. Currently produced in a building that has been a devoted shoe factory since the 19th century, Quoddy handmade footwear is made in individual pairs by single highly skilled shoemakers (some of whom are fourth generation craftsmen) who finish every stitch by hand and make it a matter of pride to ensure the exceptional quality of each pair of shoes before they leave the workbench. True to the traditional handsewn moccasin style that surrounds the foot in leather, Quoddy's artisanal construction allows the shoe to form naturally to each wearer's foot, allowing the body's muscles, bones, and tendons to perform as nature intended. In short, these shoes are wicked comfortable once fully broken in, and their simple construction makes them handily repairable. In fact, Quoddy runs their own repair service where you can get yours refurbished by the same hands that originally put the shoes together.

We know, we love these guys too.

Quoddy - Maliseet Oxford
in black (also available in brown and navy)DETAILS: Leather four eyelet deck shoe with glove leather lining and grippy camp sole. Quoddy's standard-bearing oxford comes with chrome hardwear, thick leather laces, and that super-comfy memory foam under their insole. With a style that manages to be at once all its own and wearable with anything, the Maliseet is a fantastic everyday favorite that's built to last the old fashioned way. Wear them with raw denim and a chunky sweater this fall for that winning Ivy League look. Handmade in Maine, USA.
$250

shop

Quoddy - Deck Chukka
in black
DETAILS: 100% water resistant Horween Chromexcel leather three eyelet chukka boot with white contrast sail stitch, glove leather lining, and grippy camp sole. With its mid-height cut and water resistant leather, this nautical chukka style gives a little more protection from the elements than its lower profile cousins. This easy low boot's contrasting sail stitch gives it a defined waist and differentiates the style from its casual contemporaries. Add a pair of slim jeans or dark trousers, a winter weight shirt, and a fitted military jacket and head out into the storm. Handmade in Maine, USA.
$260

shop

Quoddy - Ring Boot
in black
DETAILS: Leather chukka boot with two ring cinch enclosure, glove leather lining, and grippy camp sole. Quoddy's statement moccasin sports a unique cinch strap closure that passes through two heavy welded alloy rings and makes this chukka one of a kind. Try it with a more relaxed fitting jean or heavy work pant and a wool shirt jacket this fall, and when spring rolls around they'll be broken in just right - perfect for wearing loose under shorts or rolled khakis. Handmade in Maine, USA.

$300

shop

Quoddy - Grizzly Moc
in peanutDETAILS: Leather moccasins with collar style lace system, and thick Chromepak leather sole. Equipped with a layer of memory foam underneath the footbed, fully lined with deerskin, and featuring an outdoor-friendly soft leather sole that will mold to your foot shape, these luxurious handmade moccasins wrap your feet in comfort and look great while they're doing it. Wear them with any casual pair of jeans or pants this fall, and next spring wear them barefoot with shorts. Note: These mocs run a little big, and because they're so open on top we'd recommend sizing down half a size. Also, Quoddy's soles are replaceable, extending the life and value of each pair. Handmade in Maine, USA.
$250

shop

PROPERTY OF... G LOVE

Property of... - G Love Clip

in black, red or green

DETAILS: SOLD ONLINE ONLY. Soft calf leather outer with leather bound nylon twill lining. Single money clip and three credit card sections. Embossed logo on spine. Measures 8cm x 1cm x 10cm.

$80

shop

Property of... - G Love Cardholder

in black, red or green

DETAILS: SOLD ONLINE ONLY. Soft calf leather outer with leather bound nylon twill lining. Internal zip up coin pocket and four credit card sections. Embossed logo on spine. Measures 8cm x 1cm x 10cm.

$64.00

shop

NEW SHIPMENT: RRL

We've received a new shipment from RRL this past week. We can't share photos but would love for you to view the collection at The Field House or else we can talk to you about the pieces on the phone and send them your way on trial. Here's an idea of what we received:

Heavy lumberjack style flannel shirts

Heavy sweatshirt knit hooded jacket

Heavy knit merino hunting shirt/jacket

Some other stuff

BILLYKIRK: HEIRLOOM QUALITY, VIDEO FROM THE SCOUT

Blackbird has carried Billykirk since the early days when we were located in a basement in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood, and my sister Heather was running the shop. Back then, we had no idea if handmade leather satchels, wallets and watch bands would sell. I know quality goods when I see them, but would the customers get it? The answer was yes and no. Plenty of customers couldn't understand why they should pay more for a Billykirk belt vs. the ones they offer at stores like J. Crew, and others beamed with delight over the years of fun they would have breaking in the sturdy leather. In the end, Billykirk has stood the test of time at Blackbird and we view the Bray brothers as some of the most genuine and lovely people we work with.

Enjoy the video:

Billykirk from The Scout on Vimeo.

Billykirk - Square Buckle with Reverse Tab

in black or tan

Billykirk - 217 Gusset Zip Wallet

in black

shop Billykirk

SKATE OR DIE: BLACKBIRD'S 5TH ANNIVERSARY ROLLERPARTY

It's been almost five years since Blackbird opened its doors to Seattle. Thanks for helping us stick around this long. To show our appreciation, we're having a little party. Let's skate!

The Blackbird 5th Anniversary Party

Thursday, November 12th
Lynnwood Bowl & Skate
8:30 pm

Skating and skate rentals will be compliments of the Blackbird gang.
RSVP here to save your spot because the Lynnwood Bowl & Skate can only contain so many tipsy Ballard buddies on skates!

THE FIELD HOUSE ON GQ.COM

From GQ.com's The GQ Eye blog:

Where the Wild Things Buy

Seattle’s Blackbird isn't your run-of-the-mill men's store (case in point: the on-site "Candy Shoppe" that owner Nicole Miller recently opened for business)—in fact, it's the personality of the place, combined with its clued-in, smartly curated selection of clothes, that make it one of our favorites. So we were curious when we heard about another new Blackbird venture, this one right behind the original store: The Field House, a one-stop shop for outdoorsy workwear—think RRL, Woolrich Woolen Mills, Red Wing boots—plus cool campground gear and goods (thermoses from historic American brand Stanley, flasks by Concord, even locally sourced beef jerky and canned tuna). Plans are in the works to offer classes on topics like butter-churning and spit-shining your shoes—taught by a local ex-Marine—and Miller’s on the hunt for a convection oven to turn out fresh-baked biscuits for customers.

“Someone asked me, where’d you get this idea?” says Miller. “It’s not much of an idea, it’s just how I grew up.” That was in rural Washington State, about an hour outside of Seattle, where Miller spent a lot of time with her grandmother Mable (a woman who often flew with her Marine-pilot husband to Alaska), worked in canneries, and raised her own sheep. Blackbird’s Field House is modeled on the field house of Mable’s youth, a sort of local community center where she took classes in arts and crafts. “We lived most of the time at Grandma’s house, so I grew up shearing lambs and carding wool and spinning and doing all this stuff,” Miller continues. “A lot of people are doing this 'American heritage' thing. But this is really personal for me. When I look at the pictures around, it’s like, there’s Grandpa. Growing up, I had a buckskin dress. I was really good at throwing tomahawks.”

Grandma Mable will be 90 next spring, not that she’s slowing down much. “She could probably still kick your ass,” Miller laughs, “especially now that she’s got a new knee.”

Blackbird: 5410 22nd Avenue NW, Seattle, WA; 206-547-2524. The Field House: 5465 Leary Avenue NW, Seattle, WA. Blackbirdballard.com

To see the original post on The GQ Eye, click here.

ALDEN x BLACKBIRD: THE SHORT WINGTIP BLUCHER

Alden - Blackbird Short Wingtip Blucher

in burgundy
DETAILS: 100% calf leather blucher style wingtip with Goodyear welt construction in dark burgundy. Made expressly for Blackbird (that's what the stamp on the insole says), this model is our reinterpretation of the classic wingtip styles worn by generations of stylish and distinguished professionals. Featuring details like a heavy leather sole, a stacked heel with visible nails on the bottom, a soft and durable calf leather upper, and this almost-black oxblood burgundy finish, this shoe looks great under a suit or with a pair of faded rolled jeans or khakis. For dress, pair them with nearly any color you can think of. This color does it all.
$470

shop

NOW AVAILABLE ON BLACKBIRDBALLARD.COM: FJALLRAVEN KANKEN BACKPACKS

Introduced in August of 1978, Fjallraven's Kanken backpack was marketed as an alternative book bag for Sweden's school children because it centered its weight evenly along the spine and allowed both hands to be free. The new backpack was initially marked as a symbol of liberal political views and sometimes called "the Communist Hunchback" by stubborn detractors stuck on the old messenger style bags of their childhood, but Fjallraven's founder, Ake Nordin, hoped to sell 200 Kanken bags in their first year. He sold 400. The next year sales reached 30,000. Thirty years have now passed since the first Kanken was sold, and its popularity has grown far beyond the halls of Sweden's educational system. Check 'em out:

Fjallraven - Kanken
in (top to bottom) yellow, navy, olive, putty, black, sand, red, and pink
DETAILS: Vinylon backpack with adjustable shoulder straps, 3/4 zip main compartment, two open side pockets, single small exterior pocket, and reflector logo. MEASURES: 11" x 15" x 6".
$87

shop

FILSON LONG JOHNS: TJ'S ULTIMATE PJ COMBO

Our model, Tyler J., is all about getting comfy. Imagine his joy when we broke out the new Filson Alaskan Long Johns for a BlackbirdBallard.com photo shoot the other day. He bundled himself right up in their super-soft merino wool coziness and this is all we could get out of him. If you're looking to get as snuggly as TJ this season, check this out:

Filson - Alaskan Long John Crewneck Top
in green
DETAILS: 100% merino wool crew neck long underwear top. Filson's performance expedition weight Long John tops are cut for comfort, field tested and moisture wicking, and their fine merino construction makes them soft and comfortable on your skin. We love wearing ours under a casual button down or T-shirt. It's crazy comfortable, and this dark green shade is a refreshing change from the usual off-white or gray that most long underwear comes in.
$85

shop

Filson - Alaskan Long John Bottoms
in green
DETAILS: 100% merino wool long underwear bottoms. Filson's performance expedition weight Long John bottoms are cut for comfort, field tested and moisture wicking, and their fine merino construction makes them soft and comfortable on your skin. Wear them as an extra thermal layer on cold days or style them up with lace boots and textural shorts. Hint: if you choose the latter route at all this season, this dark green looks beautiful underneath any of winter's darker shades.
$85

shop

LOOKS GOOD, SOUNDS GOOD: ESKUCHE HEADPHONES

Blackbird is pleased to introduce Eskuche's premium on-ear headphones, now available online and in store. These stylish listening units look great and sound even better. Plus, dig this list of features:

- Unique "Interchangeable Cording System" includes both audio only funcionality, and audio/voice capability with a mic and answer/end for music and talk
- Works with most MP3 players, iPod, laptops, DJ mixers, iPhone, most Blackberries, and other music enabled mobile devices

- Gold plated 3.5mm plug; 4 pin 3.5mm plug; and 6.3mm adaptor (not for use with 4 pin 3.5mm plug)
- Woven cloth cording to prevent tangling and for premium look and feel
- Plush ear cup cushioning for maximum comfort

Eskuche - Control On Ear Headphones
in beige (top) and black
$58

shop

Eskuche - 33 1/3 On Ear Headphones
in (top to bottom) black, rose gold, and silver
$58

shop

INTRODUCING - THE FIELD HOUSE

My grandma Mable grew up in the South Park neighborhood in the very south of Seattle on the Duwamish River. There wasn't much to inspire a young girl growing up during the Depression in one of the poorest parts of the city. Fortunately, there was a place called The Field House just down the street, and Mable and her little sister Margie could go there any time to take classes for free. Crafts were what excited my grandma, and the classes she took inspired her to eventually raise sheep for wool, spin, weave, knit and crochet. Her home became a collection of shells she picked from the beaches in Mexico, giant pine cones from all over the west coast and hand made dolls from Eskimos in Alaska. Her style is her own, and she inspires me more than she will ever know. The goal of The Field House is to inspire you the way the original inspired my grandma.

As with anything I do, this is just a start. We're working on a lot of great ideas we hope to share with you soon. There is so much more I would like to say, but I'll let the photos and your trip to The Field House fill in the rest for now.

Always,

Nicole

The Field House

5465 Leary Avenue NW

Seattle, WA 98107

open every day 10 to 7

HERE'S THE PRESS RELEASE

The Field House opens in Ballard neighborhood of Seattle

Blackbirds’s newest store invokes general store reminiscence

Seattle — The Field House, Blackbird’s newest store, is now open in the heart of Seattle's Ballard neighborhood.

The Field House is reminiscent of general stores that were once at the heart of rural towns across America. Its shelves are stocked with a wide variety of merchandise, including classic work wear, vintage goods, basic groceries and candies, flowers, and perfumes and candles. It captures the history, geography, and folklore of times past, when goods were less disposable and had more meaning, a time when people canned their own food and took a moment to converse with strangers. It is perhaps Blackbird's most personal store, as it is inspired by owner Nicole Miller’s eccentric Pacific Northwest family and her desire to get back to basics.

“In a culture dominated by computers, The Field House is a refreshing invitation to slow down and connect with traditions that are lost and forgotten,” says Miller.

In addition to merchandise, The Field House plans to have free weekly classes on lost skills such as "How to Debone a Chicken" or "Lawnmower Repair." The store will sell Christmas trees for the holidays and will serve a "cup-a-joe" from an insulated Stanley thermos.

The Field House is an experimental pop-up shop. After three months, Blackbird will decide whether to make it a permanent part of the neighborhood. It is located behind Blackbird at 5465 Leary Avenue NW in Ballard. The brands and items currently offered at The Field House include:

Apparel for Men & Women
RRL
Filson
Pendleton
Woolrich Woolen Mills
Woolrich John Rich & Bros.
Alden
Billykirk
The Hill-side
Red Wing
April 77
Fjällräven

Gear
Stanley
Filson
Concord Flasks

Foods
Whidbey Island Trollers canned Albacore
Hammonds
Rococo Chocolatier
Gilliams
Local bulk in-shell nuts
Local beef jerky
Local organic fruits and vegetables
Bee Raw Honey
Frans

Perfumes and such
Diptyque
Cire Trudon
Comme des Garcons
Lipstick Queen

For more information or to set up an interview with The Field House owner Nicole Miller, or for press photos and materials, please contact Cal Ledbetter at Cal.D.Ledbetter@gmail.com

The Field House
5465 Leary Avenue NW
Seattle, WA 98107
info@blackbirdballard.com

HORDAK GOES BEACH CASUAL: RVCA EVIL HORDE GUY TEE

Those of you who grew up in the 80's will remember Hordak from the cartoon classic He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. RVCA has taken it upon themselves to resurrect the commander of the Evil Horde in fitting form for the California-based surf and skate-oriented brand. Their newest collaboration with artist, Matt Furie, depicts the cartoon supervillain dressed in a hoodie, b-ball shorts, and sandals as he rides a scooter (we presume he's going down to the waterfront to see who's hanging out on the boardwalk or something). Check out the new design as well as photos of Hordak in his usual duds from the epic cartoon below.

Hordak, as seen on television:

Hordak x RVCA:

RVCA - Evil Horde Guy T-Shirt
in black
DETAILS: 100% cotton screen printed T-shirt. Designed in collaboration with artist, Matt Furre, this unique print is sure to elicit some comments. Featuring a devil-dog walking, Razr Scooter-riding Hordak look-alike wearing a hoodie and beach sandals, this is definitely not your average run-of-the-mill graphic tee. Wear it with jeans and your favorite sneaks, and you're a walking conversation piece.
$28

shop

BLEACH: 20 YEARS LATER

This week, Seattle music fans celebrate the 20th anniversary of the release of Nirvana's seminal first album, Bleach. If you haven't dragged this gem out lately, it's time to throw it back on the stereo. The Blackbird office was playing it at high volume yesterday, and we all agree it's as good now as it was when each of us first heard it.

Check out one of our local papers, The Seattle Weekly's excellent commemorative issue this week. They've devoted their cover and several pages to the album that introduced the musical world to Nirvana with articles on the band's early years, Nirvana bassist, Krist Novoselic's interviews with two of the band's early drummers, and a sit-down with Seattle music legend and Bleach producer, Jack Endino. It's a great read for anyone with an appreciation for the band that made Seattle grunge capital of the world. Click here to check it out.

Below, enjoy grainy footage from Nirvana's first recorded concert at the Community World Theater in Tacoma, Washington.

BACK IN STOCK: FILSON TOTE BAGS

Seattle's own C.C. Filson Co. came through for us with a delivery of their sought after totes. Score yours quick, gang. We don't expect them to stick around here for very long.

Filson - Tote Bag Without Zipper
in dark tan
DETAILS: Parafin treated 22 oz. 100% cotton tote bag. Filson's water repellant canvas is ridiculously tough and will wear beautifully, developing a broken-in patina over time that makes it special to each individual owner. This attractive tote sports a leather handle, four exterior pockets (2 large, 2 small), and a unembellished interior compartment. Its outdoors-friendly construction means it's significantly manlier than the silkscreened cotton bag you've been borrowing from your girlfriend - gentlemen, it's time to upgrade.
MEASURES: 14 1/2" x 13" x 5".
$99

shop

To check out our entire selection of Filson bags and accessories, click here.

TIDY TOUGH: RED WING 9012 & 9015 CLASSIC DRESS MOCS

Red Wing - 9015 (top) and 9012 Classic Dress Mocs
in black (top) and chestnut
DETAILS: Featherstone high shine leather moc-toe work boots with white contrast stitch, Roccia rubber grip sole, and Goodyear Welt construction. With a design inspired by Red Wing founder, Charles Beckman's own style preferences, these polishable boots are made to pull double duty - tough enough for the workplace during the day, but grown up and sharp when they're shined up properly. Red Wing says it best when they say, "These boots are built to impress." Made in USA.
$290

shop

DARKNESS CONSUMES YOU (WITH WOOL AND CASHMERE): JULIUS 277COM8 KNIT COAT

Julius 277COM8 Knit Coat
in black
DETAILS: 71% wool, 29% cashmere belted long overcoat with oversized drape collar. This wonderfully soft transformer of a topcoat boasts a huge extended collar panel which can be worn as a large hood or draped into a cowl or heavily-layered lapel. The high-waisted belt can be cinched up front to alter the shape of the coat's billowy folds, hung loose and untied to allow the garment to hang full length, or tied back, creating a heavy and sinister reinterpretation of the early 20th century dinner jacket with tails. Due to its formal wool/cashmere construction, this piece can supplement narrow fitting formalwear as an adventurous overcoat, but its obviously boundary-pushing design pairs well with other edgy, dark, and experimental garments. We love mixing it with tonal underlayers and complimentary textures, but a crisp white dress shirt, buttoned high at the collar, stunningly contrasts its soft folded fabric.
$1992

shop

Editor's Note: Special props go out to our model, Tyler, for the evillest BlackbirdBallard.com photo shoot ever. Check out dude's glare - gives a whole new meaning to the phrase "evil eye." -Kris

COURTESY OF A CONTINUOUS LEAN: THE ALDEN FACTORY TOUR

Blackbird has been proud to count ourselves in the exclusive number of Alden retailers since last summer. With the imminent arrival of our first Alden x Blackbird design collaboration to BlackbirdBallard.com, we were pleased to see A Continuous Lean's coverage of Brooklyn Alden retailer, Epaulet's recent visit to Alden's historic factory.

From A Continuous Lean:

To check out our current selection of Alden footwear, click here.