INSIGHT CHECK SHIRTS

Insight - Fred Sonic Shirt
in
green or red
DETAILS: A really great check shirt made from a rough but lightweight flannel-like fabric. The shirts come with a crumpled texture which, if you prefer, can be washed out. We recommend embracing the relaxed feel of it, though! Two button-down patch pockets on the chest. Button placket with one contrasting-color button towards the bottom. Slightly small collar. 100% cotton.
sizes/green: S, M, L
sizes/red: S, M, L
$66

DIET BUTCHER SLIM SKIN 'GASP' COLLECTION PHOTOS

Diet Butcher Slim Skin seems always to produce beautiful catalogues and presentations to go along with their collections. To go with this season's collection, Gasp, they did a very cool and moody photo shoot inside a rundown apartment complex a quick taxi-ride away from their head office in the Nakameguro area of Tokyo. Shown also on the DBSS homepage, these photos are taken from the Japanese blog Jamool.

TREND: HERITAGE, GRANDPA & LAYERS

Men.Style.com is currently featuring photos of New York City men presented by Scott Schuman, a.k.a. The Sartorialist. The people in these photos are generally from the fashion industry and therefore ahead of the curve; but come Fall, this is how all the cool kids will be be dressing. Start studying.

COLLEGIATE
This fella doesn't embody what I am really talking about since he looks a little old to be going to school and too tough to be a professor. None the less, he's an excellent reminder that once the Japanese got tired of our American wilderness looks, they went to hard core collegiate. Stiff oxford cloth shirts with white collars, woolen ties, heavy letterman sweaters, horn rimmed glasses, cuffed pants and all sorts of preppy shoes like white bucks, saddle shoes and penny loafers.

WILDERNESS
Camping, hiking, fishing or hunting, are a huge influence on our Fall 09 style. Some of these fellas are evolking a British gentlemen's weekend squab hunt, while Mordechai Rubinstein (friend of Blackbird) appears to be channeling an international reporter at large on assignment in Alaska. Feel free to mix these elements into your wardrobe (a waxwear coat or gnarly hunting boots) or go for the full look. You can't really mess up an outfit like this since historically these garments were based on function rather than appearance and were passed on through generations. Anything goes.

BAD ASS LEATHER JACKETS
This is more of a Spring trend but you will see them continue into Fall. What you should know about leather is that many leathers now are being washed and treated with waxes and other coatings so that old fear of getting caught out in the rain and ruining your investment should mostly be ignored. Leather looks better after it's beaten up. Bad Ass is back.

KILLER
This is the only kind of *slick* I can handle. It's under the radar and completely about fit and quality. Do you think he has a gun in that bag or his yoga mat?

MIXXE
This kid must be a happy person. Oh the joys of mixing your wardrobe to create the ultimate carefree outfit. This is the biggest lessen we learned from our Japan adventures. Buy a few BEAUTIFUL garments and mix them with everything. Devil may care! Be a person not a clone!

RAG & BONE RAZOR SUIT

(above picture from men.style.com's spring 2009 Coming Attractions feature)

In stock now is one of the most show-stopping outfits from Rag & Bone's spring/summer 2009 collection. The Razor suit was done in three different fabrications, two of which we have available. These very special pieces are all done in a very caring collaboration between Rag & Bone and the famous Martin Greenfield Clothiers. All pieces are completely handmade with the utmost care by the master tailors of this legendary factory.

Shown below is already the most infamous of these fabrications -- the jaw-dropping wool-blend "shiny" fabric. This is made from a finely woven 90% wool/10% nylon blend which, due to use of the nylon, has a gorgeous luster, varying in intensity depending on the light of your surroundings. As mentioned above, this fabric combination in particular is an absolute show-stopper that has to be seen to believe.

Please note that, in addition to this sparkly version, we also have the more subdued (although equally beautiful) matte black 100% wool version. Both should be up on the webstore by early next week, but for now please e-mail or all (1 866 500-2524) with any inquiries.

Rag & Bone - Razor Jacket
in black shine
DETAILS: Slim-fitting two-button blazer with narrow armholes and sleeves. Single vented, notch lapels, surgeon cuffs, angled besom pockets, and fully canvassed construction. Handmade by master tailors in Brooklyn.
sizes: 36, 38, 40
$2150

Rag & Bone - Razor Pants
in black shine
DETAILS: Slim-fitting pants with a slightly high rise and subtle taper. Double welt pockets on the back. Zip and button fly. Handmade by master tailors in Brooklyn.
sizes: 28, 30, 32
$360

NEW KZO ARRIVALS

A shipment from KZO's spring/summer 2009 collection has hit the store and frankly, we are blown away. KZO has grown so much in such a short amount of time and, if this collection is any indicator, there are some very great things in the near future. Down to the tiny details, KZO is really a brand which is truly innovating in the American "fashion" world.

In particular, the jeans from this season are something we have all fallen hopelessly in love with. We have three styles in stock right now, all of which are made in Okayama, Japan, a prefecture which is quite legendary in the denim world. Each style uses a selvage Japanese denim and is full of some very unique details which set them completely apart from anything else on the market right now.

Below are just a few items we have ready right now on the webstore. Everything is available in-store right now for locals to check out and we will get the rest ready by next week. Other items include lovely stripe shorts, t-shirts, more fleece jackets, crazy transformer jacket and camera bag (think Acronym-level insanity), and a few other things.

Click here to go directly to the KZO section of the webstore.

KZO - Ceres Fleece Mods Coat
in [washed] black
DETAILS: Slim-fitting fishtail parka-style fleece. The midweight of the fleece makes this a really excellent outerwear piece to wear through the spring or cooler nights in the summer. Drawstring details along waist and hem. Convertible hood easily detaches via a hidden zipper. 100% cotton fleece.
$336
click here to buy


KZO - Central Denim Pants
in indigo or deep black
DETAILS: Slim-fitting jeans with a slight taper. Every detail of these jeans is very well-thought-out, contributing to a very unique style. The darting through the inner thighs helps keep the fit nice and slim throughout the entire leg. The waistband is constructed from one piece of fabric folded over which creates an almost 3D effect. The front pockets have a very slight amount of extra fabric which helps keep them very practical even with the slim fit through the thighs. Slightly low rise with a very subtly dropped crotch.
$240
click here to buy in indigo
click here to buy in deep black
click here to buy in white


KZO - Bretto Flannel
in black/red
DETAILS: Shown above worn by Brett Westfall himself during his visit to Seattle last October. Collaborations between KZO and Unholy Matrimony's Brett Westfall. This season's version has double layered sleeves and attached bottom portion. Sealed zip pockets on sides and chest. Hidden zipper in the back allows for the entire shirt to be folded into itself in hobo-bag fashion. Made from a thick, very soft and comfortable 100% cotton flannel. Works great worn as a jacket or alone as a main shirt.
$344
click here to buy

BOY by BAND OF OUTSIDERS

We have in stock some new women's items! We received a small shipment from the women's line by Band of Outsiders, Boy. Last year we posted a translated article about the brand with a preface stating that we would not be receiving anything from the line. Now, a year later, that statement is no longer valid! It is just a few shirts for now but more will be coming as the season progresses.

Click here to go directly to the Boy by Band of Outsiders section of the webstore.

LIBERATION MUSIC

BILLYKIRK

We have received a whole bunch of new items from Billykirk, including several bag styles (both new and re-stocks of some of the most popular) and bracelets. We are working on getting everything up on the webstore and so far have the majority of the bag styles available. Click here to browse what is available right now.

WOOLRICH WOOLEN MILLS

In continuation of the previous post, shown below are all of the items we have received from Woolrich Woolen Mills. These items will not be available to purchase through the webstore, so please e-mail or call (866 500-2524) to purchase.

Overall, we have been incredibly happy with all of these items. From experimenting with customers' styles, as well as our own, we are finding that every piece is versatile in its own way. A lot of people seem to think immediately that Woolrich and all off-shoots is a purely Americana brand but it really can work within just about anyone's personal style. The sizing is very generous and the wearer can achieve slim fits to go with their skinny jeans or experiment with different sizes for a more relaxed style. Aside from the styles, we have also fallen completely in love with the tough organic fabrics; it is really something anyone can appreciate.

Click here for our previous introduction to the brand.

Woolrich Woolen Mills - Upland Jacket
in black
DETAILS: Three button blazer-style jacket in a springtime-weight twill. Partial cotton lining through front of the body. Four pockets throughout the exterior with one interior and slots for interior access along the button placket.
sizes: S, M, L, XL
$475


Woolrich Woolen Mills - Pen Jacket
in chambray
DETAILS: Lightweight three button blazer-style jacket made from a tough chambray fabric. Due to the light, airy weight to the fabric, this is really an ideal jacket to wear through the warmer seasons with even just a tank top underneath. White stitching with darting along the back. Three pockets on the exterior and two on the interior
sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
$399


Woolrich Woolen Mills - Maine Guide Jacket
in navy
DETAILS: Made from a tough yet lightweight finely woven ripstop cotton fabric. The collar folds down to become a shawl but can also be worn up and features a detachable strap to keep the top closed. Three external pockets and two internal. Sheep-embossed metal buttons.
sizes: S, M, L
$399


Woolrich Woolen Mills - Maine Guide Jacket
in gray
DETAILS: Made from a light and airy tropical wool material which is perfectly suited for warm or heavy weather. The collar folds down to become a shawl but can also be worn up and features a detachable strap to keep the top closed. Three external pockets and two internal. Sheep-embossed metal buttons.
sizes: S, M, L
$445


Woolrich Woolen Mills - Field Vest
in navy
DETAILS: An all-around great vest for any style. The fit is a bit slim so each size can accommodate a couple different body types. The curved hem is very flattering in the way that it sits on the hips and the side pockets are placed in a perfect place to keep them very useful. Made from an organic cotton twill with light cotton lining and ribbed neckline. Double zipper. Three external pockets and one zip-close interior pocket.
sizes: S, M, L, XL
$299


Woolrich Woolen Mills - Trail Shirt
in chambray
DETAILS: Lightweight safari-style shirt-jacket made from a tough chambray fabric. Wear it alone as a shirt or with a tank top or other light under layer as a lightweight jacket. Multiple exterior pockets with internal strap along the sleeve to allow them to be rolled up.
sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
$209


Woolrich Woolen Mills - Bush Shorts
in beige or blue jean
DETAILS: Very cool outdoorsy-looking corduroy shorts with safari-like details. Very short length with a regular rise. Two trouser-style side pockets, snap-closure pockets along the thighs, and two back pockets. Zip and snap-closure fly. Shown with Chausser Boat Shoes.
Please note that the beige color is wider Wale corduroy while the blue jean color is a fine Bedford corduroy.
sizes/beige: 30, 32
sizes/blue jean: 30,
$249

BIRDS OF A FEATHER

Now this exciting event has a poster to go along with it! Just a few more days...

RVCA ARTIST NETWORK PROGRAM X THRASHER JAPAN

As part of this season's Artist Network Program, RVCA has teamed up with artist and professional skateboarder Ed Templeton to release a special t-shirt for Thrasher Japan. All ANP t-shirts are limited edition runs and made from a super soft and comfortable cotton/poly blend with signature red stitching along the shoulders and back-neckline.

We have these t-shirts in five colors, three of which are already available online on our webstore. The other colors will be added soon but for now, please e-mail or call (866 500-2524) if you don't see the color you are interested in online.

RVCA Artist Network Program - Thrasher Japan Print by Ed Templeton
in black, macro red, uni blue, yellow, or white
DETAILS: comfortable 50% cotton/50% polyester blend with vintage-like heathered color
$34

WOOLRICH WOOLEN MILLS HAS ARRIVED

Our Woolrich Woolen Mills shipment has arrived in the shop. Details and further pictures will be happening by early next week, but everything will be in the physical shop before the weekend for customers to come and check out. See this post for previous details on the items and this post for their involvement in a recent Newsweek article.

ODYN VOVK NEW ARRIVALS AND RE-STOCKS

We have received re-stocks of a number of popular styles from the Odyn Vovk spring/summer 2009 collections, including the lovely tank tops and shredded leather vest. In addition to these items, we have also received cropped denim pants, super soft cotton leggings, OVal Shaket (slightly less intense version of the Bat Shaket), and the Vovk Tank. Some quick shots are below and details will soon follow.
Click here to be taken to the Odyn Vovk section of the webstore to check for your size. Please check the previous two posts (one and two) for further details.

Odyn Vovk - Vovk Tank
in black
DETAILS: Made from the same comfortable stretchy material as the OV Tank but with a slightly more relaxed fit and V stitching details on the front and back.


Odyn Vovk - Unmerciful Cropped Pant
in black
DETAILS: Cotton denim cropped pants with raw hem. Shown above with L.A. Leggings and Chausser Sneakers.

STYLING CUES: DON WILLIAMS

Jacket: Odyn Vovk
Shirt: Rogues Gallery
Hat: KZO
Guitar Strap: Blackbird

HEY LITTLE FELLA

Thanks PTLDME for the adorableness.

RAG & BONE GLADSTONE BAG

We have received some new bits and pieces in a shipment from Rag & Bone's fantastic spring/summer 2009 collection. One of the items that really has us excited is this large cotton denim travel bag. Pictures can't do justice to how gorgeous this thing really is! Of course with age, too, it will begin to become even more beautiful as it begins to wear and fade to tell the harsh stories of travel.

Other arrivals include swim trunks (cotton seersucker and a more traditional nylon style), shirts, chunky knit organic cotton shawl cardigan, and overdyed navy RB11 jeans. More pictures and details soon!

Rag & Bone - Gladstone Bag
in indigo
DETAILS: Large sized bag made from a beautiful cotton denim with leather trim and details. Super heavy-duty duffel-style which is absolutely perfect for travel of weekend trips. The cotton denim has a slight coating to it to give a beautiful luster in the color. The leather used throughout the trim and details is very soft while still thick and substantial. Handles are padded for absolute comfort when carrying. Six metal feet at base to protect the bottom leather portion from general wear and tear. Cotton-lined interior with two large interior pockets. Overall, quite a jaw-dropping bag! Measures approximately 27"L x 16"H x 12"D with plenty of room to expand.
$835
click to buy

POLAROID

Two bits of news.

1. The Polaroid factories have been purchased and there are plans to restart production in 2010. Please see The Impossible Project for more details.

2. BlackbirdBallard.com has vintage Polaroid 600 series cameras back in the stock for $25.

NEW: UMI - HAIR GOO FOR BOYS & GIRLS

Umi has been an underground favorite hair grooming product line for a while. Now you can find it at Blackbird and on BlackbirdBallard.com.

What we like is that UMI products hold up under pressure, can be mixed and layered to derive an endless amount of effects, and since they were created by their respective industry's top stylists and chemists, the quality of the products are superb. Don't let the simple packaging fool you. This is great goo.

You will also find that Umi products are specifically formulated to achieve the highest level of performance without the use of unnecessary detergents or colorants. All products were tested only on models. AND... it's made in the USA! AND AND AND... it smells really good!

Are you sold on it yet? Well we are.

(product sizes, prices and web-store links to come)

UMI - umishampoo_series 1.
hydration_shine_color protection
DETAILS: A mild, moisture-rich cleanser formulated for dry, color-treated or overstyled hair. Sugarcane and aloe leaf extracts hydrate and restore shine. Lemon and nettle extracts rebuild strength and enhance elasticity. SLS and paraben free.

UMI - umiconditioner_series 1.
hydration_shine_color protection
DETAILS: A light, moisture-rich cream that replenishes dry, color-treated or overstyled hair. Lemon, apple and green tea extracts restore lustre. Shea butter and panthenol (vitamin B5) nourish, smooth and cuticle, ant-oxidize and promote hair growth. Paraben free.

UMI - umisliquid.
DETAILS: Aloe styling lotion calms and moisturizes stressed hair while offering sunscreen protection, leaving a soft, silky finish.

UMI - umivolume.
DETAILS: Alcohol-free styling spray formulated with honey and wheat proteins delivers structure, hold and styling control.

UMI - umisitewax.

DETAILS: Lightweight, versatile styling pomade produces smooth, lustrous shine, light hold and separation.

UMI - umiform.
DETAILS: Styling gel formulated with silk proteins to generate body and hold while maintinging moisture balance and shine.

UMI - umifuse.
DETAILS: Ultra light serum provides maximum frizz and flyaway control, humidity protection and polish.

UMI - umicreme.
DETAILS: Styling creme delivers sublime curl definition, superior straightening and smoothing power, and provides a satin finish.

UMI - umibase.
DETAILS: Nutrient-rich detangler and foundation spray perfect for all hair types. Conditions, soothes the scalp and enhances the performance of styling products.

UMI- umipowder.
DETAILS: Creates instant fullness and adds pliability to hair, extends the life of a blow dry and freshens tired locks.

NEW MAKR WALLETS & RE-STOCKS

Makr - Vertical Pocket Thin Wallet
in black
DETAILS: Restocked! Snap-closure vertical wallet. Main compartment is a perfect size for cards or bills. Measures approximately 4" x 3.25". Handcrafted in the North America from rugged leather.
$120
click to buy


Makr - Flap Wallet
in ox blood
DETAILS: The Flap Wallet is a horizontal flap closure wallet with receiving strap. The strap tightly closes the wallet and hides a laser etched logo panel. Handcrafted in USA from a beautiful antiqued oxblood-color leather.
$144
click to buy


Makr - Flap Wallet
in black
DETAILS: The Flap Wallet is a horizontal flap closure wallet with receiving strap. The strap tightly closes the wallet and hides a laser etched logo panel. Handcrafted in USA from a thick leather
$144
click to buy


Makr - Angle Wallet/Card Holder
in black
DETAILS: The Angle Wallet is an angled-entry pocket cardholder. The angle cuts down to below the card line for easy access to cards and folded cash. By pressing your thumb against the hinge of the wallet it opens the pocket and allows for easy fanning of cards. Handcrafted in USA from a thick waxed leather with small laser-etched logo detail.
$72
click to buy

GQ CLOSETED AGAIN

If you are looking for a job, GQ's In The Closet short video covers suiting, etiquette and some helpful reminders about job interviews. Clickety-click here.

Side note #1
You will see some of our Blackbird Spring picks in the background of their funny little closet room. Look for the Common Projects canvas shoes.

Side note #2
While snooping around the net looking for GQ suit pictures, I found these lovely shots from the past. Here's a photo from GQ 2002 regarding "Suits that work". This is a fantastic example of how much menswear has changed in the past 6 years. Support this industry so we don't have to go back to clothing like Clive and Terrance are wearing.

VALENTINE GIFT IDEA #1

FOR HER

(Malin+Goetz) - Neroli Candle
DETAILS: this candle blends natural citrus and green freshness of orange and mandarin. Lovely, fresh and crisp. Burns for up to 60 hours
$48.00 USD
buy here



FOR HIM

(Malin+Goetz) - Junior Candle Set
DETAILS: Named after Mr. Malin and Mr. Goetz' dog Junior, this candle set brings 3 mini versions their popular candle scents (Vetiver, Neroli and Cannabis) into this low commitment relationship. Burn on their own or pair up for a dynamic effect.
$58
buy here

YOU LOVE HER

Blackbird and Dolce Vita are teaming up for a special Valentines shopping night. One location. Gifts for her. Gifts for him. Trunk show style. Free Champagne. Simple.

For HER
Candles
Jewelry
Lingerie
Hats & Scarves
Fragrance


For HIM
Socks
Neck Ties
Apparel
Fragrance
and more!

Location: Blackbird
Date: Thursday, February 12th
Time: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

BLACKBIRD ROCK & ROLLA

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO

BIRDS OF A FEATHER
Wednesday, February 18th, 2009
Sunset Tavern

IT'S A FUN ROCK SHOW!!!
BENEFITING THE BALLARD FOOD BANK
Featuring our BLACKBIRD bands:

The Botherations (Adam & friends)
Idle Times (Leo & friends)
&
Yes Oh Yes (more friends!)

$7 at the door
ALL proceeds will go to the Ballard Food Bank to help keep their doors open.

FINAL DAYS of CLEARANCE FOOD DRIVE

Celebrate the final days of our clearance sale!!!

Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday

We will give you 60% off* the original price of any sale item(s) if you bring in at least one BAG of non-perishable food or a $10 donation to the Ballard Food Bank. Many people in our community are without income and headed to the food bank. Let's lend a hand.

*This offer is only available in store. All items are sold as is and all sales are final.

MEN.STYLE.COM SPRING 2009 BUYERS' GUIDE

(above comic from Moomin Trolls by Tove Jansson -- available through Drawn and Quarterly)

Yesterday saw the publishing of the coming season's installment of men.style.com's buyers' guide. Every season they select a number of shops to feature some of their top picks for items coming to them for the season. For the second season in a row, Blackbird was featured in this guide and our picks are below. All photos by Steve Torres/men.style.com, text by us.

Click here to go to the article's opening page or click here to jump directly to the beginning of our section.

In addition to our selections, we are also proud to point out Barneys New York's choice in one of the collaboration pieces that Brett Westfall did for Rei Kawakubo's Comme des Garcons Homme Plus line -- click here for that slide.

Woolrich Woolen Mills - Upland Jacket
Woolrich Woolen Mills has us very excited for this new collection. Daiki Suzuki does a great job making an Americana style which can be worn by anyone, no matter their preference towards the workwear influence.
$475


Common Projects - Canvas Safari Boot
Just as people began to think that Common Projects collections would continue to be safely predictable, this season is bringing in some very cool changes and new designs. The Safari Boot stands out from the collection of sneakers as something that can easily cross into a number of different styles.
$375


Robert Geller - Leather Zip-Bomber
Seattle summers are quite mild so a leather jacket can get a lot of use. This washed-lambskin bomber is easily adapted to your wardrobe and is perfect for everyday wear.
$1860



Odyn Vovk - Indian-Print Curve Seam Tee
This is the young designer's very first collection and the sophistication in design and ideas is quite shocking. These supima cotton/micro modal blend t-shirts fit long and slim. The elegant draping easily adds a slightly dramatic touch to even the most basic outfit.
$156


Vanishing Elephant - Skinny Roll-Leg Jeans
Cropped or rolled pants is a perfect summer style which has already been becoming very popular. Wear these with any outfit to add a bit of laid-back youthfulness.
$145

WOOLRICH WOOLEN MILLS IN NEWSWEEK

This week's issue of Newsweek has a nice little feature on Woolrich Woolen Mills and the strong following many Americans are beginning to have for heritage brands. Quoted at the beginning of the article, too, is our friend Fok; owner of StyleForum. Check it out!

Blackbird will be carrying Woolrich Woolen Mills for this season. Click here for a short introduction and rundown on the items we are expecting.

A.P.C. SPRING/SUMMER 2009

The first shipment from APC's spring/summer 2009 collection is here. We always feel the season can't truly begin until we begin getting pieces from APC. Below are some quick shots I could take before my camera ran out of batteries. More item shots will be up soon on the webstore!

APC - Narrow Jacket
in black or light gray
DETAILS: Slim fitting jacket with darting along front. Fits narrow through the shoulders and arm holes. Single vented. Fabric has a very subtle texturized Prince of Wales check pattern. 100% cotton outer with 60% acetate/40% cotton body lining and 100% rayon sleeve lining.
note: Matching slim-fitting pants also available.
sizes/black: XS, S, M, L
sizes/light gray: XS, S, M, L
$454


APC - Narrow Shirt
in marine/blue stripe
DETAILS: Fits narrow through the shoulders and arm holes. Single breast pocket. Made from a texturized lightweight seersucker fabric. 100% cotton.
sizes: XS, S, M, L
$170

APC - Narrow Shirt
in Multicolor Madras
DETAILS: Fits narrow through the shoulders and arm holes. Single button-down breast pocket. Made from a lightweight broadcloth. 100% cotton.
sizes: XS, S, M, L
$142


APC - Petit Standard Corduroy Pants
in black or gray
DETAILS: This is APC's newest jean/pant cut. These are cut similar to the New Standard, but with a lower rise and more fitted leg, intended to give a more slender appearance. Made from a comfortable stretch corduroy material. 96% cotton/4% elastan.
sizes/black: 27, 28, 39, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35
sizes/gray: 27, 28, 39, 30, 31, 32
$185