A truly timeless and undeniably recognizable American Style. A military styled collection based on authentic details, trimming garment styling of the US ARMY combined with contemporary sportswear.
Pic captured during video shooting. Trying to make samples for a man that grows a full size in a workout wasn't easy! See what happens when the casting of a commercial is surprisingly interrupted by the the formidable Dwayne Johnson.
A complete collection designed and developed with attention to fabric, color, and trims. Every detail, from hangtags to the Look Book, is thoughtfully created to bring this heritage sportswear series to life.
The sweatshirt is reminiscent of the early ARMY Football team's jersey with a saddle shoulder, yet updated with contrasted heavy weight uneven slubby loops exposed to the outside of the body.
The relaxed cargo patch pocket pants taper at the bottom for a modern fit, giving comfort in the thigh and the crotch while allowing the bottom hems to roll, tuck or fold at the boot or shoe. The print is an adaption of the Vietnam Tiger Camo rescaled smaller and printed on a 2-ply twill yarn. Exposed webbing and rivets add strength while the lower exposed zippers give ease of entry for cellphones and other items while driving a tank, jeep, SUV (or even a small car, but Why?).
Each of the collection's garments has a level of attention to detail that adds to the authenticity and strength of the US ARMY Brand. To see these images without reading what is behind the development is to read a headline caption without the story.
Modern Take on a WWII Classic: The Tank Jacket, inspired by the Battle of the Bulge and featured in ‘Fury’, is re-engineered with today’s technology for water-repellence, fire resistance, and anti-static properties. Its contrasting cotton rib knit and wool blend lining offer wind protection, warmth, and breathability
A sateen weave gives a sheen to the firm shell fabric that harks back to nylon flight satin bombers, while the lining is a wool blend for warmth and extra protection.
Refined Utility: Stonewashed for character, this PU-coated cotton garment is designed to evolve with wear. The washing process intentionally removes most of the PU, enhancing its unique texture. It’s the details that define it, catering to those who appreciate the depth of military-inspired apparel.
A Modern Homage to Norman Rockwell: Meticulous photo-retouching meets classic American realism. This style is a nod to his iconic style, subtly infused with a painterly touch, yet firmly rooted in the clarity of a photograph.
Above is the original picture as shot by the photographer. Too dark and too many blemishes on the model's face.
I created the entire look book for $1900 for 52 pages. No budget or warning from my boss when he said he needs it in 2 weeks.The total shoot took 4 hours, one photographer, one model, one assistant stylist and myself. Time to edit, retouch, create a layout in InDesign and send out to print using a plugin took 3 weeks. One week to print and the 50 books of 52 pages full color came out to a total of $1900.00
Classic Meets Contemporary: This jacket combines tradition with a twist, featuring a reversible design that showcases a distinctive Camo pattern. Paired with a cotton hoodie and henley, the Black MA-1 bomber stands out as a modern interpretation of a piece with no precedent in US ARMY history. Originally an Air Force staple with an Orange lining from the 60’s, this jacket redefines military style.
Below: Jacket shown reversed to show camo lining
Effortlessly Rugged: This jacket merges the comfort of a gray knit jersey shell with the practicality of olive cotton ripstop lining, akin to a hoodie fused with military-grade outerwear. Enhanced with PU leather edging and zipper piping for added resilience, it exudes a timeless yet contemporary appeal. Layered over a heavyweight cotton-linen shirt, it echoes the authentic Army shirts of the 30s and 40s, with the linen blend offering a naturally worn-in aesthetic.
Streamlined Cuffs: These Wool Cargo pants are a rare find, tailored with a skinny bottom opening detail. Equipped with a functional button tab, they’re designed to snugly fit into boots or shield against harsh winds, making them a winter essential.
Echoes of M.A.S.H.: This 1950’s Linen Cotton Serviceman’s Shirt captures the enduring spirit of an era marked by camaraderie and resilience. Its design pays subtle tribute to the iconic field attire, reminiscent of the timeless tales of a mobile army surgical hospital.
A Layered Fortitude: A seasoned wool vest over a snug knit hoodie, highlighted with camo contrasts. It’s a stylish ensemble that layers on character for daily adventures.
A wool blend herringbone with down-fill is cold dyed for an aged and warm look. It's layered over a PU and Camo woven cotton hoodie and Chambray Mechanic's shirt. .
Reinvented Camo: These cargo pants break the mold with a splash of creativity, featuring bleach blotches inspired by denim trends. The result is a fresh perspective on a timeless pattern, distinct from the prints of the past.
Anti-Fit Evolution: These cargo pants redefine comfort with a slim fit above and relaxed hips and thighs, offering a modernized silhouette that sets them apart from the traditional cargo styles of your dad's .
Denim Mechanic's Shirt: This chambray shirt, with its unique ‘Snow Bleach’ effect, offers a nod to the mechanics’ distinct style away from the battlefield. The treatment adds a touch of age to the slub chambray, enhancing its texture while preserving the depth of the indigo hue.
Vintage Charm, Modern Cleanliness: This shirt’s carefully worn buttons and print echo the allure of a 40-year-old vintage piece, offering the aesthetic of an age-worn garment without the drawbacks of actual wear, sweat stains, smell and stuff.
Notice the 'Bullet Casing' snaps design to look like actuall bottoms of bullet shell casings. Firing pin mark included. (No actual models or assistants were shot in the development of the snaps)
Many options were considered at the beginning stages when first presenting the Merchandising Plan. Snap development had already been started with the supplier. In the end, the design changed slightly but the finishes came out great.
Explore the Collection: Download the Look Book to view the collection in its entirety. For an in-depth look at the trims and developmental sketches, check out my other project.
