This classic shoe, which is available in both a high-top and a low-top version, takes its cue from a marriage between an archetypal Tretorn sneaker worn by tennis legend Björn Borg and a specific gym shoe used by the Chinese military in the 1960s and subsequently dug out of a New York vintage store.

“Griffin moved out of London 7 years ago into the countryside, this brought about a different approach and outlook on life.

At Griffin we’re working closer to home; yes we still manufacture in Italy because they have different skills to those found in the UK.

I have been looking for new and old manufactures based in England who still have the traditional skills that are reflected in patterns, fabrics and construction – quality.

We are promoting today just 2 of our MADE IN ENGLAND products.

The Griffin British re-shaped Rugby short sleeve shirt which was made close to Nottingham. It has a cut away collar with a stand construction and plays with the British army camo detail underneath.  The quality is great; trust me I have 3 of them, it’s a great change to the t-shirt and can be worn under any jacket.

The  Baracuta G9 jacket was made in London . It is black on the outside with the Griffin embroidery and the reverse has British army camo . We always love the inside out idea, this is why we have left the Baracuta label on.

Next season we have developed and expanded the “Made in England” range even further”.

Jeff Griffin

“Sources said talks between representatives of Renzo Rosso of Diesel and Hedi Slimane took place as recently as this past weekend, but Slimane’s people insist no deal has been made — and may never be. Following reports Slimane may be tapped to design Diesel’s new Red Collection, one of his representatives told WWD that the former Dior Homme creative director has “no interest at all in Renzo Rosso’s group, let alone Diesel.” ” WWD

At a Thanksgiving dinner in 1999, a NIKE innovation leader’s seven-year-old son took the protective fruit net off an Asian pear and placed it around his bare foot. It was a playful gesture that immediately sparked the imagination of NIKE’s design team, spawning the first Air Rejuven8 prototype—built from the very same netting and hot-glued to a last. What intrigued designers about the structure was the way the material worked in harmony with the foot’s shape, as well as its graphic look. But, at the time, the technology required to make the Air Rejuven8 was too complex for conventional shoe manufacturing. Its various prototypes ended up at the bottom of a drawer for nearly five years, out of sight, but not out of mind.

In 2003, Nike innovation designer Pam Greene was studying the comfort aspects of a shoe: important foundation work for delivering recovery benefits to the feet of weary athletes. Greene immediately saw potential in the netting design, working out a tangible plan for the shoe’s construction. After six months researching materials and geometries for the net structure, Pam, a specialist in designing comfort footwear, crafted the shoe into a prototype phase that showed a unique ability to assist recovery and enable restorative running. After an additional year of testing and refinement by the Kitchen team, the Air Rejuven8 concept was ready to see the light of day.

The key innovation of the Air Rejuven8 is its injection-molded exterior cage. Made from one shot of TPU polymer, the network of diamond-shaped “struts” is engineered and aligned to fit around the foot to be both supportive and non-restrictive. The spacing, orientation, and thickness of each strut adds support and flex only where it is needed, allowing the use of less material in the upper. The strength-to-flex characteristic of the diamond’s geometry gives the structure its minimal, yet highly functional quality. The entire network conforms dynamically to the changing shape of the athlete’s foot in motion and at rest, while the openness of the structure allows for airflow, breathability, and the movement of moisture away from skin needed in comfort footwear.

” Ijin versus Ninja “  is the working title of an exclusive garment collaboration between two independent and free spirited creative labels: Ijin Material , the left field denim label designed by Philip Goss,  presents two limited edition dry ” Ninjin ” legs “, designed exclusively for Ninja Tune , the hugely influential london based record label, whose artiste collective offers such legendary names  as Coldcut , and whose regular Solid Steel radio show mixes are aural collectors items.

These dry denim jeans are produced in a unique run of only 200 pieces, and are offered in a choice of embroidered logo back pockets :  “Ninja Mask” or “Swarm of Eyes” .

The “Ninjin “ leg is a regular fit ,12 ounce , ring/ring denim leg, offered in 2  denim colours  : blue-black indigo & black denim.  They are cut using the innovative “wrap-leg “ cutting technique , specialised by Ijin Material , where the outseam of the leg is cut folded & the hip fitting is sewn into the waist with a dart.

Basically each leg is cut as one piece, leaving no out seam below the knee & consequently a totally clean-finish chainstitched hem , when turned up. The trademark top button is always hidden , the coin pocket is reinforced with specially sewn mini ninja mask rivets , inside seams are taped & they even come with double leather waist labels.

The mini range includes two sweat shirt and two tee shirt designs and is initially available from the Ninja Tune web store & selected outlets from May onwards , while stocks last.

Rich Yung Society Clothing was officially launched in 2006 by Brooklyn rapper John “Fabolous” Jackson.

Known for setting some of Hip Hop cultures biggest trends in the years between 2000 to 2005, Fabolous spoke of wanting to create his own brand minimally. Rich Yung Society clothing was the realization of those words, making the words ‘words do come true’ a timeless classic.

Misspelled by some as Rich Young, RichYung, and YungRich, the official brand name is Rich Yung Society clothing. Fabolous gave the clothing brand the name Rich Yung in thought of a lifestyle and not just a Hip Hop clothing brand title. Rich Yung Society clothing is supposed to embrace a culture of people that are ever-expanding in experience and willing to try things usually stereotyped to a the rich, young, and luxurious trend setters of the world.

Artists from all walks of Hollywood and international fame have been seen in the Rich Yung Society Clothing line. Some of the most popular photos on-line for Rich Yung Society clothing show Hip Hop related celebrities such as Atlanta Rappers TI and Young Jocc wearing the line.

International beat box and vocal instrumentalist “Anointed One,” has also been a poster child for the Rich Young Society clothing line. Photos of the New York native can be seen on-line of him in Rich Yung Society clothing, while performing in countries such as Australia and Europe, while on tour.

At some point in 2006, John Fabolous Jackson tapped an unknown jeweler to create a bulky, diamond covered chain and charm from the Rich Young Society clothing’s logo mold. Rumored to be stolen at one point, the Rich Yung Society chain and charm are constantly seen being worn by Fabolous in videos and media appearances, reflecting light brilliantly.

Rich Yung Society clothing is definitely in high demand internationally. The clothing line’s products have not been kept in stock on any SoJones known web sites. Even the official Rich Yung Society catalogue shop remains selling out briefly after launch of new goods, due to message boards spreading the news like blowing wildfire.

Rich Young Society retail prices start around $75. The Rich Yung T-shirts-shirts start and that price, while Rich Yung hoodies have been seen retailing on-line and in the streets of New York for well over $200 each.

By the end of 2007, Expansion of Rich Young Society clothing is expected by SoJones. Fabolous has made over $100 million dollars for the Mitchell and Ness retro sports apparel company just by wearing their product. Rich Young Society clothing has the same potential with the right backers, and it would only make sense someone offered to silently back the line, making it a retail brand that populates street wear stores internationally.

Concerning talk on Kitmeout about the different Hugo Boss Labels, the following are the official HUGO BOSS Brand Profiles.

HUGO BOSS is represented in the fashion market by the BOSS and HUGO brands. These brand collections and their fashion lines are aimed at various target groups, creating a brand world of extraordinary fashion diversity at a constantly high level of quality.The BOSS Black, BOSS Selection, BOSS Orange and BOSS Green lines as well as the accompanying accessory collections are all part of the core BOSS brand.

BOSS Black
The womens- and menswear collections in the BOSS Black line offer versatile fashion ranges with a rich array of elegant “modern classics” in business-, leisure- and formalwear: perfect looks that satisfy the most demanding tastes and accentuate the wearer’s personality.

BOSS Selection
Positioned in the upper market segment, the luxurious BOSS Selection menswear line represents the premium world in the BOSS brand universe. The interplay of sophisticated design, exclusive materials and beautiful tailoring guarantees clothing of the highest standard for customers of distinction.

BOSS Orange
The BOSS Orange collections offer leisurewear for men and women who enjoy dressing in style and sporting surprising looks. Unconventional material mixes, a playful approach to proportions, and contrasting colors and patterns appeal to a savvy clientele that delights in experimentation.

BOSS Green
BOSS Green presents golf- and sportswear for men that pairs classic cuts with refreshing designs in brand new constellations. The line successfully bridges the gap between fashionable sports apparel and sportswear fashions.

HUGO
HUGO delivers unconventional looks for men and women: clothes that are progressive yet never overstated. The collections feature architectonic lines and new takes on classic shapes. By offering trendsetting design and superior quality, HUGO satisfies the high expectations of´its fashion-conscious customers. 

Griffin Competition. Win a Limited Edition Griffin X Baracuta G9 Jacket. Black Original Baracuta G9 Jacket in slim fit, reversible with Black raglan sleeves and Brit Woodland body. Made in England using100% Cotton. Details here.

This spring Acne is proud to introduce the first line of POP Chinos. The chinos are created under our new design program POP Classics, where garments that are considered timeless are given new relevance through contemporary design interpretations. All chinos comes with signature bright colored lining on the inside.

Like jeans the original chino derive from masculine utility-wear made for longevity. Originally used in British military uniforms in the 19th century, the chino gained popularity in the United States when young soldiers brought them home from war. Today, the chino represents ease, leisure and an ever classic silhouette.

Following Louis Vuitton’s valiant efforts to combat counterfeiting of their prestigeous brand, Louis Vuitton continues to be the most counterfeited designer brand in the world. As the preeminent fashion status symbol it is perhaps of no great surprise that Louis Vuitton has the unenviable position.

Nevertheless, Louis Vuitton has a tenacious legal team who vigorously pursue all counterfeit criminals wherever they maybe and have a no-nonsense approach to dealing with these individuals, who are invariably engaged in all kinds of base criminality from illegal weapons trading to human trafficking.

“The momentum we are gaining in our relentless fight against counterfeiting is tremendous, not only in the US but also in other marketplaces worldwide,” said Nathalie Moulle Berteaux, Director of the Intellectual Property Department for the Fashion & Leather Goods division of LVMH. “By working closely with law enforcement authorities and other trademark holders and compelling those aiding and abetting counterfeiters to accept responsibility for the counterfeiters’ criminal actions, we are putting a stranglehold on the distribution of fake goods.”

There’s a rumour that RMC and Converse have collaborated on a denim x sneaker combo pack. If the above image is anything to go by availability could follow shortly.

PUMA x STREB dance company. Prepare to be amazed by the physical phenomenon that is STREB, the dance company featured in PUMA’s Spring/Summer Sportslifestyle campaign. The founder and legendary choreographer, Elizabeth Streb, coins the studio’s unusual technique “PopAction.” This untraditional art form draws upon things like dance, extreme sports, boxing, the circus, and Hollywood stunt work. As if this wasn’t enough, STREB also uses daring and strict precision to display the effects of ‘pure movement.’

Tucked away behind the main screen on PUMA’s homepage, you will find your backstage pass to a STREB performance where PUMA gear gets put to the ultimate test. STREB dancers found PUMA footwear and apparel to be the perfect fit in complimenting their “PopAction” style of dance. Together with PUMA, STREB combines unique movements and bold colors to create a futuristic feel.

The International ethical fashion trade fair will take place October 9th - 12th 2008 in Paris at the Carrousel du Louvre.

Ethical Fashion Show® is organised by Universal Love a not-for-profit organisation founded in 1995.

Ethical Fashion Show’s objective is to bring together International buyers and fashion professionals together with cutting edge ethical fashion designers from around the world. This is a 4-day trade event, with one day open to the general public.

2008 NEWS:
This year it’s our 5th birthday! To mark this occasion, we have decided to publish a fashion magazine « ETHICAL FASHION » which will present ethical fashion from around the world with high end photo reports as well as articles about sustainable development and lifestyles.

A collection of RMC Martin Ksohoh Red Monkey Company t-shirts have been released on the Togged website. The collection includes are variety of styles including the RMC Signature Logo and takes on other popular logos.

Following the lead of NOHARM Footwear and Clothing, Earthchild Clothing is making an impact with Contemporary, Comfortable Clothing with a Conscience.

Bright Beginning

Aware of the fine quality of South African cotton, the partners of the Earthchild U.S. Flagship store in Westfield, N.J. sought a clothing store with South African roots. “One look at Earthchild and we were hooked,” recalls Susan Markowitz, Westfield store manager, who credited the natural fabrics and relaxed designs for initially capturing their attention. That same natural, relaxed feel in the stores sealed the deal. To retain the brand’s unique appeal in the U.S., it was hand built in Cape Town and shipped – in 500 pieces – via boat to be reconstructed.

Noted Markowitz, “Stepping inside a store will immediately lift your spirit, calm your senses and transport you on a shopping experience unequalled in the hustle and bustle of today’s modern world.”

Katz remains intimately involved with his satellite stores – there are currently six stores in South Africa, one in Toronto and the Westfield store - via weekly conference calls, and regularly reviewing merchandising pictures. “Earthchild’s distinctive, fresh look sets it apart from today’s mass market of children’s clothing,” he said. “Our clothing truly reflects a love and passion for the Earth.” To that end, all cotton is grown in an environmentally responsible manner, and garments are designed and manufactured in South Africa by employing more than 100 local seamstresses. The result is 100 percent breathable cotton and hand-knitted items, some with hand-stitched details, for a one of a kind feeling that feels good to wear. The garments are age-appropriate, yet fashionable, for children age newborn to seven years old.

A Time to Give Back

“Give Back” is not just an Earthchild company value; it is a way of life. A portion of each purchase benefits Earthchild Project, a dynamic and innovative non-profit organization that funds two underprivileged schools in South Africa.

“We are working within the existing structure of schools to help create a new generation of confident, conscious and responsible young leaders,” said Markowitz, noting that inspirational facilitators are placed in the schools to instill a holistic and experiential education program. “There are tangible results within just one year.” Among them: the schools have beautiful organic vegetable gardens; they are recycling; the school menu includes healthy food; and yoga, meditation and life skills lessons are part of the daily routine.

Everyone is Wearing It

Earthchild made an appearance at the Toronto Film Festival this year, and garnered some headlines all its own. Among the socially responsible, yet fashionable, stars it appealed to were Angelina Jolie, Reese Witherspoon and Tim Robbins. For attracting the stars, Markowitz credits the Earthchild garments’ “Organic cotton appeal” that is very cool to look at and touch.

Tretorn have a custom built Tretorn Wellie Wagon that will be in New York for the next 3 weekends selling Tretorn wellies, sneakers, accessories, and apparel outside.  It’s built out of wooden boxes and is very visual.  The locations and dates are below and a picture of the Wellie Wagon is attached.  This is being done in collaboration with the store Hus, which is located at 11 Christopher Street.  Let me know what you think.  

Saturday, April 19th
Jackson Square Park:
Intersection of 8th Ave, Greenwich Ave, Horatio Street
10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Saturday, April 26th
Christopher Park:
Intersection of : Grove Street & Christopher Street
10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Saturday May 3rd
Bleeker Street Playground:
Intersection of Bleecker Street, W 11th Street & Hudson Street
10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Buddhist Punk has grown into a well respected and unpretentious brand and is worthy of a shout on Kitmeout:

Since Buddhist Punk’s birth in 1999 out of a union of a western metropolitan edge with eastern tropical artisanship, Buddhist Punk remains essentially the same small team that runs the Bali and London studios today on the front line of the culture of global uncertaincy. Buddhist Punk quickly became well known for its handworked printed jersey collections and it’s relationship with the rock ‘n’ roll industry.

Buddhist Punk shares a natural aesthetic with rock ‘n’ roll, the spirit of being in the moment, of mixing pop culture iconography with the now, and is probably the most integrated fashion label with the rock ‘n’ roll industry. Buddhist Punk has collaborated both professionaly and privately with a diverse variety of the world’s best known artists, most recently The Rolling Stones on their just completed Bigger Bang tour. In 2006 Buddhist Punk launched a second line - House of The Gods to specialise in design driven band fashion allowing Buddhistpunk to follow its true maverick fashion path.

For Fall Winter 2008 Buddhist Punk is showing Classic Buddhist Punk revisiting the essence of what makes Buddhist Punk altogether unique.
The menswear and womenswear includes a contemporary return to their much loved jersey collections with complimentary custom tailoring, leather and knitwear.

Here is an IJIN selvedge style that has been around for some time now : style J5207. This is from the IRRGLR (irregular) line Kurabo 13 oz denim with lots of  “pops “, egg yolk stitch in 4 stitch sizes,white vitello label on left ( no logo )

This has a victorian backstrap ( sewn up into the waist ) & the infamous 6th pocket overlaid on the back ( with an halfman embroidery sewn in real indigo thread )
Real indigo thread is used on all seams/bar tacks that would be normally sewn in black……this is a key IJIN detail. The indigo obviously wears back in colour with the denim.

This model has inside military hanging loops & a ticking lined back yoke. The back crotch seam is the only seam sewn as a triple needle ( indestructible!). All IJIN actual selvedges are cut extra wide as you can see by the cuff.

“Jude Law is to be the face of a new men’s fragrance for Parfums Christian Dior worldwide save for the U.S. and U.K., according to industry sources. (In the U.S. and U.K., it is believed a male model will replace him in the scent’s advertising.) Dior executives could not be reached for comment. Law would be the latest in a spate of male celebrities fronting fragrance and other luxury products for LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Parfum Dior’s parent. Most recently, Justin Timberlake inked a deal with Parfums Givenchy.”

Martin Ksohoh’s RMC Seleven Gallery is coming soon to Kowloon, Hong Kong.

Barneys, Loomstate to Go Green by Recycling T-Shirts. The axiom “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” is getting an eco-sensitive spin, thanks to Barneys New York, Loomstate and the Sundance Channel. Anyone up for recycling their Tees let us know.

Launched in New York City in 2004 by designer Rogan Gregory and Scott Hahn, Loomstate was founded as a casual brand dedicated to creating demand for certified organic cotton using socially and environmentally responsible methods of production.

May7ven slips into a pair of men’s Yoropiko Hungry Dragon jeans for her latest hit, Hands Up. Anyone up for it?

Check out the Alexander McQueen Puma Spring 2008 footwear collection and the Alexander McQueen Bones Installation, inspired by the skeletal structure and the backbone. PUMA BLACK STORE shopping event and Alexander McQueen BONES installation Saturday March 29th  1pm-5pm

ARE HOAXS THE NEW FAKES?

“HOAX COUTURE: April Fool’s Day is still a week away, but someone in Italy (where they don’t even have April Fool’s Day) must have been in the mood for a prank. A mysterious firm sent out an e-mail Monday proclaiming that George Clooney was launching a men’s and women’s fashion brand. Problem is, “this is a hoax,” said Clooney.

“I have no connection whatsoever with any clothing line bearing my name, and more specifically, GC Exclusive by George Clooney.”

The e-mail had been dispatched by Mass Media Distribution LLC, and was full of red flags. It appeared to be translated poorly from Italian, and stated the collection would be launched with a fashion show at the Westin Palace in Milan — not exactly the normal place in the Italian fashion capital for a show. No date or time was given for the supposed launch, but the e-mail noted that Clooney would be present. “Invitation open to all journalists and TV,” it stated. “Invited? Only important people and celebrities.”

Clooney isn’t the only celeb said to be doing a fashion line. Recently news emerged that Katie Holmes was going to be designing a collection for Giorgio Armani. The designer vehemently denied the rumor.”

7 FOR ALL MANKIND carry the torch for premium denim and prove the exclusive denim industry has a bright future. Following the efforts by Red Monkey Company to battle fakes, 7 FOR ALL MANKIND provide the following indispensable information:

The 7 For All Mankind trademark is a registered trademark throughout the world. The use of that trademark without permission is considered counterfeiting and warrants legal action.

Counterfeiting is an enormous problem affecting the world, and we are doing all we can to help to contain it. Many people do not understand the global ramifications of counterfeiting, or what they are really buying when purchasing any counterfeit goods. The impact that counterfeiting has on our economy is tremendous. Because of the manufacturing, sale and distribution of counterfeit goods, millions upon millions of dollars in legitimate revenue are lost, as well as tens of thousands of jobs. This lost revenue results in fewer hospitals and schools being built as well as fewer police officers, firemen etc. being hired to protect the public. Lost jobs are the result of honest intellectual property owners having to cut back on their staff due to decreased sales and the destruction of the reputation of a brand. When a consumer purchases a defective counterfeit good, they don’t blame the counterfeiter, they blame the brand. Counterfeiters are not small time crooks who are making a few measly dollars. They are thieves who are stealing huge amounts of money from the community, consumers and corporations.

Counterfeiting has been called the “drug trade of the 21st century.” With the relatively low risk of prosecution and the enormous amounts of money being taken in, counterfeiting has become a cash cow for members of organized crime. The manufacturers of counterfeit goods do not pay taxes; do not pay fair wages or benefits to their employees. They frequently use child labor and have been known to fund terrorism and other crimes.

When a consumer purchases a pair of counterfeit 7 For All Mankind jeans from a street vendor, website or unlicensed wholesaler, they are often dealing directly with a person who has been involved in numerous serious criminal activities. When people decide to host a “jean” party in their home, it usually consists of the host or hostess purchasing a large amount of product from unlicensed wholesalers who often come to the home, or require a shipping address to distribute the counterfeit goods. These hosts must realize that when doing so, they are allowing people with criminal records into their lives and homes, granting access to their valuables and their families! Remember, while it is not illegal to purchase counterfeit goods, it IS illegal to distribute, making the host of the party eligible for prosecution.

7 For All Mankind is extremely dedicated to helping fight the crime of counterfeiting. Our legal team works closely with US Customs and law enforcement in order in insure that counterfeit goods never make it to their planned destination. We work with these agencies to make sure that whenever counterfeit goods are spotted, the counterfeiters are arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We rely heavily upon our loyal customers to help us put an end to this illegal activity.

For more information regarding this serious matter, please visit the following links: www.iacc.org

If you would like to submit information on a suspected seller of counterfeit 7 For All Mankind products, please click here to complete our counterfeit reporting document. Completed documents can be faxed to 7 For All Mankind at 646.839.5434 or email completed documents to counterfeits@7forallmankind.com.