Inspiration: Lacrosse x Gant

One of my favorite sports (after baseball) is lacrosse and it's getting its share of press due to the fact that it inspired Michael Bastian's new Gant collection. And although some lax purist would say that this has nothing to do with lacrosse (and I would agree with that), I like the idea of starting with a concept/theme and creating a entire line around it. I'm really looking forward to seeing what comes out of this collection.

Lacrosse originated with the Native American nations of the United States and Canada, mainly among the Huron and Iroquois Tribes. In many Native American societies/tribes, the ball sport was often part of religious ritual, played to resolve conflicts, heal the sick, develop strong, virile men and prepare for war. Legend tells of games with more than 100 players from different tribes taking turns to play.It could be played on a field many miles in length and width; sometimes the game could last for days. Early lacrosse balls were made of deerskin, clay, stone, and sometimes wood. Lacrosse played a significant role in the community and religious life of tribes across the continent for many years. Early lacrosse was characterized by deep spiritual involvement, befitting the spirit of combat in which it was undertaken. Those who took part did so in the role of warriors, with the goal of bringing glory and honor to themselves and their tribes.The game was said to be played "for the Creator" or was referred to as "The Creator's Game".

Never Gets Old

Say Hey Kid

Willie Mays

GQ has a great article about the Greatest All-Around Baseball Player of All Time to celebrate his new biography.

Walking In Holden's Footsteps

 

Holden Caulfield's New York

In memory of J.D. Salinger, who died on Jan 28, 2010, The New York Times created an interactive map that traces Holden Caulfield's steps through New York. The accompanying article to the map can be found here.

Get to know Matt Singer (ex-Jack Spade employee)

Matt Singer's Shop

For nine years, Matt Singer worked at Jack Spade creating a wide range of items—bags and accessories, books and stationery, flyswatters and ping pong paddle covers. He left in 2009 to began his own line Singer explains,

My line consists of four bag shapes, two shirt styles and an assortment of accessories (belts, bookmarks, coasters, ashtrays, stationery, lighter covers, keyfobs, a pencil case, and a travel-sized backgammon set).

The button-down shirts and sturdy canvas bags draw inspiration from materials that improve with age—two-ply cotton oxford shirting and heavy cotton canvas. These straightforward shapes employ superior natural materials and thoughtful construction.

 I'm really looking forward to watching this brand grow. And yes the shirts are made in the US.

Jack & Jimbo Bikeshop

Jack Spade Bike Shop

I don't know if they are still doing this, but Jack Spade was selling bikes for a while. Partnering up with Jimbo, (a 71-year-old retired mechanical engineer) and Landmark Vintage Bicycles, one could stop by the Jack Spade store in NY on Fridays and Saturdays to have their bike repaired or shop for a vintage one.

Ambition: Abby Sunderland (Sailor)

Abby Sunderland

Meet the ambitious 16 year old Abby Sunderland who set sail 4 days ago to become the youngest person to sail around the world. Follow Abby's adventures here or check out her Team Abby blog.