Moncler Gamme Bleu Spring 2011

Every once in a while something comes along that makes you slap your head asking the classic "why didn't I think of that?" Enter Thom Browne's Moncler Gamme Bleu Spring 2011 presentation at Milan's Velodromo Vigorelli. Instead of the usual runway boredom, Mr. Brown tightens the trousers and breaks out the racing stripes to present a collection that one might actually wear in the real world both on and off the cycle. More importantly, the presentation is a respectful homage to Italy's rich cycling history (of which I salute Mr. Browne) and a reminder of that which we lack Stateside - with the occasional Queen reference, of course. Why more American designers don't design with this balance of form, function and history is still yet to be determined. Now while I'm in no place to drop my paycheck on a piece from this collection, the colors and details are reminders that we can all look pretty damn good while riding a bike. More from the collection here and here.

10 for the Weekend: Sepp Magazine

[images via selectism]

Apolis x Kanvas by Katin

And just when I thought chambray couldn't find its way into the water, Apolis teams up with California-based Katin for a unique swim trunk that - unlike so many other overpriced and underconstructed predecessors - balances surf functionality with remarkably understated style and the some fifty years of locally handmade construction. And, as per usual, Apolis drops a video that gracefully shows the product in the purposed environment (and not a bad one at that), as well as highlighting the often forgot hands and faces behind the creation. June gloom may be in full effect around these parts, but Apolis has once again helped make design and process just a little brighter, creating a product that - both aesthetically and consciously - has personality and a truly unique style. Pre-orders available here.

[via Secret Forts]

The Work of Jaimi Gili

[via but does it float]

Best Made Company Pocket Axe

While woodsy Americana gracefully saunters ever forward, we should all naturally be drawn to the following question: You can wear the plaid, but can you wield the axe? Now, while I haven't swung an axe in some time, I will happily admit that the Best Made Company Pocket Axe has me itching to hack away at some innocent timber. And why not? BMC founders Peter-Buchanan Smith and Graeme Cameron started their company based on their simple yearning for a good piece of hickory and steel. (And of course, their theme song is "Chopping Time" by The Billie Hollies.) Now, while a painted axe handle doesn't exactly spark images of muscle and sweat, BMC uses the color - as well as individual branding and a leather wrist strap - to create a blade that will most certainly turn heads both in and out of the cabin. Is it weird if I wish the red colorway is authentic ox blood?

10 for the Weekend

Mahnhattan

911

Billy Kirk 232 Duffle Bag

Thomas Neulinger

Apolis Activism Stripe Pocket T

The Ross Sea Party (Your new favorite band)

Mosley Tribes

Moore & Giles Waxwear Picnic Tote

Hauer

K-Pow Coffee Bar

Girl Meets Machine

No matter what you put off to your friends, there is an unexplainable delight in the sex and seduction of both car and girl on vintage film. To be more precise, there's really nothing more fantastical to the man and his machine than to have a sultry damsel gracefully lying about on the hood and trunk. (And being that I don't currently own a car, I will say the image of a girl on all fours awkwardly tangled in my bike spokes doesn't exactly speak volumes to what some call fantasy.) Say what you please, but whether she's driver, passenger or mere hood ornament, there is nothing like the sensations caused by the other-worldly powers of female and well-designed steel.

fffound

Dark Roasted Blend