When Jack Spade was moving from selling just bags and accessories to also offering apparel, the company put forward a small selection of clothing (suits) that were sized small, medium and large. I can say with little hesitation that this attempt at quirkiness was one of the most appalling things I have come to witness in my short existence in the world of menswear. Maybe I am being too harsh; utterly appalling and disgusting would be another way to describe it. To be completely honest, I was sad and embarrassed that some idiot would actually come up with this idea. Further, I was disturbed that another, altogether different group of idiots would let it actually happen. Well we all make mistakes, and these mistakes only open the door for redemption. That’s how I see it anyway.
As it happens, redemption has arrived for fall and it is pictured herein. To quote the only acceptable Ben Affleck movie: “The faculty have answered, and answered with vigor.”
Yesterday Jack Spade unveiled its new collection of suiting, which is being made entirely in Haverhill, Massachusetts at Southwick. It is a beautiful thing that the people at Jack Spade have done, and for this I applaud them.
To show off the fine collection of clothing the company tapped the very talented Designer and Art Director Mr. JP Williams, someone who I admire very much. In addition to being a very skilled designer and artist, JP is one of the most particular and voracious collectors of random stuff that I have ever met. JP studied under Paul Rand at Yale and could be one of the coolest guys I have had the privilege of meeting in New York. If you came to our Pop Up Flea a few years ago you may remember him from his awesome stand of great things that he had come to terms with letting leave his life. Acquiring is the easy part, letting go is difficult.
The new Jack Spade clothing collection is hitting the company’s ever expanding cluster of stores for fall 2011, so it is most likely in the shops now. Much respect to the good folks over there for doing things right. Redemption has never looked so good.
like like superlike
Suits in S, M and L.. really?! Good thing they dropped that. I can say that these look quite nice…
Looks like bad Brooks Bros.
Sorry just not great.
i think we’re over looking the most important part, ben affleck was also in chasing amy and subsequently jay and silent bob strike back.
Jack Spade was great when it was ran by Andy spade and his team. they had creativity and was taking risks . ever since the corporate take over by liz claiborne it’s become super safe and boring. another great brand destroyed by corporate greed.
I have liked the coat in the first photo elsewhere online, but am interested in seeing them up close.
@ uno mas: +1.
There’s something odd about a brand that has been disavowed by its founder. I am not saying Southwick doesn’t make quality clothing, or that I wouldn’t wear any of this.
But I can’t really see — from a marketing standpoint, Michael — a compelling reason for “Jack Spade” to exist.
I’m not thrilled about the suits, less thrilled about the very last picture combining two jackets, even less thrilled with their decision to get “George Lucas as an Architect” to be their model.
That being said, I still admire Partners & Spade, just wish they had more involvement with this.
Alex — so much hate in you sir.
Very nice stuff. I like the simplicity of the classic style done in a modern way. Looks like pieces that can be worn for years to come and if they are made in the USA they should hold up for years to come as well.
David Spade was awesome in “Joe Dirt.”
Alex– I think it looks more like “Eric Clapton as an architect.” But I love the cat!
At least they didn’t put clothing 2 sizes too small on him! I kinda like them.
If he wants to ‘let go’ of that Merkin in the last shot let me know.
if this fellow knew what time it was, he would button one button of his jacket and know how to tie his tie properly (note that it is longer in the back, sticking out like a sore thumb) among other things- and those cuffs, c’mon…or perhaps this is the look that jack spade is looking for- someone who has absolutely no clue, follows whatever is the trend and has wads of money to blow
aren’t they designerless just now?
Nice
There is no one cooler than JP Williams. Brilliant, witty, smart and insanely talented.
i rarely comment; but i have to say, i think this looks pretty sharp.
This is beautiful, timeless, style.
Boiler Room?
I have a lot of respect for Andy Spade and his Jack Spade line. I do have to say that this collection is pretty underwhelming at best. I know Andy gravitates to the classics… but with a lot of his Jack Spade line there is a Modernity to the pieces that make them interesting. I have to say that I don’t see his creative twists and eccentricities in this collection…
Based on theses photos alone, very underwhelming in a “cool clothes for grandpa” kinda way…
have to say that these pictures are more like those on a design blog, and have nothing to do with the clothes (probably “imported”, aka made in china, as there is no reference to USA USA like so many of the blog posts befitting this site), and, even so, not particularly interesting
Not grasping the wool sport-coat over the nylon parka.
@Ryan, please re-read the third paragraph.
Great looks.
nice.
Not great, but nice. I’d like to see more.
I love ever single piece.
@emjkmj – Andy Spade has had nothing to do with Jack Spade in years.