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THE NORTH FACE PURPLE LABEL Offers up a Fresh Streetwear Aesthetic for SS18

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Brand: THE NORTH FACE PURPLE LABEL

Season: SS18

Key Pieces: The yellow and black synthetic sports coat and blue denim cap is the ultimate combo to rock this spring.

Editor’s Notes: Japanese label nanamica has unveiled its designs for THE NORTH FACE PURPLE LABEL’s SS18 collection. Fusing vintage style garments with contemporary streetwear pieces, the overall result is a clean and minimal look.

The extensive range includes knitwear, outerwear, headgear, backpacks, and other accessories. The garb arrives in bright colorways with a smattering of darker pieces on hand. For those who enjoy light layering, this capsule provides the perfect opportunity to accent minimal basics with bolder outer layers.

With formal shell jackets and blazers available in addition to sweatpants and anoraks, this collection has something for everyone. For a full look, check out the gallery above, or visit nanamica’s online store.

In other style news, Neige dropped a ’90s-inspired capsule for Spring 2018.


Meet the Japanese Company Behind nanamica and The North Face Purple Label

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Fashion has a long relationship with behind-the-scenes auteurs. In the ’90s, Martin Margiela mysteriously abdicated his maison. In the ’00s, Errolson Hugh founded Acronym GmbH as a design consultancy, working with brands like Burton before starting his own iconic line. And their stories aren’t alone.

Christopher Bevans. Matteo Gottardi. The late, great Walter Plunkett. These “men behind the curtain” have occasionally taken center stage, yet their legacies were built on the foundations they laid for names other than their own.

In Japan, a knitting factory born from the ashes of World War II spins a similar yarn.

From small-town sock-maker to home of one of streetwear’s most exclusive brands, Goldwin’s 70-year history is both defined and enabled by the credit it often does not take.  The North Face Purple Label. Woolrich Outdoor. Until just two years ago, Champion Japan. While their trademarks may vary, all have ties to Goldwin.

However, just like in music, even the most legendary fashion producers eventually feel the pull of the byline. After a half-century producing apparel for the some of the world’s most enduring brands, Goldwin – the “man behind the curtain” of technical sportswear in Japan – is taking its first steps into the Western fashion scene with their own in-house lifestyle collection.

To understand the rise of Goldwin, one must first understand its birth.

The Japan of 1950 was not the skyscraping, productivity-driven powerhouse it’s known as today. Just five years earlier, Allied bombers had pulverized the island nation, leveling factories and houses alike. Now, occupation troops patrolled the streets of once-proud cities, enforcing both curfews and a deep sense of foreboding. Food and work were scarce; poverty was not.

In the aftermath of the Second World War, it’s not hard to grasp how some could only see despair. Others, however, saw opportunity.

In 1950, Tosaku Nishida opened the Tsuzawa Knit Fabric Manufacturer, a tiny knitting factory in rural Tsuzawa Town (now Oyabe City). After losing two brothers in the war, Nishida – who had experience working in a textile mill – opened Tsuzawa Knit with his brother-in-law as a way to provide for his remaining family. In a factory totaling only 130 m2, business started from scratch.

Tsuzawa Knitting Co., Ltd. – the precursor to the Goldwin company — soon made a name for itself by doing simple things well. The company’s wool hiking socks, for example, became popular thanks to their durability, a quality atypical of most clothing produced in postwar Japan.

In 1952, perhaps heeding the company’s growing reputation for activewear, Tosaku Nishida yanked Tsuzawa’s manufacturing focus towards sports. While it may seem strange to imagine a woolen mill today suddenly producing yoga pants, in the ’50s, everything from ski pants to baseball jerseys were made of wool.

Nishida’s bet paid off: as the late-’50s “Economic Miracle” buoyed both spirits and wallets, newly-uplifted Japanese citizens turned to sports for leisure. The company grew, and in 1958, the Tsuzawa Knitting Co. introduced a new line of performance athletic wear it hoped would help its wearers come out in first: Goldwin.

That’s not to suggest that Goldwin was the only sportswear brand in Japan.

Unlike his competitors at Descente and Mizuno, however, Nishida recognized the fundamental differences between Japanese garments like the kimono, which lie flat, and Western apparel, which has more tapering and dimensionality.

“Compared with the trim silhouette created by European ski wear,” he commented, “Japanese skiers looked like they were wearing garbage bags.” Unless, of course, they were wearing Goldwin. It’s not hard to understand why customers would choose performance and flattery over performance alone.

Five years later, perhaps reflecting the line’s success, Tsuzawa Knitting changed its name to Goldwin Corporation in anticipation of the 1964 Tokyo Summer Olympics. Sixteen Japanese athletes won Gold Medals at the Games. Twelve of them wore Goldwin.

At an event described as a “turning point” for the fortunes of postwar Japan, a domestic sportswear maker had shown that its technical expertise could stand above the world. For the second time, Tosaku Nishida had called his shot. Barely a decade after its gut-instinct pivot to sportswear, Goldwin had won golds.

The North Face Purple Label SS18.

After the ’64 Olympics proved Goldwin’s technical chops to the world, the brand hit its stride. In 1970, Goldwin signed its first license agreement with French skiwear brand Fusalp. 1973 brought a technical tie-up between Goldwin and Onitsuka (the precursor of Asics) that would go on to produce the Japanese Olympic team’s 1976 uniforms. Two years later, Goldwin became the exclusive Japanese licensee of Champion (yes, that Champion), then the #1 sportswear brand in America.

“People might not be familiar with the Goldwin name, but they’d more than likely be aware of brands they’re involved with,” said Tom Piercy, owner of U.K. boutique Alpha Shadows. “They have massive reach and influence on the menswear scene in Japan with the brands they back or hold the license for.”

Over just half a decade, Goldwin had assembled a portfolio of international brands, brands that trusted the product obsessives at Goldwin to speak their design language with a Japanese accent.

The biggest prize was still to come.

In the midst of the era-defining “Heavy Duty” trend, Goldwin scored the exclusive Japanese rights to distribute (then eventually produce) The North Face in 1978. The North Face – including its legendary Japan-only “Purple Label,” a collaboration with nanamica – would grow to become one of the largest sportswear brands in Japan, and a case study for Goldwin’s technical manufacturing expertise. According to Euromonitor, Goldwin – valued at $150m in 2017 — currently holds 2.5% of the $13bn Japanese sportswear market. Ninety percent of that share comes from The North Face, including Purple Label.

To clarify: when a The North Face product is produced by Goldwin, it’s not someone in California telling Japan what to make. Every part of the design, planning, and pattern-making is handled by the Goldwin company, who draw inspiration from The North Face’s catalog of original technical garments. The trademark of the licensor (in this case, TNF) is simply extended to the licensee for a one-time fee.

The benefit to a product-focused company like Goldwin, then, becomes obvious. The North Face deal didn’t just grow Goldwin’s fortunes; it also gave the company a reliable cash flow it could use to stay focused on the R&D work that allowed its advanced garments to remain that way. “In today’s fashion world, ‘Made in Japan’ can be translated to mean dedication, premium quality, and smart design,” said Ke Wang, Head Buyer of Canadian boutique ANNMS Shop. “I think Goldwin gets some credit for that.”

Let someone in California worry about the copyrights. In Oyabe City, the focus could remain on craftsmanship.

nanamica SS18.

Its footing secure, the Goldwin company continued its licensing and expansion efforts. In 1983, the company picked up the Japanese rights to Helly Hansen. In 1987, Goldwin’s own brand became the official skiwear of the Swedish National Team. The North Face’s license was expanded to include South Korea. In the year 2000, the Goldwin company celebrated its 50th anniversary.

The new millennium brought more of the same: the establishment of apparel brand nanamica under the guidance of Goldwin alum Eiichiro Homma (2003); the launch of the “Near-Future Living-Space Unit” in conjunction with the Japan Aerospace Exploration agency (2004); the beginning of “GREENCYCLE,” an extensive clothing recycling program (2009). By the end of the 2000’s, Goldwin’s high-tech garments had even served on the International Space Station.

“I was a huge fan of the brand, and had the opportunity to meet Eiichiro Homma and collaborate with the Goldwin team,” explains Andrea Canè, Creative Director of Woolrich, with whom Goldwin will soon launch Woolrich Outdoors. “I think they are one of the best outdoor apparel groups on a global level. For years, my desire was to work on a new and modern take on the Woolrich label. The ideal candidate to achieve it, in my mind, was always Goldwin.”

However, while Goldwin apparel had entered low-Earth orbit, one of the world’s biggest sportswear markets remained seemingly out of reach.

For a company whose business was built on American heritage brands, until just a few years ago, Goldwin had almost no concrete footprint in the United States. And frankly, why would they need it? Asia and Europe were plum markets. Plus, The North Face trademarks – again, the lion’s share of Goldwin’s Japanese business — wouldn’t extend to America. To the casual observer, Goldwin could remain content right at home.

However, through more trained eyes, Goldwin once again faced a major directional decision.

The Japanese sportswear market is dominated by rivals both foreign (Nike, adidas) and domestic (Mizuno, Asics) who produce desirable sneakers alongside apparel. Whether brand awareness or simply just a perk of increased scale, in 2014, seven of the top nine Japanese sportswear makers also sold internationally-famous sports shoes. The two that didn’t – Descente and Goldwin – lost market share for the next three years in a row.

In addition, the Japanese population as a whole is aging – even worse, it’s shrinking. For a garment-maker that sells premium products designed around adventure sports, what was once a plum market starts to appear like a squeeze. Goldwin’s decision was simple: take a risk by expanding to the world’s largest sportswear market, or wither on the vine.

A pure skiwear play wouldn’t do; then again, neither would rebrands of Champion Japan. Gen Arai, then working exclusively on The North Face Japan, was brought in to serve as General Manager of the Goldwin brand. Arai then brought on MARKAWARE designer Shunsuke Ishikawa to design the brand’s new direction.

Two years later, after four decades of sharpening its expertise building up others, Goldwin unveiled “Lifestyle,” the company’s first-ever own-brand fashion collection, and began selling to US retailers like New York’s legendary Steven Alan. The man behind the curtain had finally taken center stage.

The Goldwin “Lifestyle” collection, now two years old, isn’t the sort of headline-grabbing maximalism one typically associates with bright upstarts.

Perhaps that’s because it isn’t really an upstart.

Goldwin Lifestyle joins a long tradition of product-obsessed Japanese brands, a tradition that Goldwin itself helped to burnish. What’s more, like nanamica and TNF Purple, part of that obsession translates to the seamless integration of fit and function. “Goldwin’s house Lifestyle collection plays an important role in our product mix,” says Alfie Boyle of Blue in Green SoHo, a famous Japan-centric boutique. “It provides a clever mix of technical fabrics, ergonomic design, and utilitarian detailing with a clean aesthetic.”

Take Goldwin’s most recent collection for SS18. Jackets contain all the technical bells and whistles (GORE-TEX, Pertex, coated zippers, etc.), but are cut slim while still allowing for movement. Shirts are tailored and collared, but made of blended performance fabrics that look like cotton without any of its downsides. Ishikawa claims inspiration from Mies van der Rohe and Charlotte Perriand, modernist architects known for their philosophies that thoughtful design could improve quality of life.

Iconic silhouettes like the MA-1 are reimagined as sleek, ski-inspired shells; age-old references like vintage chore coats gain new life as Pertex-backed “hunting parkas.”

Ishikawa again: “When redesigning a product with the original design already existing, the most important thing is not to destroy its existing design and to add what the brand can offer.” It’s here that the translational expertise honed at Goldwin through licensed work really shines.

Most remarkably, accessibility details like magnetic closures and ceramic-infused hybrid down ease the sort of microscopic daily pain points that all but the most careful hand would miss. The results are understated technical excellence, ripped straight from the pages of a William Gibson novel. Fifty years after the first Goldwin-branded sweaters rolled off the line, the sycophantic perfectionism that first built its name is as strong as ever.

While tempting, it’s too convenient to abstract Goldwin’s historical synthesis of product, foresight, and quiet determinism as a prophecy for Lifestyle’s success. After all, this is the modern day: in a fashion space driven by Instagram views and oversized logos, a brand with little marketing expertise banking on understated quality appears to be swimming upstream.

“Products like ours are usually not affected by the changing trends every year, unlike the street fashion brands where marketing also requires a sense of speed,” says Gen Arai, General Manager of Goldwin. “Although it may take time, it is important for us that the concept and philosophy of the brand are well recognized. This is our challenge.”

After all, a screenprinter-turned-DJ was just given the reins of one of Europe’s most distinguished luxury houses. In this context, it’s hard to believe a quiet innovator could compete.

However, from the perspective of a nearly 70-year old company (and one still doing groundbreaking R&D, to boot), perhaps there’s simply just another shift around the corner. History does tend to repeat itself. Case in point: Tokyo will again host the Olympics in 2020.

Will Goldwin’s contemporary direction and knockout collections be enough to secure a podium position in its new home overseas? Whatever the future holds, Goldwin – the “man behind the curtain” of Japanese sportswear – is, through its “Lifestyle” collection, making some of the sleekest, highest-quality apparel in the world today.

For now, at least from a design perspective, its star is shining. From humble roots in postwar Japan, Goldwin is finally stepping into the spotlight.

How to Look Fly on Two Wheels, Whatever Your Budget

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Whether you favor two wheels over four, or you’re just going the extra mile to keep your white kicks out of harm’s way, we’ve got the situation handled. Veering down the cycle lane has never looked so good, so we’ve curated all the best gear you can buy to give your ride some flex appeal.

From the best on the market to affordable alternatives, plus our personal favorites, we’ve got you covered from the frame right down to your bell. You’ll find a mix of the best cycling brands, such as British heritage specialists BROOKS England and Japanese minimalist bike manufacturer tokyobike, as well as some dope bicycle-specific Supreme drops on the resell market.

Check out our full selection below and lock them down by clicking on the links.

This bike from CLSC and Solé features the first ever fully-reflective frame. Illuminating when light is shined on it, as well as looking fire, it’s a safer to ride at night, too.

The graphite frame on this beach cruiser from Critical Cycles has got us in a spin. You don’t need us to tell you it’s rare to see bikes that look this fly at these kinds of price points.

We’re a little bit obsessed with tokyobike’s clean designs. Teaming up with New Balance for a C-series footwear line, the matte-finished bike that came from the collaboration screams premium.

With classic roll-top closure, this bag from Japanese label Namica takes the iconic cycling pack to the next level with a hyper-durable CORDURA® woven body, finished with leather detailing.

Everyone cycles in Denmark, where RAINS originate, so no wonder it’s home to some of the best gear out there. This wallet-friendly matte-black option is weather-proof and super practical for work, with its dedicated laptop pocket.

Brooks England is pretty much bossing the cycling game. Starting out with vintage-style leather saddles and handlebars, their range of backpacks have gained style kudos on and off the bike. This perforated leather number has our jaws dropped.

This bright orange head guard from Swedish label POC was made with the collaborative expertise of the Cannondale Pro Cycling team and the WATTS Lab, for optimized speed and safety.

Simple yet smart, this Giro piece is classic in appearance without compromising on comfort. It’s lightweight, super durable and easily adjusted, so everything you need in a helmet, really.

Italy-designed, this BROOKS helmet is chic AF. The clever, accordion-like design not only means its foldable — reducing in size by 20 percent — but super breathable as well.

Go from casual rider to member of the elite peloton with these polarized Prizm™-lensed shades, which maximize contrast while also enhancing visibility on the road.

Snapbacks have nothing on this chic baby-pink cap, which has a polka-dot pattern on the upper brim and signature stripes underneath, plus chic Café du Cycliste branding on the right side.

Using COOLMAX® fiber engineered for moisture management while on the pedals, these white socks by cycling brand Pas Normal Studios look as good in action as they do with your favorite pair of Vans.

Your cycling trip just got lit, literally. This front light is rechargeable via USB and beams bright enough to be seen from up to a mile away.

If you don’t want to fork out for a new saddle, covering your existing one is the next best thing. Spoke’s seat covers come in a number of different styles, but we like this geometric ‘Nove’ pattern best.

Granted, these side mirrors are probably more necessary for the cyclists whose heads you’ll be turning with your new cycling gear, but they’ll also make your ride look pretty fly.

Once you have a bike to be proud of, protecting your wheels from theft is priority number one. The Kryptonite New-U Evolution Series 4 uses a hardened steel shackle with a drill-proof cylinder.

We only usually feature zip ties on this site when they’re attached to an OFF-WHITE sneaker, but this reusable one is an easily transported alternative to admittedly more secure U-locks.

What do you get when the OG of bicycle security meets the king of streetwear? This Supreme x Kryptonite U-lock, we guess. In signature Supreme red coloring, it’ll be the envy of everyone at the bike racks.

Regular visitors of Highsnobiety will be familiar with some of Supreme’s wackier releases (see their pinball machine and money gun, for a quick intro). This one is a flex yet practical way to stay pumped.

This dope bell is made from premium materials, is corrosion resistant, and has a high-pitched ring that cuts through the noise of passing cars, so you’ll be king of the road.

Celtic Blu’s Bluetooth speaker makes it easy to blast out your favorite new releases without plugging into your headphones. Get it in time for the new Kid Kudi album.

Our designated shopping section features products that we love and want to share with you. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

TNF’s FW18 Purple Label Lookbook Is a Masterclass in Styling Tonal Outerwear

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Brand: The North Face Purple Label

Season: Fall/Winter 2018

Key Pieces: Jackets are a strong hook in this Fall/Winter Collection — our most coveted items include the Indigo Mountain Wind Parka, forest green Corduroy Field Jacket, and the royal blue Ripstop Sierra Parka.

Release Date: TBC

Buy: THE NORTH FACE STANDARD, and other Japanese retailers yet to be specified.

Editor’s Notes: The Fall/Winter 2018 drop from The North Face Purple Label has arrived, and it’s full of muted, tonal shades that lend a calming vibe to this above all minimal collection.

The capsule features a range of outerwear staples that lean towards both formal and sportswear aesthetics, like the tan-colored trench coat, quilted blue jacket, and green corduroy jacket. The drop also includes a number of cozy winter jumpers, oversized shirts, and wide-legged pants – all of which help elevate The North Face’s otherwise standardized approach to levels of peak Japanese style. Accessories arrive in the shape of branded belts, beanies, and a circular neck scarf.

Check out a few shots from the expansive lookbook above, or browse it in full over at nanamica.com.

What would you cop from The North Face Purple Label’s FW18 offering? Let us know in the comment section following.

Next, get ahead of the game with the best FW18 pieces to buy now.

nanamica FW18 Jackets Look to the Sea for Inspiration

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Japanese label nanamica is launching its new FW18 collection, “Blowin’ in the North Wind,” bringing sea-specific garments to land.

Among the highlights in this seasonal assortment are the cruiser jacket, classic marine jacket, and the club jacket, with a number of the collection’s outerwear styles making use of Alpha Dry technology, a breathable fabric that utilizes body heat to evaporate moisture and maintain a comfortable temperature.

Get a feel for nanamica’s FW18 drop via the imagery above and then shop the collection below.

For more, meet the Japanese company behind nanamica and The North Face’s Purple Label.

Our designated shopping section features products that we love and want to share with you. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

11 of the Best GORE-TEX Jackets to Keep You Dry this Season

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As the colder months approach, weatherproofing our wardrobes is front of mind. And while a number of materials can boast keeping wet weather and winter chills at bay in their features, few do it quite as well as GORE-TEX.

Introduced in the late ’60s by W. L. Gore, GORE-TEX is the most waterproof material you can find. Most impressive about the Teflon material is its ability to let vapor and sweat escape while keeping the outside completely waterproof, allowing for optimum temperature control.

It’s a technology that was fast adopted by mountaineering brands to start with, used on outdoor gear such as hiking jackets and winter boots, but while GORE-TEX has traditionally been associated with high-performance gear — which isn’t always the most fashion-forward — the material has more recently infiltrated more stylish designs. Most notably, streetwear giants such as OFF-WHITE are heavily fucking with GORE-TEX for FW18.

This shouldn’t be all that surprising, especially considering that a waterproof material like GORE-TEX on a pair of dope sneakers means less toothbrush cleaning and air drying for the sneakerheads out there. And with the colder months upon us, it’s an added bonus to the winter jackets that should, by now, definitely be coming up as a priority on your shopping list.

In appreciation of the infallible waterproof material, below we’ve rounded up our favorite GORE-TEX jackets to shop right now. Ranging from sports and high-tech brands such as NikeLab, The North Face and ACRONYM, to the likes of OFF-WHITE and Junya Watanabe, those looking to buy into GORE-TEX aren’t short of options.

Scroll down to view some of the best GORE-TEX jackets below below.

Now, check out how GORE-TEX has infiltrated the sneaker world here.

To stay up to date with more Shopping content from Highsnobiety, follow@Highsnobietyshopping on Instagram and @Highsnobdrops on Twitter.

Our designated shopping section features products that we love and want to share with you. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

GORE-TEX Highlights the nanamica x New Balance R_C1

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Brand: nanamica x New Balance

Model: R_C1

Key Features: Inspired by the classic 1300 series, the R_C1 remixes OG traits with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX technology. The silhouette boasts a new, enduring ENCAP Reveal midsole, and arrives in two colorways — beige and navy.

Release Date: Initial release on October 27, with a wider release following November 10

Price: $180

Buy: The initial release is exclusive to nanamica locations. Select retailers will receive the capsule thereafter.

Editor’s Notes: nanamica and New Balance have teamed up on a capsule comprising two R_C1 sneakers and a range of apparel that merges functionality with creative approaches to utility and sports.

Highlighting the collections headliners — the two NB 1300-inspired R_C1 sneakers — is GORE-TEX functionality, a nanamica signature.

In addition to the footwear featured above, the collection also includes apparel — coats, tees, and sweaters that feature branding from both labels. The Cruiser Jacket is a nanamica staple and the drop’s standout garm — finished in 3-layered, the piece is super lightweight and high-tech.

The coat retails for $780.00, the sweaters for $180 and T-shirts are priced at $80.

Do you like the NC_1 sneaker? Share your thoughts in the comments.

To stay updated on everything happening in the sneaker world, follow @Highsnobietysneakers on Instagram, check our sneaker release date calendar and subscribe to our sneaker chatbot on Facebook to receive lightning quick updates to your inbox.

The North Face Debuts Spike Jonze-Designed Luggage

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The North Face connects with American movie director Spike Jonze for a new collaboration produced by nanamica. The release consists of two travel bags in two colorways, as The North Face Purple Label’s 3Way Bag and Shuttle Roller have been recreated with an original check pattern material made by Italian textile house PARA, under the design direction of Jonze.

The 3Way Bag is known for its versatility, capable of being used as an overnight briefcase, a shoulder bag when the removable shoulder strap is attached, and a backpack when the built-in straps are set. The interior then features a laptop storage sleeve and a mobile phone pocket.

The collaborative Shuttle Roller has a main compartment with full-width opening, while the interior welcomes two trampoline compartments. The center area notes a laptop storage pocket, and the upper pocket features a mobile phone pocket and a mesh pocket with zipper. Lastly, the lower pocket is divided into three sections.

The North Face’s Spike Jonze capsule is available beginning November 10 at select nanamica shops and additional retailers.

In related news, the OFF-WHITE x RIMOWA “PERSONAL BELONGINGS” suitcase is dropping soon.


nanamica & Woolrich’s Latest Collab Puts the C in Cozy

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Brand: nanamica x Woolrich

Season: Winter 2018

Key Pieces: The standout item in the small capsule drop is the ultra cozy Arctic parka, which must be like wearing a big sleeping bag.

Release Date: November 17

Buy: nanamica

Editor’s Notes: The third nanamica x Woolrich collaboration sees the brands link up for a selection of coats and hats that embrace both Woolrich heritage and nanamica’s aesthetic.

Aside from the Arctic parka, the drop includes the Suburban coat — a toasty double-pocket, tailored wool number that arrives in grey and navy — and the GORE-TEX SKIMISTER fleece jacket, which draws inspiration from ’60s ski jackets.

The capsule also features two waterproof tweed caps that come in grey and tan colorways.

Do you like this collaboration? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Now, here’s what’s dropping at Supreme tomorrow. 

nanamica & Dr. Martens Team up on New Derbys

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Brand: nanamica x Dr. Martens

Model: Plymouth MIE Officer

Key Features: Leather upper on the black pair, suede upper on the navy and brown pairs, square plain toe, D-ring hardware, air-cushioned sole, white stitching detail, premium Flurana calf leather lining, co-branded insoles.

Release Date: November 23

Price: $215

Buy: nanamica locations and select stores.

Editor’s Notes: nanamica and Dr. Martens are back together for their second limited edition collaboration, featuring three colorways of the Plymouth MIE Officer shoe made at the Dr. Martens Cobbs Lane factory in Wollaston, England.

Optioned on black, navy, and brown, the footwear is highlighted by Goodyear welt construction and Dr. Martens’ durable air cushioned sole, also noting a slightly square plain toe and D-ring hardware which is often seen on hiking boots. Each pair of the nanamica x Dr. Martens Plymouth MIE Officer comes in premium packaging with co-branded tissue paper and a shoe bag.

You can look forward to the limited edition collab launching at nanamica locations and select stores on November 23.

Now, find out what industry insiders are wearing when they’re not rocking sneakers.

To stay updated on everything happening in the sneaker world, follow @Highsnobietysneakers on Instagram, check our sneaker release date calendar, and subscribe to our sneaker chatbot on Facebook to receive lightning quick updates to your inbox.

Our designated shopping section features products that we love and want to share with you. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

This nanamica x Goodhood Long-Sleeve Is the Perfect Spring Layering Piece

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London retailer Goodhood and Japanese label nanamica have joined forces on an exclusive reimagining of the latter’s signature COOLMAX striped jersey tee.

The limited edition long sleeve is kept strictly minimal and arrives sporting three contrasting stripe colors: black, navy and red. A co-branded label at the hem rounds off the look.

As the name suggests, the top has been crafted using COOLMAX, a go-to fabric of nanamica founder Eiichiro Homma, thanks to its superior comfort and advanced breathability.

The top drops exclusively on February 5 in Goodhood in the UK and nanamica in Japan and will retail for £87 (approx $114).

nanamica SS19 Mismatches Pieces to Ultimate Effect

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nanamica has shared the lookbook for its SS19 collection, named “NANATORA Alternative Dressing” after a Japanese style concept that intentionally mixes and matches pieces. The color palette is taken from the traditional marine tri-color, with various shades of navy dominating much of the collection. Garments in white, khaki, and red complement the looks.

SS19 brings with it a variety of technical coats, including a down coat with a removable down-filled liner, a GORE-TEX hooded coat, a reversible coat in gingham check, and ultra-lightweight three-layer GORE-TEX options, including a soutien collar coat and a finger-length soutien collar coat with removable hood.

The three-button lapel suit in double-layer GORE-TEX can be worn in various conditions, as it’s at once durable, lightweight, and soft to wear. Other options include a double-breasted suit in ultra-lightweight stretch chino cloth for a more casual feel, as well as the brand’s ALPHADRY suit, which comes in a check pattern.

Check out all the looks in the gallery above and head to nanamica’s webstore to buy.

nanamica & Helly Hansen Debut Vibrant Shoulder Bags

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Japan’s nanamica links up with Norwegian sportswear brand Helly Hansen on a standout collaborative shoulder bag for spring.

The functional and stylish accessory is composed from durable, yet lightweight and water-repellent nylon taffeta fabric, while boasting military appeal with a marine twist. Consisting of two sizes, the silhouettes are detailed with front pockets that offer sufficient storage for your daily essentials, while the shoulder straps are made from a reflective tape that is equipped with a metal stopper, allowing adjustability at any length.

Finishing design elements include a double-sided polyurethane float key ring attached to the fastener that will prevent your belongings from dropping, alongside a reflective co-branded logo placed on the front of the pocket.

Rendered in two vibrant colorways of bright royal blue and neon yellow, the limited edition shoulder bags can be purchased at nanamica’s retail stores and online shop now.

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nanamica Goes Big on Oversized Short-Sleeve Shirts & Tees in SS19 Collection

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Brand: nanamica

Season: SS19

Key Pieces: Cop the oversized blue striped shirt for the ultimate dad-style summer flex.

Release Date: Available now

Buy: nanamica

Editor’s Notes: Japanese label nanamica is coming through strong with oversized, short-sleeve shirts in its Summer 2019 collection. Keeping colorways muted and simple, the drop is full of seasonal staples that can either be worn individually or layered over one another for a full boxy look.

Alongside a variety of short-sleeve shirts, the capsule includes oversized tees, shorts, and jackets. There’s also a solid selection of summer-ready accessories, including caps, belts, and tote bags, as well as the previously released shoulder bags created in collaboration with Norwegian outdoor brand Helly Hansen.

Prices vary from ¥5,800 (approximately $53) to ¥32,000 (approximately $290). Browse nanamica’s full Summer 2019 lookbook via the gallery up top.

The North Face Purple Label Balances Beauty & Function for FW19

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Brand: The North Face Purple Label

Season: FW19

Key Pieces: TNF Purple Label’s oversized half-zip wooly fleece is done up in a vibrant mustard yellow as well as a cool lilac colorway. Next to this, the collection is balanced with sheen down layers and a selection of lightweight, military-inspired jackets.

Editor’s Notes: For FW19, Purple Label’s Eiichiro Homma has delivered yet another flawless collection, where archival staples are given a contemporary twist, rendered in a selection of head-turning colorways.

While the silhouettes recall classic lines from beloved TNF collections, an alternative range of colors has helped move the collection away from its usual bevy of muted hues. The Japanese imprint has again made use of loose-fitting fabrics and utilitarian designs, blending the two for a poised take on effortless style. The royal blue puffer is a real standout, and will no doubt prove to be a trend-resistant garment as the season progresses.

There’s also a number of stylish additions to the collection’s accessories line, all available to see in the gallery below. Stay tuned for the drop on nanamica’s web store, as well as all TNF Standard brick and mortar stores.

 


nanamica Delivers Functionality With a Classy Finish for FW19

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Brand: nanamica

Season: FW19

Key Pieces: The collection’s “Tech Corduroy” suit puts a functional take on classy dressing. The special corduroy is 100% polyester and supremely weather-adaptable. The tailoring evokes old-school sophistication.

Release Date: TBC

Buy: nanamica

Editor’s Notes: This season, nanamica explores the theme of “Roots.” The Japanese label is known for its superior outerwear, comfort and pristine style. Fall/Winter ’19 continues this dedication to developing functional products. It brings a variety of technical outerwear. One hooded coat features a double layer polyester GORE-TEX® fabric.

The collection offers unique items that are beyond trends, and remain effortlessly timeless. Boasting an array of versatile suits and blazer jackets that can be worn for business as well as casual daily wear. The colors are mainly different shades of navy, browns and orange. Once again nanamica achieves its objective of elevating everyday looks.

nanamica Adds a Zigzag Sole to New Dr. Martens Collaboration

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Brand: nanamica x Dr. Martens

Model: Camberwell

Key Features: Arriving in two colorways, the shoe’s upper is constructed of durable grain leather with white stitching on the soles and white shoe laces. A zigzag sole replaces the regular Dr. Martens sole.

Release Date: July 27

Price: $280

Buy: Select retailers (see full list below)

Editor’s Notes: nanamica’s third collaboration with Dr. Martens sees the brand continue to stamp its marine-inspired style on a range of footwear from the ever-popular heritage UK brand. The white stitching and laces contrast the black and brown leather uppers and play into the marine theme, while the zigzag sole adds an unexpected twist to the classic silhouette.

The collaboration will be available at the below retailers on July 27. Check out the sneakers in detail above.

SSENSE
Bodega
Gravity Pope
Haven
Today Clothing
Hatchet Supply NYC

To stay updated on everything happening in the sneaker world, follow @Highsnobietysneakers on Instagram, check our sneaker release date calendar and subscribe to our sneaker chatbot on Facebook to receive lightning quick updates to your inbox.

Our designated shopping section features products that we love and want to share with you. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

Here’s What to Cop From New York’s Best Stores This Month

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We’re very much here for luxury fashion’s ever-growing availability on the web, but sometimes it takes a physical shopping spree to know exactly what you’re looking for. While we do our best to bring you the best grails e-commerce has to offer via Highsnobiety Selects, here we’ve browsed some of our favorite stores in the world’s shopping capital, New York City, to find those pieces that really pop when seen up close and in person.

Highsnobiety’s Noah Thomas is no stranger to traversing the New York subway with half a dozen shopping bags in tow. So we’ve tasked him with narrowing down the very best of what’s caught his eye during regular trips around Brooklyn, SoHo, the Lower East Side, and beyond.

Without further ado, check out Noah’s best finds from around New York City with some words from the man himself.

“Undercover has come with a fall/winter staple with this purple turtleneck. It is a nice balance between refined dressing and staying true to streetwears roots, which is what Jun Takahashi does so well. This would be great with a suit, or solid with some track pants or Dickies.”

“Adidas track pants will forever be in style. They work with pretty much everything. Y-3 has taken the design of the classic pants a step further by taking the classic stripes off the outside and put them inside, and adding a zipper to create flare. This switch gives the inseam more design care than usual which is refreshing.”

“Brain Dead and A.P.C. collaborating is exciting because when you think of each brand, a different archetype comes to mind for each one, which usually leads to a strong collab. The trainers from this collection are a stand out. They work well for the summer move into fall. They can complement a jean and light sweater beautifully. I would recommend wearing solid earth tones and minimal logos, giving your feet the room to stand out.”

“Virgil continues to luxuriate casual items by using quality fabrics and an atelier which continues to find new ways to add depth to items like tees. This industrial deconstructed tee has such a strong presence due to the asymmetrical sleeves and bold writing throughout, I suggest dressing around the tee. Another way to wear such a loud tee is to wear it under a pullover that you will take on and off to give the tee moments to shine and moments to play the background. The yellow popping from the top and bottom could act as nice accents.”

“District Vision is brand focusing on high level running eyewear handmade in Japan. They focus on making sure runners have the best possible vision protection and remain calm while running. Besides the fact that are great for active use, they are so well designed they have managed to become fashion glasses as well. They serve two purposes which always makes purchases have more practicality wrapped around it.”

“Hoodie season is here FINALLY here. Kinfolk and Umbro have teamed up to create a few football/soccer inspired pieces, and we all need a few hoodies we can rotate while the weather gets colder. I would suggest wearing this one with smart trousers to make there contrast between the top and bottom of your outfit.”

“Here is another loud tee, this time made by the New York based boutique Blue & Cream. This tie-dye Whitney Houston tee has that worn in vintage feel, making it like a second skin, and an easy throw on that never really gets old.”

“Reese is known for his work wear inspired clothes with a dash of fashion elements to top them off. These work pants are lightly garment dyed with a lot of visible stitches making them daytime casual staples working for multiple wears a week. Bootcut bottoms are also making a nice come back so these will also make you ahead of the curb.”

“How often is your belt the most exciting piece of clothing on? Probably never for most, which is why Martine Rose’s faux fur belt is a must cop. Highlighted accessories do wonders for fits, and help you develop a very strong attention to detail style wise, but also in other aspects of life.”

“Alternative headwear is becoming a thing more and more in mens fashion, especially since Rocky has named himself the babushka boy. This balaclava warmer can quickly become one of the most useful accessories in your closet this winter. It’s compact and can guarantee that you will always be street style ready.”

Our designated Selects section features products that we love and want to share with you. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

The 15 Best Products to Drop This Week & Where to Buy Them

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NEIGHBORHOOD Japan Green Military Jacket

After another seven days, we return with the highlights from Highsnobiety’s shopping channel, carefully put together by this week’s guest curator, Anders Schans. Regarded as a well of surprising and sometime off-kilter product knowledge, Anders’ curation of product is unapologetically personal, offering you a glimpse into what could well be his own wardrobe. Covering a range of notable brands from our space, Anders breaks down pieces from the likes of Cav Empt, Kiko Kostadinov x ASICS, NEIGHBORHOOD., Vainl Archive, and much more below.

“Well, this is a first. As a project manager, I usually let the product curators work their selection magic. However, this week, that same team has given me the honor of presenting my own 15 drops selection. Having previously had the chance to geek out on individual pieces, I had to embrace some brevity for this one. For my roundup, I’ve attempted to include contrasts. From utilitarian jackets to basic hoodies, Japanese streetwear legends to American workwear staples. Admittedly, my passion for Japanese brands did shine through, but they’re simply too good to ignore. I hope you’ll find some inspiration in the selection, and use it as an introduction to a new brand, or two.” — Anders Schans

Shinsuke Takizawa is a genius. Period. For 25 years, his brainchild NEIGHBORHOOD. has been mixing motorcycle culture with Japanese streetwear, and it still has yet to lose its momentum. Over the years, tactical garments have grown to become collection staples, and this multi-pocket smock indicates why. Utilitarian, yet sleek. It’s always worth investing in proper outerwear too. Afterall, that’ll be the piece most people will see you wear over the next six months.”

“I’m not a big fan of branded techy sportswear usually, but this collaboration between world-renowned dad sneaker manufacturer New Balance and South Korean label EASTLOGUE is honestly really on point. Limiting myself to one piece was quite the task, but this softshell rigger parka is too good to ignore. If the price point of the aforementioned NEIGHBORHOOD. jacket is not your vibe, you have a great alternative here.”

“I know… how did we go from east Asian streetwear to COS? Quite frankly, I’m not sure, but this particular online exclusive is one of the cleanest leather jackets I have seen in a while. Raglan sleeves and a big chest pocket are all the details this piece needs. Coming at a price point that is slightly higher that your average COS coat, the humble opinion of yours truly is that this piece is still very much worth it.”

“In a time where Grateful Dead aesthetics are everywhere to be found, Gowest’s ‘Grateful Day’ hoodie is a well needed switch up. Coming in four Fall-ready colorways as part of the Japanese label’s “Souvenir Series,” this is a great layering piece for the cold months to come. A grey hoodie is a must-have even though it can be surprisingly hard finding a good one. But, here you go… you’re welcome!”

“It is no secret, that the undersigned has a weakness for allover graphics. Following the likes of Wacko Maria, Gitman Vintage has got your print-cravings covered with this full-on anime number. Topped off with an open collar, this is the perfect piece to slap on top of a crisp white tee.”

“Over the last seven years, Cav Empt has dropped some of the hardest pieces to derive from the Japanese streetwear scene. So far, the brand’s FW19 collection has been no different, and this over-dyed tee is a strong example. Charcoal colorway on fleek, mysterious graphics, and most importantly, impeccable quality. At this time of year, your T-shirt game might not be as visible as in the summer, but don’t underestimate the sensation of a subtle flex.”

“The direction Bulgarian designer Kiko Kostadinov has taken with recent ASICS collaborations might appeal to a more delicate taste than his first few collaborations, so no hard feelings if you’re not about the kicks. The Lounge Pants on the other hand? Damn. For an insulated, quilted pair of pants, they are surprisingly smooth, and the green colorway matches the polyester build perfectly. These are the pants you would wanna live in, whether you spend your winters out in the wild, or in hibernation.”

“Just like finding a basic grey hoodie can be quite a task, finding the perfect pair of blue jeans can be a real hassle. The purists over at renowned French brand A.P.C. are known for producing some of the best ready-to-wear garments, and in this case, have got just what you need. A.P.C. (Atelier de Production et de Création) has been doing this for 32 years now, meaning you can fully invest your trust and funds into the Martin Relaxed Jeans. They’re not too long, not too baggy, not too blue, not too washed. Not too bad, simply put.”

“If A.P.C. is on one side of the scale, Dickies can fittingly be placed on the other. The Texas-based workwear brand is not to be messed with, and coming in at a slightly lower price-point than the A.P.C. denim above, it’s a pretty good alternative. Dickies’ presence in skateboard culture has been underlined for decades, and its chinos will forever be a go-to for the purpose. Introduced as a new shape for AW19, the Ezel Work Trousers draw inspiration from the classic 873 model. Contrasting knee panels serve as a great homage to the initial purpose of the brand.”

“Through collabs with the likes of Ronnie Fieg, ASICS has built up quite some momentum in recent years. After quieter times pre-2010, the Japanese sportswear giant seems to have picked up where it left off. The Gel-Kayano 5 360 is yet another great example of its solid design ethos, and if your checkout fingers weren’t fast enough when Awake NY’s collaboration dropped on the same model earlier this year, fear not. A new, silver-draped colorway of the mid-2000s-styled runner is here for you.”

“I’ve already dropped quite a few staples in this list, so why not continue with the staple of all staples – Converse. Most people have owned a pair of Chuck 70s at some point in their life, and if you’re currently looking for a reason to get a new pair, these triple denims could be exactly what you need. Perfect for any occasion, you can wear these pretty much anywhere. And with Chucks, chances are that even your grandparents will know what you’re about.”

“There should be an award for brands that master the art of creating a good quality, non-branded short beanie. Finding such can be surprisingly difficult, as most brands have the crave to throw some sort of tab label on there. Tokyo-based brand Vainl Archive have understood not to overdo it, and I’m all in favor. The simplicity is what makes this piece perfect.”

“If you don’t wanna invest in the NEIGHBORHOOD. smock, but still miss the purpose of having many pockets, buying this Eastpak collaboration seems like the only reasonable thing to do. As part of an 8-piece bag collection that also includes sling bags and backpacks, the vest bag definitely stands out. The trademarked ‘The Filth And The Fury’ print over the back is a subtle nod to the long history of the brand’s usage of the slogan.”

“How Eiichiro Homma finds time to work on both nanamica and The North Face Purple Label simultaneously is a bit of a wonder. All this work doesn’t seem to affect the products at either side. As part of its latest collection, nanamica offers up its take on the shoulder bag. Durability and functionality might be a main focus, but the aesthetic execution is flawless too. Overall, this is a great alternative to your classic sling or messenger bag, and definitely worth the funds.”

“If the nanamica Shoulder Bag above is not quite your vibe, this lightweight alternative might be. Based in Tokyo, Portvel incorporates wearability and functionality into a contemporary accessory. The X-PAC Tote Bag from its recent collection encapsulates both. Serving the multi-purpose of both tote and shoulder bag, it gives you the chance of upping your bag-game on multiple occasions.”

To stay up to date with more Selects content from Highsnobiety, follow @Highsnobdrops on Twitter.

Our designated Selects section features products that we love and want to share with you. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

The 15 Best Products to Drop This Week & Where to Buy Them

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C.P. Company Red Toffee Wrapper Goggle Jacket

After two plus years of constructing this post every week with the content of others, Highsnobiety’s team of product curators has handed over the controls to yours truly. For the second time now, I’ve been given the opportunity to select 15 of this week’s best products. Judging by the feedback on my last roundup, I pulled in the proverbial reins a little to present a selection of goods that is, what many would deem, “more wearable.”

This week, I wanted to give my selection a small purpose. For some time now, I have been intrigued by people’s use of the s-word… “Sustainability;” that murky, hard-to-define idea, with no single solution. What became increasingly apparent to me, and you too if you have been keeping tabs on it, is that if we are to move towards a more sustainable consumption model, change must be pioneered by both the manufacturer and consumer. To this, I tried to select a range of wares that will only get better with age, and with the proper care, last you a lifetime — apart from the incense sticks maybe. Doing away with fast fashion is one small step in the right direction, and consumers committing to only buying products that really excite them, is yet another.

If you, like me, are still mad that you don’t own a Stone Island Glazed Silk “Toffee Wrapper” Jacket, then this season’s C.P. Company Outline Goggle Jacket in “Scooter Red” might be an adequate compensation. The brand’s new Outline fabric and innovative rip-stop build promise to withstand even the harshest of conditions, with a hydrophobic Primaloft lining keeping the wearer perfectly warm.

When it comes to overshirts, no brand quite measures up to the prowess of Italian powerhouse, Stone Island. The design’s polyamide shell forms a lightweight layering piece, with contrast piping and large angular chest pockets expertly tying the silhouette together.

Ignore the price point for just a moment, and marvel at the beauty of this piece. Conceived in the weird and wonderful world of Marni, the Striped Knitted Sweater is a skillful balance of color, fit, and texture. Despite many of the brand’s pieces falling victim to skepticism on first sight, they always reveal themselves as pioneering designs seasons later.

Now, for those who know me, know that I am an advocate for all things Engineered Garments. And if you’re looking to invest in enduring design, look no further than pieces like its Work Shirt. Cut similar to its mainline BD models, the Work Shirt features a swooping hem and asymmetric patch pockets over the chest.

AFFIX — helmed by Kiko Kostadinov, MACKINTOSH head designer Taro Ray, and creative consultant Stephen Mann — is an amalgamation of the ideas of some of the industry’s foremost thinkers. Hard-wearing T-shirts like this one will serve you well for years as opposed to mere months.

With horizontal stitching and little contrast, I feel most down vests come out of a single machine nowadays. This particular release from nanamica however is a much-needed departure from this ideal, with diagonal lines and contrasting piping.

With winter coming in paradoxically “hot” for millions around the world, thick corduroy is a top choice for all those looking to brave the cold weather in style. These vast-cut pants from Our Legacy are a perfect example of how to combine bold textures with equally bold cuts.

As this week saw our style editors Graeme and Max discussing the ins-and-outs of bootcut jeans, I saw fitting to include these. The Boot Cut Track Pants from Needles are the ultimate meeting of worlds… on one side you have what I imagine to be a cowboy out on the planes, and on the other side, a staple of the ’90s rave scene.

These Penny Loafers are testament to how effortlessly Marni can transform such heavily-iterated designs. A stacked sole adds texture to the shoe’s patent leather upper, with a squared toe contributing an edge of much-needed weirdness. The design’s metallic detailing is also a subtle nod to its grungier beginnings.

Paraboot’s Michael Shoe is arguably one of its most recognizable designs. First introduced in 1945, the silhouette stresses the importance of timelessness, with this season’s daring cow hide-inspired finish proving there isn’t much you can’t do when the foundational design is, quote-unquote, “perfect.”

As you may have guessed, sneakers are not quite my forte, but I’m trying. The latest “Gardening Club” pack from adidas really caught my eye. In particular, the pack’s Novaturbo H6100LT. Made from the most durable of materials, the sneakers are good for almost all seasons.

Having picked one of these up myself during a recent trip to Japan, I can only recommend you investing in one too! The scarf’s raw-edge finish speaks to Kapital’s idea of effortless style. And with such a timeless palette of colors, this particular design will endure many a winter.

If any of you read my first 15 Drops roundup, you will remember me featuring a very daring, Jamiroquai-esque hat from Engineered Garments. This time around however, I have opted for something a little more subdued, albeit daring in its own right. The Jute Bucket Hat by Nicholas Daley is a refreshing take on an otherwise overplayed silhouette.

The devil is in the details. You should never let a belt ruin your pant game, and releases like the English Bridle Belt from Monitaly will keep said devil happy for many seasons to come.

If you’ve had a stressful day, burning one of these at home might be just what you need.

Our designated Selects section features products that we love and want to share with you. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

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