45 RPM is probably near the top of my list of favorite brands. It also happens to be number one on the list of completely unobtainable. This stuff isn't necessarily easy to come by, especially in my size (4 or 5 if anyone is paying attention...) The hefty price tags usually cause me to run away and hide like a little school girl. Undoubtedly, the price-points are justified by the materials and overall quality but I find it pretty hard to bite the bullet on a $600-$900 jacket or $500 jeans. All the same, its a brand I love in every way. The overall presentation from season to season is always great. They do the affluent, middle-aged japanese guy look with effortless execution, class and grace.
Long story short, I scour the internet high and low for decent 45 RPM stuff at least 3 or 4 times a week and usually to no avail. Some how, some way I happened to receive two packages in the mail yesterday. The first package came from a great photo-journalist friend of mine, Carl Kiilsgaard. He sent me a wonderful surprise in the form of a beautiful cotton/linen, indigo dyed 5-button jacket. I couldn't be any more pleased and lucky to have such fantastic friends looking out for me. Every detail stands out in its own unique way. The hard-wooden buttons, selvedge lined interior and clever pocket placement make this a definite mainstay in my closet for some time to come.
The second package came in the form of a nice pick-up from Mike of Michael J Krell. It was probably too big for him so I made away like a train-bandit on this one. The top red button is just too perfect and the light, summer-weight denim shirting material is excellent for the season.
I have no clue what season or year either of these two pieces are from. If anyone could shed some light on this, I would be much obliged.
