The recent Anthropologie store opening got That's Not My Age thinking about other fabulous American shops that would be welcomed, with open arms and an over-extended credit card, on our shores. We already have Theory, the grown-up store on Marylebone High Street may not as gorgeous as the one in the Meatpacking District, but it's a start. So how about Vince? The lady Madonna is a fan, and the lovely jersey separates and neat leather jackets have a timeless (ageless?) appeal. Available from net-a-porter and Liberty has a small range , but surely it's time for a whole store full? A pair of fantastic black ski pants, have already made their way onto the Christmas wishlist, can't wait for the shoes and handbags.
If you like the idea of specialist shops - no,no, no, not organic butcher's and bakers - fine knit t-shirts! West Coast designer, James Perse is the jersey supremo. His signature cotton tees, classic shirts and shirtdresses are available from Net-a-Porter but once you've visited the store on Bleeker Street, NY, you'll be convinced that London needs it's own haven of pared-down chic. Westbourne Grove anyone?
Once inside the gorgeous John Derian store on East 2nd Street, it's hard to drag yourself away - OK, not so hard if you're just popping to his other store, two doors down. This emporium of homewares, clothing and ephemera, is home to Derian's world-famous paperweights and decoupage, plus various bits and pieces collected on his travels. Classic books from the likes of Thomas Hardy and Vita Sackville West with beautiful hand-painted covers, stationery, furniture, table linen and sumptuous loungewear. Everything you need for stylish living.
Rag & Bone has just opened on Mercer Street. Marcus Wainwright and David Neville set up their business in 2002, the name is an homage to the rag and bone man of old, 'to pioneering ingenuity and conservation.' This is the place to go for top quality jeans and trousers, That's Not My Age bought a lovely pair of navy cigarette pants a couple of years ago and they're still going strong (Mr TNMA has a pair of jeans). And the founders are British - so come on boys, what are you waiting for?
What That's Not My Age will be wearing when the Americans have landed:
Asymmetric leather jacket, Vince
Ribbed poncho tunic, James Perse
Gaberdine and leather pant, Rag & Bone
And the American flag paperweight by John Derian (top) will help keep those Visa bills in a neat and orderly pile.
Shop photos:
(From the top)
John Derian
Vince
Rag & Bone (from A Continous Lean)