Refueled

Iron & Resin

2012-01-29T16:07:00.003-06:00

Born in a small, Southern California, blue-collar beach town, graced with world class point breaks and seaside racetracks, where ghosts of a once towering oil industry still linger in the shadows. Iron & Resin is the brainchild of several friends who, after decades of collective experience building successful clothing brands, decided to turn back the clock and start anew. The result is a small, hand built collection of goods that draws heavily upon the founder’s own lifestyles and experiences.

Forged in California. In a mass produced, disposable world, Iron & Resin is a product of “one-off” culture. Where men still build, by their own hands, the craft they ride, be it water or land. Their goods are carefully hand crafted and printed one at a time in California.

Above video was shot by Refueled magazine contributing editor-at-large Scott Toepfer.

Refueled No.08 Deluxe Print Edition Available

2012-01-22T11:05:00.004-06:00

This deluxe, coffee table, softcover edition of Refueled Issue No.08 is not your standard newsstand publication. The online style, music & adventure magazine you've dug for years is now printed on premium 100# matte stock for a beautiful aesthetic. Like well-crafted heritage goods, this printed issue is about extra details like perfect binding, not saddle-stitched, and made in the U.S.A.

Order HERE. Look for special limited edition packages available soon.

Video by Gustav Schmiege. Music by Monahans.

Love Fades Vol. 01

2012-01-22T07:07:00.004-06:00

Getting a pair of new raw selvage jeans to the where they’re truly your own takes time. Each pair starts as a blank canvas; you have to do a bit of work to bring out the art that waits inside. With this in mind, Imogene + Willie collaborated with their friend Joshua Black Wilkins to bring you Love Fades, a collection of photographs of their dear friends and family wearing the Imogene + Willie jeans they’ve worked hard to make their own. Photos were taken by Joshua outside the I+W store in four sessions during 2010 and 2011, represent the days, weeks, months, and in a few cases, years, that go into making their jeans a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

Love Fades, Vol. 01 is limited to 250 signed and numbered copies, and is available for preorder only. Preorder ends Wednesday, February 1st at 10AM CST. Purchased books will ship on or before February 9th.

To see more images, visit the Love Fades blog HERE.

Thirteen Random

2012-01-19T09:15:00.005-06:00

ROY // Roy Slaper

2012-01-18T09:24:00.010-06:00

Self taught jean maker Roy Slaper of ROY in Oakland, California is one cool character. He also makes a great pair of jeans.

Below is a excerpt from Chris Brown's interview with Roy for Refueled Issue No.08.

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Denim and jeans, why and how?

I get asked this all the time and I never have an adequate answer. I know it disappoints Man's Search for Meaning, but I really don't know why I started making jeans. It just occurred to me one day that I could. It was either this or bending neon.

"How" is much more interesting and relatable. I had a rudimentary understanding of the sewing machine and I had seen industrial ones before. My parents used to call me the wheeler-dealer when I was little because I constantly had some deal going on with someone to trade, buy or sell a bike, skateboard, go kart or motorcycle. As I was coming in the door with a different bike, my mom just loved to say "that's it, buy high, sell low..." The point is, that I like to buy and sell stuff and that's exactly what I started doing with the machines and a bunch of other crap that I had laying around.

At the same time I had to learn to sew, which is pretty easy. But the construction of jeans can be confusing. I was able to work it out pretty well and eventually got to where I felt pretty optimistic. Understand though, that this was no business venture. It was more like building a time machine or a boat in my basement. It wasn't until I started showing people that some folks wanted to actually pay for them. It was really a pressure-filled experience for me, what with not

knowing what the hell I was doing.

Had you had a love of denim or clothes before starting Roy Denim?

Clothes, yes, very much. I was a thrift store shopper. I didn't know much about vintage or anything, I was just looking for what I liked. As far as denim, no, I had little to no awareness of denim. I had some jeans, but I liked wearing work slacks better. Sears made some good ones called "Roebucks" that I wore for years. I would see other dudes on the street wearing them and we would rap about how much better they are than Dickies except for that rip that split in the seam when you sag 'em too much. Clothes are awesome though, I love clothes. Now I like jeans, mostly because its something I envision and make exactly how I want. I make a lot of my own clothing now and since I have attained an understanding of textiles, I get more excited about the

various fabrics.

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Read Roy's complete online interview HERE. For the printed, deluxe coffee table edition, purchase HERE.

Photography by Scott G Toepfer

EXTRA // Koji Kusajabe

2012-01-17T08:22:00.009-06:00

Vintage goods/workwear store Extra in New York City is curated by proprietor Koji Kusakabe. A much respected vinatge hunter, Koji stocks Extra with collectibles and incrediable garments from Post Overalls.

Below is a excerpt from Chris Brown’s interview with Kusakabe for Refueled Issue No.08.

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Please talk about what vintage EXTRA carries.

We carry some vintage flight, motorcycle and denim jackets. In addition, we carry folk art, interesting found objects, light fixtures, small furniture, sunglasses, space guns and toys, vintage skateboards (roller surfing), Whole Earth catalogs, photography books, vintage workwear signs, blankets, quilts, blackboard map, paintings, totem poles, money clips, indian jewelry, vintage photos and vintage shoes and boots.

When did your interest in denim begin?

In the mid-'70's, I was interested in American brand jeans such as LEVI'S and Lee. After I came to the US, I became interested in vintage LEVI'S 501XX, Lee 101-J and old painter pants, etc. I discovered the color of indigo and realized the old ones had the best color.

You carry Post Overalls in the store. You're friends with Takeshi Ohfuchi, right?

Yes, I met Takeshi at a flea market in NYC around 1986 before he started Post O'Alls and we became friends. He gave me a 30's US Army denim shirt and introduced me to the world of workwear. One time we went looking for vintage dead stock together. We nearly spent one month in the car together searching for stuff.

What other brands are available, and how/why did you chose them?

I carry only Post O'Alls right now. I respect Takeshi's knowledge of vintage and his philosophy for making clothing. I've been wearing Post since 1993 since the company started. I don't wear replica brands or distressed made-to-look-old clothes. Even if Takeshi wasn't my friend, I would wear his clothes.

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Read Koji’s complete online interview HERE. For the printed, deluxe coffee table edition, purchase HERE.

Photography by Gustav Schmiege.

Outtakes // Hattie Watson

2012-01-15T18:54:00.004-06:00

Refueled's shoot with the incredibly shy, funny & beautiful Hattie Watson had been in the works for at least a year - a matter of waiting for our schedules to meet up. Hattie is a traveler, a foodie and amazingly comfortable in front of the lens of a camera - and it shows. Above are a few outtakes that didn't make it in to the new 11/12 Winter issue of Refueled magazine.

View Hattie's complete "Explore America" online feature HERE. For the printed, deluxe coffee table edition, purchase HERE.

Photography by Gustav Schmiege.

Comune A/W 12 Collection

2012-01-15T11:46:00.006-06:00

For Comune's A/W 12 collection they found inspiration in simplicity and efficiency. Comune wanted the details to be subtle and smart. This winter’s color story was deeply inspired by the natural palate found in the forests, mountains, and deserts of their home state of California. Each color fits well and complements the next adding a harmonizing level of balance found throughout the collection.

Heavy brushed flannels with red contrast bar tacks, clean striped henleys and hunting influenced fleece will provide warmth in any climate. Shawl neck zip sweaters as well as hand knitted cardigans can be layered together to create outfits perfect for hiking in the San Bernardino Mountains or worn to a fine art exhibit in downtown LA. For outerwear there is a mix of utility, trench and quilted jackets. Focusing in on their coated wool pea coat and heavy canvas parka coat with fully removable lining.

Comune's bottoms have always been one of our strongest categories and they have added a full range of denim including washed and raw, bedford and regular corduroy, pique canvas and striped wool slacks.

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Check out Comune Art Director Corey Smith's feature on the Salton Sea in issue no.08 of Refueled magazine.

See the full issue of Refueled Issue No.08 online HERE or buy the deluxe, coffee table edition HERE.

Refueled Road Test No.04 {SFI Flap Wallet}

2012-01-14T19:25:00.003-06:00

Friend Manabu Okada of Southern Field Industries, in Saitama, Japan, knew I had been on the hunt for the ideal wallet, so he sent over one of his new hand-crafted products, the Flap Wallet, for a Refueled Road Test.

I don't like to carry a lot in my pockets, so the simple cardholder quality of the Flap Wallet, which measures 2.85" X 4.75", was just what I was looking for. It fit perfectly and felt great in the front or back pocket of my dungarees.

Like all of Southern Field Industries' leather and canvas products, the Flap Wallet is made using only the finest materials and components. Constructed of vegetable tanned cow leather and hand-sewn with artificial sinew thread, the Flap Wallet features a black painted edge finish and a hand-stamped "SFI" logo on the bottom of the back panel.

Manabu also produces an alternative version utilizing a Japanese brass stud closure. Both are available in Natural, Black and Tan.

Levi's Vintage Clothing S/S 2012 Lookbook

2012-01-14T09:30:00.004-06:00

I recently received a copy of the limited edition 2012 Spring/Summer Levi's Vintage Clothing look book. Above are a few of my fav pixs.

Available at Unionmade's San Francisco store & online, while they last.

Refueled Now Available in Print

2012-01-12T14:28:00.013-06:00

PREVIEW & BUY REFUELED HERE!

Deluxe Coffee Table Edition. Softcover, Premium heavy matte stock.

The online style, music & adventure magazine Refueled you've dug for years online is now available for the first time in PRINT. Refueled "Explore America" Issue No.08 is available for purchase at Blurb. There is nothing like holding and smelling a magazine in your hands, and like well-crafted American heritage goods, this is not your standard news stand publication. Made in the U.S.A.

Purchase a copy, spend some time with it and let us know what you think.

Refueled Issue No.08 // Explore America

2012-01-08T21:06:00.006-06:00

Winter 11/12 // Issue No.08

Refueled publisher/creative director Chris Brown says "In the last six months, myself and senior photographer Gustav Schmiege have traveled coast to coast exploring America. We met a lot of great folks who inspired us, who told us their stories, and who shared their souls and their passions.
Each issue of Refueled is a personal journal of sorts. The people and things that I dig.

I invited the people in this issue to open up and share their life journals. From California to New York, and everywhere in between, folks doing their thing and living their America."

Issue features Hattie Watson, Roy Slaper, Koji Kusakabe, Jarrod Renaud, Natasha Terry, Scott G Toepfer, Laura Dart, Corey Smith and K/LLER Collection.

Outside It's America

2011-12-28T10:41:00.009-06:00

FUCT // 20 Years of Erik Brunetti

2011-12-22T10:42:00.002-06:00

Concisely recapping 20 years of Erik Brunetti’s involvement with FUCT is difficult; the artist and graffiti writer founded the label in 1990 and has since attracted many people with re-interpreted cultural themes and iconography and above all else a strong opinion.

Filmmaker David Gallardo met with Brunetti on several occasions in around the unveiling of his retrospective show at Los Angeles’ Union. In doing so, Brunetti speaks about adhering to the principles that caused him to start the brand, staying relevant, and why is he is not overly eager to please consumers with his designs, but rather aims to educate them. The LA-based label maintains an intelligent and fresh perspective today thanks to Brunetti’s vision.

Indigo

2011-12-16T12:36:00.010-06:00

Refueled bud Jay Carroll, traveler & brand concept for Levi’s, doing the ancient pot in the ground, indigo style in Pondicherry, a Union Territory of India.

Jay was the cover feature in the 2010 Spring/Summer issue of Refueled magazine.

I'll Have a Blue Christmas

2011-12-14T20:47:00.006-06:00

Some blue classics getting me through this holiday/winter season.

1. Vintage 70's Big Mac Blanket Lined Split Back Denim Chore Jacket. Union Made. eBay purchase
2. 5 oz. Selvedge Chambray Scarf, Indigo. Hickorees Hard Goods
3. Engineered Garments Chambray Miner Shirt. Arrow & Arrow
4. Barton Rigid Premium Selvage Denim Jeans. Imogene+Willie
5. Doane Utility Notebook. Natural indigo dyed Trade Company Bandana. Unionmade Goods
6. Saint James navy ribbed sailor hat. Park&Bond
7. Stanley & Sons 23 oz. Selvedge Denim Tote. Hickorees Hard Goods

Stanley & Sons X The Hill-Side Tote

2011-12-13T08:24:00.003-06:00

Refueled bud Chris Grodzki of Stanley & Sons has got together with the fine folks at The Hill-Side to produce one rad blanket tote.

The interior is 100% cotton canvas, held together with kick-pressed rivets and leather washers. A large, dyed leather pocket on the front, with matching 12 oz. leather handles.

A Hickorees exclusive. Grab one FAST.

Arrow & Arrow

2011-12-11T10:23:00.004-06:00

Arrow & Arrow (formerly Bows+Arrows) is the redesigned/rebranded site from rad Refueled gal pal Lauren Wilkins.

For Arrow & Arrow's new lookbook, Lauren got some good folks together and threw a party. Everyone wore something they’d bought from Bows+Arrows this fall or she let them pick items of their choice. This is how they do it down here in Austin, Texas.

Photography by Jackie Lee Young.

Random Coolness no. 24

2011-12-05T21:12:00.007-06:00

Refueled Road Test No.03 {Will La Manta Messenger}

2011-12-05T10:38:00.004-06:00

Recently, Will Leather Goods sent over one of their La Manta Messenger bags for Refueled to road test. I couldn't have been more stoked, as I was leaving on a camping trip and knew it would be the perfect bag to carry my daily necessaries.

Will Leather Goods products adapt to any lifestyle, from the streets of Manhattan to the sands of Venice Beach where the brand was founded. The brand caters to men and women’s everyday needs with an authentic and handcrafted feel. Will Leather Goods manufacturers belts, bags, wallets and other small accessories that are classic, stylish, and most importantly, functional.

The La Manta Messenger is made from found vintage Mexican blankets and US military surplus canvas. Found vintage western belt straps finish off each messenger. The design and details are really cool. The size, 19.5" x 16" x 4.5", is perfect for train hopping, city trekking or in my case, hiking through the woods.

Photography by Gustav Schmiege

Refueled 2011 Holiday Gift Guide

2011-12-04T09:00:00.024-06:00

Great original, vintage and heritage brand products from friends for the Refueled male this holiday season.

Imogene+Willie William Wool Vest

William recalls a traditional hunting vest, but for the more refined. Made from charcoal gray boiled wool, this vest is cut lean, giving it a dressier look. William features four roomy asymmetrical patch pockets, which are perfect for your phone or a small notebook. imogeneandwillie.com

Roy Denim Selvage Jeans

A jean made by hand, literally by one person. Everything from the patterns being cut to the leather tag starting out as a large sheet of cowhide. Beautiful 14 oz unsanforized fabric woven by Cone Mills. Straight leg fit with a medium rise. roydenim.com

Levi's Vintage Clothing Utility Shirt Jacket

Fine weave 3X1 twill. Chore style patch pockets. Rust aged laurel leaf shank buttons. unionmadegoods.com

Kings County Distillery Whiskey& Moonshine

Kings County Distillery is New York City’s oldest operating whiskey distillery, the first since before prohibition. Kings County makes hand-crafted bourbon and moonshine out of a 325-square foot room in five, 8-gallon stills. Their moonshine recently won “Best in Category” for corn whiskey at the American Distilling Institute’s Craft Spirits Conference. kingscountydistillery.com

LAYERxlayer Mineral Pouch

Perfect companion for any bag, the Mineral Pouch is simple yet refined enough to make it incredibly useful. Wrap-around notebook & pencil/pen slots allow for quick access to writing implements, freeing up space inside for other carry-along items.

Truly gets better with age, as most things worth holding onto should. #10 Waxed Sage Canvas Duck Body. 13oz. Waxed Dark Navy Canvas Duck wrap-around. layerxlayer.com

El Cosmico Bolivian Blankets

Beautiful vintage Bolivian blankets, hand-selected by hotelier Liz Lambert for her part vintage trailer, yurt and teepee hotel/campground, part creative lab creation El Cosmico in Marfa, Texas. elcosmico.com

The Low Anthem "What the Crow Brings"

The Low Anthem, American indie folk band from Providence, Rhode Island.

New songs that come from old songs. Vibe. Typewriters. Folk art. Corn-dogs. Gospel influence. Feng shui. Not entirely jaded yet: music that really is music, not an advertisement. Imagine that. Word of mouth. lowanthem.com

Billykirk No. 240 Trucker Key FOB

Keep your keys safe with a vintage inspired trucker key fob.

Years ago the Bray brothers knew a man named Leonard Goldsholl of Mayfair Industries. He has since passed away but he was one of the original leather craftsmen on the West Coast making scores of wide leather cuffs, watch straps, visors, belts, key fobs, etc. Back in the 60's, 70's and 80' he would sell his wears up and down the West Coast to hippies, rockers and punks. When he retired around 8 years ago Kirk and Chris visited his Van Nuys work shop and were fortunate enough to buy up a big lot of his old tools and original solid steel cutting dies. One of the cutting dies was this key fob. Solid brass snap clip and DOT brand snaps. Hand-oiled and edged. billykirk.com

Wood & Faulk Camp Stool

A classically inspired camp stool, made to last for generations. Made in Portland, Oregon with USA grown hardwood Ash, turned to a slight taper. The seat is English bridle leather with doubled attach points sewn in. woodandfaulk.com

Strawfoot Handmade Waxed Canvas Tote Bag

Strong, durable and water resistant waxed canvas tote bag. Perfect as your carry-all, weekender, school bag, or market bag. Handmade in Santa Cruz on a vintage single-needle lockstitch machine. All materials sourced from the USA.

Sage/Navy premium waxed cotton canvas with waxed double bottom layer.

Veg-tanned leather straps. Darken with UV exposure. Will take on a unique patina. The aging process can be thought of similarly to wearing raw denim and the distinct look that can be achieved depending on use. All leather strap edges are beveled and then coated with beeswax from a local farm and smoothed to ensure they're comfortable to hold. strawfoothandmade.com

The Hill-Side Selvedge Chambray Bandana

Lightweight Selvedge Chambray Bandana, Indigo x White. Fabric origin: Kojima, Japan. White selvedge along one edge. Made in the USA/New York City. hickorees.com

Godspeed 45/06 Cycle Zombies X Mark Choiniere

Document No. 25. Hardbound 40 pages. Godspeed 45/06 is an ongoing series of photography books by Cicero DeGuzman Jr., documenting vintage chopper builders, their work and their workspaces. godspeed4506.com

Southern Field Industries Waxed Rucksack

Southern Field Industries is situated amidst hills in the Saitama region of Japan, where in a small workplace they produce handmade canvas products. Waxed Cotton Body (from British Millerain). Japanese Woven #9 Cotton Canvas Lining. Japanese Vegetable Tanned Cow Leather. Boots Lace Drawstring Cord(from Red Wing Shoes). Japanese Solid Brass Hardwares. All Handmade in Japan. southernfieldindustries.com

Otis James Bow Tie

Mini orange and white houndstooth in spongy linen. classic bow tie shape. Hand-stitched buttonholes and customizable stamped/painted labels. otisjamesnashville.com

Jack Ruby Artisan Tonic

Jack Rudy Artisan Tonic contains raw ingredients such as lemongrass and orange zest that gives it superior flavor to other mass-produced or craft tonics. It is a raw quinine syrup, allowing more control when creating cocktails, something no other tonic can provide. The raw ingredients give it a distinct color and appearance in the glass. It's light, crisp and refreshing, with a soft backbone of quinine that makes it incredibly quaffable. jackrudycocktailco.com

Stanley & Sons Aprons

Based out of Brooklyn, NY. Each apron is handmade one at a time. Made from materials such as 12 oz. Cone White Oak selvage denim, waxed canvas, vintage U.S. military pup tents & Hickory stripe. apronandbag.com

Marfa Brand Rosemary Peppermint Soap

Handmade with olive, palm, coconut, castor and sunflower oils powdered rosemary, and essential oils of rosemary and peppermint. Minty and a bit scrubby because of the rosemary. marfabrands.bigcartel.com

Levi's Vintage Clothing 1955 Sawtooth Denim Shirt

100% cotton. Pearl snap buttons. Western style yoke & sawtooth snap-pockets. 7 oz. 2X1 indigo denim. unionmadegoods.com

Post Overalls #1102 Engineers' Jacket

8 oz. Japanese indigo denim lined with chambray. A good marriage of 1930's design and Post O'Alls treatment. postoveralls.com

Loyal Dean Bomber Longboard

40% reclaimed lumber, organic-where-the-wind-goes-design and a surplus of buttery smooth downhill asphalt rolling toward the horizon line. The Bomber skateboard pays homage to classic surf and epic lines. 42" length & 8.75" width. Depending on the project they are working on, Loyal Dean skateboards may be made from Mahogany, Oak, Walnut, Wenge, Maple, Cherry, bubinga, Ipea or Teak. loyaldean.com

Best Made Co. "Big Jug" of Pure Organic Maple Syrup

North Family Farms, Canterbury, NH. Pure US grade A medium amber. Certified organic. Half gallon glass jug with metal lid.
bestmadeco.com

Pop Up Flea

2011-12-02T09:45:00.004-06:00

Another great Pop Up Flea. Featuring amazing brands such as L.L. Bean, Red Wing Heritage, Levi's Vintage Clothing, Billykirk, The Hill-Side, Hickoree's, Levi's Made & Crafted, Smith+Butler & many, many more. Check it out if you're in the NYC area.

Heartless Bastards // Arrow

2011-11-27T22:04:00.003-06:00

Heartless Bastards new album "Arrow" drops February 14th on Partisan Records.

Read Refueled magazine's interview with Erika Wennerstrom in the 2010 Fall/Winter issue here.

WWII US Jacket

2011-11-26T16:11:00.003-06:00

While home for Thanksgiving, I was presented with my cousin's World War II US Air Force jacket. Nick "Junior" Bonura died in France during WWII in 1945.

Welcome Winter

2011-11-17T14:05:00.003-06:00

Choctaw Ridge's Thermal Long Johns are handcrafted from a burly 100% cotton waffle-knit. Details include 100% cotton chambray on the yoke, natural Corozo buttons, ribbed cuffs, and their signature letterpress hang-tag and gift box, which are printed, cut and assembled in the USA.

Refueled Road Test No.02 {Imogene+Willie Barton Jeans}

2011-11-13T19:34:00.007-06:00

My creative love for Matt and Carrie Eddmensons' brand Imogene+Willie is well documented here and here. I became fast friends and a fan of their amazing style two years ago when they first opened their denim shop in the then growing 12 South district in Nashville, Tennessee.

While hanging with Carrie at El Cosmico's Trans-Pecos Festival of Music & Love in Marfa, Texas last September, she custom-fitted me with a pair of their handmade Barton rigid jeans. I haven't taken them off since.

For the past couple of months I've been on the road, finishing photo shoots for the upcoming issue of Refueled, and I love the way my Bartons have begun to break in. The raw, premium selvedge denim, from Cone Mills in Greensboro, North Carolina, has given and formed perfectly to my body - creating a soul of their own. The Barton's moderate slim-straight with the lower rise was definitely the right fit for me, and Carrie knew it.

Selvage denim is made on old-style shuttle looms rather than modern, projectile looms. In simple terms, this means during the fabric weaving process, the cross-thread goes back and forth as one continuous thread, rather than as individual threads for each cross weave. As a result, selvage denim has a clean edge. Modern, single thread weaving has a frayed edge.

Traditionally the fabric made on shuttle looms was so narrow, a pair of jeans required approximately 3 yards of fabric. To maximize yield, jean-makers used the fabric all the way to the selvage edge with a straight outside seam. When the cuff is turned up, the two selvedge edges, where the denim is stitched together, can be seen. The selvage edge is usually stitched with a colored thread and on vintage jeans, you'll find red, white, green, yellow thread running down the edge. Imogene+Willie's Barton features their signature orange.

Slimmer from the knee down, Barton works great with my Red Wing boots to my Vans. Check out a pair of Barton jeans or other Imogene+Willie goods online, or drop in and let them custom fit you with one of their handmade, premium selvedge denim jeans.

Refueled Road Test No.01 {SFI Waxed Tote}

2011-11-11T13:19:00.005-06:00

Since creating Refueled, the best part has been meeting and getting to know other creatives not only from right here in the great US of A, but from around the world. One of those is Manabu Okada from Saitama, Japan, founder of Southern Field Industries, a small company that specializes in handmade canvas products. Manabu recently sent Refueled one of their waxed totes to road test.

I took it along on a recent trip to New York and really dug it. The khaki and tan tote is completely handmade of Japanese waxed canvas and vegetable tanned cow leather. The canvas is the most lightweight, driest waxed fabric I've felt. Lined with #9 cotton canvas, giving it more rigidity. Inside are two pockets, perfectly sized for my necessities - phone, note pads, bandanas, etc. I really like the leather-backed handset brass rivets that attach the straps. Just one of the great details to this bag.

Check out the various colors, along with their amazing rucksacks.

Top photo by Gustav Schmiege.

Imogene+Willie // Our Voice

2011-11-03T08:01:00.006-05:00

Honored to be part of Imogene+Willie's Our Voice series.

Photography by Gustav Schmiege.

Styling by Lauren Wilkins, Bows+Arrows.

Barton Rigid Jeans by Imogene+Willie.

Coleman Jacket by Engineered Garments.

Slouchy Fedora by Billykirk.

Waistcoat by Folk.

Here's to the American Spirit

2011-11-02T15:08:00.000-05:00

Random Coolness no. 23

2011-11-01T13:46:00.004-05:00

Andrew Belle {Automatic Buzz}™ Sessions

2011-10-31T08:21:00.003-05:00

Singer/songwriter Andrew Belle performs an acoustic version of "The Ladder" backstage at the House of Blues in Dallas, Texas for Refueled magazine's {Automatic Buzz}™ Sessions.

Residing in both Chicago and Nashville, Andrew is currently a member of the critically acclaimed national tour Ten Out Of Tenn. At the forefront of this community are ten artists who have banded together to form Ten Out Of Tenn, a collective of incredibly talented friends who, as individual artists, have released over thirty albums, had song placements in countless television programs & films and shared the stage with musicians such as REM, Sarah McLachlan and John Mayer.

Andrew released his debut EP All Those Pretty Lights in 2008, containing songs featured in hit TV shows including “Grey’s Anatomy”, “90210” and “The Real World.” His song “I’ll Be Your Breeze” garnered nationwide airplay including Los Angeles tastemaker station KCRW. Andrew recently was named “Best Breakout Artist, Chicago” by MTV.

Wes Lang

2011-10-27T16:11:00.004-05:00

New work from Wes Lang.

Wes is featured in Refueled issue six. Photography & interview by frequent contributor Cicero DeGuzman Jr.

Levi's Vintage Clothing

2011-10-13T09:51:00.004-05:00

Levi’s Vintage Clothing is an authentic and comprehensive assortment dedicated to capturing the spirit of American workwear. Each garment faithfully reproduces the fits, fabrics and characteristics associated with a specific period in time.

Check out the newly launched website here.

UNIONMADE Indigo

2011-10-10T08:39:00.005-05:00

The great folks at UNIONMADE, Todd & Carl, sent over their latest project. They partnered with a few of their favorite designers and brands and created a capsule collection based on indigo.

To pair with the collection, which features pieces from Unis, Golden Bear, Gitman Vintage, Steele, and Stanley & Sons and others, they’ve released a lookbook with the help of photographer Andrew Paynter and Boon Design.

Lookbooks, as well as each piece from the capsule, are available in San Francisco and online, and will be available in Santa Monica soon.

Secret Forts FALL THREE

2011-10-07T13:25:00.004-05:00

My "FALL THREE" over at Secret Forts. Stoked to share.

Random Coolness no. 22

2011-10-05T10:33:00.005-05:00

Imogene+Willie Autumn 2011

2011-10-03T13:26:00.008-05:00

Imogene+Willie. The best handmade jeans and wearables you'll find in America. New offerings include, duck canvas pants, barn coats with striped wool flannel, denim work shirts and much more. Designed in-house by owners Matt & Carrie Eddmenson.

View the entire collection here. Available October 7th.

Also check out Refueled's interview with Matt & Carrie in the current 2011 Spring/Summer "Modern Creatives" issue and Matt in Refueled's new series Authentic.

Vintage Style // Jack Kerouac & Allen Ginsberg

2011-09-29T08:15:00.003-05:00

As pioneers of the literary sub-cultural Beat movement of 1950s America, Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac’s vigorously anti-materialistic convictions underpinned arguably the first anti-fashion trend at a time when fast fashion began to reach the mainstream. The writers, although differed in their style choices, Kerouac wearing worn-out leather jackets and Ginsberg opting for crumpled, miss-matching suit jackets and khaki workpants, had similar values when it came to clothing, or lack of it.

The renegade literary idols forged an anti-fashion look of their own as an antidote to developing 1950s teenage consumer culture. The Beat’s look had an academic intelligence and genuinely rebellious attitude; Crumpled tees, casual trousers like jeans and khaki work pants, thrifted leathers or blazers, topped off with thick-rimmed spectacles became synonymous with contemporary alt culture at its very conception.

“In a now materialistic and conformist society, adolescents were struggling to find their identities. The fashion industry had finally perfected clothing that was wrinkle-free and an interesting response to this was the wearing of jeans and leather jackets that moulded to the body and showed permanent creases.” – The Mid-Atlantic Region, Robert P. Marzec.

via Laura Havlin

Sarah Jaffe//Refueled {Automatic Buzz}™ Sessions

2011-09-28T08:07:00.003-05:00

On the eve of the release of her new album "The Way Sound Leaves a Room", singer/songwriter Sarah Jaffe performed a raw, acoustic version of "Clementine" for Refueled Magazine's film series {Automatic Buzz}™.

A Gathering

2011-09-27T14:21:00.004-05:00

El Cosmico Trans-Pecos Festival of Music & Love

Marfa. Tift Merritt. Desert. Patty Griffin. Stars. Robert Plant. Travelers. Barbara Lynn. Lovers. David Garza. Adventurers. Amy Cook. Hippies. Erika Wennerstrom. Imogene+Willie. Ben Kweller. Marfa Public Radio. Shawn Colvin. Whole roasted pig. Alejandro Escovedo. Handmade jeans. Mother Falcon. Stag. Black Angels. Alabama Chanin. Shiner. Kat Edmonson. Food Shark. Gail Chovan for Blackmail. Tee Pees. Jo’s Coffee. Yurts. Motorcycles. Vintage trailers. Music. Love.

Creator Liz Lambert was talking out loud and second guessing herself, as most creatives tend to do. She now feels, for many reason, that this whole beautiful yearly event should be called a gathering instead of a festival. Indeed.

Photos by Chris Brown & Liz Lambert.

Made By Hand

2011-09-26T13:00:00.004-05:00

Made By Hand Creator/Director Keef contacted me recently and shared some kind words about Refueled and what I was doing. I have to say the feeling is mutual.

MADE BY HAND was created out of the belief that the things we collect, consume, use, and share are part of who we are as individuals. For example, the food that we eat says something about each of us, as do the tools we use and the chairs we rest on. Objects that surround the space we dwell in tell stories, and not just about us. Where did they come from? Who made them? How were they made?

Each film aims to promote that which is made locally, sustainably, and with a love for craft. Based in Brooklyn, the project takes its influence from the handmade movement here and elsewhere.

In Made By Hand’s inaugural film, they visit the Breuckelen Distilling Company, the first gin distiller in Brooklyn since prohibition. Founder Brad Estabrooke talks about starting from nothing and the imperfect process of perfecting a craft. His experience bears a lesson for us all: knowing you could fail brings you that much closer to success.

Looking forward to collaborating with Keef in the near future.

Marfa Bound

2011-09-22T12:05:00.000-05:00

Somewhat off the grid until next week as Refueled heads out west to Marfa, Texas for the El Cosmico Trans-Pecos Festival of Music & Love and then a stop in Austin. Stay tuned for update when we return.

Photography by Gustav Schmiege.

Alabama Chanin Interviews Chris Brown

2011-09-22T09:06:00.002-05:00

While working on a recent project together, slow design guru Natalie Chanin/Alabama Chanin got to know Refueled creator/creative director Chris Brown a bit better. Check out the interview here.

1957 Kansas Hipsters

2011-09-17T19:11:00.002-05:00

Beard growing contest entrants. Kansas, 1957. More here.

Images courtesy of Olathe Public Library.

AUTHENTIC//Matt Eddmenson

2011-09-14T16:30:00.003-05:00

Matt Eddmenson opened Imogene+Willie with wife Carrie in the retrofitted former gas station in Nashville a few years back. Identified solely by a orange plus sign out front, Imogene+Willie have garnered a loyal fan base through word of mouth, artisan craftmanship and incredible attention to detail.

No. 2 in the Refueled AUTHENTIC Series.

AUTHENTIC

2011-09-12T08:41:00.003-05:00

This summer pro snowboarder/art director Corey Smith headed up to his home town of Portland Oregon along with filmer Kevin Castanheira and friends. They laughed, they cried, they partied, they spent too much money at Sassy’s, and they built some handmade primitive wooden snowboards.

The first in Refueled’s new series AUTHENTIC.

Random Coolness no. 21

2011-09-11T16:50:00.001-05:00

NEW Refueled Site ONLINE TODAY!

2011-09-09T10:15:00.004-05:00

All new Refueled site premieres today. Also premiering is the new series Authentic. Big thanks to Alabama Chanin & Billykirk for the sponsorship. Check it out and let us know your thoughts.

Everything Here is Wonderful

2011-09-07T15:27:00.003-05:00

My personal love for the town of Marfa, Texas is clear. I have traveled the road West time and time again for inspiration when creating a new issue of Refueled magazine. In a few weeks, I will once again travel the beautiful desert roads that will lead me to what now feels like my home away from home. Stay tuned for what adventure lies ahead.

Limited Edition Marfa, Texas Map

15 woodblock prints on topographic maps from the United States Geological Survey. Dimensions: 39.5" x 24". Handmade at the Best Made Outpost in St. Paul, MN.

Finding America

2011-09-07T09:39:00.005-05:00

Finding America is about finding the craftsman and artists that are still keeping the American Dream alive.

Michael Paradise, the visionary behind The Stronghold in Venice, CA.

John Van Hamersveld, an American artist who's career has spanned 50 years. His iconic Endless Summer print still influences artists today. He can be found drawing in his studio on a palm lined street in Santa Monica on any given day.

"Explore America" Skate Deck

2011-09-07T08:03:00.020-05:00

Explore America.

Inspired by Refueled creative director Chris Brown's vintage bandana collection, this limited edition, 8” X 31” Hard Maple Deck is perfect for your concrete expeditions or to add to a studio wall. Whatever the case, a perfect reminder to get out and explore.

SOLD OUT.

Levi's Vintage Clothing

2011-09-03T22:22:00.007-05:00

Classic 1936 Type 1 rigid 506 XX jacket from Levi's Vintage Collection with contrast yellow stitching on the placket and rusty orange stitch over the rest of the body. This jacket has a single patch pocket on the left hand chest and knife pleats for superior fit running parallel to the center front placket.

Made from 100% cotton selvedge denim

A replica of the rare 1953 Type II blanket lined 506 XX jacket from Levi's Vintage Collection. This jacket has patch pockets on the chest and knife pleats for superior fit running parallel to the center front placket.

Made from 100% cotton selvedge denim. Blanket Lined.

1967 Type III Rigid Jacket

Rigid Deadstock Denim. Front Button Closure with 2 upper button-through flap pockets. High Contrast Yellow and Orange Stitching. 2-buttons on each side of waistband for perfect fit.

Big E Red Tab Device on front left pocket and Levi's Two-Horse Patch on inside neck.

Available at Unionmade Goods.

Lou Reed X Metallica

2011-09-02T15:31:00.001-05:00

Cover from forthcoming album.

RRL

2011-09-02T12:35:00.001-05:00

Random Coolness no. 20

2011-09-01T13:38:00.003-05:00

Natalie Chanin X KYUR8

2011-09-01T10:55:00.007-05:00

{ Images from KYUR8 // Issue 07 // September 2011 }

Natalie Chanin, aka Alabama Chanin, and I have this kind of “thing” going with each other right now. I dig what she does, and she’s diggin’ what I’ve been doing. It seems as of late we have been feeding off each other - with our work, our visions, this vibe. Besides the fact that we have been in constant contact with each other over the past few months, working together, sharing thoughts and ideas, planning a collaboration, and then the anticipation of her Texas tour, in which Refueled will be documenting the journey - our creative souls are in tune.

Stay tuned for our Refueled collaboration. Until then, check out Natalie’s guest editor spot with KYUR8 - a online magazine created and curated by RUDJ. She also has a new tumblr with inspiring images.

1964 Lincoln

2011-08-31T08:34:00.005-05:00

My homegirl AVS {Allison V Smith} captured some rad shots of Dallas' own Eryka Badu and her 1964 Lincoln "Baby Blue" for F!D. V8, suicide doors and amazing denim overalls. Sick.

Liz Lambert Talks Festival of Music & Love

2011-08-28T14:20:00.015-05:00

Intrepid travelers and lovers of adventure: the 6th Annual Trans-Pecos Festival of Music and Love is just beyond the horizon. September 22 - 25, 2011.

El Cosmico in Marfa, Texas - part vintage trailer, yurt and teepee hotel/ campground meets creative lab and amphitheater. Liz Lambert, hotelier/creative behind Austin’s boutique accommodations, Hotel San Jose and Hotel Saint Cecilia, plus San Antonio’s Hotel Havana, *talks to Refueled's Chris Brown.

Liz, what is it that harkens you back to the vibe of the 60’s and 70’s with your designs and lifestyle?
I don’t really know – I’m interested in handmade and hand drawn things, in things that are crafted instead of mass marketed . . .

Having grown up in the desert in West Texas, what was the music that you were first exposed to? And by who?
The first record I remember buying was Neil Young’s Decade – I was directly influenced by my oldest brother who played guitar in the bedroom across from mine late at night. Of course, I listened to a lot of country music. It was just part of the culture.

What was your first glimpse at rock n’ roll?
I actually saw Elvis in concert at the Odessa Coliseum when I was twelve or thirteen, not too long before he died.

How has music influenced your life, your hotel designs & your creative thought in general?
The same way it influences everyone, I think. It just becomes part of you and your sensibility.

You are always surrounded my musicians, actors, designers & creatives. They hang at your house and your hotels, soaking up this atmosphere you have created. How cool is that?
Pretty cool.

Let’s talk about Marfa, Texas. What is it that attracts you to the area?
Well, my family ranches in the area, and I have been going out to that part of the country as long as I can remember. Big sky, secret pastures.

A perfect place for a creative commune like El Cosmico, right?
Of course. There are a lot of creative people in Marfa and a lot of creative folks that travel there.

What was your vision for El Cosmico?
Let’s see. I wanted to do a combination of a campground and a hotel and a traveling circus, something that would evolve over time, become more and more. Something where you could sleep under the stars, something in the landscape.

How did the Trans-Pecos Festival of Music & Love come about?
We wanted to have a party, invite everybody out to El Cosmico.

The past couple of years there has been an “official” house band develop.
Yes. Bands that have played there before often want to come back and play again. So we just decided that we should combine them all – make one big band every year on Saturday night. The only rule about it is that you have played El Cosmico before.

The Garuda, a creature from Hidu & Buddhist mythology, acts as the “deity” of not only El Cosmico but seems to appear throughout most of your creative spaces. Do you feel a connection with the creature?
Well, most especially for El Cosmico. He’s an image that got me going down a certain path in imagining El Cosmico, that informed things as varied as the saturated color on the trailers.

What are you thoughts and ideas for keeping the creative process of El Cosmico alive and growing?
We’re trying to do some serious building and adding out there in the next year – we’d like to add a number of creative spaces like a ceramic studio and a permanent stage.

Dance In a Wide Open Field
Live Music nightly starting at around 8 pm . . .

Thursday Night: Tift Merritt, Patty Griffin with special guests, Barbara Lynn.

Friday Night: El Cosmico Family Band with David Garza, Josh Block of White Denim, and Jesse Ebaugh of the Heartless Bastards. Featuring performances by Adam Bork, Kat Edmonson, Tift Merritt, Amy Cook, Alejandro Escovedo, Erika Wennerstrom and Ben Kweller.

Saturday Night: Alejandro Escovedo, Black Angels.

Eat, Drink...
This year, the festival has expanded they selection of food and beverages, including Food Shark on Thursday night, Mrs. Dominguez's burritos on Saturday evening from 6-9 pm, renowed Texas chef's Lou Lambert and Larry McGuire will be roasting some meat on an open fire and offering a delicious taco dinner at the event (view menu). Price for the dinner is $12 and you must pre-register for the meal.

On Sunday El Cosmico is hosting a charity breakfast benefiting Marfa Public Radio - pancakes and breakfast sausage. And of course They’ll have plenty of cold Shiner, hot coffee from Jo's, and Topo Chico.

...and Be Merry.
Shop the vendor marketplace for art, clothing and other survival necessities from Squashblossom Vintage, Alabama Chanin, Jack Sanders, Posters by Roothouse - Jaime, Satch, Bootleg, Chia Hats, and others.

Stop by the Imogene + Willie trunk show in the El Cosmico lobby. Sign up for a 2 hour sewing workshop from the very talented and inspiring Alabama Chanin.

* Interview taken from Refueled Magazine, Issue No.06 / 2010 Fall/Winter

Corey Smith//Authentic

2011-08-25T16:17:00.005-05:00

Corey Smith, artist, pro snowboarder and current art director for COMUNE clothing, will the first featured in the new Refueled mag series Authentic.

Look for it in September when the totally redesigned Refueled site is premiered.

STP

2011-08-25T08:46:00.005-05:00

My pal Matt Eddmenson of Imogene+Willie scored this amazing STP racing T-shirt in Gulf Shores, Alabama, where he accompanied his friend Mike Wolfe (aka the American Picker) to pick up a trio of vintage BSA motorcycles last winter. The bikes were originally owned by legendary Bonneville salt flat racer Dick Strickland, as was the shirt, which Mike and Matt pulled out of a dilapidated van marooned in a junkyard. Strickland was a world-record holder at the Bonneville Nationals and broke the land speed record in his class in the early ‘70s, so it’s no telling where this shirt has been. For the record, STP stands for Scientifically Treated Petroleum, a company that was founded in Missouri in 1953. For a long time, STP was the sponsor of stock car drivers Richard Petty and Indy racecar driver Mario Andretti, John's uncle.

The front and back of the T-shirt both have the STP acronym in the company’s trademark red oval with the words Bonneville Nationals on the top and bottom, respectively. Years of wear are wonderfully evident; the short-sleeved shirt is covered in spots, smudges, smears and tiny tears, none of which should give you any worry in terms of wearability. In the eyes of a collector or racing fan, those flaws only make it more valuable.

Available here - while it lasts.

Check out Matt & the lovely Carrie Eddmenson in the latest issue of Refueled magazine.

Montauk, NY

2011-08-23T10:39:00.005-05:00

Photographer Danny Clinch traveled to Montauk, NY to capture surfers where they live, work and play for Outside Magazine’s September Style section. In addition to the work shown in the magazine, Outside worked with Danny to create a special online gallery of his 4×5 polaroid transfers.

Authentic

2011-08-16T15:47:00.001-05:00

The fact that you own a guitar does not make you a musician.
The fact that you own a surfboard does not make you a surfer.
The fact that you own a motorcycle does not make you a rebel.
The fact that you own a skateboard does not make you a skater.

Refueled’s “Authentic” Series coming soon.

Random Coolness no. 19

2011-08-15T09:46:00.005-05:00

Billykirk X United States of Americana

2011-08-14T18:29:00.014-05:00

{ Book Cover & Chris Bray from Refueled’s Levi’s Portrait Series. }

My NYC boys, the Bray brothers of Billykirk, are featured in the fascinating book United States of Americana: A Field Guide to the New American Roots Movement by Kurt B. Reighley. The book is a look at the hand-made and sustainable movements that are driving a resurgence in the community as a strengthening force. From canning parties, raising chickens, facial hair grooming and Burlesque to heritage. Old is definitely new.

Chris Bray says "United States of Americana reminds us of many things we need reminding of, inspiring us to reflect on our nation's heritage of values, the virtues of workmanship, and the pride in the achievement."

Billykirks section, Outsourcing to the Amish, is enlighting and refreshing.

Billykirk’s primary labor force isn’t exactly ultramodern. Much of their work is done by Amish craftsmen in Pennsylvania. The Amish adherence to tradition and commitment to a plain and simple way of life resonated with brothers Chris and Kirk Bray. “The Amish are about as ecofriendly you can get”, says Chris Bray.

Chris & Kirk are also featured in the newly released 2011 Spring/Summer “Modern Creatives” issue of Refueled magazine.

{ Spreads from Refueled Spring/Summer 2011 issue. }

Hill-Side Autumn//Winter 2011

2011-08-11T11:10:00.009-05:00

Chris Grodzki & Lindsay Carver.

Mikael Kennedy was tapped to photograph the experience of the The Hill-Side neckwear brand for their Autumn/Winter 2011 run. The campaign looks, which runs from neckties to scarves, feature a slew of familiar faces. Two of those faces belong to our friends, Stanley & Son’s Chris Grodzki and girlfriend Lindsay Carver. Chris & Lindsay are also featured in the just released 2011 Spring/Summer “Modern Creatives” issue of Refueled (couple of spreads below).

Spreads from 2011 Spring//Summer issue of Refueled.

Said Hill-Side “We handed off the new collection of ties, scarves, and handkerchiefs to Mikael so he could carry it with him as he traveled around the country photographing friends and new people who crossed his path.”

Amy Cook X Red Wings

2011-08-10T08:19:00.006-05:00

Amy Cook is the kind of great singer-songwriter that spoils the good residents of Austin, Texas. The iconoclastic musician wears the 2991 Engineer Boots her own way: with the lower buckle cut off. Why? ‘Because the shape of the boot is so good,’ she says. On Amy, it works perfectly. In any case, Red Wings are built to take abuse—even at the hands of their owners.

Amy premiered her new track "When I Wake Up" for Refueled magazine's film series {Automatic Buzz} during the 2011 SXSW festival. Shot at Amy's Travis Heights home in Austin, the session was produced/directed by Chris Brown with director of photography by Gustav Schmiege.

via Red Wings Journal

Refueled "Explore America" Skate Deck

2011-08-09T14:37:00.001-05:00

Limited Edition. Explore America.

8” X 31” Hard Maple Deck // Blue Vintage “Fast Color” Bandana design. Curated from Refueled magazine publisher/creative director Chris Brown’s personal collection.

Stay tuned for details soon.

Random Coolness no. 18

2011-08-09T11:10:00.004-05:00

Dan Layus {Behind-the-Cover} Issue No. 07

2011-08-07T11:10:00.001-05:00

Refueled goes {Behind-the-Cover} with Dan Layus of Augustana for the new Spring//Summer 2011 issue - shot at the Dallas House of Blues. Check out the "Modern Creatives" issue here.

NEW ISSUE // 2011 Spring/Summer "Modern Creatives"

2011-07-31T09:38:00.016-05:00

My life is incredibly blessed. I am surrounded by amazing friends who are musicians, designers, stylemakers, models, surfers, skateboarders, publishers, producers, directors, artists, hoteliers & photographers. “Modern Creatives” I like to call them. We are a tight-kint group who support and collaborate with each other. In this issue I share a few of them with you. All of them doing their thing. All of them sharing a bit of their soul. All of them creating. Not because they want to, but because they have to. It’s who they are. It’s who I am. Enjoy.

As always, a very special thanks to Refueled senior photographer Gustav Schmiege for his dedication, amazing eye and the willingness to take to the

road at the drop of a hat.

Random Coolness no. 17

2011-07-29T15:05:00.003-05:00

Modern American Gothic

2011-07-25T10:32:00.012-05:00

Refueled has long been a fan of Billy Reid’s low-fi Southern-bred luxury. His warm and hospitable personally is not only reflected in his clothes but also in his shops. Loaded with antiques, family heirlooms and reclaimed architectural materials like faded chairs and carpets, antique chandeliers, mounted deer heads and vintage apothecary cabinets, the look is true-grit South.

Refueled publisher/creative director Chris Brown visited Billy’s relocated Dallas shop in Highland Park recently to hangout, play a tune for the staff on the ukulele, comb through demin, and choose the perfect bowtie.

Her // Style

• Babydoll Dress - Stripe

• Fishing Romper - White Oxford

• Luna Short - Black

• Reglan Tee - Antique White

• Evelyn Wingtip Wedge Shoe

• Peeptoe Flat

Him // Style

• Washed Demin Workshirt

• Walton Suit - Nailhead

• Billy Reid Bowties

Photography by Gustav Schmiege
Model: Amanda Tergerson
Styling: Dave Gates

Random Coolness no. 16

2011-07-22T10:44:00.002-05:00

The Civil Wars {Automatic Buzz} Sessions

2011-07-19T22:46:00.004-05:00

Refueled had the great pleasure of hosting The Civil Wars for the day recently while in Dallas. Publisher Chris Brown & Senior Photographer Gustav Schmiege hungout with the two at the historic Texas Theatre during sound check, drove them over to an in-store appearance at Good Records, shopped vintage vinyl & ended the day with a special acoustic performance of “I’ve Got this Friend” for Refueled’s {Automatic Buzz} video series.

In some ways, music doesn’t get much more modest or minimalist than it is in the hands of The Civil Wars, a duo comprised of California-to-Nashville transplant Joy Williams and her Alabaman partner, John Paul White. They travel without a backup band, and on their first full-length album, Barton Hollow, the bare-bones live arrangements that fans hear on the road are fleshed out with just the barest of acoustic accoutrements. Each song is an intimate conversation, and no third wheels or dinner-party chatter are going to interrupt that gorgeous, haunting hush.

On the other hand, there’s been something distinctly loud about the duo’s introduction to the world, even prior to the album’s release. Their signature song “Poison & Wine” was heard on Grey’s Anatomy—in the foreground, in its entirety, over a key climactic montage, prompting hundreds of thousands of viewers to Google the mystery music. And they got a wholly unsolicited endorsement when America’s biggest pop star gave The Civil Wars a seal of approval. After first tweeting her love for the duo, fellow Nashvillian Taylor Swift included “Poison & Wine” as a selection in her official iTunes playlist, saying, “I think this is my favorite duet. It’s exquisite.”

"The Civil Wars are the BEST band I have EVER seen." - Adele

Photos by Gustav Schmiege.

Dogtown

2011-07-18T15:32:00.003-05:00

Recent shots from the always amazing Scott G Toepfer.
Dogtown X Molly Steele.

Monster Children // Issue 31

2011-07-08T10:21:00.003-05:00

That there image is none other than Dennis Hopper on the set of Apocalypse Now, Pagsanjan, Philippines - 1976 - by Mary Ellen Mark. Cover 1 of 2 - Issue 31 - Monster Children Magazine. They've rightly dedicated 15 pages to one of the biggest proponents of contemporary art and photography in the issue. It's been a while since they've done such a large feature, but a man of this significance deserves the page space. As well as all the incredible photography, adjoining stories from the man himself plus Andy Warhol, Tony Shafrazi and Aaron Rose sit within this feature in Issue 31. They talk to seminal designer David Carson, about collaboration, the past, the future and surfing. They take a surf trip to Morocco with an eclectic bunch - Knost and Kopps, Thomas Campbell, Dan Malloy, Craig Anderson and Ryan Burch. Alex Olson gets his whine on, they take a tour through American malls circa 1989, talk to Justin Townes-Earle about crack addiction and being the son of Steve Earle, and give you all the usual tits and bits n' pieces.

Homeless Chic

2011-07-07T16:16:00.003-05:00

Random Coolness no. 15

2011-07-07T10:43:00.007-05:00

Dart Summer

2011-07-06T09:39:00.004-05:00

Laura Dart's summer travels, with her boyfriend and cast of characters all have a rad vintage vibe.

Look for Laura's photos of Matt & Carrie Eddmenson of Imogene+Willie in the upcoming 2011 Spring/Summer issue of Refueled magazine, which drops this month.

Made in America

2011-06-29T21:13:00.003-05:00

In honor of Independence Day, Matt & Carrie Eddmenson of Imogene+Willie asked some like-minded friends to give their take on the importance of keeping the kind of manufacturing they knew growing up alive in this country and why buying quality, American-made products is, ultimately, the greatest example of exercising independent thought and action that there is. Check it out here.

Look for Refueled magazine's interview with Matt & Carrie in the upcoming 2011 Spring/Summer issue which drops in a few weeks.

Edwin S//S 2012 Collection

2011-06-28T08:01:00.001-05:00

A collection inspired by individuals living their lives in Edwin. Personal life experiences etched into the grain of the fabric in wearing the denim as functional garments, reliable and strong, constructed using premium fabrics and finishes.

The Edwin man is integrated into a tribe of independent free thinkers, his desire to roll amongst the likeminded underpinned by a feeling of kinship and belonging through a common passion for road trips, adventuring into the unknown.

To ascertain the season’s highway aesthetic is to dissect the look and feel of the Edwin motorbike brotherhood ‘Sons of the Summer’ thereby illustrating the highlights of what is the most comprehensive spring summer collusion of fabric, function and form from Edwin for many years.

The collection from the belt loops up is vintage inspired, a conscious juxtaposition of influences from decades gone by and heroes and villains from the world of film and music - Edwin eats, sleeps and breathes culture throughout the design process.

Motorcycle references pepper the collection, partly due to the culture for customisation on the streets of Edwin’s home city - Tokyo and simply down to the feelings one experiences riding a motorcycle with friends. A sense of freedom, and of sharing with others the same need for flight and independence. Customisation of ones own motorcycle parallels breaking in ones own denims, unique in spirit.

The true spirit of Edwin Jeans is created by the person living in them, making everyday count with yesterdays memories etched into the rich indigo fabric, in the knowledge that tomorrow’s good times are still to be created.

Surf Sundays

2011-06-26T14:33:00.003-05:00

Photos by Barrett Gentz, Kanoa Zimmerman, Simon Perini & Alberto Cuadros. From Mollusk Surf Shop's redesigned site.