Our Man Agrees: Allsaints = Awesome
May 11, 2010 at 2:00PM
Walking into the new Allsaints store on Newbury St was like walking into Urban Outfitters back in the day when all I wore were vintage t-shirts and it was the only place offering the look outside of thift stores. Everything around me looked like it belonged in my closet and I wanted to be part of this cool gang of people dressed like dirty badasses with great hair.
I was wearing an old t-shirt, rolled up shorts, and my boots (I was still slightly intoxicated and brave enough to try pulling off the look) and what do you know, the first sales associate I saw was wearing the exact outfit only he had better hair. It was at once reassuring and annoying but mostly I really liked his t-shirt.
A full review after the jump...
Allsaints Spitalfields 122 Newbury Street, Back Bay
I went straight to the men's shoe section. A wall of boots. Really cool boots. I wanted all of them. Then I looked down and realized I was already wearing them actually. Still, if you're looking for worn-in looking, reasonably priced and high quality boots this is a good place to look. I've been on the search for sandals and figured I might find the right pair but I didn't really care for either of the two pairs on the shelves. They just didn't seem right for the All Saints look.
Next I started pulling everything that caught my eye to try the fit. Jeans, pants, a button up shirt, a printed t-shirt, a cardigan, and a trench coat.
The jeans and pants ran big around the waist. Granted I'm pretty slim and it was obvious that they're meant to sag a bit. The denim had some unique cuts and seams. I'd suggest trying on the whole selection of jeans and pants to see what looks good on you. The sales associate helping me was really nice and helped me find the right size and style that would work for me. Don't be afraid to ask for help; after all, it's a new brand and it's an intentionally different fit than we're used to.
Next the shirts. The button up was collarless and had really great button details. The fit was small but not tight. It was that ellusive mix of loose plus slim that equals cool. Same went for the printed t-shirt. The prints on all of the t-shirts were pretty sweet. They had a surprisingly American gothic vibe. I picked a collaged one that reminded me of Luhrman's Romeo + Juliet and had the phrase "California Dreaming." This is the first time since those early Urban days that anything other than a solid or striped t-shirt appealed to me. AND it was slightly distressed! That's not something I like in my new clothes - I'd rather do that myself. Still something about it caught my eye so I went for it. Once I had it on I knew I was going to buy it - I wasn't sure if I should but I was going to darn it. Check and check.
I didn't have as much luck with the sweater or the trench. Both were good cuts and went beyond the basic but I get a bit caught up in the details and talked myself out of buying them too.
All in all I was rather impressed with the guy's selection. And the store in general. The staff really sold the look which I appreciate for a store trying to sell a very specific style. However, as I do with all things, I would suggest buying the pieces you like and wearing them in your own way - you don't have to look like you shop at Allsaints to shop at Allsaints. Its definitely a store to put into your usual rounds. They had a wide variety to choose from with high quality fabrics, interesting cuts and details, and and decent prices.
But don't take my word for it... (Cue Reading Rainbow music)
I should also tell you that I went back the next day wearing the printed t-shirt to buy a bowtie. I'm noticing a pattern.
Reader Comments (2)
there were some cute dresses but if i'm gonna pay $300 for a dress i'd rather go to barney's co-op and buy something that wouldn't be crazy noticeable if i wore it more than once.
although i will say i didn't really check out the guys stuff.
and I really like some shoes overthere .looks like real vintage and very well made also kind price than golden goose .