Catching Up

Lyonstate

Lyonstate owner Reba Cunningham knows a thing or two about great clothes. She spent years in New York City as a former wholesale manager at A.P.C. What she gleaned from the minimal French brand, she took with her to Alabama, where her shop stocks not just A.P.C., but a well-edited collection of pieces from brands like Our Legacy, Billy Reid, Unis and Folk. After two years in business, Lyonstate is branching out with their own collection of menswear staples. We caught up with Cunningham to talk about her favorites from the new line and how to get the most wear out of your shorts.

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    The entire collection is made in the United States.
 

Linen shirt, $150

Tell us a little about what's behind the line's inspiration.

This first collection is meant to represent essential warm weather wardrobe items— a chambray utility shirt, linen stripes and checks, some sturdy canvas shorts—easy pieces that can be worn more tailored in the city or casual on vacation. It's about versatility and clean, minimal summer style.

How does everything fit?

The fit is slim but not constricting. The button-downs are lean through the body and have a nice high arm hole. The leg opening on the shorts is cut narrow enough to give a streamlined look. Not sloppy.

Speaking of which, how can a guy maximize the wear potential of his shorts?

Our shorts have actually been one of our best sellers of the season, I think because it's hard to find a tailored pair at a fair price. The length is that perfect mid-length, not too short or long. We wear them paired with boat shoes, sockless oxford lace-ups, casual button-downs and a polo or tee.

What are some of your favorite pieces in the collection?

The shorts and chinos have great old school details. They're constructed with a full waist curtain and reinforced taped back seams, which makes them fit extremely well. The pockets are nice and deep. And the striped linen short sleeve—the linen is of incredible quality: super breathable and it has a great bounce. Nothing says classic summer better than navy stripes.

 

Published on

July 22, 2013

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