PUNK UNCLE: APRIL 77 MOUNTAIN SPRINGFIELD CARDIGAN

April 77 - Mountain Springfield Cardigan
in black gray

DETAILS: 80% wool, 20% polyamide five button cardigan with metal studded alpine pattern. This punked up twist on your Uncle Ed's favorite winter sweater takes the traditionally tame garment in a fun new direction. Fashion savvy pop punks everywhere rejoice in how easy this piece is to mix with any of their other studded black garments, but we like it styled a little more subtly. Try pairing this sweater's barely noticeable hardware and off-kilter asymmetrical pattern with a basic oxford, faded jean jacket, and slim trousers. We bet it comes off a little cooler and a lot less obvious.
$310

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Editor's note: I just want to shout a "happy birthday" to my very punk rock little brother. Hope your day was rad, Morgan! -Kris

FALIERO SARTI: BRINGING TEXTURE UP FRONT FOR FALL

Faliero Sarti has been family owned for over fifty years. Producing their scarves and textiles exclusively in Italy, they have created pieces for designers like Ann Demeulemeester, Julius, Vivienne Westwood, and Giorgio Armani to name a few. Hand finished for unique character, each Faliero Sarti scarf is a one-of-a-kind creation.

This season their luxurious silk and cashmere scarves add popping color and mindboggling drape to every ensemble they're thrown into (or on top of), and with fabrics this soft and easy to wear, we're certain they're going to be a serious hit as the weather starts encouraging you to bundle up. Check out a couple of their most textural offerings below:

Faliero Sarti - Petra M
available in emerald (top) and gray
DETAILS: 70% cashmere 30% silk scarf. Lightweight and soft to the touch, this scarf can play multiple roles. Fold and wrap it carefully for a luxurious, dressed up look or throw it casually about the neck and shoulders for a cool, unaffected feel. Any way it's worn, this eye-catching piece is a show stopper for the adventurous gentleman or lady.
MEASURES: 90cm x 200cm.
$318

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Faliero Sarti - Dorita
available in charcoal (top) and dark brick
DETAILS: 100% modal silk scarf. This lightweight scarf's large size and super-fine construction lend themselves to incomparable drape and wearability. Wear this stunning piece as a hood or a shawl, or wrap it multiple times for ultimate volume.
MEASURES: 130cm x 200cm.
$175

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QUODDY: FROM THE SHOEMAKER'S WORKBENCH TO YOU

Blackbird is very proud to introduce Quoddy footwear:

Inspired by the authentic leather moccasins, birch bark canoes, and woven ash baskets produced by the skilled craftsmen and women of the Passamaquoddy tribe of Downeast Maine, Harry Smith Shorey founded Quoddy in 1909, and the company has been family-owned and operated since. Currently produced in a building that has been a devoted shoe factory since the 19th century, Quoddy handmade footwear is made in individual pairs by single highly skilled shoemakers (some of whom are fourth generation craftsmen) who finish every stitch by hand and make it a matter of pride to ensure the exceptional quality of each pair of shoes before they leave the workbench. True to the traditional handsewn moccasin style that surrounds the foot in leather, Quoddy's artisanal construction allows the shoe to form naturally to each wearer's foot, allowing the body's muscles, bones, and tendons to perform as nature intended. In short, these shoes are wicked comfortable once fully broken in, and their simple construction makes them handily repairable. In fact, Quoddy runs their own repair service where you can get yours refurbished by the same hands that originally put the shoes together.

We know, we love these guys too.

Quoddy - Maliseet Oxford
in black (also available in brown and navy)DETAILS: Leather four eyelet deck shoe with glove leather lining and grippy camp sole. Quoddy's standard-bearing oxford comes with chrome hardwear, thick leather laces, and that super-comfy memory foam under their insole. With a style that manages to be at once all its own and wearable with anything, the Maliseet is a fantastic everyday favorite that's built to last the old fashioned way. Wear them with raw denim and a chunky sweater this fall for that winning Ivy League look. Handmade in Maine, USA.
$250

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Quoddy - Deck Chukka
in black
DETAILS: 100% water resistant Horween Chromexcel leather three eyelet chukka boot with white contrast sail stitch, glove leather lining, and grippy camp sole. With its mid-height cut and water resistant leather, this nautical chukka style gives a little more protection from the elements than its lower profile cousins. This easy low boot's contrasting sail stitch gives it a defined waist and differentiates the style from its casual contemporaries. Add a pair of slim jeans or dark trousers, a winter weight shirt, and a fitted military jacket and head out into the storm. Handmade in Maine, USA.
$260

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Quoddy - Ring Boot
in black
DETAILS: Leather chukka boot with two ring cinch enclosure, glove leather lining, and grippy camp sole. Quoddy's statement moccasin sports a unique cinch strap closure that passes through two heavy welded alloy rings and makes this chukka one of a kind. Try it with a more relaxed fitting jean or heavy work pant and a wool shirt jacket this fall, and when spring rolls around they'll be broken in just right - perfect for wearing loose under shorts or rolled khakis. Handmade in Maine, USA.

$300

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Quoddy - Grizzly Moc
in peanutDETAILS: Leather moccasins with collar style lace system, and thick Chromepak leather sole. Equipped with a layer of memory foam underneath the footbed, fully lined with deerskin, and featuring an outdoor-friendly soft leather sole that will mold to your foot shape, these luxurious handmade moccasins wrap your feet in comfort and look great while they're doing it. Wear them with any casual pair of jeans or pants this fall, and next spring wear them barefoot with shorts. Note: These mocs run a little big, and because they're so open on top we'd recommend sizing down half a size. Also, Quoddy's soles are replaceable, extending the life and value of each pair. Handmade in Maine, USA.
$250

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PROPERTY OF... G LOVE

Property of... - G Love Clip

in black, red or green

DETAILS: SOLD ONLINE ONLY. Soft calf leather outer with leather bound nylon twill lining. Single money clip and three credit card sections. Embossed logo on spine. Measures 8cm x 1cm x 10cm.

$80

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Property of... - G Love Cardholder

in black, red or green

DETAILS: SOLD ONLINE ONLY. Soft calf leather outer with leather bound nylon twill lining. Internal zip up coin pocket and four credit card sections. Embossed logo on spine. Measures 8cm x 1cm x 10cm.

$64.00

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NEW SHIPMENT: RRL

We've received a new shipment from RRL this past week. We can't share photos but would love for you to view the collection at The Field House or else we can talk to you about the pieces on the phone and send them your way on trial. Here's an idea of what we received:

Heavy lumberjack style flannel shirts

Heavy sweatshirt knit hooded jacket

Heavy knit merino hunting shirt/jacket

Some other stuff

BILLYKIRK: HEIRLOOM QUALITY, VIDEO FROM THE SCOUT

Blackbird has carried Billykirk since the early days when we were located in a basement in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood, and my sister Heather was running the shop. Back then, we had no idea if handmade leather satchels, wallets and watch bands would sell. I know quality goods when I see them, but would the customers get it? The answer was yes and no. Plenty of customers couldn't understand why they should pay more for a Billykirk belt vs. the ones they offer at stores like J. Crew, and others beamed with delight over the years of fun they would have breaking in the sturdy leather. In the end, Billykirk has stood the test of time at Blackbird and we view the Bray brothers as some of the most genuine and lovely people we work with.

Enjoy the video:

Billykirk from The Scout on Vimeo.

Billykirk - Square Buckle with Reverse Tab

in black or tan

Billykirk - 217 Gusset Zip Wallet

in black

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SKATE OR DIE: BLACKBIRD'S 5TH ANNIVERSARY ROLLERPARTY

It's been almost five years since Blackbird opened its doors to Seattle. Thanks for helping us stick around this long. To show our appreciation, we're having a little party. Let's skate!

The Blackbird 5th Anniversary Party

Thursday, November 12th
Lynnwood Bowl & Skate
8:30 pm

Skating and skate rentals will be compliments of the Blackbird gang.
RSVP here to save your spot because the Lynnwood Bowl & Skate can only contain so many tipsy Ballard buddies on skates!

THE FIELD HOUSE ON GQ.COM

From GQ.com's The GQ Eye blog:

Where the Wild Things Buy

Seattle’s Blackbird isn't your run-of-the-mill men's store (case in point: the on-site "Candy Shoppe" that owner Nicole Miller recently opened for business)—in fact, it's the personality of the place, combined with its clued-in, smartly curated selection of clothes, that make it one of our favorites. So we were curious when we heard about another new Blackbird venture, this one right behind the original store: The Field House, a one-stop shop for outdoorsy workwear—think RRL, Woolrich Woolen Mills, Red Wing boots—plus cool campground gear and goods (thermoses from historic American brand Stanley, flasks by Concord, even locally sourced beef jerky and canned tuna). Plans are in the works to offer classes on topics like butter-churning and spit-shining your shoes—taught by a local ex-Marine—and Miller’s on the hunt for a convection oven to turn out fresh-baked biscuits for customers.

“Someone asked me, where’d you get this idea?” says Miller. “It’s not much of an idea, it’s just how I grew up.” That was in rural Washington State, about an hour outside of Seattle, where Miller spent a lot of time with her grandmother Mable (a woman who often flew with her Marine-pilot husband to Alaska), worked in canneries, and raised her own sheep. Blackbird’s Field House is modeled on the field house of Mable’s youth, a sort of local community center where she took classes in arts and crafts. “We lived most of the time at Grandma’s house, so I grew up shearing lambs and carding wool and spinning and doing all this stuff,” Miller continues. “A lot of people are doing this 'American heritage' thing. But this is really personal for me. When I look at the pictures around, it’s like, there’s Grandpa. Growing up, I had a buckskin dress. I was really good at throwing tomahawks.”

Grandma Mable will be 90 next spring, not that she’s slowing down much. “She could probably still kick your ass,” Miller laughs, “especially now that she’s got a new knee.”

Blackbird: 5410 22nd Avenue NW, Seattle, WA; 206-547-2524. The Field House: 5465 Leary Avenue NW, Seattle, WA. Blackbirdballard.com

To see the original post on The GQ Eye, click here.

ALDEN x BLACKBIRD: THE SHORT WINGTIP BLUCHER

Alden - Blackbird Short Wingtip Blucher

in burgundy
DETAILS: 100% calf leather blucher style wingtip with Goodyear welt construction in dark burgundy. Made expressly for Blackbird (that's what the stamp on the insole says), this model is our reinterpretation of the classic wingtip styles worn by generations of stylish and distinguished professionals. Featuring details like a heavy leather sole, a stacked heel with visible nails on the bottom, a soft and durable calf leather upper, and this almost-black oxblood burgundy finish, this shoe looks great under a suit or with a pair of faded rolled jeans or khakis. For dress, pair them with nearly any color you can think of. This color does it all.
$470

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NOW AVAILABLE ON BLACKBIRDBALLARD.COM: FJALLRAVEN KANKEN BACKPACKS

Introduced in August of 1978, Fjallraven's Kanken backpack was marketed as an alternative book bag for Sweden's school children because it centered its weight evenly along the spine and allowed both hands to be free. The new backpack was initially marked as a symbol of liberal political views and sometimes called "the Communist Hunchback" by stubborn detractors stuck on the old messenger style bags of their childhood, but Fjallraven's founder, Ake Nordin, hoped to sell 200 Kanken bags in their first year. He sold 400. The next year sales reached 30,000. Thirty years have now passed since the first Kanken was sold, and its popularity has grown far beyond the halls of Sweden's educational system. Check 'em out:

Fjallraven - Kanken
in (top to bottom) yellow, navy, olive, putty, black, sand, red, and pink
DETAILS: Vinylon backpack with adjustable shoulder straps, 3/4 zip main compartment, two open side pockets, single small exterior pocket, and reflector logo. MEASURES: 11" x 15" x 6".
$87

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FILSON LONG JOHNS: TJ'S ULTIMATE PJ COMBO

Our model, Tyler J., is all about getting comfy. Imagine his joy when we broke out the new Filson Alaskan Long Johns for a BlackbirdBallard.com photo shoot the other day. He bundled himself right up in their super-soft merino wool coziness and this is all we could get out of him. If you're looking to get as snuggly as TJ this season, check this out:

Filson - Alaskan Long John Crewneck Top
in green
DETAILS: 100% merino wool crew neck long underwear top. Filson's performance expedition weight Long John tops are cut for comfort, field tested and moisture wicking, and their fine merino construction makes them soft and comfortable on your skin. We love wearing ours under a casual button down or T-shirt. It's crazy comfortable, and this dark green shade is a refreshing change from the usual off-white or gray that most long underwear comes in.
$85

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Filson - Alaskan Long John Bottoms
in green
DETAILS: 100% merino wool long underwear bottoms. Filson's performance expedition weight Long John bottoms are cut for comfort, field tested and moisture wicking, and their fine merino construction makes them soft and comfortable on your skin. Wear them as an extra thermal layer on cold days or style them up with lace boots and textural shorts. Hint: if you choose the latter route at all this season, this dark green looks beautiful underneath any of winter's darker shades.
$85

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LOOKS GOOD, SOUNDS GOOD: ESKUCHE HEADPHONES

Blackbird is pleased to introduce Eskuche's premium on-ear headphones, now available online and in store. These stylish listening units look great and sound even better. Plus, dig this list of features:

- Unique "Interchangeable Cording System" includes both audio only funcionality, and audio/voice capability with a mic and answer/end for music and talk
- Works with most MP3 players, iPod, laptops, DJ mixers, iPhone, most Blackberries, and other music enabled mobile devices

- Gold plated 3.5mm plug; 4 pin 3.5mm plug; and 6.3mm adaptor (not for use with 4 pin 3.5mm plug)
- Woven cloth cording to prevent tangling and for premium look and feel
- Plush ear cup cushioning for maximum comfort

Eskuche - Control On Ear Headphones
in beige (top) and black
$58

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Eskuche - 33 1/3 On Ear Headphones
in (top to bottom) black, rose gold, and silver
$58

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INTRODUCING - THE FIELD HOUSE

My grandma Mable grew up in the South Park neighborhood in the very south of Seattle on the Duwamish River. There wasn't much to inspire a young girl growing up during the Depression in one of the poorest parts of the city. Fortunately, there was a place called The Field House just down the street, and Mable and her little sister Margie could go there any time to take classes for free. Crafts were what excited my grandma, and the classes she took inspired her to eventually raise sheep for wool, spin, weave, knit and crochet. Her home became a collection of shells she picked from the beaches in Mexico, giant pine cones from all over the west coast and hand made dolls from Eskimos in Alaska. Her style is her own, and she inspires me more than she will ever know. The goal of The Field House is to inspire you the way the original inspired my grandma.

As with anything I do, this is just a start. We're working on a lot of great ideas we hope to share with you soon. There is so much more I would like to say, but I'll let the photos and your trip to The Field House fill in the rest for now.

Always,

Nicole

The Field House

5465 Leary Avenue NW

Seattle, WA 98107

open every day 10 to 7

HERE'S THE PRESS RELEASE

The Field House opens in Ballard neighborhood of Seattle

Blackbirds’s newest store invokes general store reminiscence

Seattle — The Field House, Blackbird’s newest store, is now open in the heart of Seattle's Ballard neighborhood.

The Field House is reminiscent of general stores that were once at the heart of rural towns across America. Its shelves are stocked with a wide variety of merchandise, including classic work wear, vintage goods, basic groceries and candies, flowers, and perfumes and candles. It captures the history, geography, and folklore of times past, when goods were less disposable and had more meaning, a time when people canned their own food and took a moment to converse with strangers. It is perhaps Blackbird's most personal store, as it is inspired by owner Nicole Miller’s eccentric Pacific Northwest family and her desire to get back to basics.

“In a culture dominated by computers, The Field House is a refreshing invitation to slow down and connect with traditions that are lost and forgotten,” says Miller.

In addition to merchandise, The Field House plans to have free weekly classes on lost skills such as "How to Debone a Chicken" or "Lawnmower Repair." The store will sell Christmas trees for the holidays and will serve a "cup-a-joe" from an insulated Stanley thermos.

The Field House is an experimental pop-up shop. After three months, Blackbird will decide whether to make it a permanent part of the neighborhood. It is located behind Blackbird at 5465 Leary Avenue NW in Ballard. The brands and items currently offered at The Field House include:

Apparel for Men & Women
RRL
Filson
Pendleton
Woolrich Woolen Mills
Woolrich John Rich & Bros.
Alden
Billykirk
The Hill-side
Red Wing
April 77
Fjällräven

Gear
Stanley
Filson
Concord Flasks

Foods
Whidbey Island Trollers canned Albacore
Hammonds
Rococo Chocolatier
Gilliams
Local bulk in-shell nuts
Local beef jerky
Local organic fruits and vegetables
Bee Raw Honey
Frans

Perfumes and such
Diptyque
Cire Trudon
Comme des Garcons
Lipstick Queen

For more information or to set up an interview with The Field House owner Nicole Miller, or for press photos and materials, please contact Cal Ledbetter at Cal.D.Ledbetter@gmail.com

The Field House
5465 Leary Avenue NW
Seattle, WA 98107
info@blackbirdballard.com

HORDAK GOES BEACH CASUAL: RVCA EVIL HORDE GUY TEE

Those of you who grew up in the 80's will remember Hordak from the cartoon classic He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. RVCA has taken it upon themselves to resurrect the commander of the Evil Horde in fitting form for the California-based surf and skate-oriented brand. Their newest collaboration with artist, Matt Furie, depicts the cartoon supervillain dressed in a hoodie, b-ball shorts, and sandals as he rides a scooter (we presume he's going down to the waterfront to see who's hanging out on the boardwalk or something). Check out the new design as well as photos of Hordak in his usual duds from the epic cartoon below.

Hordak, as seen on television:

Hordak x RVCA:

RVCA - Evil Horde Guy T-Shirt
in black
DETAILS: 100% cotton screen printed T-shirt. Designed in collaboration with artist, Matt Furre, this unique print is sure to elicit some comments. Featuring a devil-dog walking, Razr Scooter-riding Hordak look-alike wearing a hoodie and beach sandals, this is definitely not your average run-of-the-mill graphic tee. Wear it with jeans and your favorite sneaks, and you're a walking conversation piece.
$28

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BLEACH: 20 YEARS LATER

This week, Seattle music fans celebrate the 20th anniversary of the release of Nirvana's seminal first album, Bleach. If you haven't dragged this gem out lately, it's time to throw it back on the stereo. The Blackbird office was playing it at high volume yesterday, and we all agree it's as good now as it was when each of us first heard it.

Check out one of our local papers, The Seattle Weekly's excellent commemorative issue this week. They've devoted their cover and several pages to the album that introduced the musical world to Nirvana with articles on the band's early years, Nirvana bassist, Krist Novoselic's interviews with two of the band's early drummers, and a sit-down with Seattle music legend and Bleach producer, Jack Endino. It's a great read for anyone with an appreciation for the band that made Seattle grunge capital of the world. Click here to check it out.

Below, enjoy grainy footage from Nirvana's first recorded concert at the Community World Theater in Tacoma, Washington.

BACK IN STOCK: FILSON TOTE BAGS

Seattle's own C.C. Filson Co. came through for us with a delivery of their sought after totes. Score yours quick, gang. We don't expect them to stick around here for very long.

Filson - Tote Bag Without Zipper
in dark tan
DETAILS: Parafin treated 22 oz. 100% cotton tote bag. Filson's water repellant canvas is ridiculously tough and will wear beautifully, developing a broken-in patina over time that makes it special to each individual owner. This attractive tote sports a leather handle, four exterior pockets (2 large, 2 small), and a unembellished interior compartment. Its outdoors-friendly construction means it's significantly manlier than the silkscreened cotton bag you've been borrowing from your girlfriend - gentlemen, it's time to upgrade.
MEASURES: 14 1/2" x 13" x 5".
$99

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To check out our entire selection of Filson bags and accessories, click here.

TIDY TOUGH: RED WING 9012 & 9015 CLASSIC DRESS MOCS

Red Wing - 9015 (top) and 9012 Classic Dress Mocs
in black (top) and chestnut
DETAILS: Featherstone high shine leather moc-toe work boots with white contrast stitch, Roccia rubber grip sole, and Goodyear Welt construction. With a design inspired by Red Wing founder, Charles Beckman's own style preferences, these polishable boots are made to pull double duty - tough enough for the workplace during the day, but grown up and sharp when they're shined up properly. Red Wing says it best when they say, "These boots are built to impress." Made in USA.
$290

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DARKNESS CONSUMES YOU (WITH WOOL AND CASHMERE): JULIUS 277COM8 KNIT COAT

Julius 277COM8 Knit Coat
in black
DETAILS: 71% wool, 29% cashmere belted long overcoat with oversized drape collar. This wonderfully soft transformer of a topcoat boasts a huge extended collar panel which can be worn as a large hood or draped into a cowl or heavily-layered lapel. The high-waisted belt can be cinched up front to alter the shape of the coat's billowy folds, hung loose and untied to allow the garment to hang full length, or tied back, creating a heavy and sinister reinterpretation of the early 20th century dinner jacket with tails. Due to its formal wool/cashmere construction, this piece can supplement narrow fitting formalwear as an adventurous overcoat, but its obviously boundary-pushing design pairs well with other edgy, dark, and experimental garments. We love mixing it with tonal underlayers and complimentary textures, but a crisp white dress shirt, buttoned high at the collar, stunningly contrasts its soft folded fabric.
$1992

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Editor's Note: Special props go out to our model, Tyler, for the evillest BlackbirdBallard.com photo shoot ever. Check out dude's glare - gives a whole new meaning to the phrase "evil eye." -Kris

COURTESY OF A CONTINUOUS LEAN: THE ALDEN FACTORY TOUR

Blackbird has been proud to count ourselves in the exclusive number of Alden retailers since last summer. With the imminent arrival of our first Alden x Blackbird design collaboration to BlackbirdBallard.com, we were pleased to see A Continuous Lean's coverage of Brooklyn Alden retailer, Epaulet's recent visit to Alden's historic factory.

From A Continuous Lean:

To check out our current selection of Alden footwear, click here.

LEO PHOTOGRAPHED FOR SEATTLE STREET STYLE BLOG, IT'S MY DARLIN

Last weekend, our very own, Charles Leo Gebhardt, IV, was photographed in Ballard by Dana of the Seattle street style blog, It's My Darlin. In addition to taking some fetching shots of our man Leo, Dana had some really nice things to say about Blackbird and Blackbird's women's shop, Birgitta. Thanks, Dana! To see the original post from It's My Darlin, click here,. Check out the pics from their photo shoot below:

BLACK LIKE YOUR SOUL: ODYN VOVK DENIM VEST

Odyn Vovk - Denim Vest
in black
DETAILS: 96% cotton, 4% lycra denim jacket with narrow goatskin sleeves. The combination of rippled leather sleeves and an architectural, heavy denim torso makes for a style that looks gnarly right off the hanger and gets better and better the more you break it in. Equipped with hesher-friendly details like rough finished button holes, industrial seaming, and minimalist hardwear, it'll complete any dark rock 'n' roll look whether it's worn as outerwear or tucked under a heavier winter coat. Mostly we just want you to wear this jacket hard and send us pictures a year from now.
$895

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BLACKBIRD MERCANTILE: HEY, YOU LIKE SCARVES?

Hey, guys. BlackbirdBallard.com's Mercantile section just received over two-dozen beautiful, wool, cashmere, and silk Italian scarves from Pria. You like scarves, don't you? Check them out here.

WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY: WINGS + HORNS QUILTED CHAMBRAY VEST

Wings + Horns - Quilted Chambray Vest
in black
DETAILS: 100% cotton quilted puffer vest with 65% polyester, 35% rayon filling and moisture-wicking Primaloft liner. This thoughtful take on a Northwest favorite's chambray exterior and waistcoat detailing - snaps instead of zips, tailored fit, four sharp front pockets - set it apart from the pack. Great for fall in any locale, this piece layers with ease and its Primaloft lining makes sure you're not too hot or too cold. Try it under or on top of a cropped jacket or throw it on with a flannel or wool work shirt and jeans.
$288

To order, call 866-500-2524 or email info@blackbirdballard.com.

Editor's Note: Our salesguy, Jon's style is a thoughtful combination of vintage gear (dude has some sick old boots) and tailored classics. He likes Wings + Horns' chambray puffer vest because he's a layering fiend and this piece is ridiculously easy to throw into most any mix. Here in Seattle, where the weather can be sunny and warm one minute and all cold wind-and-rain the next, it's nice to have pieces in your closet that will add warmth if you need it, but won't have you sweating in two minutes if you don't.

BECAUSE THEY'RE GOOD FOR YOU: VEGETABLE TANNED BOOTS FROM JULIUS

Julius - 277FWM1 Zip Boots
in black
DETAILS: Vegetable tanned cowhide tall combat boots with heavy stitched seams and large side zip enclosure. With a slim leg, slightly bulbous aggressive toe, and a heavy stacked heel, these 16-eyelet stompers exude a brooding martial ambience that adds texture and tension to the wearer's ensemble. Lace them up snugly over slim trousers to emphasize their military silhouette or wear them loose and slightly unzipped for a slouchy, casual look. Note: These run purposefully large, so size down unless you fully appreciate the oversized look. Made in Japan.
$1770

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Julius - 277FWM2 Slouch Boots

in charcoal
Vegetable tanned cowhide slouch boots with chunky stacked heel and quadruple-stitched side and rear seams. Featuring the familiar bulbous toe and heavy heel shape of its taller cousin, this low slouch boot offers a a more liberal dose of texture and coloring. Its washed calfskin upper comes with a lovingly worn and worked in look and feel, and its mottled green/gray coloring, a product of the specific vegetable dyeing and wash processes each pair goes through, only adds to the effect. Wear these with narrow trousers, destroyed denim, or slouchy shorts for a variety of looks that will only add to this beautiful boot's distinctive flavor. Note: These run purposefully large, so size down unless you fully appreciate the oversized look.
$1506

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LOVE YOUR SHOES: ALDEN ACCESSORIES

Alden - Bone Shoe Horn
DETAILS: 100% bone shoe horn with leather strap. After regular cleaning and conditioning, using a shoe horn to get into your shoes is actually one of the best things you can do for them. Jamming your heel down hard on the back of your shoes breaks down the leather and shortens the lifespan of your footwear. This great little gift will save your shoes and the heel panels of your socks, and it looks classy hanging from a tack in your shoe closet.
$40

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Alden - Fine Boot Cream
available in black and neutral
DETAILS: Alden's Fine Boot Cream is a an all purpose conditioner for smooth leathers, and it's an excellent supplement to polish and waxes. Contains 4 oz.
$10

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Alden - Leather Travel Kit
available in black and tan
DETAILS: Fully lined 100% leather travel kit with embossed Alden insignia and YKK zipper which holds a 12" x 26" buffing cloth, black and color 8 cordovan polishes, and a 100% horsehair brush. Perfect for the shoe enthusiast on the go, this smart little case covers the basics of shoe and boot care for anyone who travels. Alden's footwear is made to exacting long-lasting standards, and preventative maintenance measures like simple cleaning, conditioning, and polishing are the best way to get a full lifespan out of them. Hint: makes a fantastic gift for birthdays or holidays.
$145

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Alden - Pure Horsehair Polishing Brush
DETAILS: 100% horsehair and wood shoe polishing brush with debossed Alden insignia. This cobbler quality brush is the standard in cleaning and polishing tools for all of your leather footwear. Horsehair is tough enough to last through hundreds of uses, but soft enough to leave your leather soft and unscratched. Measures 6 1/2" x 2 1/4".
$30

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Alden - Small Nubuck Brush
DETAILS: Nubuck brush with wood handle and debossed Alden insignia. When your suede and nubuck shoes get dirty, a little back and forth with this tool lifts dirt and fluffs the nap back to where it belongs. Measures 3" x 1".
$7.50

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CRAZY AMAZING OR JUST CRAZY?: MA 280BGU3 HOOP BAG

MA - 280BGU3 Hoop Bag
in black
DETAILS: 100% pig leather hoop tote bag with cotton lining, two two-way YKK zip enclosures, and a large interior patch pocket. This crazy-unique bag is constructed out of eight textural pigskin panels sewn into one long rectangular shape with zips on either side. It can be zipped completely open, slung around the body, and then partially closed from the bottom to create an adjustable pouch portion, but because of the full top-to-bottom zip enclosures, the entire bag is adjustable, which means the wearer can transform its shape and proportions at whim. Zip it high and sling it over one shoulder to carry longer cargo (artwork, baseball bats, your crowbar collection) or leave it mostly open and sling it across your body for a utilitarian sized carryall that's anything but ordinary. Measures 45" x 15" laid flat. Made in Japan.
$645

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CRAIG ROBINSON: FORMAL WEAR FOR THE PHEASANT HUNT

Craig Robinson - Hunting Basket Weave Blazer
in black
DETAILS: 100% wool basket weave blazer with suede hunting patch. This blazer's design is reminiscent of a classic English gentleman's hunting garment. Easily worn as a traditional suiting option (add Craig Robinson's Dak Top Trousers), it can also be paired with more rough and tumble workwear pieces for that on point high-low look. Made in USA.
$1500

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Craig Robinson - Dak Top Trousers
in black
DETAILS: Wool flat-front trouser featuring an adjustable side-buttoning waistband and hidden interior suspender buttons. These slim pants are perfect dressed up with Craig Robinson's Hunting Basket Weave Blazer or give them the rock 'n roll treatment by adding a leather biker jacket and a pair of low zip boots. Made in USA.
$360

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BAGGY IS BEAUTIFUL: ODYN VOVK REVERSED BALLOON SHORTS

As seen on Street Peeper: Odyn Vovk designer, Austin Sherbanenko, sportin' his own pair of Reversed Balloon Shorts.

Odyn Vovk - Reversed Balloon Short
in black
DETAILS: 100% cotton reversed terry cloth shorts with leather drawstring and raw hem. These voluminous shorts play with texture and proportion with their unorthodox feel and jodhpur cut. Wear them with a pair of Diet Butcher Slim Skin Studded sneakers and layered Odyn Vovk Curved Seam Tees or try them out with a crisp button-up and sleek cap-toe shoes. Hint: as it gets colder outside, try them out with an old pair of ratty long johns underneath a la Dave Grohl circa 1991.
$360

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SO GOOD IT'S SPOOKY: DIET BUTCHER SLIM SKIN D93C398 LOOSE KNIT CARDIGAN

Diet Butcher Slim Skin - D93C398 Loose Knit Cardigan

in black
DETAILS: 100% alpaca anti-fit cardigan with gauzey knit and 90% rayon, 10% silk yoke, cuffs, and placket. Intricately woven into a spectral cable pattern and featuring a curved placket and bunched sleeve seams, this unique sweater allows the wearer a few different looks that would be totally unattainable with any other cardigan. Wear it open for drape that extends from underneath your outer layers, button the top button for a decomposing tuxedo jacket silhouette, allow contrasting colors to peek through the gauzy knit, or simply add its texture over dark, tonal shades. Made in Japan.
$590

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MUST-HAVE: ROBERT GELLER WASHED COTTON HOODED BOMBER

Robert Geller - Washed Cotton Hooded Bomber
in navy (also available in black)
DETAILS: 100% cotton hooded bomber jacket with oxydized metal buttons and two-way zipper. Robert Geller reinterprets this jacket for fall in thick, overdyed cotton canvas to dramatic effect. Featuring a ribbed bottom hem and cuffs and a large functional hood, this slim coat is warm, comfortable, and stylish. Wear it with Geller's Five Pocket Skinny Jeans and a T-shirt for a sleek dressed down look or layer it up with your favorite flannel this winter. Note: this shade adds an extra dimension to fall's gray and black palette, and its rich tone is the spot on color choice for the season. Don't fear the navy.
$823

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VOTE, WASHINGTON! APPROVE REFERENDUM 71

There are over 12,000 people in Washington state registered in domestic partnerships. These families live in every county, in all parts of the state. The domestic partnership law ensures that all of these families have the same protections and responsibilities as their neighbors, regardless of where they live.

Gay and lesbian families need domestic partnership laws to provide essential protections for their families. Committed couples who want to take care of each other should be allowed to visit each other in the hospital, take family and medical leave when a loved one is seriously ill, and have insurance coverage. By voting to Approve Referendum 71, you will vote to ensure that all families are provided the same protections under the law.

Families with children need the protections provided by domestic partnership laws, especially when a parent dies. By voting to Approve Referendum 71, you will vote to ensure that all children are provided the same protections under the law.

Seniors need the protections provided by domestic partnership laws. For seniors, domestic partnerships mean that their hard-earned social security, military or pension benefits are not put at risk. By voting to Approve Referendum 71, you will vote to ensure that all seniors are provided the same protections under the law.

Police officers and firefighters who risk their lives to protect our communities need domestic partnership laws if they are hurt or killed in the line of duty, so that their families are taken care of by their pension or workers’ compensation. By voting to Approve Referendum 71, you will vote to ensure that all of our communities’ first responders’ families are provided the same protections under the law.

By voting to Approve Referendum 71, you will vote to ensure that all families should be treated fairly, especially in times of crisis.

PROTECT ALL FAMILIES EQUALLY UNDER THE LAW
VOTE APPROVE ON REF 71

RED WING IRON RANGER WORK BOOTS

Red Wing - 8113 Iron Ranger
in hawthorne
DETAILS: Hawthorne Muleskinner rough suede cap-toe work boots with Goodyear Welt construction. Inspired by the iron miners of northern Minnesota's Mesabi Iron Range, these workhorses come equipped with a Nitrile cork sole, Red Wing's sweat resistant leather insole, silver hardware and a sturdy cap-toe. Guaranteed to look rugged and beautiful whether you brush them clean or get them filthy - either way this pair is built to last you. Made in USA.
$270

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THIS JUST IN: LEO GROWS EXTRA SET OF ARMS AS GITMAN VINTAGE STOCK QUADRUPLES

Blackbird is pleased to announce the recent arrival of two new Gitman Vintage shirt styles and restocks of three classics! Scroll down for details - on the shirts, not the extra limbs.

On Leo:
Gitman Vintage - Pinpoint 1.1.181VBD Longsleeve Shirt
in white
DETAILS: 100% cotton pinpoint shirt with button-down collar and single chest pocket.
$132

To order call 206-547-2524 or 866-500-2524, or email info@blackbirdballard.com.

Gitman Vintage - B4488-60 VKEY Longsleeve Shirt
in red/white/blue/black plaid
DETAILS: 100% cotton flannel shirt with button-down collar and single chest pocket.
$156

To order call 206-547-2524 or 866-500-2524, or email info@blackbirdballard.com.

Gitman Vintage - 1B430VBD-73 Longsleeve Shirt
in blue/off-white/yellow/green/navy
DETAILS: 100% cotton midweight shirt with button-down collar and single chest pocket.
$144

To order call 206-547-2524 or 866-500-2524, or email info@blackbirdballard.com.

Gitman Vintage - 1B400VBDX-60 Longsleeve Shirt
in pink
DETAILS: 100% cotton oxford cloth shirt with button-down collar and single chest pocket.
$132

To order call 206-547-2524 or 866-500-2524, or email info@blackbirdballard.com.

Gitman Vintage - 1B438VBD-27 Longsleeve Shirt
in natural/black/purple

DETAILS: 100% cotton flannel shirt with button-down collar and single chest pocket.
$156

To order call 206-547-2524 or 866-500-2524, or email info@blackbirdballard.com.