blogTO // Sydney's open again in West Queen West
Sydney's may have been burned recently, but the modern menswear retailer has not let a little smoke and soot taint the image of its emerging brand.
Entering the former Heel
Boy digs, the message could not be stronger. Sydney's is bigger and
fuller than ever, housing Kin, an in-store label that focuses on
simplicity and minimalism to reflect "new restraint," a trend that
exceeds the colour camel (despite what most Phoebe Philo fetishists
might say).
Where many have come to
know Sydney's for their high price points, there are definitely options
to suit your budget. Them Atelier, a denim manufacturer from LA is now
being carried in 4 washes and 3 styles at a 98 dollar price point across
the board - not too shabs for quality-fit and quality-make denim. Those
venturing for a denim statement with a bit more substance can take a
look at top selling brand Naked and Famous, a line that boasts a soft to the
touch flannel option ($200).
What I valued most about my Sydney's experience was the well curated atmosphere. Although colour is mostly absent, each piece can be paired with any other on the racks that run the walls, making it a veritable "one stop shop."
In-house label Kin
offers a 5 pocket charcoal trouser that can be worn casually as a jean
or formally as a tailored pant - made from salvaged Japanese material
and with red hem-stitch detailing, it is the kind of versatile pant that
I can see shelling out $250 for.
Conservative options
range from a Kin collared jacket with hidden closure ($795), to more
updated staples like their charcoal gray suiting. Not looking to sample
the unfamiliar? Sydney's also carries popular brand Jil Sander for those
complacent shoppers who might not be willing to expand their wardrobes
with something fairly new and less international. Those still sweating
the pockets of Toronto humidity will look great and feel cool in a
lightweight check short sleeve option for $460. A little pricey, but for
an international brand that makes quality menswear, you would be
investing in a piece that will see heavy rotation.
If you are put off by
the lack of colour or even if you aren't sure you are the monochromatic
sort, there are options for most men in Toronto. Not for the bro in you,
maybe, but certainly anyone looking to "class up" an occasion will find
refuge in one of Sydney's well crafted button-ups, or slimmer cut
suiting.
Window decals indicated
that their liquidation post-fire sale continues with pieces discounted
up to 80%. The selection is limited, so get there soon before it is too
late.
