April in the northern hemisphere always provides wardrobe challenges to test the best in rainwear, tailoring and knitwear. Monocle heads to the streets and cosy shelters of Hayama – one hour south of Tokyo.
Fifty years ago it was easy for a man to sport head-to-toe ‘Made in the USA’ brands. Today? Well, these stalwarts have survived and while some have moved manufacturing overseas others are busy boosting their production in…
Now you’ve chosen the ideal bag for your summer sortie you’ll be wanting to fill it with some new seasonal staples. Here we suggest a few articles for your perfect summer packing. Bon voyage, buen viaje, gute
Reise, buon…
In the rough and tumble of Japan’s wash-and-go laundry market, we visit a drycleaner that values service over speed (your shirt will be back in three weeks).
The chair is one piece of furniture that we have almost constant contact with. We sit on them to relax, to work, to socialise, to eat and to wait. And while they might serve a basic utility, there’s a reason why we all have…
Despite its 223-year history, and rural setting, there is nothing dyed in the wool about British knitwear business John Smedley. This is a company that has thrived on its ability to move with the times – and now it is…
Ten-gallon hats and spurs might define the clothes of the Deep South but a more modern look is reimagining this glorious heritage. We meet the designers and retailers creating a new Southern style.
Fine fleeces /Having faltered during the 1990s, the Australian Merino wool industry is seeing a resurgence on the back of a growing luxury market in China and it’s proving a welcome boost to Brand Australia along the way…
With the right ingredients, physical shops can not only survive but thrive in today’s climate. The retailers on these pages show what you can do with a little imagination, an eye for quality and a genuine desire to look…
Monocle presents a list of our favourite shops, the most attentive services, the best store designs and the most innovative concepts in the retail sector.
He’s created a luxury behemoth from scratch and is determined to stay independent, outspoken and successful. Tom Ford talks sex, retail and trackpants.