Industry Publicity Showroom, NYC
March 25th, 2009
Words, Images Judith Ecochard and courtesy of Industry Publicity
On a certain mental level, it seems INSANE to us that denim can be so costly…
In this economy, it is even more nuts to assume customers will fork over $150 plus for premium jeans.
An email blast got us very keen to see up close and in person, a new brand- Tokyo Five, that channels “Bravery, Respect, Honor, Loyalty, Wisdom…the code of the Warrior” as a type of mission statement.
Having lived in Japan, we were curious as to the whole thought process and product execution mesh. Plus the brand’s alignment/endorsement deal with Mixed Martial Arts professionals Gabriel Gonzaga and Pete Sell is a deliberate choice that adds instant cred.
It’s all kinda an apparel fusion of an American edgy energetic sport, European detailing (distressed rugged touches on some…and hot, hot, hot back pocket designs-especially on the sexy fitted women samples), and primo Japanese denim--- with the want it tip top washes and rinses.
Apparently, Tokyo Five’s President Charles Jabra, a “rabid Mixed Martial Arts fan” correctly saw a gap in the market for well constructed, affordable AND hip denim for men and women.
Priced from $75-$95 per …and soon to be available at select Macy’s---we liked the fit of the men’s line---definitely macho American---but slick enough for our Euro buddies.
And the ladies’ models…we so want. ‘Nough said.
ALSO AVAILABLE:
Comfy Tees with Asian graphics that “sets Tokyo Five apart.”
We detect a zeitgeist moment for this brand new label.
INFO: TOKYO FIVE
ALEXIS HUDSON
While at the Industry Publicity showroom, we got a chance to see the luxe carry-alls from Alexis Hudson...a collection conjured up by Rochelle Copeland and Emily Ironi. Mixed materials including the Spring “it” skin python, plush Italian leathers, durable nylons, and snake snippets form the textured samples---including the versatile four-in-one handbag that has a detachable clutch/handbag option.
Perfect for office cubicule workers who must magically morph into night time fashionistas- without a pit stop at home.
As NYers who haul around our lives, we actually liked the oversized barrel shape satchel that has bundles of inner and outer zipper pockets to organize our stuff.
Right now, customers can scoop up every styles online for half off from March 23rd-April 4th ---using the coupon code AHFRIEND.