“GET YOUR PLAID ON” --THE ORIGINAL CLOTHING COMPANY®
Outdoor Retailer, Salt Lake City, UTAH
Words, Images Judith Ecochard
Woolrich’s iconic red Buffalo plaid pattern harks back to the 1850’s. But nowadays…there are several divisions rockin' the pattern under the Woolrich brand ---a “multi-tiered” company with sections channeling American practicality and Euro chic.
At OR, we saw some price approachable styles that belong to the Woolrich Heritage Collection of rugged classics--- and items from the regular folks' label---all priced sensibly.
FOR 2010:
Dipping into the archives, Woolrich came up with some key performance pieces that 21st century types will look good in.
Dipping into the archives, Woolrich came up with some key performance pieces that 21st century types will look good in.
Our top pick was a refreshed Railroad Vest…that dates back to the late 1800’s garments originally made in Pennsylvania.
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Another vest has clean lines, want it zipped pockets for iPods, and zipped front. And vests are still selling well for next season.
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Another vest has clean lines, want it zipped pockets for iPods, and zipped front. And vests are still selling well for next season.
The Buffalo check---a pattern that inspired other Woolrich patterns too--- appears in M/Ws separates like a badge of honor. We think--- effortless fusion of the old with modern goodies.
Case in point…the Westline jacket is made from techy wool laminate for protection against the elements…but with side panels and lower arms made of softshell stretch material. ($189 -Pictured above)
Another bumped up plaid classic that references the double breasted Navy peacoat -is the tapered Raeburn 11 jacket (W). It’s stylish but also has cozy features like vented cuffs and zipped closures. ($149)
And an Artic Parka and the gal’s version---the warm Klondike Parka-- are synonymous with Alaskan toilers (but not a former Govenor cuz' that's an oxymoron).
The lady’s take, jacket meaning--- is a winner… functional and feminine---with a curvy profile that's not puffed up like many quilted jackets. Tricked out with removable faux fur collars and cuffs, removable belt (women's version), and two way zippers...both genders' jackets cross the urban/rural divide and kinda remind us of those 80's best sellers.
The lady’s take, jacket meaning--- is a winner… functional and feminine---with a curvy profile that's not puffed up like many quilted jackets. Tricked out with removable faux fur collars and cuffs, removable belt (women's version), and two way zippers...both genders' jackets cross the urban/rural divide and kinda remind us of those 80's best sellers.
A Stag shirt has hipster cool all over it---with two warmer side , interior and back stash pockets…plus it’s washable. This top can work as a jacket too ($115).
And of course...there are the western vibe plaid shirts that go beyond the Grunge.
And of course...there are the western vibe plaid shirts that go beyond the Grunge.
Another key piece-- is the updated Tailgating jacket (M-$189) ---Pioneer Jacket (W- $169 pictured below)---a modern take on the original 503 Woolrich Field jacket--- with a two way zipper, a high collar, snap close front pockets, knit storm cuffs, and a slimmer silhouette.
A big trend we noticed across many labels is the ‘return’ of traditional ski sweaters. Woolrich’s take combines the Buffalo check on the shoulders atop an 100% lambswool zipped pullover with fleece collar (Windfall half Zip $85).
WHAT ELSE:
A super soft merino Wool long sleeve zip and Tremberton Pants.
NICE.
ADDED BONUS:
We had a nice chat with a Woolrich rep on the last day--- and got an early scoop on the Summer 2011 looks…and yes…plaid still rules... with a warm weather palate. And employees at the show better get those legs in shape.