Nice Kicks
Not all that many blogs wind up opening stores, and even fewer of those expand their operations into the brick-and-mortar world — so it goes without saying that Nice Kicks is unique in more ways than one. Still run by blog founder Matt Halfhill, this campus-area store offers a stellar selection of sneakers from the likes of Nike, Adidas, Vans, and more, as well as essential accessories to accent your new shoes. Just watch out for launch days, when the lines in front of the store can grow long enough to deter even the most desperate, shoeless shopper. [via]
Ambrose Vintage
Plenty of times when a store changes ownership, it completely changes course — so it's reassuring that after a change in the middle of last year, Ambrose Vintage is much the same as it was for years under its previous moniker, Stefan's Vintage Clothing. As you might have guessed from the name(s), this store offers up a host of vintage clothing for both guys and gals, with a focus on classic tees mixed in with stylish jackets, tops, hats, patches, buttons, and other goods. Oh, and be sure to keep an eye out for the store's namesake, Ambrose the shopcat.
Machus
Many folks in the City of Roses were saddened by the closure of Local35 — but like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the store's founder has risen with a new store named after... himself. Machus is the result, a well-curated collection of modern clothing from some of the best designers around the globe. From APS and Apolis to Ursa Major and Warriors of Radness, you're sure to leave looking better than when you arrived... assuming you wear your new duds out.
Denim Revival
Sure, they have an impressive selection of new and vintage jeans, shirts, jackets, boots, belts, and other accessories. But more than likely that's not the reason you'll be visiting Denim Revival. Instead, you'll be stopping by to get your existing denim repaired. The shop's repair service is legend in the area, as it specializes in a type of mend that renders the repair invisible to the naked eye, saving overly worn or otherwise ripped jeans from being relegated to yard duty. Of course, they can also do traditional alterations, so whether you've gained or lost a few pounds, you can rest assured that your favorite pairs will still fit.
Henry the Hatter
Searching for a fine hat in Motown? You shouldn't have to. Henry the Hatter is a one-stop shop for your bald patch-covering needs. Founded in 1893 and in the same location since 1962, this legendary shop offers hats and caps from New Era, Dobbs, Stetson, Borsalino, Kangol, Biltmore, and others. Already have a hat that simply needs some TLC? They also offer a basic cleaning and blocking service, alongside a full restoration option that will see your favorite hat renovated from the brim up.
Primitive
When you're trying to find the latest skateboarding kicks, it helps to go to a store that's run by a skateboarder. Founded by famed 'boarder Paul Rodriguez, Primitive offers up a wide selection of Nike SB gear, as well as the Valley's best selection of tees, hats, jackets, shirts, and accessories from the likes of The Hundreds, Diamond, Obey, Vans, Crooks & Castles, and more. If that's not enough to entice you, keep in mind that it's worth stopping by just to check out the design of the store.
Lawrence Covell
Originally started in Boulder as a handmade leather goods store, Lawrence Covell has become the go-to store for many a discerning man in the area. With a wide range of offerings that run from bohemian and hipster-ish to classic and conservative, they should have something that suits your taste, and from a well-known brand as well — Luciano Barbera, Kiton, Oliver Spencer and Raleigh Denim, Paul Smith, and Rag and Bone are just a few of the labels you'll find inside. Not sure what you want? Go ahead and ask the friendly staff, who will be happy to find you a drink — be it a coffee, wine, or beer — to sip on while you discuss.
Boyd's Philadelphia
The mall is a great place to go for variety, but it just can't compete with a great standalone store for ambiance. Take Boyd's Philadelphia for example. Men have been buying their clothes there since 1938, and it's easy to see why. Stretched across four floors — and with three of them offing men's gear — the store offers everything from fine suiting to casual sportswear, as well as a revered selection of shoes. If you've got some extra time to kill, be sure to visit the cafe for a bite, or just to grab a drink.
Joseph's
It doesn't matter if you're looking for casual threads, a custom tailored suit, or just some great denim — Joseph's has you covered. Housed in a converted dry storage warehouse from the early 1800s, the store offers four sections spread across two floors: casual, Italian sports wear, suiting, and denim + shoes. While the diverse selection includes brands from all over the globe, the store has an affinity for US brands such as Pendleton, Shwood, Gitman Brothers, Bill's Khakis, and Local Citizen. Even if you're not interested in everything they have on offer, be sure to explore the whole store — with its exposed beams and vintage brick walls, it's an attraction unto itself. [Scouted by Zach]
Caruso Caruso
Whether you're looking for denim, shirts, or more denim, Caruso Caruso is worth the trip. Located just slightly northwest of Detroit, this large store is home to a huge selection of brands, including AG, Psycho Bunny, SLVDR, Flying Monkey, Citizens of Humanity, Drifter, Retro Brand, 3rd & Army, and Earnest Sewn, as well as a selection of locally-branded goods from the likes of Detroit Shirt Co., and Made In Detroit. They also offer shoes, hats, and other accessories — but the big draw is the denim, especially for those brands that aren't exactly easy to find elsewhere in the Mitten.
Sneaker Bistro
They don't serve food, but if you're looking for fashionable kicks, Sneaker Bistro has what you need. Inspired by Italian bistros, the interior is more classy than most eateries, with brick walls, porcelain tiles, unique shelving, granite, rich woods, brass, and even a faux brick oven. Of course, you're there for the shoes not the decor, and they deliver there, too, with plenty of styles and limited edition offerings from the likes of Nike, Reebok, and The Hundreds, plus streetwear from brands like Play Cloths, Gommi Arcade, and G-Shock. And like any good restaurant, the service is top-notch as well — so no worries about getting a rude waiter staffer.
Peter Nappi
It's a bit off the beaten path, set in a repurposed meat packing plant overlooking the Cumberland River, but trust us — the trip to Peter Nappi is worth the trip. Named for the current owner's grandfather who also happened to be a shoe maker, this store offers shoes, boots, bags, belts, and other leather goods that are designed locally but hand-crafted in Italy using high-quality leathers and old-world techniques. In addition to the leather goods, most everything else in the rustically-appointed store is for sale, as well, including couches, lighting fixtures, rugs, and other knick-knacks. [Scouted by Joey]
