The founders of menswear and lifestyle brand Shipley & Halmos are as likeable as the clothes they make. Having carved out a niche in the market with their witty and wearable menswear, accessories and footwear, the brand is enjoying something of a boom. The Manual caught up with design duo Sam Shipley and Jeff Halmos to discuss their latest offering for spring 2013 and Shaggy 2 Dope, coincidentally.
Hi guys, we love the new collection. Can you paint a mental picture of your mood board for this season?
Sam Shipley: We never really get too “themey” when it comes to our inspiration, although it would be fun to design a collection based on the characters from Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. Ha! When you look at our boards, you’ll notice they’re more about general mood and feeling with a strong sense of color. That’s the jumping off point. It should feel curated with sources ranging from furniture design to prints to a great photograph of a cactus, etc. Ironically, fashion-related images are seldom the focal point.
If you had to advise us to buy one piece which would it be and why?
Jeff Halmos: Gotta go with the Stephan crewneck sweater. The repeat embroidery is a classic detail, and I love our version that features an artist at his easel. Plus, the cotton yarn is wearable almost all year round; lightweight and soft.
How would the Shipley & Halmos guy (circa spring 2013) spend his Saturday?
SS: Well, I can tell you how I plan to spend my Saturdays this summer, and considering I wear plenty of S&H, that might give you some insight. My girlfriend (actually fiancé, but that term is so stodgy) and I moved into our place in the fall. We got a little glimpse of the possibilities of our back yard, so we plan on taking full advantage of the BBQ setup once the weather warms up a bit!
What has been the weirdest source of inspiration for you to date?
JH: Not sure I’ve ever been asked that question before. For a while a hilarious interview with Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope from the cutting edge rap metal group Insane Clown Posse was pinned on our inspiration board as a little inner-office prank. It ended up staying there for at least a month!
What are you excited for this summer?
SS: Hanging with friends and family in the BVI in June. I need some beach in my life.
