INTRODUCING: KATO' BY HIROSHI KATO November 03 2014 1 Comment

Japanese brand KATO' was born in Kyoto in 1999 from a love of vintage clothing. Hiroshi Kato creates pieces with the timeless nature of his favorite vintage items and the intention the garments will evolve with the wearer. Service has introduced three shirts in mid to lightweight flannel, made with Japanese fabrics, a slim fit, and interesting details that are true to Kato's artisan aesthetic. Now available in-store & online at servicemenswear.com.

KATO' Lumberjack Flannel Shirt Charcoal Plaid.

KATO' Maru Flannel Dobby Shirt Grey.

KATO' Holiday Check Flannel Shirt Charcoal Pine.

NEW ARRIVALS: HARTFORD October 27 2014

New arrivals for Fall from French label Hartford. Each season, Hartford produces beautiful, pieces that are timeless & easy, made with luxe textiles and designed with subtle details that make each item feel extra special. And every year, we look forward to receiving their classic knits and well-crafted button up shirts. We have stocked henleys, plaid shirts, a chambray shirt, long sleeve tees, and sweaters in easy to wear blues and greys.

Hartford Long Sleeve Tees in Army, Grey, Light Blue & Indigo.

Hartford Cotton V-Neck Sweater in Blue Grey & Hartford Slub Knit V-Neck Sweater in Navy.

Hartford Large Check Flannel in Grey, Black, Navy.

Now available in-store and online at servicemenswear.com.

SELVEDGE DENIM ORIGAMI October 25 2014

Naked & Famous Denim will be making selvedge denim origami today in-store...come by for a 1-on-1 fitting and receive one of these beautiful gifts with purchase.

NAKED & FAMOUS DENIM X GQ PARTY October 21 2014

Friday night. 6pm-9pm. Naked & Famous x Service x GQ How To. Tito's & Perla's. DJ Starsign. Come hang with us.

ELEPHANT 4 HAS LANDED... October 20 2014

Naked & Famous Elephant 4 denim has arrived at Service. This cult pair of jeans is cut from 22 oz raw, Japanese selvedge denim and comes in the tapered, Weird Guy fit. Why do we love this pair of jeans? Because they wear in so beautifully over time, it is like creating a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Below, we have posted photos of the Elephant 3 denim, the previous iteration of this jean, after 1 year of wear and many washes. This is the kind of denim people pay upward of $300 dollars for, to achieve the look of perfectly worn in jeans without doing the work. The below pair is what they look like when you do it yourself...custom denim that is unique to your body and lifestyle and looks better than any treated denim you'd find ready-to-wear. Buy a pair and get going on creating your own beautiful fade. You won't regret it and you'll have them forever until you want to do it again (and we bet you will).

Photo cred: Tate & Yoko.

Don’t miss out on our 2 in-store Naked & Famous Denim x GQ Magazine events coming up this week on Friday, October 24th and Saturday, October 25th. Our good friend Bahzad, one of the designers of Naked & Famous Denim, will be here starting Friday for a pop-up shop featuring boldly printed shirts from their Fall 2014 collection. We’re going to have a great promotion during the event as well as drinks, music, and delicious eats from Perla’s Seafood & Oyster Bar.

On Saturday, Bahzad will be in-store to answer any and all of your denim questions and will be making custom denim origami to gift along with any Naked & Famous Denim purchase. It’s going to be a great weekend and we can’t wait to see you there.

Now available in-store & online at servicemenswear.com.

VANS x GQ PARTY October 10 2014

Look forward to seeing you there!

INTRODUCING: REIGNING CHAMP October 07 2014

Brand new to Service, Canadian label Reigning Champ has arrived for Fall. We are stocking handcrafted sweatshirts & sweatpants made in beautiful, original fabrics that are developed in-house. The factory is located in Vancouver, BC where Reigning Champ has been based since 2007. We are drawn to these pieces for their simplicity of style and well-executed details. The Midweight Twill Terry hoodie has interior binding that reaches from the inside neck around to the front and down the interior of the center front placket, all in a natural cotton tape. Added side panels are made from 1x1 rib for comfort and movability - a functional detail that also adds interest. We started to refer to the fabric as the raw denim of the sweatshirt world...the more wear each item gets, the better it looks and feels. This collection is meant to pass the test of time and is available as core basics all year round.

Midweight Twill Terry Zip Hoodie Heather Grey.

Midweight Twill Terry Zip Hoodie Black & Navy.

Ringspun Jersey Tee Heather Grey.

Ringspun Jersey Tee Black & White.

Midweight Twill Terry Crewneck Heather Grey.

Midweight Twill Terry Sweatshort Heather Grey & Black.

Midweight Twill Terry Blanket Heather Grey & Navy.

Available in-store & online at servicemenswear.com.

NEW FROM NAKED & FAMOUS DENIM September 23 2014

New for Fall, Service has stocked four styles of selvedge, Japanese denim from our good friends at Naked & Famous. Above, Naked & Famous SkinnyGuy in Deep Indigo Stretch Selvedge.

Naked & Famous WeirdGuy in Twisted Candy Weft Selvedge.

Naked & Famous SkinnyGuy in Charcoal Selvedge. 

Naked & Famous WeirdGuy in Blanket Lined Denim. 

Also exciting, we've received two shirts to add to our ever growing Fall shirting selection.

Naked & Famous Regular Shirt in Printed Sheeting Navy.
Naked & Famous Slim Shirt in Shadow Plaid Navy Cream.

Available in-store & online at servicemenswear.com.

NEW ARRIVALS: DEUS EX MACHINA September 19 2014

Deus Ex Machina Mixed Lollies Shirt Bluestone.

It is always exciting when a brand comes along that makes quality products, are not over-designed & compliment our lifestyle just so. New arrivals from Deus Ex Machina have hit the store and we are proud to say they just keep getting better and better every season. Take a look at our Fall knits, shirts & hats from the notorious moto & surf brand, now available at Service Menswear.

Deus Ex Machina Mixed Lollies Shirt Leaf Green. 

Deus Ex Machina Yeti Sweater Black. 

Deus Ex Machina Hannibal Henley Bluestone. 

Deus Ex Machina Benelli Henley Charcoal. 

Deus Ex Machina Mason Tiger Tee Grey. 

Deus Ex Machina Coutinho Trucker Hat Green/Black. 

Deus Ex Machina Lamotte Trucker Hat Black.

Available in-store & online at servicemenswear.com.

NEW ARRIVALS: NAKED & FAMOUS September 11 2014

Naked & Famous Slim Crewneck Ivory & Grey Stripes.
Naked & Famous Slim Crewneck Vintage Doubleface Charcoal.

Naked & Famous Slow Vintage Slim Hoodie Black.

Naked & Famous Regular Shirt Soft Herringbone Navy.

Naked & Famous Slim Shirt Twisted Yarn Grey.

Naked & Famous Regular Shirt Soft Brushed Twill Charcoal.

Available in-store & online at servicemenswear.com.

NEW ARRIVALS: GANT RUGGER September 02 2014

Known for their extra soft, casual shirting and sharp menswear tailoring, the first delivery of Fall Gant Rugger shirts has arrived at Service.

Gant Rugger Windblown Oxford Plaid in Port.

Gant Rugger Woolster E-Z Button Down in Sunflower.

Gant Rugger Indigo Oxford Button Down in Faded Indigo.

Gant Rugger Indigo Oxford Button Down Windowplaid in Blue.

Gant Rugger Indigo Madras Button Down in Indigo.

Gant Rugger Indigo Oxford Button Down in Dark Indigo.

In addition, we have stocked a handsome, subtle glen check blazer. Slim fit and slightly shorter in length with a natural shoulder, two button closure and double back vent. Suitable for jeans or more formal, a great addition to a Fall wardrobe.

Gant Rugger Glen Check Peak Lapel Blazer in Marine.

GUILLOW'S BALSA AIRPLANES August 26 2014

Started in 1926 by Mr. Paul K. Guillow, a WWI US Navy aviator vet, Guillow's planes was born from a true appreciation of all things aviation. The first balsa wood model kits were fashioned after famous WWI combat air crafts. They gained popularity in 1927 after Charles A. Lindbergh’s infamous first non-stop flight from New York to Paris on the Spirit of St. Louis.

During WWII, balsa wood became increasingly scarce as the US military required the material for use in rafts and life jackets. Plastic became the standard material for model airplanes, which saw a decline in kits using cardboard or pine in place of the lighter balsa wood.

After the war, Guillow changed the focus of his company to produce inexpensive, hand launched rubber powered gliders. We have stocked these same balsa wood gliders which are still produced in the old Guillow’s factory in Wakefield, MA open since 1933. Their vintage appeal and simplicity make the planes enjoyable, easy & fun. Each plane is a great, affordable gift made here in the USA that reminds us of the simple and uncomplicated pleasures in life.

Available in-store & online at servicemenswear.com.

NEW ARRIVALS: VANS X DANE REYNOLDS August 13 2014

Photo cred: VANS

Just in for the end-of-Summer, new arrivals from surfer Dane Reynolds’ shoe collab with Vans. This fall, Dane lends his unique artistic direction to a seasonal collection featuring these two radical styles. Part of the Vans surf collection, the Costa Mesa and Chukka Boot come in his signature washed canvas colorways with Dane Reynolds illustrated labels.

Vans Dane Reynolds Costa Mesa in Insignia Blue ($55).

Vans Dane Reynolds U Chukka Boot in Black ($65).

Now available in-store & online at servicemenswear.com.

NEW ARRIVALS: RVCA ALEX KNOST & CHRISTIAN FLETCHER August 06 2014

Photo cred: Jeremiah Klein Service has stocked new arrivals from RVCA featuring items from collections designed by Alex Knost & Christian Flecther. Alex Knost is a well known surfer as well as designer and musician and has collaborated on a number of capsule collections for RVCA. Now available online & in-store, Permanent Press Stripe Shirt in Caper Green from Fall 2014 RVCA x Alex Knost.

 Permanent Press Stripe Shirt Caper Green ($58).

Christian Fletcher, known as the pioneer of aerial surfing, teamed up with RVCA for some surf-punk inspired pieces. The Fletcher Cardigan is now available from Service in-store & online.

Fletcher Stripe Cardigan Black ($108).

SUMMER SALE 50% OFF! August 02 2014

THE POSTER LIST July 20 2014

Hailing from Long Beach, California, The Poster List is a beach inspired tee shirt brand with its roots in typography, photography & surf culture. Their t-shirts have a casual California vibe with original graphics & imagery and come in a broad range of sun bleached colors. The tees are 100% washed down cotton or ti-blend for an extra soft hand.

We have just restocked our favorite Poster List tees of the season, which are now available in-store and online at servicemenswear.com.

NEW ARRIVALS: DEUS + VANS + RVCA July 10 2014

Deus Ex Machina Mewson Stripe Pocket Tee Vanilla ($58) & Deus Ex Machina Hahwah Stripe Pocket Tee Indigo ($58).

Deus Ex Machina Bates Boardshorts in Bjorn, Copernicus, & Tribal ($75). 

Deus Ex Machina Andersen Grid Shirt ($110) & Deus Ex Machina Bennett Polka Dot Shirt ($95).

Vans U Era Coated Canvas Cloudburst Grey ($62), Vans Dane Reynolds Costa Mesa Washed Canvas Blue ($55) & Vans Aldrich Nailhead Canvas Shitake ($58).

RVCA Greaser Stripe Crew Tee Midnight Navy & Silver Bleach ($38). 

RVCA Short Sleeve Woven Shirts ($55). 

RVCA All Time Chino Cutt-Off Shorts in Bluestone, Dark Slate, Duck Green & Apple Cinnamon ($55).

Available in-store & online at servicemenswear.com.

MADE IN THE USA! July 03 2014

July 4th, 5th, and 6th, Service will offer 20% off all US made goods at our store! We stock many brands that manufacture some or all of their products in America. Below are some of our favorite Summer items that are made right here in the USA.

Here are all the brands we currently carry that make products in the US:

-Alexander Olch
-ALTRU tees
-AO Eyewear
-Billykirk leather goods
-Ferrell Reed ties & bowties
-Gitman Vintage
-Hand letter press & vintage reproduction cards
-Dr. Hunter's grooming products
-Ike Behar ties & bowties
-Lucky Tiger grooming products
-Marianella soaps
-Paine's Balsam Incense
-Paste tees
-Patch NYC candles
-Phantasmagoria belts
-Service tees
-Slow Loris tees
-Swedish Dream soaps
-Wm. J. Mills & Co.

RED, WHITE & BLUE June 25 2014

For the upcoming Holiday, Service has stocked fun & novel shirts, swim trunks, and shoes in red, white, and blue.

Above, Vans Low Profile Era's in Navy, Red, & White ($55) and Van Doren Authentics Stars & Stripes ($65).

Toddland ‘Merica Boxerbriefs ($24).

Obey Short Sleeve Franklin Stars Shirt White ($65).

Sundek Long Striped Rainbow Swim Shorts Blue ($135).

Available in-store and online at servicemenswear.com.

VANS GIVEAWAY June 22 2014

For a limited time, buy 2 items from Vans (shoes and apparel) and receive a FREE DIY tie dye VANS swim trunk kit! Just mention this post at time of purchase. 

Left, white cotton boardshorts, ready for dyeing with RIT dye. Right, take them home and tie dye your swim trunks in your kitchen! Kit comes with 4 RIT dye packets and blank, un-dyed boardshorts. Instructions included inside the box. Promotion applies to in-store purchases and online.

SUMMER ESSENTIALS FOR DAD June 12 2014

Dad's earn the reputation for having style that is pretty classic, if not a little basic. With that in mind, we put together a collection of items that are the basics of any guy's Summer wardrobe. Whether he's super stylish or doesn't like to think about what he's wearing at all, these featured products are timeless, modern, comfortable, and suitable for anyone...dad or not!

Above, Nixon Chrono All Black ($275), Nixon Sentry Leather White & Brown ($135), Nixon Sentry Chrono Black ($300).

Service 100% Cotton T-Shirts Made in the USA in Grey Heather, Sky Blue, Nopal Green, & Via Mar Blue ($35). 

American Optics Spatula Temple Pilot Sunglasses in Silver, Gold, & Black ($70 - $75). 

Penguin Slim Fit Basic Shorts in Vintage Khaki, Dark Denim, & Faded Denim ($65).

Available in-store and some online at servicemenswear.com.

GO FOR THE SUN WITH SUNDEK June 11 2014

"Go For The Sun With SUNDEK" is SUNDEK's original tagline. For the sixth Summer in a row, SUNDEK continues to be one of our favorite swim brands. Its vintage appeal, vibrancy, and nod to California surf culture rounds out the surf shop feel of the store during this time of year.

Sun-dek of California was born in the 1940's. In the late 50's the brand created some of the very first swim shorts dedicated to surf's increasing popularity. The year 1972 marks the era of the rainbow board shorts and the arrival of the iconic surf brand. These swim shorts were the first to offer Velcro closures instead of zippers and are well enforced with triple stitching to avoid seam blowouts.

Original 70's era photography and advertising of the SUNDEK brand.

Available in-store and online, 14" & 17" rainbow swim shorts in 12 styles.

FATHER'S DAY JUNE 15TH June 03 2014

For this father's day, we've rounded up some store favorites that are sure to please dad. Above, wallets and card cases by Jack Spade & by Porter ($65 - $158). 

Castle Forbes fragrances ($95 - $145). 

Grooming products from Osma, Merkur, Omega, and Golddach's ($10 - $74). 

And for the dad who would actually want to...ties from Alexander Olch & Gitman Bros. ($98 - $150).

All available in-store at Service Menswear.

BRAND NEW: KROCHET KIDS May 29 2014

New to Service, tees from a conscious brand set out to empower women living in impoverished nations one crocheted hat (or pocket tee in this case) at a time. Each piece is hand-signed by the woman who made it, giving insight into what the impact of a job looks like for that one person. Krochet Kids has tracked this impact to show leaps in personal income growth, healthier families, a decrease in domestic violence, and gender equality recognition for the women working to create their unique products. Available in-store and soon to be online, take a look at what we've stocked for Spring. 

First image, Pocket Tank in Black ($38). Above, Pocket Crew Tee in Natural ($42). 

Short Sleeve Pocket Henley in Natural & Denim ($45). 

The details: henley pocket and interior hand-signed tag.

ROUNDUP: MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND May 21 2014

It's Memorial Day weekend, which means swimming, BBQ, sunshine (we hope!), cold beers, and relaxation. Service currently has 48 styles of swim trunks in stock, in addition to many styles of graphic tees, sunglasses, flip flops, and caps to get you set up for the Holiday weekend.

Clockwise from top left: Obey Blacklight Power Tee ($32), Sunpocket Sport Shiny Dark Green Sunglasses ($75), Deus Ex Machina Old Mans Boardshorts Gold & Navy ($75), Obey Bend 5 Panel Cap Cool Grey ($25), Vans Cali Over Washed Classic Slip-On ($68).

Clockwise from left: RVCA Ally Leaf Print Cap ($34), Vans Sloat Surf-N-Short Checkerboard Trunks ($58), Nixon Mellor Navy Red Nylon ($125), Birkenstock Arizona Leather Sandal Tobacco ($130), The Poster List Shapes & Sizes T-Shirt ($28), Super Panama Matte Light Havana Sunglasses ($259).

Clockwise from top left: Deus Ex Machina Wolf Head Trucker Hat ($28), Hartford VW Bus Swim Trunks ($175), RVCA Shaka Nene Tank ($28), St. Moritz Vintage Centari Sport Sunglasses Black ($45), Vans Authentic Brushed Twill Bachelor Blue ($62).

INTRODUCING: GLOBE May 16 2014

New to Service, Australian surf brand Globe swim trunks have hit the store for Spring. We've stocked solid and printed volley style trunks which double nicely as a walk short for those more active folks out there. Come check 'em out, available in-store and online!

Quest Floral Swim Trunks ($58) & Havana Mini Triangles Swim Trunks ($62).

Dana III Swim Trunks in Nautical Blue & Grass ($55).

INTRODUCING: MOLLUSK May 12 2014

Brand new to Service Menswear, California surf brand Mollusk has arrived in the shop. We have stocked shorts, swim trunks, and tees in a number of styles and colors.
Mollusk got its start at the edge of San Francisco on Ocean Beach in 2005. In this neighborhood, the Outer Sunset, surfers brave the cold, murky water and cohabitate with artists and craftspeople. Mollusk represents this surf and arts culture with a true, laid back, West Coast sensibility. The clothing is simple, well made, and understated for surfers and lay-folk alike.

Whale and octopus image tees ($35).

Cotton walk shorts in Dull Indigo & Cloud Grey ($72).

Forest Green Stripe Swim Trunks ($68) & Indigo Pennant Swim Trunks ($62).

Available in-store and now online at servicemenswear.com.

BRAND NEW: GITMAN VINTAGE & BIRKENSTOCK April 18 2014

New to stock for Spring, Gitman Vintage short sleeve button ups in an array of patterns. In addition, a new brand to Service, soft footbed Birkenstock's now available in three colors. 

Gitman Vintage Japanese Call Girl Print Short Sleeve Woven ($215).

Gitman Vintage Bamboo Orchid Short Sleeve Woven ($175).

Birkenstock's Soft Footbed Arizona Leather Sandal, Habana ($130).

Birkenstock's Soft Footbed Arizona Leather Sandal, Iron ($130).

Birkenstock's Soft Footbed Arizona Leather Sandal, Tobacco Brown ($130).

BRAND NEW: QUIKSILVER ORIGINALS March 20 2014

New for Spring, Quiksilver has launched their line of vintage inspired board shorts, under the moniker Quiksilver Originals. Service now carries 6 styles pulled from the Quiksilver archives, in 18" and 15" lengths. Check out British GQ's feature on the surfer-friendly line and pop into Service to snag 80's style checkered board shorts and 60's inspired shorty trunks. It's finally swim time, y'all.

DEUS EX MACHINA x SXSW March 11 2014

Heading out on the Deus Ex Machina sponsored Big Blind Ramble this Thursday? Come check out all the awesome Spring Deus goods we currently have in the shop at Service. Tees, trucker hats, and swim trunks are now available from the Australian surf/moto brand. Exclusively offered in Austin at Service Menswear.

In honor of this SXSW's Deus event, Service has stocked a run of limited edition Deus Ex Machina x SXSW tee shirts. In collaboration with Austin based design team Land. Each style comes in both black and white ($37). 

Colorful Deus volley swim trunks ($72-78).

Deus vintage soft tees ($38-45).

Hope to see you in our South Congress shop during the festivities!

SPRING DENIM AT SERVICE March 01 2014

Warmer weather is finally upon us in Austin, and lighter wash and weight denim is in stock for the season here at Service. You may be thinking, aren't ultra light wash jeans the epitome of dad jeans?...au contraire mon pere (see what we did there?!), the pieces we have in from Gant Rugger, Levi's and Naked & Famous hug the body for a slimmer, modern fit.

Above, Christian dressed in Levi's 511 White Bull Denim ($68) with a Gitman Vintage navy poplin shirt ($155) and Cole Haan brown leather chukka boots $228).

Right, Gant Rugger Ultra Light Faded Denim ($178), RVCA red striped tee ($38), and Vans Zarape Era's ($60).

Good looking faded jeans: Gant Rugger Stick Boy Ultra Light Faded Denim ($178) and Levi's 513 Bellingham ($68).

Naked & Famous LightWeight Selvedge jeans ($165), perfect for raw denim enthusiasts in the Texas summer heat. Comes in WeirdGuy fit.

Naked & Famous Griffin Grey jeans come in Skinny or WeirdGuy + Levi's 513 in Monument Grey. A good chino or trouser alternative, grey denim looks great with a darker color button down on top and a boot or oxford shoe. Alternately, grey jeans (as do any jeans) work well scuffed up with your favorite tee shirt and your oldest pair of sneakers.

Levi's 511 White Bull Denim ($68) + Levi's 513 in Viva White ($68)...don't be scared to get them a little dirty, it's bound to happen and just adds to their vintage appeal. Wear them snug and slim and get ready for the compliments...you're gonna look sharp. Come see us and we'll get you set up with a sturdy pair of denim meant for those highly anticipated warmer days.

Trivia: The term bull denim is used to describe a slightly heavier weight jean (14oz. plus), produced in a greige (grey or off white and undyed) fabric. Typically, bull denim refers to colored jeans, as the fabric is garment dyed during production or printed.

THE GROOMING DEPARTMENT AT SERVICE February 07 2014

Some of the most commonly asked questions that we get from our customers regarding the shaving ritual using a traditional safety razor. The question we most often hear is, why use a safety razor? The answers are cost and healthier skin. A 10 pack of safety blades costs about $1.00 per blade (compared to $2.50 to $3.00 per cartridge for disposable razor blades.) When compared to an electric razor, a safety razor gives a much closer shave and leaves skin in better condition, due to only one blade crossing the skin. Although it makes for a quick shave, it isn't necessary to use a razor that uses three or more blades.  Multi-blade razors can greatly irritate the skin and electric razors are akin to a lawnmower for your face.

What should your shaving kit contain? There are two ways to go about it, the difference being that one makes use of a brush, while the other uses shaving cream from a tube:

• safety razor
• pack of razor blades
• shave cream from a tube or a traditional shave soap in a bowl
• shaving brush if using a traditional shave soap
• brush stand so that the brush lasts and dries properly
• alum block, with antiseptic properties, help seal and heal wounds (for the ladies reading this post, the alum block is an amazing product to use on your legs)
• moisturizer for those with dry or sensitive skin
• razor bank for safe storage of discarded blades

Merkur Long Handle Double Safety Razor ($75) & Merkur 10 Pack Razor Blades ($12)

Service Menswear has been stocking a Merkur brand long handle, double safety razor. Merkur is a highly regarded razor manufacturer from an area in Germany where some of the best steel manufacturing in the world takes place. Our Merkur razor is chrome plated with a handsome dotted pattern on the handle. In addition, Service stocks a 10 pack of Merkur blades. If you shave every single day, and depending on the coarseness of your beard, a 10 pack of double sided blades should last at least 4 months.

How many passes should it take to shave with a safety razor? The blade should cut the hair close to the skin after a couple of passes using gentle pressure. If it feels like you have to go over the same area many times to reduce the hair, the blade may need to be replaced. With that said, it is normal to go over the same area more than 1 time, as the risk of nicks is high if the blade gives a very close shave in just one pass.

We are also often asked, "how to choose the proper blade?" For new shavers, it may seem like the sharper the blade the better, but keep in mind the sensitivity of your skin and the coarseness of your beard. We stock and recommend Merkur blades as a good starter blade, and the blade of choice for many. There are sharper blades on the market, such as Feather brand, but newbies beware, these blades are extra sharp and recommended for more experienced shavers. Lastly, there should be no irritation with the use of aftershave, and if there is, this is an indication your blade is too sharp. The Home Alone experience should not be the norm!

What is the difference between badger, horse, and boar bristle brushes? Badger holds water best and creates the richest lather, but horse hair is a great alternative at a good value. Boar bristles, sometimes labeled natural bristles, are effective at creating a good lather and are inexpensively priced.  Service offers selections in each category. 

From left to right:

• Silvertip Badger Brush with Wood Handle ($135)
• Silvertip Badger Shave Brush with Ream Bakelite Handle ($175)
• Silvertip Shave Brush with Heavy Chrome Handle ($135)
• Italian Boar Shave Brush with Black Chrome Handle ($20)
• Spanish Horse Hair Shave Brush ($38)
• Golddach's Badger Bristle and Pine Chess Piece Shave Brush ($65)

NEW ARRIVALS: VANS January 29 2014

Old Skool Vintage Blue Suede & Canvas ($62)

Ludlow Navy Waxed Canvas ($92)

U SK8 Mid Cali Black Leather ($105)

U Era Decon Brown Nappa Leather ($88)

U Era 59 Canvas & Leather in Sand with Zarape pop ($60)

SALE SEASON IS UPON US January 10 2014

THE BASICS: RVCA OXFORD BUTTON DOWNS January 08 2014

Here at Service we believe in great basics. This may seem like an obvious statement, but it's at the heart of what we strive to offer our customers every season. A great pair of affordable jeans, durable and ethically made t-shirts, hand crafted leather belts, and versatile woven shirts, among other things. Enter the RVCA oxford button down, which has been a staple product for us for some time now. The shirt is what we like to call a modern fit with one pocket, 2 button sleeve, button down collar, and shirt tails long enough to tuck in but not so long you can't leave 'em out without looking sloppy.

We generally offer these shirts in an array of colors, both neutral and novel, that translate well from season to season. And at $58, you could easily pick one up for every day of the week. If you're on the hunt for an easy to wear, everyday shirt, come see us.

OKAYAMA SPIRIT FADE CONTEST December 30 2013

New in store, Naked & Famous Okayama Spirit jeans.

These beautiful Japanese jeans made with a rare, slub yarn are constructed with the raw denim in its unsanforized state (reference our previous blog post here to find out more about sanforization). The denim is so unique and appealing in its raw form, it is left unwashed to preserve the aesthetic and hand feel. What does this mean for our customers? If you do intend to wash or soak these jeans, be aware they will shrink up to 1" in the waist and up to 2" in length. For those tough enough to forgo washing, buy them snug and wear the hell out of 'em to beat them up just right.

Now for the fun part! Enter today to make the cut off for Naked & Famous' Okayama Spirit fade contest. Send a photo to Naked & Famous of your Okayama Spirit denim, wear for 6 months, and resend images of the unique and beautiful fade you've achieved by wearing these bad boys. For more details and who to get in touch with, click here. If you're the type to never wash your jeans, this is definitely the contest for you. We can't wait to see the final outcome of some great denim fading.

Okayama Spirit jeans in WeirdGuy available at Service Menswear.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM SERVICE MENSWEAR! December 23 2013

Merry merry, happy happy to you and yours from Service Menswear!

Here's to a wonderful holiday season and a happy & healthy new year.

Love,

The Service Crew

LUCKY TIGER & DR. HUNTER'S GROOMING PRODUCTS December 18 2013

Back in stock just in time for the Holidays, Lucky Tiger Premium grooming products are currently available at Service. Made in the USA since 1935, Lucky Tiger uses 100% natural ingredients. Not to mention, the packaging is great looking, something pleasing to see sitting on the bathroom shelf. 3.4 oz. face moisturizer ($28), 5 oz. face scrub ($20), 8 oz. face wash ($20), and liquid cream shave ($19) in stock now.

In addition, Lucky Tiger is offering a gift set with in a keepsake tin box for $75. Included in the set are the basic essentials: 8 oz. face wash, 8 oz. after shave tonic, 5 oz. liquid cream shave, and 3.5 oz. face moisturizer.

Also in stock are the outstanding products from Dr. Hunter's grooming, original remedies since 1752 (!). The Original Body Cleanser boasts a "natural unfragranced formula with rich lather and exceptional cleaning properties." Can't go wrong there. Our very own Christian swears by the hair wash, made from glycerine and rosemary extract for a natural, light scent and good lather. 8 oz. body cleanser ($18) and 8 oz. hair wash ($16) come with original label artwork from the Dr. Hunter's archives.

Stop by and see us if you're still hunting for the perfect gift for that special someone. We're open late most nights this week.

PAINE'S BALSAM FIR INCENSE, SINCE 1931 December 16 2013

Paine's Balsam Fir Insense is currently available at Service for the Holiday's. This family owned company has been making their woodsy smelling products since the early 1930's. All products are 100% US made in Aubern, Maine.

"Fir branches are brought to us by local woodsmen. The boughs are ground and dried. Then it is pressed into incense molds. No chemicals are added to our incense. It is 100 percent natural, and sustainable!"

The small green package shown comes with 24 incense sticks for $7.

Paine's most iconic product is its log cabin incense burner. Yes, you guessed it: the incense smoke wafts right up through the cabin's little chimney. Service is selling this item along with a package of 82 balsam fir incense sticks pre-gift wrapped for $24. Come get 'em before they're gone.

We also have stocked additional incense holders. Wrought iron owls, bears, and pine cones ranging from $12-$18. Paine's Balsam Fir Incense sticks fit with these holders as well.

We think these items make great inexpensive and nostalgic gifts anyone would be pleased to receive. And great for all year round too.

Available at Service Menswear.

HOLIDAY ROUNDUP III: COZY SWEATSHIRTS December 13 2013

HOLIDAY ROUNDUP II December 10 2013

We had a little photo fun this morning and came up with some more great Holiday gifts from the Service stocklist. Hope you enjoy. 

Above, Barbour wool messenger bag ($270) & Barbour waxed canvas backpack ($215).

Good looking Nixon watches in multiple styles ($175-$200).

Barbour striped wool travel bag ($400)...you might have to fight the Service crew for this one, we've all got our eyes on it.

And the outtakes...what a weirdo.

MONDAY INSPIRATION December 09 2013

JAMES BLAKE - RETROGRADE from martin de thurah on Vimeo.

HOLIDAY ROUNDUP 1: WRAPPED & READY December 04 2013

Every Holiday season at Service, we offer many of our items pre gift wrapped. Kirk & his team of worker elves are busy starting in October, preparing all the boxes and twine you currently see in the shop. Small items such as soaps and ornaments, as well as grooming supplies and bottle openers can be found nicely wrapped in a box around the store ready to put under the menorah, the tree, or inside a stocking. We always offer complimentary gift wrapping for any and all of our customer's purchases, and we will gladly wrap while you wait or have everything finished by the time you've had your first cocktail at Perla's. Here are some gifts we have ready for y'all, our first Holiday roundup of the season.

Red gauze scarf ($28) & Proraso shave set ($25)

Sea salt, cedarwood, and pine soaps ($6-$10)

We have more than just these items boxed up and we'll have even more next week, so come by and do some Holiday shopping with the Service crew...we'd love to have you in.

STYLE HENLEY: STYLE FEATURE November 22 2013

One of our favorite items here at Service is a classic, old fashioned henley. Lightweight jersey, thermal, or mid-weight cotton, this is a good all year round piece to have lying around. Throw it on as a sweatshirt in the Spring or under a sweater during colder seasons. A nod to vintage athletic wear, the henley takes its name from the world renowned Henley Regatta. For those of us too red blooded to know, this small, English countryside town holds the most famous annual rowing tournament in the world. Traditionally, rowers chose to wear their henleys in competition, and often the losing team would be forced to take the shirt off their backs and hand them over to their winning opponents. Not just exclusive to athletes, the henley has been a staple in the work wear wardrobe as well as military uniforms.

We put together a few takes on our favorite ways to wear a modern henley.

Hartford heather henley ($95), Obey navy stadium jacket ($78), Levi's brown cord jacket ($88)

Center, Comune stripe henley ($48), Naked & Famous slim chambray shirt ($128), Gant Rugger navy lined zip hoodie ($168)

Obey navy thermal henley ($65), Woolrich charcoal cardigan ($185), Plectrum grey tweed blazer ($295).

EMPLOYEE PICKS: INDIGO SHIRTS November 14 2013

Service has some very nice true indigo dyed shirts in stock for Fall. Come on down and pick yourself up one of our favorite items for the season.

Indigo woven shirts from Gant Rugger ($125) and Naked & Famous ($168).

Matthew and Christian show us just how good this deep, rich hue looks.

If these two styles aren't doing it for you, more new shirts from Naked & Famous and a couple of other brands have just gone out on the floor today. Come by to check 'em out.

HISTOIRES DE PARFUMS: HEMINGWAY EDITION November 11 2013

Service has received an addition to our growing selection of Histoires de Parfums colognes...year 1899 in honor of Ernest Hemingway. This complex scent with notes of bergamot, black pepper, orange blossom, cinnamon, vanilla, amber, iris, and vetiver combines the classic with the exotic. With time spent in Italy, Spain, and Cuba, this Hemingway inspired cologne appropriately brings together aromas reminiscent of the regions the great American writer spent his days. Comes in a 2FL.OZ bottle for $125 in addition to the miniature 14ML bottle for $36.

BACK IN STOCK: FARIBAULT WOOLEN MILL CO. BLANKETS & SCARVES November 08 2013

Back in stock for our 4th season running, Faribault Woolen Mill blankets and scarves, currently at Service. Take a leaf out of our book and bring one of these high quality blankets the next time you plan to sit out by your back yard fire pit. Light weight, durable, and warm, we're stocked up with an assortment of great looking neutral stripes. 

Blankets and scarves, available at Service Menswear. The real good stuff.

PANTHERELLA FINE ENGLISH SOCKS November 07 2013

Pantherella has been making the finest of English socks since 1937. Using high-quality materials such as Sea Island cotton, Superfine merino wool, and pure cashmere, each pair is hand-linked at the toe for a smooth and secure finish. We've all had the same issue at one time or another when our sock seams annoyingly rub against our toes in our shoes. Pantherella's signature hand finish ensures supreme comfort with their smooth seams.

New argyle socks in an array of bold and neutral colors! In store now.  Service regularly stocks Pantherella, so come on by if you're itching to add a little color and pattern to your sock collection. Cleaning out your sock drawer? Come check out Service's full selection of socks from our other brands: Richard James, Etiquette, Toddland, and Altru.