Bita Rad

Every once in a while I come across a brand that rocks my world. I was recently introduced to Nice Collective and I just can’t get enough! The San Fransisco based brand was started by Joe Haller and Ian Hannula, neither of whom come from any design background. Although it was founded in 1997, Nice Collective only premiered at New York Fashion Week this past week with critics raving about the fall 2009 menswear collection. Described by Style.com’s Josh Peskowitz as “post-apocalyptic” and “post-erotic”, the juxtaposition between the hard utilitarian details and your grandfather’s checkered wool seems to work with a fluidity that’s hard to come by. Plus, combat boots, long johns, and hooded scarves…just my cup of tea.

Joe and Ian have recently been named among the top American designers by GQ Magazine and provided clothing for Coldplay, Nine Inch Nails, Smashing Pumpkins, The Police, as well as celebrities like Gavin Rossdale and Brad Pitt. See what all the rave is about at their website and marvel at the Fall 2009 collection here.