A Preppy Brand’s Breakthrough Moment

With its retro preppy clothing in a modern silhouette, the small brand Orley is attempting to create another viable pathway in American menswear. Orley will compete for the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Swarovski Award for Menswear, which honors emerging designers, on June 6. Currently, menswear is dominated by brands that mix streetwear with tailoring and brands that update American staples. The other nominees, Gypsy Sport and John Elliott, offer different spins on streetwear, a casual look with influences from skateboarding and other subcultures. Orley “brings a calm in the storm,” said Tom Kalenderian, executive vice president and general merchandise manager of men’s at Barneys New York. The retailer began carrying Orley’s menswear in its flagship Manhattan store and website earlier this year. “It’s nice to see something for the guy who just wants something that’s sophisticated and tasteful and yet at the same time feels like young, modern clothes.” Read more at The Wall Street Journal.