Have you ever looked at a piece of art and thought “Damn, I would love to wear that!”—no? It’s okay, neither have we. But then we heard through the grapevine about a little label called William—an LA-based men’s fashion accessories label that collaborates with globally-famous, LA-based artists. It’s a pretty awesome concept that we wish we had come up with. Oh, LA—why are you so cool?
Perfect for the fussy gentlemen, William appeals to every man’s selective needs and desires as all accessories are handmade in LA. Pieces are one-of-a-kind and limited edition, plus every couture item sold includes a donation to the Institute of International Education, to further education for future generations—you’re killing two birds with one stone, all whilst looking dapper. Win.
Stand-outs for the more outgoing businessman would be the ascot ties and pocket squares made from double-sided charmeuse silk. A kaleidoscope of bold colors, the collection is filled with vivid turquoise and raspberry shades. Eye-catching prints in optical-illusion inducing polka-dots and Russian-style hand-painted patterns can add a pop of pizazz to any sharp suit. Waltz into the office with a laptop envelope made of crushed, full-grain, goatskin leather from southern Italy in a classic black or a rich burgundy. The effect is luxurious, smart and stylish.
As any luxury-loving businessman knows, carrying a gauchely branded coffee cup into an office meeting or when rushing around town is not suave at all. A personal favorite of ours are William’s cozies– faux fur or badass perforated leather coffee-cup covers to match your style with your mug. Now this is accessorizing for the 21st century. Why has no one made these before?
Founder Will Ayers is a jet-setting man himself, frequently visiting Dubai, Hong Kong, Paris, Milan and Florence—he clearly knows what the modern, jet-setting man wants. Each season, Ayers collaborates with the newest and trendiest upcoming artists in LA. Artists are commissioned to individually paint, draw or embroider one-of-kind designs on any accessory you wish—the world is your oyster. However, if you’re not much of a peacock, you can opt to have pieces unadorned. Handcrafted and hand-painted accessories? You can’t get more exclusive and personalized than that.
“Luxury is more than price,” says Ayers. “Luxury is a combination of quality, exclusivity and access—exactly what today’s fashion forward, jet-set man wants. [We] offer exclusive products, extraordinary quality and the opportunity to not only own, but wear original art. Each piece is a personal statement.” Your next-door neighbor may own an original Picasso, but he certainly can’t go outside wearing the painting around his neck. You can.
William is available online and priced from $90-$1,300.
