Albam - Modern Crafted Clothing

We've moved!

2011-02-10T07:48:00.000-08:00

In case you've been wondering, we haven't disappeared - we've moved! We've got a fancy new website with a fancy new blog to go with it. You can find the website here, and the blog is now here.

See you there!

How are your jeans wearing?

2011-01-22T14:37:00.000-08:00

Since the start we have been providing what we think is a great pair of denims. Using a 13oz Japanese woven Selvedge denim and selling them "dry" the way you wear them gives the jeans their own unique appearance.

John Spinks and I are compiling a denim wear guide and we are looking for a selection of our customers Albam jeans that have been lovingly worn, washed (little or often) to keep a record of the variety of how each pair develops its own characteristics.

If you are interested in helping us out then please send pics of your jeans with brief info on how they have been worn, washed, how old they are and what fit they are. Send to info @ albamclothing . com.

New year, new opportunities

2010-12-30T05:35:00.000-08:00

After another fantastic year, our store team is expanding!

We've got opportunities across the team, from part-time positions all the way up to managerial roles.

We take a lot of pride in what we do at Albam, so retail and customer service experience is essential; as is an enthusiasm for our belief in Modern Crafted Clothing.

So if you've like what we do and you're interested in joining the Albam family, send your CV and covering letter to dh @ albamclothing.com.

Blog coverage

2010-12-21T03:54:00.000-08:00

A couple of great features on Albam online today - one from an established favourite (Lineage of Influence) and one from a promising newcomer (The Gospel).

Obviously we're a bit biased, but we found both well worth a read!

Christmas Orders

2010-12-20T04:58:00.000-08:00

Another quick heads up with regards to Christmas orders - as per our mailer, the last date for Christmas delivery will be 14:00 on Wednesday 22nd December. Please note, this is via the 'next day courier' option, rather than standard (Royal Mail) delivery.

This will also be the last available time to order via 'collect from store': our Mail Order team will be off from this time, so unfortunately we will be unable to process your order. Please also note that if you have ordered via this method you must wait until you have received a conformation email before your order will be available from your selected store.

But in the meantime -for let's face it, this is still prime pressie-buying time- happy shopping!

Now online: Two Button SB Blazer

2010-12-09T10:29:00.000-08:00

We've had the Two Button SB Blazer in store for a week now, and it's already proving hugely popular. It's now available online here.

Albam on Facebook

2010-12-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

We've put a lot more emphasis on our Facebook page recently, and we're finding its a fantastic way of staying in touch with everyone.

From now on we'll be regularly updating on new and incoming styles, as well as answering any customer queries. It's also a good way for us to get a bit of feedback on how you all think we're doing: loving your Trail Parka, but not sure how to re-wax it? Want more colours in the Shetland Knit? Let us know! Our customers' opinions are hugely important to us, and while we might not manage to get back to every question, every one helps shape our future styles.

So if you want to get in touch, or simply want to stay in the Albam loop, join us here.

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire...

2010-12-02T10:18:00.000-08:00

The Albam elves have been even busier than normal these past few snowy days, adding a festive touch to our stores. Hand-made decorations, picture-perfect trees and fairy lights are the order of the day; if you're nearby, pop in for a chat and a browse!

This being the season of goodwill, we're helping with the potentially stressful festive period by opening our stores until 8pm every Thursday until Christmas. Happy shopping!

Late-Night Thursdays at Upper Street

2010-12-01T08:14:00.000-08:00

Our Upper Street store is getting firmly into the Christmas spirit: we'll be opening late (until 8pm) on Thursdays from now until Christmas, and tomorrow night along with some of our Upper Street neighbours we'll be having drinks in-store.

We've had some cracking knitted hats and scarves in recently, so if you haven't started your Christmas shopping yet - or if you haven't checked out the store's recent refit - head to Upper Street before 8pm!

Vote for Albam!

2010-12-01T07:49:00.000-08:00

Deep into Autumn Winter, and the brand's going from strength-to-strength. Excitingly, we've been nominated for The Telegraph's 'Best Small Shops in Britain Award'.

If you're a fan of Albam and would like to vote for us, visit The Telegraph's site here.

Thanks, and spread the word!

The Green Soccer Journal

2010-11-29T12:16:00.000-08:00

As ever we are on the lookout for great new reading material to while away the dark winter afternoons with a great cup of coffee. Just into the stores we have taken delivery of a new publication: The Green Soccer Journal. Now to people that know me I would much rather be climbing than having much to do with football but this new edition changes that a little bit.

Great photography and short essays on the beautiful game. Worth picking up a copy as these are sure to be snapped up.

Halloween pumpkins

2010-11-02T15:48:00.001-07:00

Albam x Grenson

2010-11-01T03:36:00.001-07:00

We've just received the latest style in our collaboration with Grenson. For Autumn Winter we've developed our Gibson weekend shoe, adding a new navy colourway and slightly reworking the construction. We're thrilled with the result.

To ensure the team was up to speed with the intricacies of the crafting process, Joe from Grenson popped into our Beak St store to talk us through exactly how an Albam x Grenson shoe is made. So if you've got any questions about Clickers or Lasts, Burnishing or Goodyear welts, we've got the answers!

The AW10 Gibson will be available in-store from Thursday.

Albam Design day out

2010-10-31T13:45:00.000-07:00

In amongst the preparations for the forthcoming busy months, I had the chance to get away midweek with LA and RW to go through where we want to be with our range for the next 12 months. We headed up to the Peak District for a spot of climbing and some inspiration at the focal point for David Mellor's design empire, a spot of lunch and then some drinks to make our plans for raising our game again. 2011 should be a good year.

Red Wings in stores this weekend

2010-10-28T08:08:00.000-07:00

There've been a few downpours recently, and just in time our Red Wing delivery's arrived. The boys at Spitalfields are excitedly unpacking it as I type, so they'll be in all three stores by this weekend (online to follow next week).

We're stocking three Red Wing styles (from top): the Round Toe boot, the classic Moc Toe boot and the leather Chukka Boot.

Albam Commercial Street

2010-10-19T12:24:00.001-07:00

Andy and his team have been hard at work with their Commercial Street store (known to Albam as Spitz). Winter is gathering pace and the store is cosying up. If you are in the area drop by for a peruse and chat.

Albam out in the Peak District

2010-10-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

Having our studio up North has good and less good sides. One of the great things is how close we are to getting outdoors. The weather is turning and on a Sunday getting out into the hills and to a real country pub takes some beating. Steak and ale pie and a Guinness by the fire. It takes some beating!

Studio pics - things to come.

2010-10-17T15:24:00.001-07:00

Canvas totes: new colours

2010-10-14T09:17:00.000-07:00

Here's a few snaps from our Nottingham studio of some new Canvas Tote colours due in-store and online soon.

FACTORIES - Official evening photos

2010-10-12T06:42:00.001-07:00

We have just had these images sent through from the launch evening for FACTORIES last week (7th October). Some recognisable and unforgettable faces!

New Brogue delivery

2010-10-09T05:15:00.000-07:00

We have just received our new formal brogue in from our ongoing work with Grenson.

These are a move on from our City Brogue which has proved popular with our customers. This season we wanted a more elegant last to complement our suiting which is due to arrive at the end of October. The "broguing" (technically the "Rose") has been updated with a larger punch.

A beautiful elegant shoe for those who have our heavier Gibson shape, various heavy brogues and just want to take the next step with a brogue.

Available in burnished tan, and on the shelves at each of our stores. They will be going online next week.

Price: £225 (full and half sizes available)

FACTORIES - Thankyou to all that came!

2010-10-08T03:30:00.000-07:00

FACTORIES by John Spinks launched at our Beak Street store last night. Thanks to everyone that came down, there will be more pics of the night and book to follow as I got sidetracked for taking pictures. Thanks again to all that came down and if you couldn't make it the book is now in store and looks great so thankyou John, Pat and Robel.

FACTORIES lands tomorrow!

2010-10-05T08:55:00.000-07:00

FACTORIES

2010-09-27T05:11:00.000-07:00

After what seems like a lot of picture taking, numerous sittings, factory visits, conversations, lighting adjustments, breaking of cameras, factory closings we are very excited to be able to say that FACTORIES will be released on October 7th at our Beak Street store. The evening is sadly invite only but the main gem is the book which will be instore form the 8th October onwards.

A big thankyou to all involved.

Trail Pants in for weekend

2010-09-23T14:51:00.001-07:00

Robel - Germany - FACTORIES

2010-09-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

FACTORIES, the photography book we have been working on with John Spinks is coming through. Last week John & Pat were over in Germany to check the print. Their enthusiasm has been great for this project which has been a long process but with so many images taken, editing has been a lengthy process. Due for release in October.

Knit Workshop

2010-09-20T06:26:00.000-07:00

In one of our secret studios on the outskirts of London (a kitchen!) LA is working away on some new knit pieces for January deliveries onwards. We have a new factory in the mix and some great pieces to come through.

New knitwear now in-store

2010-09-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

Spent the day in London today, and the despite the sunshine the weather's definitely turning a tad autumnal.

Just in time, our fine gauge knitwear's arrived in store: the V-Neck Cardigan (available in Navy and Charcoal), Baseball Crew (Olive and Grey Marl) and Crew Neck Knit (Light Grey and Navy) are all available in our Soho, Islington and Spitalfields stores from today, and online from next week.

Pictures to follow.

It's Rollneck weather today

2010-09-08T14:12:00.001-07:00

Feeling chilly today up in the North, and it's perfect rollneck weather! Roll on winter!

Studio day - SS11

2010-09-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

286 Refit - nearly there

2010-09-07T05:38:00.001-07:00

As with all our stores, we tend to set up shop, see how things work in the store and then make improvements along the way. This weekend we started on some improvements and we are nearly there. Today is a little chaotic as the team are getting to grips with the new store but it is starting to look great.

Watch this space

2010-09-06T06:54:00.000-07:00

Our Upper Street store's been going from strength to strength since opening in April, so we've decided to treat it to a small re-fit.

Some of the team are busy painting floors, assembling furniture and having copious tea breaks as I type, so 286 is closed today, but the new, shiny store will open its doors tomorrow from 11am.

Pictures to follow, but expect new furniture, potted plants and snapshots of the Albam story so far...

Studio things

2010-09-02T08:27:00.001-07:00

Just some images of things that we are working on in the studio, for imminent release.

New styles imminent!

2010-09-02T07:58:00.000-07:00

We've just finished unpacking three brand new styles for Autumn Winter. More detail on the styles to follow, but in stores from tomorrow will be our cotton Workwear Jacket, Rollneck Knit and Chunky Zip Cardigan.

All three have been crafted in England.

Albam on Permanent Style

2010-09-01T10:24:00.001-07:00

We were recently the subject of a cracking profile on the menswear blog Permanent Style.

It’s always nice to hear someone as enthusiastic about quality mens clothing as we feel.

Click below to read the full article:

http://permanentstyle.blogspot.com/2010/09/albam-craft-for-weekend.html

The Hillwalker in action

2010-08-26T10:21:00.000-07:00

If you can see past the whopper in the foreground, you might catch a glimpse of our Hillwalker Jacket in its natural habitat.

One of the team escaped the Big Smoke last week and spent a bit of time (not very) deep sea fishing in sunny Devon. Obviously the waxed cotton Hillwalker was essential kit for this adventure!

AW10 Trail Parka arriving for the weekend.

2010-08-24T14:40:00.001-07:00

NOTE: In anticipation of getting this style online for the weekend, we had to use an old image of a sample. The actual jacket does not have contrast arm patches and there is no badge on the back. We will be updating the image after the bank holiday.

The weather has started to turn and this weekend, we will be taking delivery of our Trail Parka. This is our heavyweight wax coated canvas parka. The fabric is from our friends in the USA who made Filson what they are today and we are very excited with this new cloth in our collection.

Based on 80's mountain coats it is more complex than our Fisherman's Cagoule and Hillwalker of previous seasons. As with our new collection it follows our design details of clean interiors and all details being tuned to the best they can be. Swiss made RiRi zippers, hand cut leather zip pulls, Italian made press studs, Japanese woven chambray hood lining.

Three colours available, Brush Orange, Black and Olive. Each colour is limited and a great piece for the changing weather.

Price: £225.
Sizes: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4

Join the store team

2010-08-17T10:22:00.000-07:00

Over the last three years we’ve been slowly but surely building a great team in our three stores. After a great Spring/Summer season we’ve got the opportunity to add to the Albam ‘family’, so if you or any like-minded friends share our philosophy and passion for modern, well made clothing, drop a CV into one of our stores or e-mail one through to dh@albamclothing.com.

Managerial and full-time positions available.

Chinos - new colours

2010-08-16T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good news for fans of our Taper Chinos: the first drop of new autumnal colourways has just landed in store. We’re offering three new colours of this perennial favourite - New Navy, Dark Green and Off White. Crafted in England, these are available in our Upper Street, Commercial Street and Beak Street stores for £89.

We’re also offering our summer colourways (Raspberry, Charcoal and Olive) for the bargain price of £60. Be quick though – quantities are limited. Available in-store and on-line.

AW10 - nearly there

2010-08-11T14:14:00.000-07:00

August is always a strange month. One minute it is weather for shorts, the same day you have to reach for the umbrella and the next minute you wish you had some winter clothes. Well that should soon be over and then we can get down to the best part of the Autumn/Winter season - jackets, knits, layers, boots, accessories. So many great things!

We did a few look shots for a handful of the styles that are coming through this winter, some are taking a cleaner aesthetic with more development in fabrications and cuts after the last 6 months of speaking with customers about what they are wanting and where we want to go with things. The results are the AW10 pieces here and a number that are yet to be shot.

Let the guys know to give you a heads up when the new styles start to drop.

New Balance now in-store!

2010-08-10T11:32:00.000-07:00

Our first drop of New Balance styles arrived in July, and we’re thrilled to be working with a brand we’ve long worn. We’ve started with two classic shapes from either end of the NB spectrum, both of which fit in well with our philosophy of Modern Crafted Clothing.

Part of the Made In England line, the 576 is hand made in New Balance’s Cumbrian factory in the North West of England. Originally launched in 1988, we’re stocking the 576 in red and navy suede. Whilst we love the craftsmanship that goes into the Made In England line, we’re also keen to embrace new technologies: the 574 Sonic is a classic silhouette, but the synthetic suede and textile have been heat bonded together, providing a seamless, lightweight sneaker. Both are available in store now.

To get us up to speed on the finer points of the collection, some of the team spent a fun morning with the boys from New Balance – a massive thanks to the guys, and well done to Andy for decimating the field in the 50 meter dash!

A week away

2010-06-01T15:28:00.000-07:00

We haven't had much time off this last 12 months, but last week I managed to get away for a week to the coast in Ireland. Graced with good weather it was on the beach each day, getting some cool water swimming in and teaching the dog a few new tricks. Followed up with a barbecue and a cold beer. Back to a rainy UK and some full on weeks whilst we move into our studio.

Ventile Alpine Jacket

2010-05-14T03:21:00.001-07:00

Coming through for mid June is the first of our taped Ventile styles. This is our technical climbing jacket shape, panelled and articulated, we have made it so it works on a mountain, waterproof/windproof cotton Ventile. Waterproof RiRi zips, elasticated drawcords at hood and hem.

There is nothing on here that is unnecessary for its purpose and it really works.

It is really the ultimate conclusion to the fishermans cagoule in that it performs properly. Three colours to start with, Orange, Navy and Leather Bronze which is more shade of Olive. Each colourway is in 20 pieces only and they are all made here in England. Price is tbc but no more than £315.

Come and join us for a drink!

2010-05-04T14:28:00.001-07:00

Well we have been open for 3 weeks now and thought it time that we had a little celebration at 286 Upper Street. Come along on the 5th May from 7pm and meet our ever growing team and no doubt some friendly faces.

As the space is smaller than our Commercial Street store you will have to send your name to:

rsvp@albamclothing.com

We don't like people being turned away but we aren't too keen on playing sardines aswell!

See you there.

Cafe Kick

2010-04-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

An informal tournament (of sorts) was held at Cafe Kick on Shoreditch High Street the other night. Table football is for some a way of life, for Albam it needs a bit more work!

A good evening with a great bunch of people.

More tokens please!

286 Upper St

2010-04-21T11:10:00.001-07:00

286 Upper Street - Now Open

2010-04-05T12:45:00.000-07:00

Bank Holiday Monday, we have finally opened our doors to our Islington branch of Albam. These pics were taken on Friday in the build up to the opening as I had to get back up North. Store is looking really good, but it will take a few weeks for us to bed into the new area and for Andy our man on the ground to get his feet under the table.

There are no parties just yet as we like to get settled before we do but there will be one I am sure!

More pics to follow.

The hard work begins!

2010-03-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

We have had a great opportunity present itself to us in the last few months. A new store! We are planning to give it a go and the work started today.

The space stays true to the things that we stand for both visually and location wise whilst enabling us to improve what we do for our customers without having to join forces with others to compromise what we do.

Our small team have set to work and we will be updating the progress along the way. As Easter is coming it gives us a little more time than we usually give ourselves.

An opening date hasn't been given yet but when we know we will put it up here and some other places. Thanks for all your support and see you soon.

The Irwin Shawl Collar Cardigan

2010-03-21T10:50:00.000-07:00

Our latest shawl collar cardigan arrived in a couple of weeks ago and I have just got round to posting this piece (an awful lot is happening behind the scenes at Albam, more of that later). We spent the day at one of our knitwear factories working on the finishing touches to the AW10 range and I took these pics of the machine that has just created our Irwin Shawl Collar Cardi.

Seeing one of the ladies knit this piece is something of a wonder. Due to the quality of the yarn and the tension we have wanted to give the piece it has to be knitted on a hand machine rather than a power machine. What this ultimately means is you get a lot of work for your money and if I am honest much more than the value of the garment due to the time and skill it takes to make one piece. They are selling super quickly, and I know we dropped off a small number of the navy version to Oi Polloi last week, of which they only have sizes 1 and 2 remaining.

A great piece of knitwear and something that marks the start of a new level of input for Albam,

Dieter Rams - London Design Museum

2010-02-21T14:48:00.000-08:00

A number of you will have probably seen this exhibition already, some in Tokyo and the others over here in London. I have just managed to get in before the exhibition closes and I wasn't disappointed. Dieter Rams and his body of work for Braun and Vitsoe is exceptional and doesn't need introduction from me. Go and see for yourself, the colours, the shapes, THE PRODUCTS! If you can't get there then get the books!

Store updates - Spitalfields store

2010-02-21T14:39:00.000-08:00

This last week we have made a few changes to the store over at Spitalfields. It has always felt like we stopped working as we opened the door to the store. In reality we like to see how the space works before we make plans. Customer comments and recommendations shape what we do and has culminated in the developments to this store. We have added a new range of magazines and books from publishers - Nieves, Qompendium, Farewell, Gottlund Verlag, Lines & Shapes and these complement our compact selection of publications (Inventory, Moncole, Apartamento)

We have a new accessories section coming in about 4 weeks so there is a fair bit still to be done. The pictures show it as a Work in Progress so drop by and take a look for yourself.

438 Field Jackt - instore in March/April

2010-02-21T14:32:00.000-08:00

When the weather decides that it doesn't want to deliver fresh snow overnight as it has done this weekend we will start to deliver our styles that are suitable for the weather. We are reckoning that March will signal a slight change in the weather, still a fresh wind in the British air but with clear bright skies.

The change in the season requires a new outerwear piece. Our showerproof canvas field jacket may be the jacket for this time. Layered over our Irwin Shawl collar cardigan (cotton version of AW09) and a chambray shirt and you might just be set. Leather trims and reinforcing details add some refined features to a weekend style. Crafted in Manchester it will be available in Navy and Olive (£tbc)

Snow on the ground and Spring in production

2010-01-10T10:09:00.000-08:00

The extended Christmas break is now coming to an end and it is back to work. Then the snow comes! The UK isn't best suited to a change in weather conditions and it has scuppered a number of plans for people this last week.

After getting to one of our factories the other day to arrange fabrics and trims, we are on the road to the next drop of products, the cold weather is looking likely to stay for the time being and there always seems to be a little sting in the tail around February so keep the eyes peeled for some bargains, some new items and remember to layer up!

Mountaineer Chino restock - they are being washed.

2009-12-30T14:20:00.000-08:00

After the short run of Mountaineer Chino we received about 4 weeks ago, we have another delivery due in for the first week in January. This is another short run so email us at info @ albamclothing . com to be notified when they drop in store and online.

Festive season opening times

2009-12-22T13:10:00.001-08:00

Another year nearly over, but first there is Christmas to go at!

We are open right up to the wire for those of you who need some more presents and then from the 27th for those that can't wait to get back in!

Rowley Hat restock

2009-12-14T07:20:00.000-08:00

The first drop of these flew out. We have restocked a handful of each for Christmas.

Alta Dena landed today!

2009-12-01T15:09:00.000-08:00

We have just received the first delivery of our Alta Dena Works Backpacks! To start with we have the Black/Oakleaf and the Black/Black. Catch them while you can or get one on reserve in store.

INVENTORY - Issue 1

2009-12-01T14:24:00.000-08:00

For those that read the blog you are probably reading the online magazine INVENTORY (www.inventorymagazine.com).

We had Simon from said magazine bring round the first issue the other day and it is cracking. For a first issue from a surprisingly young team it really has hit it right. Available instore and online for those wanting a copy. At the moment you have to click through the site to find it as the link hasn't been set up. Keep searching through the accessories and you will find it.

If you are in London then just drop in the store or you can get hold of them at Fernandez & Wells, Garbstore, Oliver Spencer in London.

As there are only 5000 printed worldwide it is worth the quick pick up.

Albam Suit

2009-11-27T05:54:00.001-08:00

We seem to have been rather casual recently and whilst going super smart is not our thing, we have noticed that in store the items that we release there has been an emergence of two sides to what we do.

The Albam "Wardrobe"

and then the more casual pieces to what we do.

Part of the "Wardrobe" idea was to produce pieces that are kind of a backbone to what we do and think should be part of an Albam aesthetic. Dry denim, white shirt, white T shirt, handmade shoe, canvas sneaker, weekend shoe style (Maliseet Oxford), Parka, Rain Mac ... Suit.

The suit is something that isn't really bought if it is not for work, but sometimes we have wanted to just smarten ourselves up a touch, with this in mind we have developed a 2 button blazer and a pair of slim trousers to be bought individually or as a full suit.

We have chosen to make the jacket in Italy and the trousers in the UK. The fabric for the first release is a grey flannel in a wool/cotton blend to take the rigidity out. As a jacket it is a neat shape, short without being fashionably short with a slight oversize on the patch pockets. Button cuffs which are functioning and areas of wear trimmed with a charcoal grosgrain.

The website is being worked on to reflect our development of the Albam aesthetic but with the new store opening and our small (but perfectly formed !) team is taking a touch longer than anticipated!

If you get chance then come into the stores and you will be able to see what we do, try the garments on and just have a good chat!

Final stint before the great trip

2009-11-22T14:29:00.001-08:00

In for the last time this year to one of our factories before they pack up for a 4 week train journey across India! This time of year factories come into their own, it was a really cold day when I dropped by, but the light was super clear.

New Jeans fit are in

2009-11-13T15:08:00.000-08:00

A few posts ago I wrote about our new jeans fits. Well they are in the store and online and they have been pretty well received. Based on what you have suggested we have released two new fits so you can just get the basis of the fit you want and if needs be they can be taken in as some of you like to do.

The two new fits are :

SLIM LEG (520) - Our slimmest fit based on the Regular Leg style with more taken out through the leg to finish at a hem of 7". If you want a skinny/close fit then go for these. To balance the shape the rise has been reduced by approx 2cm.

REGULAR LEG (521) - Our all round jean. Sits comfortably on the hips, tapers through the leg to the ankle with a 7.5" hem. Can be sized up or down depending on how you slim you like your jeans to fit.

Pictured are the Regular Leg Jean in the my waist size. These were tried on where they are made so excuse the lack of picture quality!

Back to work!

2009-11-13T14:56:00.000-08:00

Parties are over, and now it is back to work! New styles for February deliveries and onwards. Little tweaks are being made and things are coming together quite nicely.

29th October - Thanks to all that came!

2009-10-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

Well last night came and was seemingly well received. Thanks to everyone that came and showed support.

Albam Eastern outpost opening 29.10.09

2009-10-22T09:52:00.000-07:00

For those following the blog and in London next Thursday we are having our official opening of our new store.

If you can make it come over for 7pm! It would be great to see you.

Albam FACTORY - John Spinks

2009-10-21T08:04:00.000-07:00

Como Lago - Lake Como for the weekend

2009-10-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

The weekend just gone was a good time to get on a plane and head over to see my other half. Como, amazing. The shops were good in an Italian way but the scenery was better, super close to the mountains and some of the best climbing you can shake a stick at. Well worth a trip for a mix of culture, coffee and just getting away.

NEW STORE DETAILS!

2009-10-05T08:51:00.000-07:00

All this time that we have been preparing the new store and I have forgotten to say where it is! Below are the details and thanks Dave for reminding me! Website is being updated shortly aswell, that will also be expanding.

Albam - Eastern outpost
111a Commercial Street
E1 6BG

Telephone: 0207 247 6254

See you there!

The final push!

2009-10-03T03:51:00.001-07:00

We wanted to get the store open and then we can see how the space works, what we need to do to make it an Albam space. So the 1st October was our deadline, just under two weeks of hard work, doing things that we didn't think we could do, but here it is the final push to the opening. No fanfare just quietly open the doors and let people find us.

The Day before the opening

2009-10-03T03:34:00.000-07:00

I am a couple of days behind on the updates as I left my laptop charger in the office. This is from the day before we opened (we opened on the 1st October)

A little puzzle!

2009-09-29T15:17:00.000-07:00

Adult style meccano and no simpler to put up. I have realised that my strength is not rail engineering.

Mr Holden.

2009-09-29T15:13:00.001-07:00

For those of you who have been into Beak Street at a weekend you might have met Mr Holden or David to the close.

He is the new man of Albam and is the man around 111A Commercial Street. Looking rather comfortable behind the new hotseat!

Welcome David and thanks for your pretty tireless work over the last two weeks.

Now it gets a bit more interesting!

2009-09-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

The new store has been in a state of nearly "nearly there" for a few days. Hidden workings with white paint and electrics gave way to some serious breakthroughs! Lights, rails, curtains units, cash desk. Now we are just nearly there!

Denim denim denim

2009-09-28T15:41:00.001-07:00

More denims on there way and and two new fits coming in about 14 days. Keep the eyes peeled.

Knits just arrived as seen in MONOCLE

2009-09-25T06:22:00.001-07:00

Now are deliveries are due in but we are aiming to have a proper change over. As the new issue of MONOCLE features two of our new knits these have gone out today and are looking great.

I love it when a plan comes together!

2009-09-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

After visits to factories this week to check on the progress I came back to The Smoke to see how everyone is getting on. The guys and girls at Beak St are doing there thing for Soho and the new team over East are putting the hours in to get the new space ship shape. Things are definitely coming along and by Monday we should be making serious progress.

Keep the eyes peeled for new things and the new store opening. There will be a do sometime at the end of October so would be great to see you!

New Knits New Knits!!

2009-09-22T13:29:00.000-07:00

There are some great knits coming in over the next few months, starting in a couple of weeks and then in about 6-8 weeks we will see the finished results of empty cones like these!

Day 3 - Shopfloor painting finished

2009-09-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

Amidst a very busy Spitalfields, we have been in the midst of traditional paint fumes. The final painting on the shop floor was finished today and things are taking shape.

Builders tea and bacon sandwiches.

2009-09-20T03:16:00.000-07:00

When the brushes and decorating equipment come out so does the bacon sandwich and builders tea!

Day 2 - Dust and progress

2009-09-20T02:49:00.000-07:00

Long, and dusty. The market and surrounding areas have been busy which is a great sign.

1st phase on basement nearly complete and the ground floor is just waiting for its floor to be finished and then it is onto the lights!

Albam 111A Commercial Street has begun!

2009-09-18T15:31:00.000-07:00

After what has been a long long process we have finally got the keys on the next phase of Albam.

In about 2 weeks we will open 111A Commercial Street as our second store and our Eastern outpost. There is a great feel to the place at the moment and we are pleased to be in the neighbourhood of The Albion, Labour & Wait, Present, Rochelle.

The team moved in today to start the works and it is going well, if a little paint covered!

A/W 09 is on its way and we will be getting things coming through, so we haven't forgotten. Things are looking good and we are pretty excited by the whole thing.

Rochelle Canteen.

2009-09-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

I was taken for a coffee this morning to keep me awake after an epic drive from the the Midlands at the wrong side of this morning. She took me to Rochelle canteen just off Shoreditch High Street. What a great little gem, tucked away but a fantastic atmosphere, good coffee, great cakes and the lunch looks like it will be on the cards next week!

I met one of

The Preparation!

2009-09-18T15:19:00.000-07:00

Some things are happening behind the scenes at Albam HQ which will be ready in a few weeks. We have been prepping today and getting things sorted for kick off on Friday.

Autumn Production

2009-09-04T15:01:00.001-07:00

Things are starting to happen now so no more pics of climbing and rocks.

We are getting geared up for a new thing in about 3 weeks if things go according to plan and then there will be some additions to the Albam team both product and otherwise. Keep your eyes and ears peeled!

Saturday on Gorilla Warfare

2009-08-29T14:08:00.000-07:00

Enjoyed the sun this Saturday with a blast out to the Peaks for a spot of clean air. In between the walking and just taking in the views there was time for one problem. Gorilla Warfare at Curbar.

Past & Future

2009-08-29T11:32:00.001-07:00

Working on a few new hood shapes for some new outerwear pieces coming out over the next few months. And also found some great old climbing pics. The blog is quiet at the moment as we are waiting for things coming through from factories. 21st September is the big day.

436 Hillwalker Fit & Sizes

2009-08-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

For those of you who want to know the fit and sizes of the Hillwalker, here is some info.

Scarecrow Chic

2009-08-11T05:47:00.000-07:00

Sunday was hot, so we headed out to the country to this country house. People lived big a few hundred years ago, massive grounds, mansions just at the bottom of the grounds for plants to grow in. And scarecrows styled up!

The Hillwalker - arrival Mid/End August

2009-08-07T14:59:00.000-07:00

Our first Autumn (Fall) outerwear piece arrives soon, sometime before the end of August (hopefully!). The Hillwalker is a new thing for us, simple parka shape, waist drawcord, full length zip and chambray lined. Pockets are hidden at the side seam with a press stud fastening. Chest pocket also fastens with a pres stud as shown in the image. When we are back in next week we will get some more detailed shots with pocket placements, lining, toggles etc.

Get in touch with the store to be notified when they drop in. As always they are limited in number so please be quick.

Colours are red, sand and burnt orange.

Our first carpenter shirt. 2007

2009-08-07T14:46:00.001-07:00

I have been looking back through what we have been doing these last couple of days and I found this shirt. It was our first fabric and first style that we ran in 2007. It seems to be making a bit of a comeback!

Winter Woolies

2009-08-02T08:41:00.000-07:00

Some new winter hats and things from a new special knitwear factory. Still in the UK and making our knitwear even stronger. The new styles will be landing in September 2009.

Albam get together aka The Conference!

2009-07-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

Sometimes and definitely more often we should get together. The other Friday the Albam family went for a spot of bowling. Not necessarily the sport of choice for some of our members with the exception of someone who will go unnamed. BUT he seemed to have got back from an intensive high altitude bowling camp as the strickes kept coming a bit too frequently for our teams liking!

It was a great evening followed by (and during) by some merriment and finished off with a little beigel. The next one I believe is a trip back in time to the world of laser quest. It is that or crown green bowls I have heard.

Chambray Hooded Work Jackets & Shorts this weekend

2009-07-08T14:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend we are taking delivery of our shorts and the Chambray work jackets which I have to say are looking better than the first mini run we did.

Autumn is on the way!

2009-07-08T14:24:00.000-07:00

Now, I know we have just had a mini heatwave in England this last week but here at Albam we are looking forward to the weather changing, the leaves turning and the temperature dropping. It isn't bad though, what it does mean is Autumn/Winter styles, layering, knitwear, great outerwear and more!

On a rather warm day I was witnessing some crafting of our new waxed outerwear. Not today but definitely for Autumn!

John Bachar - Yosemite Legend

2009-07-07T02:11:00.001-07:00

A bit more esoteric to the usual posts but for me a legend of the climbing world has passed away, albeit doing what he lived for. John Bachar was a legend of the free climbing world, a guy from the halcyon days of American free climbing. a bit cringe worthy and the "Charlie's Angels" music is better turned off. But he needs a mention.

It's production time again!

2009-06-23T00:37:00.000-07:00

It is that time around about now that there is starting to be a lot of activity behind the scenes, new things being made, favourites coming back in new fabrics and the classics being repeated to replace the ones you have worn and worn. There are a few more things to come in for Summer, like our Chambray work jackets and a few simple shorts for when the English summer actually comes! It is also the time for getting out climbing with your mates in the evening which is really the best thing!

The Lounge - the best hair in Soho?

2009-06-15T06:21:00.001-07:00

It isn't all about clothes around here, and the hair is certainly an area not to be forgotten. Our friends over at The Lounge in Soho are often popping by the store wanting to sort out our unruly mops. Well there is likely to be a team trip over to 26 Peter Street to have a little cut and blow or a bit of curl taming. If you are thinking about a little spruce up then give them a call and get yourself in a chair.

Apartamento Magazine - Now in store

2009-06-15T06:15:00.000-07:00

We are slowly getting a few more magazines into stock at our store and last Friday we got Apartamento.

This is an interiors magazine with a difference. It is based on everyday life, but shot in a way that is anything but. Achievable, well designed, just people doing their thing and getting on with it. This is a real piece that isn't about the size of your wallet or about finding an obscure cabinetmaker who will not come to England.

Issue 02 and 03 are in store and will be going online shortly.

David Mellor Workshop and store.

2009-05-26T05:50:00.000-07:00

Bank holiday weekends are for getting out of the city. We nipped up to the Peak District for the day for a spot of climbing and stopped at the David Mellor workshop and store to get a few choice bits and pieces for the kitchen!

Sadly David Mellor passed away recently but his legacy lives on in the form of a thriving brand of cutlery and homewares and design object ranging from the traffic light, to bollards and post boxes. For anyone who wonders what to do with a weekend, this should be on the list. Then head out into the Burbage valley for a spot of bouldering or just a walk along the tops.

NAVY CAGOULES ARE ONLINE

2009-05-21T01:21:00.000-07:00

Right, if you have been looking for a few days this is the time. Navy are online as are a few khaki.

This is all the navy that we will get so get in straight away. There is a small top up of khaki and green are to follow.

The email is going out when EB gets in but just be quick! click this link:

http://www.albamclothing.com/product.aspx?productid=98

Cagoules being collected today!

2009-05-20T01:53:00.003-07:00

For those of you who have been waiting, we are due to collect some cagoules today. I am not sure what colours will be ready until I get there but they are due in. Tonight when we get back to London I will post up what we have collected. Keep your eyes peeled on the blog and your email for the notification.

Just so you know we open at midday if you call up and we can't take any preorders.