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Jun 18, 2019
For a few years now we've been working with our friends at David Kind, an eyewear brand inspired by midcentury design that makes its frames in Italy and Japan, to stock a curated selection aimed at our core audience of likeminded individuals at Lone Flag. This last month our founder Sam got a chance to chat with Dave (the proprietor of David Kind) about the process of small business, some ups and downs, and why we love the David Kind approach to frames. You can read the full interview here and also see the full collection of David Kind at Lone Flag here, including Sam's choice, the Quincy, which is avialable now as well.
Also - June 29th we'll be hosting David Kind on the corner at the brick & mortar to allow for you to meet Dave in person and get custom frames aligned for you on the spot. Look out for more on that shortly.
All photos by Stefan Junir.
May 08, 2019
As huge fans of made in Japan and made in Italy eyewear, we've worked with David Kind for the past couple years to curate an in store collection where we can provide a custom fitting and prescriptions for in the same vein as our custom denim hemming and repair services. This past week Campbell went behind the scenes to the David Kind design studio to get a personalized collection of the latest DK frames. Available now here.
Feb 12, 2019
Honesty moment. It's pretty hard to make things domestically. When the process of Coast Denim started, it was based off a passion for trying to somehow make denim here, entirely in Southern CA, that was ultra-high quality, made with more intentional fits for contemporary wear, looked different (no rivets / no branding), and was somehow entirely under $150. That was a pretty huge uphill battle, and it's still a really difficult process to make happen, there are so many more expensive and more time-consuming elements that go into creating things here in the U.S. All that said, it was a chance for us to know the workers, shake hands and laugh with our sewers, high five with our cutters, and work with our friends like Bradley Mountain to create patches the slow way right here in San Diego. Start to finish so much love goes into Lone Flag denim, it's hard to describe in full here. It's just the only way we could envision doing it all.
Nov 01, 2018
Drop 1 is upon us.
Oct 30, 2018
We've followed the work of PNW-based Dan Ewing for a while as fans of his distinct style that goes into every detail. Having made very uniquely beautiful accessories for some time now, Dan has forged his own path showcasing a unique approach that is clearly influenced by his surroundings. We reached out to Dan to work together on something interesting that would show both spectrums of the West Coast that we love and live on, in totally different ways. This collective capsule specifically aimed to marry the PNW feel of Dan's work with Lone Flag's signature Southern CA feel. Each piece is extremely limited in number, and an a blackout story carries across each for a more contemporary feel that allows all pieces to be worn / held for all occasions. The best of both worlds, distinctively West Coast, North + South.
We chatted with Dan on what makes EDG so special:
You have a distinct feel that seems to tie in directly to your Alaskan / PNW residency. How did this terrain and culture affect your brand and was that intentional?It was completely influential. When I first started out I was making pieces out of found bones and things and working with Alaskan native artists to make more north coast inspired pieces.
Talk about how you got started and what the main catalyst was to start your own brand?
We started in 2012 when I couldn't find leather items that I wanted to carry or use (no disrespect to the handful of leather brands that were around then). I had these ideas in my head and needed to get them out. Not too long after that my wife told me that working a full time job and staying up till midnight or 2am everyday fulfilling orders wasn't working out and that I needed to pick one. The rest is history
(Editors Note): Marry well. Usually your wife knows best.
Favorite current brands?
Rogue Territory always (Karl's my boy), Stevenson Overall Co., Iron Heart, John Lofgren, Good Art Hollywood and Lone Flag T-shirts (the only T's I wear), So many great brands out there, this is just what popped in my head. I love brands that are original and stay true to their roots without chasing every fast fashion trend out there.
(Editor's note): This wasn't a leading question, I promise. Dan actually wears LF shirts.
How would you describe your personal style?
Heritage meets street style meets dirty Alaskan hippy
Where do you get inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from just about everywhere, every great artist that is true to themselves inspires me. Cultures inspire me, music inspires me, creation and nature inspires me and my family inspires me. I try no to look to fashion for inspiration or other artists in my genre, it's just too easy to blur the line between inspiration and imitation.
How does your creative process work for new pieces?
Pretty much I try to think of things that people absolutely need and mix that with elegance and nature.
What are the pros and cons of small business in your context?
Taxes are a con, every small business owner feels me on this one, about 1/3 of what we make goes to taxes. There are so many pros; being in charge of my schedule, my creativity, my stress are huge. Being able to spend time with my family is priceless.
Any words of wisdom for someone looking at what you do and wanting to start their own business?
First impressions are everything, get good before you drop it on the world. I believe that we were created by the most creative bing in the universe and He created us in His likeness, that means He created us to be creative. This being said, don't start a business because you think you can do what someone else is doing, start a business because the world needs your business.
What does a day in the life of Dan Ewing look like?
Wake up at 8ish (because I can), take my daughters to school with my wife and then go on a walk or just spend quality time with my wife. After that I come to the shop (basement apt turned shop beneath my home) and begin to prepare myself for the day. I work until 3:30 and then unless I'm in the middle of a project or way behind I pick my daughters up from school. After that I work until about 5 and than stop for family time. Once I put my daughters to bed I then go back downstairs and that is pretty much my creative time to work on new things until about 9:30/10 in which I binge on Netflix with my wife until bed time. Pretty much that Monday - Friday
Is Seattle ever going to get another NBA team or was Shawn Kemp the peak of PNW basketball?
I'm a Blazers fan, and in case you missed the opening game where they beat the Lakers, you know that the Blazers are the best thing to come out of the PNW! ;)
(Editor's note): I hate the Lakers, glad they lost Dan. What's more painful though, is I'm a Clippers fan. It's hard to admit in public.
Best distinctly Alaskan food?
King crab, I pretty much won't eat any other crab anymore; it's too much work for little payoff. King crab though have so much tasty meat!
Best movie that portrays Alaska how it should be seen?
A hidden gem called 'Alone in the Wilderness' which was filmed in the late 60's but released in 2004. Super inspirational for anyone interested in living off the land and or making things with their bare hands.
(Editor's note): Thanks for not saying 'Out Cold'...even though I sort of secretly love that movie. Is that ok?
How does being a dad affect running a brand and where do you find your balance?
My kids are always around except during school which makes it beautiful and frustrating all at the same time. Balance for any business owner with a family, that understands the proper order; Wife, Children, business, will spend the rest of their life trying to figure this out and still never get it right. Lots of face to face time is key.
Preferences for the best PNW town? Which one is amazing that nobody knows about?
Being from Alaska but living in Portland, I really miss the ocean. There are so many great little ocean cities on the Oregon and Washington coast: Canon Beach, Seaside, Long Beach and even places like Astoria Oregon are amazing little spots. If you've never checked out Portland Oregon, you need to add that to your bucket list.
Future goals for Ewing Dry Goods?
We're doing lots of great collabs this year and into next. Keep your eyes out for a few boots and a work shirt. We just want to continue to progress and be able to live and love people all the while.
Any last words?
Stop supporting fast fashion and start supporting small family run business!
Oct 02, 2018
You asked and we delivered. Per our last instagram stories Q&A, many of you wanted to know more about the man behind the shop's daily operations as well as the hands behind the darning / hemming in store. Keng is at the heart of Lone Flag and has been a part of the brand since the earliest days so we're well overdue to highlight the man behind some of your favorite pairs of repaired denim, email replies from the shop, or that voice when you call in.
Say no more:
Favorite Brand at Lone Flag? Tough one, narrowing it down to one I would have to say I love what Dan is doing at Corridor. If you didn't see his GQ article he was also in the CIA, so he told me to say that. All jokes aside the fabrics and his cuts are just timeless and fit my body type well.
What's your go-to denim? Nudie Jeans. Not only do they fit my broomstick legs well, they use 100% recycled denim. To be honest that 2% elastin is pretty nice for my Southern California temp gauge.
Got to shirt? If I'm not living in my Lone Flag Basic Pocket Tee, then I'm most likely in one of my Gitman Vintage shirts, or Corridor.
Tell us about the origin of your infamous hat? Let's face it, i'm a hat guy. The initial obsession probably started with our homie Shaun coming in with his Nick Fouquet hats. Yes Hat(s). Just feeling the beaver felt, the silk inlay etc, I was sold. I would probably tell my girlfriend (hi Emma) how I wanted a $1200 hat every month, and she would just roll her eyes. My 30th Bday came around and she gave me a pamphlet of photos of me with a photoshopped hat on top of my head in every picture, at the end it said we're going to Venice. Long story short, she is a keeper.
Oversized or Tailored? Both. I think that's what's unique about style and expression. You can do whatever you want and as long as you own it who cares. I'm personally tend to go more towards a tailored fit but I have some pieces that are oversized too to just throw in the mix once in a while.
Color that is the next hot item for fall? I think its called Meercat, brownish orange like the Brown Heritage Plaid Corridor Released
Most Anticipated Fall Item/Release? For the past couple years for us it has always been 3Sixteen's Waxed Canvas Jacket in black, and it will probably reign true again. What I'm most excited about is probably our denim releasing...won't say anymore, just stay tuned.
What got you interested in personal style? I think i've gone through a lot of phases in my wardrobe, from college until now. Probably an identity crises of finding myself in those times. Honestly just trying things and really owning it is half the battle, if you feel good in it you probably look good. It helps to have an honest friend too
How did you learn how to Hem and Denim Repair? Youtube. Period. I never really had a desire to learn how to use a sewing machine until probably my second year at Lone Flag. We had a need and I said I was just going to figure it out and ended up really enjoying it. Through countless hours of rethreading or learning how to thread and threads breaking and flipping tables and... etc. it all paid off, now it is fun and like coloring a book on denim just with a 300 pound machine.
Hometown: Born in Hollywood, raised in San Diego. Hometown will always be SD 4 Lyfe.
Best 3 Restaurants in SD? #1 Anyone who knows me knows that Campfire is my spot. #2. Lolitas IN MY OPINION has the best California Burrito, for any of you that don't know what a California Burrito is. Next time you are in San Diego, your welcome. #3. Izakaya Masa, I just love ramen. Anytime of the day.
Best Coffee in SD: I have my spots for specific drinks. I worked at Starbucks for 8 years(I know) and would just drink black iced coffee, I've become soft and now. I'm just a milk and sugz kind of guy. Philz Coffee Mint Mojito, don't make fun it's crack. Zumbar has my favorite Latte/Mocha. Iron Smith for the Flat White.
Fave Cocktail: Pina Co... Jk Old Fashion (not joking tho)
Best Keng Name Pun: Kengkles
Favorite surf spot? - Pipes or any of those breaks around there.
Final Keng Thoughts: Measure Twice Cut Once
You can drop Keng a personal line at keng@loneflag.co at any time to catch up on all things life / denim / product related.
Aug 28, 2018
More use and abuse please. We believe denim gets better with age, that's why we love the dry denim process so much, it's sort of an obsession here. With all the pairs that come through the shop that we repair / give new life to, Worn & Re-born is a place where we can give that left over denim new life in another place and recycle something beautiful rather than see it go to waste. It's a win-win. We like win-wins.
This ever-evolving hand-picked selection comes from Keng and is available in-store and online now.
Jul 07, 2018
In celebration of the Japanese holiday celebrating the ocean, Nudie is launching a special capsule collection featuring the Lean Dean fit with a special edition blue back stitch, blue and white chainstitch, and Japanese denim. With only 300 pairs releasing in the U.S., this is truly a limited edition collection with it's own unique fade potential based on the blue thread story and inky mid-weight denim.
Available in store and online here on July, 11th. Limited to 1 pair per purchase.
Custom chainstitching available with purchase.
Apr 11, 2018
Staying clean is a team effort, and we're happy to now not only offer a considered wardrobe offering in store and expert denim repair in house, but now also top knotch haircuts on site. As part of our 2.0 space patio just two blocks off the coast in Encinitas, our good friends at Soundcuts join us for their second location in our studio space. Consider this your one-stop location for an espresso, haircut, and full-service brand offering by the sea.
You can now book a slot digitally for the Encinitas LF x SC location here.
Oct 19, 2017
It was a no-brainer to bring in the David Kind experience to Lone Flag. Their premium eyewear made in Sabae, Japan and Cadore, Italy at an attainable price was right up our alley and with the added service touch of customization, it felt right to offer to you in store and online. We'd call that affordable luxury and timeless style delivered in a well designed and executed package and it's all available with custom RX options in both optical as well as sun both in store and online at Lone Flag. Drop in store or visit us online...we'll set you up with next level service either way on a new pair for the season ahead.
Jun 26, 2017
Last week we shot up the coast to LA to catch up with our friends at 3sixteen to chat on what's next and see what they're working on at the shop. In the meantime, we reloaded our current core denim offering to include all 3 colors of the ST fit, our in-store signature fit from 3sixteen that we love custom fitting and hemming our customers in. More to come on some custom projects on seasons ahead, but in the interim you can stop by the brick & mortar to get sized up and fit on some of the new ST's in shop now (or online where we offer free hemming as well).
Jun 19, 2017
If you've been in the shop, you know we love Portland's Stumptown from our fridge in store stocking bottled cold brews. They've managed to somehow "get big" and yet still have great branding and an always consistently great cup no matter where you get it. Haters will hate, but you can't argue that they've made a great product that always delivers on point and we love the brand for that. Some of our crew headed up to the LA roastery to chat with the team and get a behind the scenes look at the magic. See below for a brief Q&A from their sales manager (and LF denim owner) Ryan Jimenez.
How long has Stumptown been in Southern CA after shifting down from the Pacific Northwest?
Four caffeinated years.
Real talk - what's the "must get" drink when you stop in?
I always get a flat white, but if I get Cold Brew, the Cold Shot is delicious and straight to the point. It's a two ounce pour of our Cold Brewed Hair Bender concentrate infused with nitrogen. It's like a cold, creamy shot of espresso and you can only get it in our cafes. Also worth mentioning, you can try any coffee we have on the menu as a pour over via our new Modbar for 5 bucks. That way you can fall in love with a coffee before buying an entire bag of it.
Favorite origin of beans?
I love to dabble in different single origins, but I am a big fan of African coffee. Bright and floral with notes of citrus and stone fruits. This is usually my go-to afternoon cup.
We're big on the work vibes playlist in store. Classical or metal work tunes?
Classical. Whether from the 1940's big band era or Classic hip hop from the 80's and 90's.
Any big future plans for Stumptown Southern CA?
This is the Summer of Cold Brew and I am very excited for our first ever single origin Cold Brew in our stubby bottles. And what better way to kick it off than with my favorite origin - Ethiopia. This Ethiopia Guji has delicious notes of melon, rhubarb and caramel. I know that sounds like a sales pitch, but I am truly excited for this. I have been requesting a single origin Cold Brew in a bottle for nearly three years that I've been at Stumptown Coffee Roasters.
Words: Ryan Jimenez - Stumptown Sales Manager
Photos : @bhunt.sd
Mar 13, 2017
Hold recently released a collection of mugs made by hand in Japan, a meticulous process that makes each piece unique in it's finish. Since we love coffee, tea, and sake, we love the concept of sharing those in a vessel you'll keep for the long haul.
You have a distinct feel that seems to tie in directly to your Alaskan / PNW residency. How did this terrain and culture affect your brand and was that intentional?
