August 29, 2003

London Calling

Duncan Quinn Store Opens

Enough with the tattered look already. Time to look smart.

Brit Duncan Quinn recently set up a men’s shop in NoLIta, bringing the nattiest glad rags to our side of the pond. The store — a sort of oversize drive-in closet — stocks bespoke and off-the-rack clothing that can only be described as posh … with spice. Think Spacehog in session at the House of Commons.

Suits and shirts have the kind of traditional detailing that’s expected by Queen and country. Hundreds of the finest fabrics. Hand-sewn touches. The attention of a specially flown-in Saville Row tailor. Decidedly unstuffy, meanwhile, are the punched-up, colorful flourishes on the linings and pockets. Those exquisite ties just beg for a proper Windsor knot. And if your butler doesn’t know how, just ask the dandies behind the counter. They’ll oblige, in their mod Anglo way.

Definitely worth a stop. Because scruffiness will always have its proponents, but every girl’s crazy ‘bout a sharp-dressed man.

Duncan Quinn, 8 Spring Street, between Bowery and Elizabeth Street (212-226-7030).