Fashion Citizen x Marshall Anthony, Luxury Clothier
Fashion Citizen : Can you tell us about how you started Marshall Anthony and what niche your brand fulfills in the menswear market?
Marshall Anthony : Marshall Anthony is a luxury clothier owned and operated by Caron Gabriel and Darhel Anthony. Established in 2009 by designer Darhel Anthony, the brand spawned from the need of a broader selection in the scarce bow-tie market. Beginning with handcrafted bow-ties, Marshall Anthony eventually expanded to offer handcrafted neckties as well. In 2011, the two of us partnered to establish an American menswear brand that would define the modern gentleman.
FC : Looking at your pieces, there is a theme of classic style and elegance. Do you see the need for a return to a more tailored style of dressing for this generation?
MA : In our educated opinion, there is no other way for gentlemen to carry themselves. Comfort should not come at the expense of class and style. The way a man carries himself expresses what he thinks of himself. Therefore, a man's wares and self esteem go hand in hand with his potential to fulfill his dreams.
FC : Raw silk, a material that takes much effort to create, is something you've used heavily in your spring pieces. Why did you select this material and what would you suggest pairing with these handmade pieces?
MA : Raw silk has become a bit of a staple within our neckwear collections. This spring we introduced some superb colors that really speak to the texture of the silk; giving character to sophisticated looks. Darker and richer tones, such as indigo, evergreen, and our signature purple look very nice with traditional suiting. The taupe and natural will pair nicely with linen and sandy earth tone ensembles. Overall, we like the richness of colors in our raw silks; as well as their beautiful texture. They really take on color well in the hand-dyeing process.
FC : Handmade vs. Mass Produced, what are the benefits of owning a Marshall Anthony piece?
MA : Handcrafted ties are a thing of beauty. Our ties are individually made and therefore, no two are the exact same; giving each tie its own individuality. We utilize all natural high quality materials that when combined with great craftsmanship, produce superior products. Mass produced neck ties are made using a liba machine that folds and stitches the hem on the ties. This stitching is tight and easily broken; inferior to the hand sewn slip stitch on the hem of our ties. Our stitch provides "bounce" so that the tie can be stretched and return to its original state many times over; extending the life of the garment. The crafting methods we use on tipping, labeling, and bar tacking cannot be done by machine. Marshall Anthony neckties are completely handmade, providing their owner with a high quality, aesthetically superior garment.
FC : Fashion is always moving a season ahead, so what can we expect from Marshall Anthony this fall?
MA : We will be expanding our neckwear collection to include some year round staples, as well as a larger range of seasonal ties. In addition, we will be adding new product lines that will continue to develop the dream that is Marshall Anthony.
FC : Are there any plans to expand the brand beyond accessories in the near future, why or why not?
MA : Marshall Anthony is in the process of becoming a complete menswear brand. Our brand will include shirting, suits, outerwear, shoes, and accessories.
FC : Lastly, being a design duo must come with it's ups and downs, how do you both manage to stay even keeled in design and production?
MA : Many aspects contribute to Marshall Anthony's success; outside of design and production. Marshall Anthony's dream fulfilled, keeps us too busy for dissension.
