As you can see, things have been relatively slow going as of late. That’s not to say we’ve lost interest or passion – quite the contrary. The team is busy behind the scenes with an extremely complex, rebranding and redesign undertaking that is requiring a lot of time and manpower at the moment. We’ll check in every now and again with some new posts below this one, but for now, let this act as PSA. Thank you for stopping by, thank you for your patience and thank you for your kind words.

Vans has been putting together some terrific collaborations with some pretty difficult-to-crack, heritage companies as of late. If you were impressed with the Brooks Saddles Vans Vault that was previewed earlier this month, you’ll be equally impressed with Filson’s trademark canvas and leather on these Sk8-Hi’s. A nice precursor to Filson’s soon-to-be-released black label collection that will be produced and designed in Italy and available only to European markets. Soto Berlin will debut the Vans Vault x Filson Fall 2010 Collaboration with an assortment of other collaborations.

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Bill Amberg is mostly known for his handmade leather bags since has 1984 and recently made some headways with his Selvage Collection for this season. Some may be surprised to discover Amberg’s architectural projects division which offers bespoke service for interior design using leather, whether it be a private residence, commercial property, aeroplane or yacht. Surprising, but fitting. Each design is tailor-made to suit the client’s requirements and each piece is fully fitted by in-house craftsmen. Past notable projects include a vegetable tanned buffalo hide for the world’s biggest sailing yacht; a lightweight, fireproof leather for Lufthansa Technic’s specialist planes and as small as a residential telephone. Or you may have already unknowingly come across Amberg’s interior work already if you’ve ever stopped by Asprey and Claridges in London, the Kakimoto Arms salon in Tokyo or the Burberry in Milan. More information available here.

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It seems only too fitting that Dwell Magazine would create something aptly named an “Architect’s Shirt”. While we couldn’t track down any other previous collaborations involving Dwell, apart from a few sparse pieces of furniture, this one hits the mark in yarn-dyed Japanese organic cotton. Teaming together with Taylor Stitch, a small independent known for its hand cuts and assembly in San Francisco, it looks terrific when paired with a colorful bowtie. Available here.

From canvas tent making during World War I to present day high-end luggage and sporting accessories manufacturing, J.W. Hulme Company’s craftspeople have been making distinctive luxury leather and canvas bags since 1905. Their classic Field Duffle represents everything the company strives for. A re-crafted classic duffle reminiscent of Gokey canvas bags manufactured by J.W Hulme over 50 years ago, the stone-washed, 10 oz. water resistant high count cotton marine canvas adds plenty of vintage character, as does the matte nickel hardware. Custom embroidering is also available, and highly recommended. Being made on home soil and guaranteed for life, this one is sure to stay in your family for the next little while. Available here.

As we’ve previously told you, we’re big fans of Apolis Activism and their commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and artisanal techniques.  The three Parton brothers have a commitment to ethical practice that is only matched equally by their commitment to classic American sportswear and workwear.  This summer, they’ve teamed up with Katin to produce a line of swim trunks.  Katin has been producing custom board shorts in Huntington Beach, California since 1959, with an impeccable attention to both durability and detail.  The highlight of the collaboration between the two brands is definitely the limited edition indigo chambray short.  It is cut from lightweight 5.5 oz. Spanish chambray and is fully lined for comfort and support.  This is definitely anything but your average bathing suit.  Available for pre-order direct here.

A video that tells the story of the collaboration is available after the jump.

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You definitely won’t find yourself wanting if you are currently looking for a braided belt.  They’re making the rounds right now in a lot of different shapes and sizes from multicolored to more standard country club fare from the likes of Ralph Lauren.  However, leave it to Martin Margiela to give us something different that is still totally wearable.  What makes his plaited (read: braided) belt stand out is the thickness of the three individual strips which, together with the heavy silver rectangular buckle, instantly gives it a fresh minimal look.  Plus, you can’t go wrong with the versatility of a good tan leather belt that will just look better and better with age.  Available here.