The Equality Issue
SPRING 2014
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
IN EVERY ISSUE
04 EDITOR’S LETTER 06 MEET THE TEAM LOCAL OPTIONS
22 BACK IN TIME WITH JTOOR 26 WORLD’S FAIR EXHIBIT 144 RESTAURANT HOTSPOTS 172 JORGE ZAVALA
MUSIC MUSTS
28 ALBUM SELECTS 30 SPRING CONCERTS THE SPOTLIGHT
36 JACK+MULLIGAN 70
MAC FOR EQUALITY
84
TOXIC BEAUTY FASHION & LIFESTYLE
100 THE LOOKS FOR LESS 116 1 LOOK 3 WAYS
118
ZOMBIE SURVIVAL
122
WTF?!!?
FEATURES > LOVE IS FOR THE MASSES
PAGE 38 CHYNA CRAVENS
PAGE 88 ANDRE SORIANO
PAGE 92 SIDETRACK CHICAGO
PAGE 132 MICHAEL HINGSON
PAGE 180
156 RUSTIC RUMMAGE
160 GROOVE & STITCH GROOMING
74
BEAUTY SLEEP
80
MUST HAVES HEALTH GUIDE
154 BEAUTY INSIDE 166 MONSANTO EDITORS LAST LOOK
150
SOUTHPORT GROCERY
189 EDITORS LAST LOOK
As I write this note today, I have a lot on my mind. Our spring issue has truly proven to be one of the more inspiring issues we have released in the 2 years Halfstack has been around. It’s crazy to me how far we have come as a publication in 2 years and on this day, our anniversary, I am so proud to release our “Equality Issue”. While this issue was in the very early development stages, Illinois had passed the Marriage Equality Act.
As an Illinois resident, I was beyond proud of my community for this monumental decision. As a woman minority, I am all too familiar with fighting for basic rights. As a US citizen I have been educated on civil rights history, feminism and freedom
editor’s letter
in religious beliefs. As much as we hate to admit it, inequality for minorities, women, and people of different beliefs is still an issue. Yet, to see change occur and be a part of history in the making, is an amazing feeling.
The Spring release of Halfstack hopes to solidify the direction our community, our nations and our people are moving in. We hope to showcase the ideal that love is a basic right we are all entitled to, no matter our sexual preference, religious background, skin color or culture. We hope to showcase that those things shouldn’t be the only ideas that determine who we are as people. We hope to show you the beauty of love and the amazing men and women who are the future of our nation and their generosity and open mindness when it comes to issues such as LGBT rights, marriage equality and interracial relationships.
The heart that was put into this issue is beyond what words could ever explain. The people that we are showcasing in each of the stories can teach all of us as humans to grow beyond what is comfortable and beyond what is expected of
JENNIFER M. LEZAN - EDITOR IN CHIEF & HER DAUGHTERS SOPHIA & BELLA
us. These people have pushed the limitations and have overcome obstacles and challenges that many of us could never explain, but we surely can learn from and appreciate.
The goal for this issue is more than just to entertain, we hope that each of you readers become inspired by the people and more knowledgeable on the subject matter discussed throughout these pages. While we do discuss some heavy themes in this issue, we still make it point to enjoy ourselves. You can find pieces highlighting some of Chicago’s hottest brands for men and women along side items like “How to survive a Zombie Apocalypse”. You will learn more about Chicago in the very beginning in the “World’s Faire” article and get some suggestions
on albums and concerts to check out this season.
We are also showcasing some amazing small local businesses and entrepreneurs who are making grand moves. Jtoor is Chicago’s very own bespoke men’s clothier who is bringing custom fashion to the fashion conscious Chicago man. Dwight Bejec , recounts to us the inspiring story of Kieran Folliard and his determination to bring his latest brand of Irish whiskey: 2 Gingers to the masses while still making a difference in his community.
Our spring editorial is our most prized possession in this issue. Writer & Director of Digital Content – Sophia Sanchez, does a beautiful job of recounting the stories of the couples and photographer Laura Lopez captured beautiful moments on location at one of Chicago’s most prominent gay bars: Sidetrack Chicago. Beauty Editor – Danielle Hazekamp showcases how beauty brand MAC is bringing the equality issue to their customers. Writer – Stella Quimby educates us on the Monsanto issues and I (Editor-in-chief – Jen Lezan) bring to you the story of one blind man’s survival during the 9/11 attacks and his life’s mission to bring equality to disabled people worldwide. Cheyenne Hendricks reveals the man behind Chyna Cravens, a queen who overcame her fear of judgment to pursue her performance dreams and continues to succeed today.
I am also so honored to be able to showcase local Democratic Congressional Candidate for the 4th district of Illinois: Jorge Zavala. If elected, Zavala will be the youngest congressman serving. His story, his compassion and his goals are to be admired. His is a great story to inspire the youth, minorities and more to become involved and get active in politics. We truly must be the change we seek and that begins with knowledge.
Readers, I hope that each of you is inspired by the words on these pages and that this issue sparks the energy you need to go out and shake things up this spring. Thank you for your continued support and cheers to the warm weather that is soon to find Chicago.
JENNIFER M. LEZAN - EDITOR IN CHIEF
jennifer lezan
kate roth
mariana quaranta
eic & creative dir.
fashion director
fashion director
@ bellasophiaHQ
@ halfstackmag
@ missmarc40
DIGITAL TEAM
PHOTOGRAPHY
sophia sanchez
dwight bejec
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& social media strategy
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L aura L opez lead photographer
pickapose photography
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meet the
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KALI KOLLER Graphic Designer & Creative business owner
SAMMY
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JAMIE L. BREEDEN Momma, talented photographer & graphic designer
REGULO ALVARAD
Style enthusiast & talented fashion designer
DANIELLE HAZEKAMP Beauty know it all, fashion diva to the max.
STELLA ESTRELLA Beauty queen, mommy, fashionista & blogger.
REYNISHA LINDSAY Inspirational Fashionista
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suiting the modern gentleman
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a trip back in time with J.Toor Written by: Sophia Sanchez Layout by: Jennifer M. Lezan There was a revolution in every sphere of human existence and fashion was no exception…. The Roaring 1920’s.
J. Toor however, a men’s bespoke clothier in Chicago, Illinois, has taken the Chicago fashion scene by storm. Launched just two short years ago in 2012, J. Toor takes us back to an era where quality and making a statement through fashion was of utmost importance.
Once upon a time, not-so-long ago, we lived in a prosperous era. In the aftermath of WWI, the world was changing. The stock market was booming, women were entering the workforce more than ever before, the nationwide prohibition on alcohol seemed to hinder very few and new music made its way into the night scene. There was a revolution in every sphere of human existence and fashion was no exception…. The Roaring 1920’s. The Jazz Age, as this era has come to be known, seemed to liven everyone and everything it touched, giving an edgier take on life that was certainly reflected in the clothing. This postwar fashion age sported shorter
skirts, low-waisted dresses and short-haired bobs for the ladies; a radical move in the beginning. Young men flaunted dapper suits with wide leg trousers, slim jackets with wide lapels, vests and bow ties; and of course no man of any class would be found without a hat. The war changed attitudes everywhere and this change was representative in the wonderous textiles and fabrics displayed in bright colored clothing that no one had seen in years; a direct reflection of the music, theatre and good times. This was a time when men and women took pride in their outward appearances, a fashion era that to this day, captures beauty in all of its essence.
Over the years, for men especially, this pride has slowly dissipated. Materials and textiles have cheapened, clothing has become drab and the idea of quality has slowly transformed into an industry known today as ‘mass production.’ Fashion ‘chains’ have popped up everywhere and the level of quality once seen in garments considered fashionable has all but disappeared. The fashion industry has become a conveyor belt producing “as much, for as little as possible.” J. Toor however, a men’s bespoke clothier in Chicago, Illinois, has taken the Chicago fashion scene by storm. Launched just two short years ago in 2012, J. Toor takes us back to an era where
quality and making a statement through fashion was of utmost importance. Founded by college friends, Jivesh Toor, Diana McCarty and Jamie Pate; the three landed on Chicago as the store’s home because of their adoration for the city. With the vision of bringing the modern gentleman ‘back to life,’ the team at J.Toor takes the otherwise conservative nature of bespoke menswear and brings it into the modern age. Their designs harken back to the nostalgic days and will remind you of a time when men were effortlessly dapper and attention to the finishing details was standard. Their slogan of “Suiting the Modern Gentleman” is simply not about dressing the contemporary man, but is integrated into everything they do; from the way they design, to the atmosphere within the store, to the way they run their business. “We wanted to bring back the ‘air of the gentleman,’ says McCarty in an interview with Halfstack Magazine. “What does he look like? How does he act? It’s not just about how he dresses, but also about how he treats people.” The vision was to rekindle the feeling of nostalgia in every appointment where the client and designer have a personal relationship. This truly bespoke menswear boutique, captures the spirit of the 1920’s with its speakeasy energy from the moment you walk through the doors. A ‘fabric bar’ located in a portion of
the store, you are greeted with complimentary scotch tastings while you browse hundreds of fabric samples and discuss your specific needs with the designer. Alongside this unique retail experience, J. Toor focuses on custom fit, specialized style and value. At a basic level, the idea is to build custom jackets from scratch while focusing on the individual needs of the client. Everything from the lining, to the width of the lapel and welting is completely customizable. And with classic influences in their designs such as double breasted jackets and satin shawl lapels, you can rest assured that your custom J. Toor clothing will be perfectly suited to your taste, without compromise of quality. Men everywhere spend eight, nine hundred dollars for suits “off the rack” from Hugo Boss and Armani that are not only manufactured in Asia with fabrics that are designed to fail in just a few short years, but that also don’t have the attention to detail, nor the cut to fit their body types. Don’t let the frightening notion of outrageous prices for bespoke clothing scare you away. For just a little bit more, you can have the expert staff of J. Toor put together a suit that is tailor-made in the United Kingdom from esteemed mills [Loro Piana, Holland & Sherry, Cerruti to name a few], that not only has character, but will fit you flawlessly, be unlike any other and last your lifetime. J. Toor doesn’t just have extensive knowledge in the luxurious
fabrics that make up each of their designs, but the key to their success lies in their unprecedented customer service and unmatched professionalism by any other clothier in the area. Certified by the CTDA (Custom Tailors & Designers Association), J. Toor gives a much more in-depth consultation than the competition. “This is one of our trademarks. We provide combined fashion guidance and education pertaining to each customers own personal frame and style. We don’t train salespeople to take basic measurements like shoulders, waist and chest; we also take into account posture, the way each of your shoulders rests compared to the other, which lapel looks best, where buttons should rest... We are very grounded in our craft,” says McCarty. There is simply no other clothier out there that offers such an in-depth level of design customization at their prices. In a market that is heavily driven and influenced by women, Halfstack Magazine had to ask why the team decided to pursue bespoke menswear. McCarty happily responded, “People are so used to women being the center of attention. At J. Toor we wanted to bring back the customization of men’s clothing; we wanted to the focus to be all about men. From the young professional banker who doesn’t receive a lot of attention, to the TV personality who is used to being in the spotlight, we want all of our men to feel confident the moment they walk out the door.”
a winning team
Jamie pate Having launched their collection in conjunction with the Human Rights Campaign - the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered civil rights organization in the United States - it is no secret that the folks at J. Toor strongly support the equal rights of all. Their brand, having a strong presence and adoration from the LGBT community, J. Toor takes pride in having a collection that is esteemed as classy and fashionable by people from all walks of life. J. Toor may be making waves in the fashion community within Chicago and beyond, however they remain humble, quietly making their mark on the fashion scene. So take a trip back in time to a much simpler existence, and let J. Toor win you over as they’ve won over hearts all over Chicago.
diana mccarty
Jivesh Toor
“J. Toor is for the man who isn’t afraid to discover his own personal style and isn’t afraid of classic fashion with contemporary twists of individuality.”
- Jivesh Toor
900 N. Michigan Ave. Suite L5-14 Chicago, IL | 312-291-8249 To make an appointment, visit www.jtoor.com Follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/j.toorchicago Twitter: @j_toor
The Cultured Spotlight
Opening the Vaults: Wonders from the 1893 World’s Fair at the Field Museum
Written by: Stella Quimby Layout by: Jennifer Lezan
you can see the actual artifacts” “ Today, and photos from the fair that put Chicago on the global Map.
Did you know that Chicago bested New York City, Washington D.C., and St. Louis in 1893 as the home for the World’s Fair? With more than 27 million people in attendance during its six month run, the fair was a commemoration; a celebration of the 400th Anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival to the New World in 1492. The fair quickly became an influential social and cultural event. Today, you can see the actual artifacts and photos from the fair that put Chicago on the global Map. The Field Museum in Chicago is hosting an 1893 World’s Fair Exhibit which began in October of 2013 and will run until September 7th, 2014. Not only was the 1893 World’s Fair the birthplace of Juicy Fruit Chewing Gum and the Ferris Wheel, the fair also marked the triumphant debut of the Chicago Field Museum. From the museums own hidden collection, you can now view incredible artifacts and specimens from the World’s Fair that have been rarely [and some never] seen on display since they amazed people over a hundred years ago; including a meteorite that the public was so terrified of, it was kept locked and chained in a dungeon. Take a day trip to the Field Museum and visit this extraordinary exhibit today! The Chicago Field Museum is located at 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605. (312) 922-9410. The museum is open daily from 9am-5pm with the exception of Christmas Day. The 1893 World’s Fair Exhibit is included in the All Access Pass which is $31.00 for adults, $21.00 for children aged 3-11 and $25.00 for students and seniors. When the Greeks Ruled Egypt at the Art Institute Chicago Thursday, October 31, 2013 - Sunday, July 27, 2014
Did you know that the Greeks once ruled the mighty and rich kingdom of Egypt? Alexander the Great’s General, Ptolemy, took over Egypt when the conqueror passed away and his family created a dynasty which reigned for over 300 years. A dynasty that included the famous Cleopatra, who also happens to be the last pharaoh of this ancestry. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago and be amazed at the over 75 pieces of artwork from this lineage. From gilded mummy masks, luxury glass, magical amulets, portraits in stone, precious metals and more, you are sure to be astonished by the artifacts from the last known and major Egyptian dynasty. The Art Institute of Chicago is located at 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, 60603. (312) 443-3600 It is open daily from 10:30am - 5pm and Thursdays until 8pm. Closed only on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Tickets are $17.00 for students, youth and seniors and is $23.00 for adults. And admission is free for Illinois residents every Thursday from 5pm-8pm. This exhibit is included in the general admission fee.
TOP
ALBUMS Written By: Dwight Bejec
The love of music evokes nostalgic thoughts of many ‘firsts’ as we move through different parts of life; some good and some bad. While many on this list are seasoned artists, it’s nice to see how they have evolved in time to keep up with the pace of the newer generation of listeners, who still enjoy their classic sounds. We’ve compiled a list of 10 different albums that seem most interesting as each of these artist in some way has given us cherished memories.
Enrique Iglesias will be releasing his new album titled “Sex + Love” on March 18th. This will be the tenth studio album and second bilingual album by Spanish Singer-Songwriter.
Lana Del Rey is set to release her album titled “Ultraviolence” on May 1st. She initially tried to withdraw her release date, so it’s technically not official. However it should release around this date. With the leaked song “Behind Closed Doors,” the upbeat song makes this album, one to look forward to! Rick Ross will be releasing “Mastermind” on March 4th. It will contain 16 original songs, including his featured singles “The Devil Is a Lie” and “War Ready.” For the people who love deluxe edition albums, his will feature three additional tracks. Big Sean, Jay Z, Jeezy, Kanye West, Lil Wayne and Meek Mill make guest appearances.
Kylie Minogue will be releasing her new album “Kiss Me Once” on March 18. This will be her 12th album, a follow up from 2010’s “Aphrodite.” The first single, “Into The Blue” is out now. Another tidbit of knowledge, Pharrell Williams is also on this album. Get ready for some dance floor hits from this Pop Diva!
George Michael’s sixth album titled “Symphonica” will be out on May 6. It is a mix of original compositions and covers which were similar to the sets he performed on the “Symphonica” Tour in 2011-12. This will be Michael’s first full length release since 2004’s “Patience.”
It has been almost 4 years since Mariah Carey started work on her new album. In the past 2 years she’s had three managers, two album release dates and four new tracks. Titled “The Art of Letting Go,” this album is set to release with a tentative date of May 6. Here’s hoping that all will go smoothly with this upcoming release. Hip Hop fans rejoice as Ice Cube has announced that he will be bringing back some West Coast Flavor! The follow up to 2010’s “I am the West” will hit on May 13, 2014, titled “Everythang’s Corrupt.”
It has been almost 11 years since singer, songwriter and actor Johnny Cash passed away, but his music lives on. “Out Among The Stars,” a collection of Johnny Cash songs from a lost session in the early ’80s is slated to be released late March. It’s always fascinating when lost songs are found!
It has been 6 years since we’ve heard from Beck which makes his February 25th release of “Morning Phase” one of the more anticipated albums to hit the music scene this year. Although “Morning Phase” is considered to be a companion piece to his last album “Sea Change,” it is more of a ‘mellow and deeply-melancholic look at life; or a road-trip record for the ages to create beautifully nostalgic memories.
Layout Design: Kate Roth
U2 has a slated release of June for their new album which is still untitled. They’ve described the new single off the untitled album, “Invisible” as not your typical love song. The album has been described as an anthemic number about leaving ones home town.
oncerts oncert
spring Concerts of 2013 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 By Dwight Bejec
Want to feel young again? Capture those nostalgic feelings with Ella YelichO’Connor also known as Lorde, who will be playing the Aragon on March 18
If you love waiting for the beat to drop then make plans to see David Guetta who will be making an appearance at the Aragon Ballroom April 4th Post hardcore music remind you of love lost and other teen angst memories? Taking Back Sunday would love to entertain your thoughts on April 5 at the Concord Music Hall
The gift of seeing a living legend perform is an inspiring experience. Don’t miss your chance to see John Legend April 9 at Cadillac Place
Armin Van Buuren is known for mostly playing progressive and uplifting trance, which is what he will be doing here at the United Center April 17th. Grab the glow sticks and energy drinks, it looks to be an awesome experience. If laid back blues with hints of R&B and Hip Hop are sounds that make you feel good, then don’t miss G Love & Special Sauce on April 18th at the Metro Smart Bar
The ever evolving Queens of the Stone Age will be in chicago May 9th playing at the Aragon Ball Room! Prepare yourself for a night to remember as you experience a mixture of memories from the past to now!
Innovative, fresh and Forward thinking DJ AVICII will be playing the All State Arena, don’t miss this May 15 show at the All State Arena
10 11
Be ready to be energized! Foster the People will be playing May 16th at the Riviera Theater! If the chilled out atmosphere of picnics and calm nights out taking a stroll are your thing Jack Johnson & Edward Sharp and the Magnetic Zeros will be playing May 31 First Merit Bank Pavilion
Layout Design by Kate Roth
If you’re looking to energize yourself with an awesome live performance then don’t miss Cage the Elephant on May 14 at the Aragon
Five MENSWEAR
Written by: Regulo Alvaradojr Written by: Regulo Alvarado Jr. Layout design by: Kate Roth
1
must shop
Lifetime Leather Co
(http://www.etsy.com/shop/LifetimeLeatherCo)
BRANDS
Owner: Ty Bowman Based in Mesa, Arizona, Lifetime Leather Co. , is a personalized leathergood company focusing in menswear accessories. From Passport wallets to cell phone holders, and from key-chains to toiletry bags, you can get your one-of-a-kind item from a quick and simple online shop! Just as their slogan suggests: Lifestyle goods made for a lifetime!
2
Haberdash Men (http://haberdashmen.com/)
Owner: Adam Beltzman Born in 2005 in Chicago, Haberdash Men, is your one stop shop for ‘hard-to-find’ brands including: 1911, L.B.M., Gitman Bros. Vintage, Baldwin Denim, Alden and others. Providing the finest quality in menswear, shoes and accessories. Shop online or in the two Midwest locations.
3
Suit Supply (http://us.suitsupply.com/enU_ S/home)
Owner: Fokke de Jong
When it comes to affordability and high quality, look no further! Suitsupply is the place for you. From Glen-plaid suits to individual tops, Suitsupply’s garments are tailored made with a slim fit. Meaning you’re set to look your best and feel even better. They offer in-house tailoring (while you shop they work on your item!), hundreds of tie selections, and exclusive accessories. and with its ever-growing expansion, odds are there’s one near you!
4
Trunk Club
(http://www.trunkclub.com/)
Owner: Brian Spaly Changing the way men shop since 2009, Trunk Club is a new and innovative way to shop as you go. As simple as 1,2,3. First, sign up: fill out a survey for stylists to know your style and measurements, then you’ll meet with your assigned stylist. Two, stylists selects clothes: experienced stylist will hand select items that best fit you and your lifestyle. Three, receive clothes: You’ll receive a filled box with the selected items. Keep the ones you like and return the rest! Best part of it all? Huge variety of high brands/designers and accessories!
5
Trumaker Co. (Trumaker.com)
Owner: Mark Lovas
Ever had the problem of shirts not fitting well? sleeves too short, collars too tight or just not the right color? Well thanks to Trumaker Co., that’s a thing of the past. With their personalized made-to-measure and affordable prices, Trumaker brings a whole new level to customized ordering. Trained stylists known as Outfitters, help you design the perfect shirt for you. From fabric selection to your own online shop, Trumaker Co. is your shirt go-to shop!
A Look inside Written by: Sophia Sanchez Layout by: Jennifer M. Lezan Last Spring, Halfstack Magazine introduced an exciting and new men’s accessories brand - Jack + Mulligan. Launched in 2013, Michael Szewczyk, wanted to bring men everywhere an upscale alternative to the standard gym bag. With women everywhere having option after option to choose from with regards to luggage and travel accessories, Szewczyk, was tired of feeling like his only option was to carry around a boring and poorly made duffel. The collection, which launched with the Classic Tote and Dopp, has transformed into an array of products and accessories that are sure to fit any sophisticated man’s needs. Founder and Designer Michael Szewczyk sits down with us to discuss his latest additions to the brand. Halfstack Magazine (HM): Your collection has come a long way since it launched in the middle part of 2013. How has the public responded to Jack + Mulligan? Michael Szewczyk (MS): We don’t look at Jack + Mulligan as launching in 2013. We really started Jack + Mulligan as a passion project and out of necessity. We wanted a perfect tote and we were fortunate that we were able to source some amazing manufacturers and textile mills locally. The response from our first tote amongst friends and family was better than expected, and that’s when we really decided to pursue Jack + Mulligan full time. The public’s response and support to the new line has been absolutely amazing. HM: How has the collection expanded in terms of products, aesthetic, quality, manufacturing (etc) with the growth of the brand? MS: This past Fall was spent listening to individuals for what they wanted and of course designing our current
line. We went from the one tote we made for friends and family to a full line including our duffel, square tote, camo tote, briefcase, portfolio and dopp. We now have an item available for every need. Whether it’s running to the gym in the morning, meetings in the afternoon, or getting away over a long weekend - we’ve got you covered. In terms of quality and manufacturing, we continue to fulfill our core thesis of making high quality men’s accessories that are locally made. HM: What can we expect in 2014 as far as additional products go and goals as a company? MS: We have some items we are currently working on that we’ll be previewing in the coming months. For 2014, we just want to spread as much of the Jack + Mulligan love we can to the guys that are working, working out, traveling and just living. HM: Why should people invest in Jack + Mulligan? MS: Jack + Mulligan items carry a lifetime warranty, are locally made and carry factory direct prices. A bag shouldn’t cost more than your trip, and we strive to make sure that never happens when you own a Jack + Mulligan item. Jack + Mulligan, named after Michael’s two dogs, an Apricot Poodle and an Irish Water Spaniel, is not only committed to providing men with a quality alternative to the standard gym bag accessory, but is devoted to ensuring that the relationship with the customer goes beyond the sale of the product to make sure that each individual person’s needs are met. Whether you are a lawyer working and living the busy downtown lifestyle or a farmer sowing seeds, Jack + Mulligan has a quality product that will not only add an air of elegance and grace to your everyday persona, but will perfectly suit your everyday lifestyle.
“ �
Michael Szewczyk, wanted to bring men everywhere an upscale alternative to the standard gym bag.
Dylan Dopp Kit| $70
Fitzgerald Briefcase | $130
Franklin Folio| $75
Sold exclusively at: www.jackandmulligan.com