With the notable exception of Paul Rudd and the cast of "Wet Hot American Summer," who wore the hell out of some denim jackets and tube socks, the typical summer camp isn't a lesson in sartorial style.
But Tie Bar is channeling summer camp and all its inherent nostalgia for a new collaboration with Camp Wandawega, the historic lakeside resort found in Elkhorn, Wisconsin.
The just-launched Camp Wandawega x Tie Bar Long Weekend Collection celebrates the spirit of camp life and the art of dressing well. It's stocked with pieces across a range of accessories, including bow ties, socks, silk pocket squares, bandanas, cufflinks, shoelaces, unique tie bars designed in Chicago, and a few made-in-the-USA neck ties. Most items are available now, with more to join in the coming days, and soon the collection will be 50 pieces strong.
Not all of the above are things you might actually wear while throwing kindling on a fire or paddling a canoe, but the collection embraces camp life through retro patterns, mosaics of field and forest artwork, geo prints inspired by woodlands, and a color palette that hearkens back to a bygone era. There's a healthy dose of whimsy in each product, but everything's still got the refined polish and timeless style you'd expect from Tie Bar.
We're partial to the Dive Bar plaid socks, available in a variety of colors, and the pocket squares featuring an assortment of flora and fauna. The textured shoelaces can spruce up any boot, whether you're hiking in the woods or trekking down the street to dinner. The fun bow ties can add panache to any formal situation, or tie a bandana around your neck — perhaps one sporting a flock of migrating birds.
The collection is available at Tie Bar’s flagship store in Chicago, in case you're nearby. Otherwise, you can find everything online. Pick up a few pieces, and feel like you're back at summer camp.
Except much better dressed. And with nary a dodgeball flung at your head.