With zero fanfare Brian Simpson, above, and his wife Lauren, a high school English teacher at Westminster Christian Academy, quietly opened East + West at 387 N. Euclid last Friday. There is such a relaxed vibe about the place, a natural fit for the bright and airy space in the historic McPherson/Euclid district.
East + West opened in Kirkwood in July 2012. Over the past 4 years the men’s lifestyle shop attracted a following from all over the metro area, including many from the CWE. Customers were drawn to brands that have a cult following previously available only in places like Chicago or New York. The Simpsons, who live in the Tower Grove neighborhood, have always loved the CWE, and when they discovered that the storefront on Euclid was available, they felt the time was right to make the move. I know you’ll agree.
Within the 1st hour of Friday’s opening several friends started dropping in to say hello, including chef Dan Brewer from Mofu & his son Julian, above.
East + West stocks mostly American-made merchandise, 75% is manufactured here, the remainder comes from Europe and Japan. Simpson seeks brands that feature the best fabrics and construction details. His philosophy when it comes to clothing is “quality over quantity.”
Brands include NY-based 3Sixteen, Norse Projects from Copenhagen, and Kansas City-based Baldwin, which garnered GQ’s Best New Designer title a couple of years ago.
The shop also carries men’s skincare products, accessories, and shoes including Vans and Red Wings.
Expect to find men’s clothing for everyday at East + West. To round out the eclectic selection at this fabulous addition to the neighborhood, you can pick up an easy-care potted cactus too.
East + West, 387 N. Euclid, Tues. thru Sat. 11 – 7, Sun. Noon to 5, (314) 835-1419.