I never gave Club Monaco much of my attention until my wife spotted a pair of their plaid, lambswool trousers on a thrift store rack in Wanatchee, WA for a cool buck. They’d never even been worn, but that’s been made up for over the past six months, as they’ve become something of a weekly staple—warm; perfect fit; khaki with peach squares; real winners.

Club Monaco’s Spring 2012 collection is rife with more versatile and perfectly pleasant wares. Standouts on initial glance include the Timothy Shirt Jacket (especially in the Southwestern blanket print), the Lightweight Chinos (why not go for it in the yellow?), the Edward Shirt and matching tie (mad for plaid) and the Jorn B. Trouser (is that chambray?). Complete looks from this collection aren’t going to blow any minds—and the Miguel Shorts looks a little diapery—but there’s plenty of solid stuff to mix in with whatever might be waiting for you elsewhere as the weather warms, thrift stores included. - jt

More looks in our gallery…

The Toronto, Canada born Club Monaco line (now part of the Ralph Lauren family) pulls down the curtain to unveil their new “Made in the U.S.A.” collection which brings an assortment of neckties, suits and more – all made in the United States – to a market ready for it. Sold through their 5th Ave. shop and their Bloor Stree, Toronto shop, the Club Monaco collection is only the start of a larger initiative that will surround the brand with collaborations featuring familiar names: Archival Clothing, London Unercover, Tannery Goods, and even Undercover. The formula, while not new, has clearly helped other retailers reach a consumer audience that expects products and themes that go well beyond the usual. The guiding hand of Michael Williams and his team will add that golden touch to the “Made in the U.S.A.” collection to help it forward.

A full look at the collection after the click.

Inspired by the photography of David Bailey Berlin photography of the 60’s , Club Monaco presents their Autumn 2011 collection that hopes to also bring back some of that 50’s beatnik form. The one thing you can be certain of with Club Monaco is accessibility. I bet your town has one. Comment away.

More looks after the click.

These two watches from Timex for Club Monaco are simple and well done. Available in a white or off-white face with black or brown straps respectively, the watches offer the bare essentials of timepieces with only a slight mark-up in cost. Clearly solid offerings from Timex. Available through most Club Monaco locations and Browns in the U.K.

More looks after the click.

While we’re not sure if this is a capsule collection for Browns in the UK or simply that Browns has the UkK exclusive on the collection, it does give us a moment to take a look at select pieces from the CM collection. The cardigan, knit blazer, and varsity jacket we showcase are strong pieces from the collection. The prices run the gamut here. Browse away.

More looks after the click.

“A behind-the-scenes look at Club Monaco’s Spring 2011 Campaign Shoot.”

Well, well… those special collaborative collection continue to pour in from retail. “Club Monaco will introduce a well-curated collection of its signature Women’s and Men’s apparel and accessories in Browns’ Shop 24, Browns Men as well as online at brownfashion.com.  The three points of distribution will launch simultaneously on February 11, 2011… The men’s collections builds on washed-down deconstructed blazers in twills, canvas and chambrays layered on top of ticking stripes, indigo work shirts and oversized sweaters. The men’s collection will take over the entire ground floor of Browns Mens store.”

More looks from the Club Monaco for Browns Fashion collection after the click.

Club Monaco is the latest fashion brand to spread its wings into cycling. Like several before them, their doing so via partnership. The Royal Gazelle is the only bike endorsed by the Dutch Royal family, and was designed in 1892. Club Monaco is marketing the bike as the ultimate in urban luxury. The related microsite includes a guide to riding in New York City, just in case you needed one. Retail on the Royal Gazelle is $995. (via Acquire).