Do we have a special place in our hearts for basics and knitwear that go well beyond the normal found in modern day basics. Hells yes, we do. When it comes to sweatpants, crews, and undergarments, their quality, build and performance must be as outstanding as classic shirting and outerwear.

In the midst of all the high fashion and tailoring at Pitti, we discovered the Riding High label from Japan. Straight up: their collection of undergarments and crews were some of the best we’ve seen in some time. It is almost expect when you have a company that focuses solely on making the very best basics around. Check the grey cardigan, the stitching detail on collars and you’ll see why we’re excited to get our hand on Riding High this Autumn 2012.

Photography: Luca Merli/Selectism.com/Mensreverie.com

View more looks in our gallery…

Sundek have teamed up with Neil Barrett for a capsule collection for SS11. From what we saw, the collection will mainly be shorts and shirting – although the main focus will be on the shorts (as that’s Sundek’s speciality and all). Patterns include camo, which has become the new pattern of choice incredibly quickly. (HS)

Take a leap to see more shots

85% of the High Snob and Selectism team were in Berlin last week, so there’s gonna be a fair amount of cross posting today – including this post, which was previously on HS. This preview of Puma’s Hussein Chayalan designed line showcases what folks would call ‘clean and simple lines’. They look like they’ll be great for the guys who doesn’t need their trainers to be obnoxiously colourful.

Take a leap to see more shots.

I love whiskey as much as I love Miller High Life, though the combination of the two is disastrous, I may add. Today, Notcot made me pull the snuffer off the shelf in preparation for the newest premium grade whiskey to hit the shelves and this time it’s from Beam. “Bottled at 92 proof, (rī)1 features a light, slightly spicy flavor and a long, luxurious finish. Straight, the nose offers a gentle, peppery nod to its rye heritage. Cut with water, the scents of dried fruit and cinnamon push to the front, providing a rich palate experience.” Bring it on.

More views of the new (rī)1 after the jump (thanks to notcot).

Founded in England in 1880, Barker Black has been revived by two brother not too long ago. Now they present a modern alternative to Men’s shoes and accessories. You just have to love their shoes. Outstanding quality of leathers, sole and remarkable attention to detail. Also their unconventional skull and bones logo is a nice contrast to the other classic English shoe makers.

There is a break in the tradition concerning image and brand equity, at the same time they present super classic footwear, sometimes with a twist. You have to check out their collection here.

Too many nice shoes to name our favorite, but the Velvet Slipper is in the top 5!