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When a 123-year-old Ivy League institution wants a revival, it calls in a disruptor. J. Press—the Yale-born brand synonymous with button-downs, khakis, and the legendary Shaggy Dog sweater—has appointed Jack Carlson, founder of Rowing Blazers, as its new creative director and president. His mission? To modernise an American icon without sacrificing its sacred codes.
Carlson, who stepped away from Rowing Blazers earlier this year, will debut his first collection for J. Press during New York Fashion Week this month, marking the brand’s CFDA schedule debut. For a label long associated with tradition, this is a statement: J. Press isn’t just preserving Ivy style—it’s rewriting it for a new era of ambitious men.
Why This Matters
Heritage brands can either fade into nostalgia or evolve into relevance. Carlson brings a rare mix of historical respect and irreverent edge. He grew up shopping J. Press at Harvard Square and has since built collaborations with Gucci, Barbour, and Tudor. His track record? Injecting energy into preppy codes and making them feel urgent again.
What To Expect
Carlson’s debut autumn/winter 2025 collection promises “a colourful, luxurious celebration of Ivy style,” with nods to both American and European craftsmanship. Expect standout tailoring—from a bold red tailcoat to Tyrolean-inspired jackets—alongside essentials straight from Take Ivy’s pages: boatneck knits, revived Ivy blazers, and accessories made from century-old felt college pennants. It’s equal parts archive and innovation.
Why Men Should Care
This is more than fashion nostalgia. J. Press under Carlson is poised to reclaim its spot as the name in American menswear, joining the conversation where tradition meets modern prestige. For men who understand the power of dressing well, it signals that Ivy isn’t about looking dated—it’s about looking powerful.
With Carlson at the helm, J. Press is positioning itself as both heritage and headline. For those who care about looking sharp and staying ahead, this is the comeback you’ll want in your wardrobe.
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