NSF Clothing: Boardshorts for Surfing...and for Chillin'
Up-and-coming menswear designer Nick Friedberg of Los Angeles–based NSF Clothing is breaking into boardshorts.
NSF introduced two styles for Holiday/ Cruise and four more silhouettes for next Spring/Summer.
Friedberg’s approach to boardshorts is one that blends function with fashion. The former James Perse and Ya Ya production manager knows the intricacies of constructing a garment that fits as well as it performs. Using his background in production and his affinity for modern design, the California native thinks he can bring the swimwear market something fresh and innovative.
NSF’s entries include the “Freddy” and the “Steve,” a Mughal print and a batik made from cotton-brushed poplin and wholesale priced at $44. First deliveries are scheduled for November.
“I wanted to do something that wasn’t priced too high,” Friedberg said. “If you look at a lot of the product out there, it’s way up there.”
Friedberg said he also wanted to build a boardshort that works. He looked at every detail, from head to toe; the drawstrings are made from all cotton to prevent slippage. Traditional nylon strings have a tendency to fall out of the eyelets. The inside seams are bound, so they are not exposed to the skin, thus improving comfort. There’s a drain hole on the back pocket to prevent water buildup. Friedberg employs a more contemporary fit, cut slightly above the knee—unlike a lot of the surf product on the market, which is below the knee.
“These are for chilling by the pool as well as riding on your board,” he said.
Interest has already come from top-name retailers, including Ron Herman, Scoop NYC, Barneys New York, Bloomingdale’s and Hollywood Trading Co., Friedberg said.
Launched in 2005, NSF’s menswear collection has gradually been gaining strength among specialty stores.
“I want to stay relatively small and exclusive,” Friedberg said.
For more information, e-mail sales@nsfclothing.com. —Robert McAllister
