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Category: Men's Clothing [Edit]
Neighborhood: Union SquareCheck out our new Fall/Winter arrivals from Nice…
Mon-Sat. 10:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
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Allow me name several outstanding contemporary men's fashion brands
(fyi, unlike those world-famous fashion brands, which you can find them everywhere in Union Square, most labels at the Archive are THE rare breed in continental US)
Rick Owens
Ann Demeulemeester
Label under Construction
Viridi Anne
Attachment,
Number (n)ine
Julius
If you are into these "indie" brands, you'd understand what the fuss is all about the Archive. It can be expensive to be a patron at Archive, however, designer fashion is sadly never cheap. The Archive has certain types of aesthetics and the brands they carry fit the image extremely well.
I'm just happy that they save me hassles of flying to Tokyo, Milan, or Paris.
Having lived in the East Bay for a long time, The Archive was always sort of a golden oasis; a shining exemplar of discretion and simplicity in a city so consumed by consumerism that good stores are often left on the wayside in favor of something bigger, something brighter, and something (usually) of much more marginal quality. But now that I live in the city, I truly understand how ridiculously lucky San Francisco is to have a place like this.
If you don't like spending money on your clothes (and I'm not talking about inflated prices like that Abercrombie or Reiss), then you should take any super positive review with a grain of salt. Unlike restaurants or nightclubs, it's much harder to set an objective standard for cost-to-value for what you wear. The people who come to here and the people who work here don't necessarily want to buy expensive clothing; it's just that they've come to realize that the clothing that they want can only be made by certain people and can only be purchased at certain price points.
David and Arthur are, by far, two of the most knowledgeable people about fashion in the entire Bay Area. Between the two of them, they know enough about history, construction, and just plain old taste that if people gave them a chance, they could probably save all of the city from its grunge-y, self-destructive habits. People who complain about the service here just don't understand that the usual clientele don't require someone fawning over them every single second. If you want to see how good the folks at The Archive can treat you, try engaging them in a genuine conversation about clothing: how things fit, how things are fabricated, who makes them, what fabrics are used, where are they sourced? Unlike pushy sales people are other stores, they actually know and love every single one of their products and are more concerned with you getting what you want than them getting a sale.
I felt compelled to write a review since their recent buys have been absolutely stellar: the first pieces from Rick Owens, Label Under Construction, Devoa, Nice Collective, and N. Hoolywood have just arrived. If you're in the market for a suit, I would heartily recommend trying on the N. Hoolywood tropical-weight wool, two-button suit. The incredible eye for detail that these guys have shows in that selection alone.
Men of San Francisco, I beg you to come and to tap into your true fashion potential.
Yes, this place is a little pricey, but you are paying for a piece of art. Next time you are looking at Helmut Lang, Prada, or Hugo Boss, check the tag and see where it is from. 90% of it is made in China, Mexico, or Vietnam. You are paying for a label name.....not quality. Now take that same $$$ and head to The Archive. Their labels aren't just clothes makers, they are artisans. Most pieces are made in Japan, Italy, and the USA. Disregard the negative reviews....if they were a connoisseur of clothing, then they would realize that The Archive is doing a service for San Francisco. They are the only place that carries my beloved Attachment, Julius, and V::Room.
When you are ready to move beyond Varvatos, Helmut Lang, Burberry, etc, then step it up at The Archive. Arthur and David are good guys. Arthur is always patient with me because I will try to negotiate a better price (I work in sales and my work traits carry over to day to day stuff). Sometimes Arthur works with me...sometimes not, but all in all, he is fair.
To the people who complain about $200 T-shirts and the high prices.....OK, sure, you have every right to think that $200 is too much, but don't rate them low stars because of that. I love going into the Lamborghini Dealership and admire the lines of the cars, but I'm not going to give the dealership 1-star because the car's price starts at $275,000. The car is handmade using the top of line materials which is why it is 10x pricier than my car. Just like that $200 t-shirt was designed by a master and crafted by artisans using the best materials. I agree that may be pricey, but if that is the case, don't buy it. It's not your thing...more power to you. Shove out and I will come in and buy it.....hopefully for $140 though.
People thought this was:
Let me tell you. I LOVE the Archive. They have an amazing collection of designers and they buy unique and great pieces. Their Guidi boots, attachment line, and Rick Owens pieces are just amazing.
Most important, the customer service is better than anywhere I have shopped. Arthur is absolutely amazing!! He is the nicest and most helpful person you could imagine. There is no question that he wont answer with a smile or a nice tone (on the phone). Before, I used to shop all over, Chicago, New York, and all over Europe but now I am loyal only to Archive.
If you are ever in San Francisco go stop by the store, even if you just want to see the selection. You will not regret it!!
Also, their website is surprisingly navigable and they update it every day it seems... so you can know exactly what sizes they have in stock at all times.
Always my first stop when I'm looking for a good outfit. It's a good store if you are not into mainstream brands. I enjoy big names but I prefer having smaller but unique brands. If you like that, this is the place to be.
They carry denims you can't find anywhere else.
Honey and I thought we knew where to look for $800 men's shoes. (Don't get me started on why anyone needs $800 shoes!) Guys had been telling him about the Archive and how fabulous it was, so we trooped over there on a lovely recent Saturday.
We were the only shoppers in the store and there were three employees in the back. They barely bothered with a perfunctory hello and I had to go back and get their attention to ask a question. I deeply despise poor service in a retail environment, but it can be excused on busy days, during holidays, blah blah blah. This was not one of those days.
And when I asked if they carried a specific brand, the one clerk who bothered to reply acted like the designer had raped his dog.
We promptly turned and left.
Very disappointing and won't go back there again. And the clothing was not that wonderful either.
People thought this was:
First off, some of the reviews are on here are straight up BS. It is easy for people to get intimidated by such great taste I guess?
I love this store, the space is great, and comfortable. It is never too crowded, and I've always gotten attention. Great deals can be had at sale time, and often full size runs are left. Also, they carry small sizes, even the Japanese size 1! This is not a clothing store for the typical American frame :)
My favorites here would be The Viridi-anne and Julius, but the selection is global, Nice Collective representing the local talent, the aforementioned from Japan, beautiful, poetic and mature clothing from Demeulemeester representing Belgium, Mr. Owens doing the proper thing and leaving this country, and some obscure hand-crafted Italian things. All in the ideal color range; black, grey, olive, more black! Color is cheap, pay attention to texture, material, construction and design details.
One thing that I think is truly commendable about my experience here, I had a beautiful jacket on hold with them. While it was on hold, the sale price was further marked down, and they gave me the lower price. I could have not even noticed, so honesty is something you will find here, rarely elsewhere.
And as for the prices, yeah, it is really expensive. But clothing like this is wearable art, completely unique, much more exclusive than almost anywhere else, and it will fit and most importantly feel better than anything else you own. You either get it, or you don't, in which case don't go here go to the gap.
You must be thin, you must be hip, and you must be willing to empty your wallet to shop at this quietly elegant boutique for men. Urban chic is the style...man purses, computer cases, belts with cast metal buckles...
If just the thought of owning a rumpled body fitting jacket and matching cargo pants that none of your friends has ever seen thrills you, despite the $1,000 price tag, this is a place you'll love. This is the way to stay ahead of the curve and sculpt a personal fashion statement.
Cutting edge slacks, jackets, shirts and sweaters from Japanese and Italian designers appear and disappear along the shop walls as local fashionistas trade a swipe of plastic for "the look."
I spent a lot of time staring at the translucent paneling which makes this narrow shop appear larger than it is. What a calming effect it appeared to have on both customers and staff. It was an easy place to ask for things and be helped. If you're the kind of man who cares about his appearance, but prefers to make a subtle statement...this little gem will soon become a favorite source.
People thought this was:
G-star we have to talk. Now I know we've been together for a couple years, but I'm starting to think this isn't working out. At first we were so great, we'd go out to the bars, hit the clubs, people would always be curious about us. But now, well...there is no easy way to say this but, you've really let yourself go. No please stop crying, there is nothing more to say really, well except... I'm seeing someone else, actually a few others. Yes that does make this all the more awkward, I should have told you earlier...I'm sorry.
Do the names really matter? I mean it's not going to make this any better. Fine, FINE I will tell you... Transit, L.G.B., and Nice Collective to name a few. Yes they are more "expensive", but they are always ready to go out which is more than I can say about you lately.
So I've said my piece and I bid you adieu, it's the end of a memorable chapter in our lives. We will always have those good times, remember '04 and '05? But that is in my past now, I must follow my heart and leave you for my new fashion friends.
Ciao.
PS I've already been back, Arthur and David you guys are great!
People thought this was:
You are not going to find clothing and accessories like this anywhere else in San Francisco, or at least it'll be a challenge. Every item they carry has a modern elegance to it, there's a little bit of Paris, Tokyo and Antwerp all rolled into one.
The Archive is about brands like Bagutta, Costume National, Masatomo, all hand selected with some serious fashion TLC by the three owners (I met Arthur last night, a gracious host in his own right).
Discriminating and smart customers take note: sign up for their mailing list to be kept up on sales and when new inventory arrives.
People thought this was:
Simply *THE* best men's-only clothing store I've ever been to.
First of all, David (if I'm not mistaken - the caucasian guy) was THE best salesperson I've ever dealt with. Knowledgeable, soft-spoken, convincing, never pushy - man, I wish he was my salesperson for everything I ever had to buy. I would've gone broke long ago though.
Their semi-annual end-of-season sale around New Year's made lots of things actually somewhat affordable (full price in this store is out of consideration for most people..), and the quality, style and uniqueness of items, mostly Italian and Japanese designers, is simply unmatched.
Never thought I'd be so "sold" on a small men's boutique, but after buying just a couple of things there I can't help but notice how I like myself more out on the street. Even my walk has changed.
Ouch.
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If you see a guy around town wearing the hottest coat ever say hi.
It's me.
People thought this was:
Sexiest. Mens. Clothing. Ever.
Warning: Axe and Tag body sprays got nothin' on the clothes in this store, boys be careful around sexy women while wearing selected items....consider wearing a helmet just in case....maybe cup too ;)
People thought this was:
The only store in San Francisco that carries my color palette - black, white and gray...and all the colors in between!
Definitely a must for fashionable guys with an edge! If you want to look good without looking like everybody else then this is the store for you. Just make sure that you brought your sugar daddy's black amex card!!!
UPDATE:
Finally, I bought something from this store. The owners are super cool. They're very helpful and not pushy unlike the people at Nida!!! I got a super cool Neil Barrett assymetrical zip-up buffalo leather jacket which I love for like the third of its original price!!! And my friends got a couple of items as well! Love this place! Definitely one of my favorite men's store in the city!
Trust me guys...The Archive is one of the two stores (the other one is Barneys of course) that I go to when I'm depressed. And yes it certainly works its wonders because I always end up spending way too much money...We all need something beautiful to feel better when depressed.
Now I know where to blow my entire severance when I get it...Yes I need that Rick Owens leather jacket and that Julius messenger bag in my life!!
I totally love this store and its owners. It took me several visits until I bought my very first item here but have never been mistreated at any occasion. Everytime I go here the owners always welcome me with their warm smile! Even if I'm broke I will forever go to this store for inspiration. I wish more stores are like the Archive...not like the crappy service they provide at Marc Jacobs on Maiden Lane.
People thought this was:
David, you are stellar.
After perusing the website and me immediately loving the look, JR and I decided to go have a look-see in person.
David, who was extremely helpful, assessed JR's frame, determined what suited his tastes in style as well as available for him all within a handful of minutes.
THIS is what I would expect from a boutique; then again, after making small talk and conversing with David while JR changed, I found out he has among other design houses, Versace under his belt which explains the stellar service. He has a great eye, great taste and can anticipate, which any good boutique owner will do; he isn't pushy and won' t sell you something that you'll look terrible in and is all wrong for you.
I loved a lot of the designers and the quasi-military line made me wish they had something for me there! In addition to that look, they also had more casual elegant pieces as well as more youthful and flashy styles.
The store had nice flow to it, the presentation was perfect and the selection was very good.
Thanks David, Arthur and Caesar for a great shopping experience.
People thought this was:
Great selection - check
Friendly and knowledgeable staffs - check
Great sale price - check
My good friend referred me to check out this store. Before I realize it, I quickly become their regular.
I feel that it is difficult to find a store like Archive in SF. I have been browsing around and I feel Archive is one of the best clothing store for men.
The staffs (David and Arthur) are very knowledgeable and friendly. They will tell you if a piece of clothing really fits you or not. Once you shop there, they understand your taste. If they get something that might interest you, they will contact you immediately.
Once they have sale, the price could go as low as 70% off. if you see what you like, buy it. I did not buy a shirt and I have to wait a couple seasons to find something similar.
5 stars for me (:
People thought this was:
Despite the sophisticated boutique that it is, their color palette sucks. All they carry are dreary colors of black, gray and white. I have enough of those colors in my closet. Their space is a little too confined for comfort, and I can't help but laugh hysterically inside my head at their $200 t-shirts. They offer a lot of deconstructed stuff for people going for that look at a pretty high price. In my opinion though, shouldn't "defected" stuff be worth less? Well, I do understand their clientele and their mission to come up with an edgy look, so maybe I shouldn't diss them so much.
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I admit I'm Daddy's Little Girl. I always wanted to be like him, wanted to emulate him. I even wanted to... well, it is embarrassing to say it. I'll stop now. But if I were a guy, I'd be in heaven because I'd be able to shop at The Archive!
The store is owned by my friend's hubby and I finally popped in yesterday to check it out. No wonder Arthur is called the fashionista. They've got yummy clothes for the guys and it makes the eye candy even sweeter.
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A very nice store indeed. I have never actually purchased anything from this store, only window-shopped...but the staff was very friendly and very knowledged. This store is pretty pricey, but at least they carry some awesome, major brands that are not well known in the U.S....like (N)umber Nine.
They carry nice threads for guys including one of my favorites, "Nice Collective". If you like distressed, G star type stuff, you may like this place.
Great T shirts as well!
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I'm soooo torn about this store. I love the clothes... I hate the prices... What's the deal? It's a well edited collection of pieces from small labels which you really don't see much of in SF. Although it appeals to me... it feels very young and urban. I'm sort of young... and I'm urban... but why is it that I feel so poor when I step foot in that store. I need a daddy... anyone?
Seriously... It's clothes for the hipster set... but the prices are more AARP. I guess the dozen or so trustfund babies with amazing taste are keeping them in business. Of course.. .there's me waiting for that 50% off email... see you at the sales!
People thought this was:
Men's fashion leaders, David Becker and Arthur Louie have assembled a fantastic men's apparel boutique here. There is a reason for investing in quality men's clothing vs. picking up something from the Gap or Old Navy. Here are some:
superior fit, quality fabrics, artisan workmanship, keen style, personalized service, pleasant shopping experience.
the Archive personifies all of the above.
and you don't have to be a metrosexual to shop here!
Incredibly impressive clothing, incredibly expensive, incredible fits. I ration myself one item a year from this place. Where else would I ACTUALLY entertain the idea of buying a 600 dollar hoody? I snapped out of it when I thought about how many burritos and xbox games that amounts to... but It was THAT nice.
People thought this was:
I checked out this store today. Very cool boutique clothing. The clothes seem to be slim/athletic cut (though I didn't try any on). If you like neutral colors: black, grey, white (and the occasional brown and navy blue) and don't mind paying $80 - $160 for a shirt, you'll like this store.
They also have pants (various faux-beat jeans), belts, and jackets. I wasn't impressed with the belts -- the designs weren't distinctive nor was the quality great. With $200 price tags, they're not worth it. You can find similar designs, as well or better made, over at Macy's for $50 - $80.
For the label-aware, the clothing brands I remember seeing were T-Skin and Stephan Schneider (Belgium).
Staff is welcoming and helpful. They didn't make me feel out of place, despite my very untrendworthy army surplus shirt, beat up old sneakers, and Levi's.
There's a sale at the moment with one rack of 50% off, and several of 30% off. As the prices start off pretty high -- the 50% shirts are $80.
One of the few boutiques in SF that has near-perfect taste in men's clothing and accessories. While this is a very subjective statement, one walk through the store and it would be hard to disagree. Such difficult to find lines as Ann Demeulemeester, J-Brand and Ring jeans are well represented. The buyers have refined taste and it shows. Europe, Japan and the US are well represented. I prefer this store to the top floor of Saks Mens store.
The color pallette is very SF, that is the colors are muted and are usually dark (or white). The styles reflect an urban lifestyle and fall more to the classic than the trendy. Coats are beautiful. Jeans are unique. The shoe selection is small but well chosen and the jewelry is fun/cool.
The selection is varied and I never leave without something in my bag...especially when they have an end of year sale with up to 65% off most of the store. Get on their mailing list to be sure you get notified of the sales.
Beautiful space, beautiful clothes it reminds me of something in Barcelona or Amsterdam in the Jordaan and they sell Ann Demuelemeester! How cool is that? I love saying her name! Way waaay out of my price range but if they can get the clientele to pay those prices all the power to them. I like Rolo on Market just as well.
"Ok - first - the markup is pretty high, but I have found out that often when small retailers are importing they arent able to keep the costs down like a department store such as Barneys would. If it really bugs you then just wait till the end of the season and buy things at 30% off (often things dont last to the final reduction of 50%).
That being said:
The selection is amazing - The Archive carries a finely tuned selection of fabulous labels such as Ann Demeulemeester and Les Hommes which you won't find anywhere else in San Francisco. The guys who own the boutique have YEARS of high-end Men's retail experiance, thus the customer service is amazing. I recieved a thank you note from the sales associate who worked with me my first time in the store, and a pre-sale notice from their mailing list. Finally, Aruthur (one of the owners) emailed me letting me know that a couple pieces I wanted were on sale. LOVE HIM!
Basically - this is a great shopping experiance if you can afford it. Save up kids..."
I happened upon this store while walking downtown on Saturday - what a great surprise! I absolutely love it! How nice it is to have a higher end place to shop where the clothes are only for men. And the team there were all very helpful - void of any attitude.
I will definitely be back.
Cheers!
Jason
A visit to The Archive leaves my wallet huddled in a corner of my pocket, hyperventilating, and that's without purchasing anything. Of course the real blame falls squarely on the shoulders of my trust fund which, like a once-beautiful heiress who has squandered her estate on heroin and an endless procession of male models, is now bitter and empty. Ahh, but I must not let my lack of financial resources detract from the awesomeness of The Archive, which has a most amazing selection of urban street wear! Such a welcoming sight after year upon year of boring fashion from the Gap, Banana Republic, Abercrombie and Fitch, etc, etc. Here nearly every rack contains at least one shirt, jacket, or pair of pants that I'd be happy to wear, if only I could pony up the $350+.
People thought this was:
A super-stylish boutique clothing store for men, where you can browse through a gallery style selection of one of a kind jeans, jackets, shoes, shirts, and accessories. If $800 jeans or $500 shoes don't scare you, and you want hand made by adult artists, premium quality, one of a kind articles of clothes it doesn't get better than this.
Not much variety honeslty - everything follows the house style - "Cyborg Bland" - paramilitary inspired (epaulets, buckles, little zips). Right now, I'm not in the mood for more war, no matter how slickly packaged.
They're nice enough clothes IF you are a very small size (I was only looking for 32, I'm not exactly an outlier) and if you think $200 bucks off a $700 dollar pair of pants is a wicked deal.
The more I look around town, the more I think some of you people have a shockingly large disposable income! Who keeps these places alive????
costume national, ann d, neil barrett, best men store in SF IMO... sales are insane, if you get on the mailing list you get invited to private parties which often include the designers themselves, like the upcoming Nice Collective party, too bad I won't be able to make it this time...
oh did I mention sales are insane? I copped a pair of Neil Barrett boots for 200 bucks, serious! the guys are really cool there, I always stop by when I'm in the area, great place to just chill and check out the latest season from some of my favorite lines...
People thought this was:
The hippest, most fashion forward store for men of any age in San Francisco. The selection of designers is like nowhere else in the city, the staff is very helpful. Prices are high but this is high-end product, and you won't find most of it anywhere else. Don't pinch pennies when you can sport threads that stand out and make you look great! And the accessories are just as good as the clothes. If you like looking good, let these guys suggest what may look good - you will see for yourself what a great mens store this is. 2 of the owners work in the store, so you are guaranteed service from someone who has spent decades in fashion and has a keen eye.
I've now seen an entire year of clothes on their racks, and each and every piece is fashion forward, beautiful fabric beautifully cut and assembled. You won't find the runways extremes that some designers do, just great clothes for regular guys who just happen to have fashion sense and knows how to look good.
i can't say much that hasn't been said already. the archive is just a great place for men to shop. ann dem, neil barrett...great european and japanese designers.
i would have given the archive 5 stars but i'm hatin' on them because my student budget only permits me to shop there every once in a while. (its totally worth the price, by the way).
I stopped in The Archive to purchase a dress shirt and I am impressed by the selection and the service. Arthur helped me pick out a gorgous tonal stripe navy Bagutta shirt and Costume National tie to match. He is very kind and helpful without a hint of the pretentious attitude that seems to go hand in hand with stores carrying obscure designer labels. You will be hardpressed to find anything outside the color pallette Lovebird described; the brands here focus more on construction and luxurious/unusual materials and is rather understated.
now when i think of an ideal man i want him in black cashmere and a devastating coat with a tall stiff collar and tough boots. slacks that drape. this store has such nice clothing for men. so nice. wow. perfect.
People thought this was:
Neighborhood: Hayes Valley
Category: Women's Clothing
Neighborhood: Union Square
Category: Men's Clothing
Neighborhood: Hayes Valley
Category: Men's Clothing
Neighborhood: Union Square
Category: Men's Clothing
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Category: Men's Clothing
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