Solace does not leap willingly to mind when one thinks of Soho’s more trod corners. But the arrival of Japan-based brand Pas de Calais’ American flagship may mark the start of a new associative era. Set at the juncture of Wooster and Broome, the store is the brand’s first international location.
The all-white retail space is a logical extension of Pas de Calais’ sensibilities. White wires suspended above are intended to evoke a loom, an homage to the brand’s original textiles, and a sculpture made from vintage windows anchors the far end of the shop. One part clean Japanese minimalism, one part unmistakable earthy Gallic romance, the result is a timeless, rustic luxury.
At last night’s opening fete, the brand’s designer, Yukari Suda, and president, Tsukasa Kobayashi, were joined by Alexa Chung, who deejayed the celebration. Donning a gauzy, embroidered Pas de Calais frock, Chung told Style.com, “I like French things and Japanese things, so a hybrid is pretty much my dream. It’s so simple, and I love the tomboyish way they’ve styled the outfits. Everything’s very loose and easy to wear.”
As guests sipped sparkling sake (imported for the occasion), models stood on rough-hewn wooden cubes, wearing the brand’s Spring line of slouchy linen blazers, color-blocked knits, and printed silk dresses. After an hour and a half, they turned on their leather T-strap wedges, disappeared, and reemerged in Borsalino hats and Pas de Calais’ boyish autumn earth tones. When not admiring the clothes, partygoers marveled at a sculpture of three thousand whirling, transparent white leaves. It would seem that one corner of Soho just got slightly more serene.
Pas de Calais is located at 482 Broome Street in New York.
—Kristin Anderson
Photo: Neil Rasmus/BFAnyc.com
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