Since 2010, Vancouver menswear brand National Standards has been seeking to define styles that are timelessly Pacific Northwest, and aiming to make designer clothing more affordable. Balancing between eye-catching textures and understated hues, their designer David Chiang creates looks that swim outside of fashion’s main stream. We spoke with brand manager Christopher Keene to get a firsthand perspective of the inception and rise of the National Standards brand.
Where are you from originally? How did Vancouver become your home?
I am from the Kawarthas region of Ontario. I remember making a pact with my sister at a young age, that we would eventually make it west. It was all about the weather the beaches and the mountains.
Tell us your story, what sparked your interest in fashion and how was National Standards born?
For me, having an older sister to look up to had a big impact on my fashion sense. She used to do a lot of thrift shopping and come home with some interesting finds that I would sometimes take without her knowing. I was also really tall and skinny so I felt like I had to put more effort in to having my clothes fit the way I wanted. My mother was also a seamstress, so there was a fair bit of customization happening to get the styles we were after as kids.
To the best of my knowledge, National Standards represented our designer David Chiang’s departure from the corporate design world. He partnered with Motherland shop owner, Lawrence Sampson to create slim fit button ups and chinos that had the appeal of designer goods without the price tag.
In three words how would you describe the vibe of National Standards?|
Pacific North West
What’s your favourite part of the creation process from the design to when it makes it to a store front?
Personally, after David, I am the first one to get my hands on the new collection. I am in our studio in North Vancouver, preparing and photographing the clothes. I feel fairly autonomous part of the season, but then David and I collaborate and start talking direction, choosing models etc. And that’s when I really feel the most rewarded from my work.
What’s the most interesting thing that’s happened in your career so far?
I wish I could say going to Japan with David to shop textiles, however that hasn’t happened just yet. Kidding not kidding. But actually I did travel to Las Vegas twice a year for quite some time on buying trips with the shop owner Lawrence. Those are some of my favourite memories.
To males who happen to be struggling with figuring out their “style”, what advice to you have for them?
Keep it simple. When in doubt, a plain tee and jeans will get you almost anywhere. Additionally if you’re going to go for strong colours, stick with one. Go monochrome or pair it with neutrals.
COVID has affected us all in different ways. If you’re comfortable, can you share with us how this time has affected you and your business? And do you have a message to share with the community?
For one, I have been spending a lot more time in the shop. Since we’ve reopened its been all hands on board, trying to make the most of the last of the season. We’ve had to move this collection quickly and at discounted prices, since the stores were closed for nearly three months right after the last drop for the season.
I have to say that the support to our web store has grown exponentially since the time we were closed, and it seems to have kept its momentum, which is a blessing. I think we were all very shocked to see how many of our neighbours didn’t make it through to reopening their stores. That reality struck hard and we definitely felt the love and support from the community when we reopened our doors. And so for that, I wish thank everyone. We have so many dedicated customers in Vancouver and it’s really an honour to be doing business.
What advice do you have for young designers? What is something you wish someone had told you?
Do it because you love it. It’s a challenging business in the best of times, but there’s never a bad time to do something you love.
What’s coming up for you?
Our new season FW20 should be live on the site in a matter of days. There are so many great fabrics and vintage inspired plaids. I think people will be excited for the array of seasonal solid coloured flannels. They are always a big hit.
Christopher Keene shares Fashion Tips
- The old days of yore are out when it comes to rules in fashion, however your belt should still match your shoes when going out.
- Navy and black look great together.
- Mixing gold and silver jewelry is amazing.
- Something old, something new, something blue, always applies.
WBD’s Lightning Round
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live and why?
Realistically, I’m already here. But possibly I would live in Tofino. I have surf dreams.
If I gave you $20 to spend on anything right now, what would it be?
Tacofino
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise people.
My house is full of musical instruments, and I have music online under the name Oma Dia.
What advice would you give to your 15 year old self?
It’s never too late to get started, but get started.
One guilty pleasure you aren’t willing to give up?
Expensive shoes.
For more info:
Website: ntlstandards.com
Instagram: @nationalstandards
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nationalstandards/