Appreciating The Grind: Alex Crane
It’s no secret that the city of New York can be a bit exhausting at times. With that reality in mind, it becomes a must to surround yourself with ambition and positive energy—Alex Crane is just that. Originally from the West Coast, Alex grew up by the ocean, a huge source of inspiration for his eponymous menswear label. He started his career at Jack Spade designing men’s bags and decided to make the solo leap after designing and developing a few hats. What started as just accessories, has developed into a well-edited and incredibly authentic collection. We got the chance to chat with Alex and talk about everything from style, work ethic, to daily inspiration. Read on below.
When did you begin to take an interest in fashion and menswear?
I just love colors and shapes. When I was a kid, I would mess around with duct tape and wood and leather. And I’ve always know when something feels right (at least in those areas). I like to take chaos and make it clean and simple.
“I like to take chaos and make it clean and simple.”
You started your career designing bags at Jack Spade, and then made the jump to launching your own brand. What’re some of the challenges you’ve faced running Alex Crane?
At a corporation, your job has boundaries. This is your responsibility. This isn’t. And that feels real nice (even though it can be frustrating at times). When you run your own business, your role has no limits. Everything is your responsibility. It’s exhausting, but I love it.
During our shoot, we discussed the work/play balance a bit. How do you feel about the workaholic stereotype that’s given to NY, and how do you balance your workload?
I’m a workaholic too. I love this shit. But I think you can work hard all the time and still feel playful. We spend like 80% of our time working, so we should enjoy it.
“I’m a workaholic too. I love this shit. But I think you can work hard all the time and still feel playful.”
Your clothing has a very relaxed vibe and while browsing your catalog, we noticed that almost everything is made from linen. Is that inspired from growing up out west by the ocean?
Yes. The Pacific Ocean is my core, that’s where I feel at home. And, to me, linen has the spirit of the ocean. It’s light and airy, tough as heck, and flows like waves.
How do you match that same vibe during the fall/winter season?
The ocean is around all year round. A winter ocean is damn beautiful. It’s just about making products that fit the season – heavier weight, thicker, tighter weaves.
What does a day of relaxation look like for you?
Here’s a dream day: I wake up early and bike to the ocean with a crew. We swim and run and build a fort on the beach. We read in the shade. In the evening, we head back to the city, cook food and make a picnic up on the roof. And, then we go dancing.
What’s the first thing you do in the morning, when you reach your office?
Check on my plants. We have strawberries and lemon verbena growing and I’m looking forward to a good harvest.
During our shoot we also discussed trends and style. Which country is, in your opinion, number one in trends today? Why?
Japan. But it’s not an easy answer. Japan doesn’t create style, they just do it better than everyone else. They recognize a spirit, boil it down, and bottle it up. I think America has the best inventors, but not the best users.
How would you describe your style?
Clean, simple, all-day, everyday.
Can you offer any advice for those who’re thinking about starting their own brand?
Start with curiosity and the rest will follow. You won’t know much at the beginning, but if you care about figuring it out, you’ll get there.
What’s next for Alex Crane?
We’re launching a new website next month and it should be dope.
To view Alex’s full collection check out his website. Follow Alex Crane on IG here.
If you liked this story, check out more in our Urban Transplants issue.
