A friend reminded me that today is James Dean’s birthday, a bit coincidental considering I was watching The James Dean Story a few days ago on Hulu. There’s much to be learned from a young man that was only twenty-four at the time of his death. The narration of the video was written by Stewart Stern, who wrote Rebel Without a Cause and befriended Dean, and the story tells what most didn’t know. There are two sides to a book and unfortunately, the side no one outside his close circle ever saw was that of a lonely individual. It takes him from his humble beginnings on a farm in Fairmount, Indiana to his Oscar-nominated roles in East of Eden and Giant, films that propelled him to stardom. The release of Giant was shortly after Dean’s death and the stars were out. It was the biggest Hollywood premiere of its time with many stars appearing including Marilyn Monroe.

The documentary released in 1957, roughly two years after his tragic car crash on September 30, 1955. The narrator was a bit bland but I still think many would benefit from learning more about James Dean. Happy Birthday to the Rebel Without a Cause.

Made in England, this British Millerain-constructed parka from Heritage Research is as functional as it is wearable. “Fusing together the design classics that are the 60/40 Parka and the Maine fisherman’s jacket, Heritage Research’s longline parka is a ready-made modern classic. Made from premium waxed cotton it can be worn all year round, and with a jacket this good we’d want to wear it as much as possible.”

More info and images after the jump.

The online campaign for Wrangler’s S/S 2010 Blue Bell collection is a unique one. Along with the HQ pictures and film available for download, the site allows you to explore the collection by stripping model Tony Ward and tossing him around the screen. Now in its second season, the collection is made up of instant collectibles. Each piece, from premium jeans through jackets and shirts, looks to be a solid offering. A simple, neat aesthetic gets thrown out of whack by one item by one item washed to destruction. A pair of chinos, worn with a chambray shirt and perhaps a tie, combined with a denim jacket stonewashed to white. A pair of battered jeans, hand-repaired, mixed with a check shirt and a Harrington.

Give the site a run here and check out more looks from the collection after the jump.

Part of the ObyO range from David Beckham and James Bond at Undftd, this stadium jacket is inspired by classic, collegiate sportswear. The jacket is fitted with a fine wool body and contrast colour arms done in super soft, genuine leather. Further detailing includes an inside zip pocket and hidden 3-Stripe tape branding inside the feece pockets.

More info and images after the jump.

The fact is we’re all going to be facing some downpours in the coming months. If you’re a daily commuter to work as I am, then you’ll probably leave the Bally shoes on their shelves and go for something a bit more protective. Tretorn’s Strala Sommar rubber pull-ons are the perfect companion. It’s a low waterproof alternative to the rain boot your girlfriend probably picked up for you. “Inspired by the traditional Chelsea boot, the Strala Sommar is functional rainwear that’s just about perfect for life in a rainy metropolis. Featuring a nylon heel pull tab and reflective patch, and cozy boa lining, these comfortable low profile rubber sneakers will keep your feet dry and stylish year round.”

More info and images after the jump.

This Engineered Garments field parka is made from metallic cotton poplin. The double zip on front is covered by a button up storm cover and the elasticated inner cuffs in sleeves gives added insulation. Other welcomed details include the leather toggles on the peaked drawstring hood, internal draw string at waist and hem, and cross stitched reinforcements on the shoulders and on the elbows.

More info and images after the jump. 

For anyone thinking the relationship between famed label Tom Ford and model Jon Kortajarena was over, think again friends. Shots of the Spring 2010 are out and the collection looks flawless. The collection presents an array of color and fabric options but we’d like to keep it simple with the double breasted suit in a white finish. Summer wedding anyone?

More images after the jump. (via The Fashionisto)