Snob Diaries: Eddie Bauer Reissue Collection Launch with Luca Mornet
Snob Diaries is a personal recap of seasonal events around the world, told through the lens of our staff and close friends. Follow along as content creator and menswear connoisseur Luca Mornet takes us inside Eddie Bauer’s exclusive preview event for its new Reissue Collection.
It was during my teenage years when I first started to take an interest in fashion. More specifically, high school. A time we all look back on and collectively cringe just a bit—remember, it was all for the plot! I was living in Shenzhen, China, at the time, one of the country’s more fashion-forward cities. I often noticed locals rocking the popular style of the late 2010s—I’m talking full-on hype attire that would be considered meme-worthy today. Even still, that’s what first drew me into the world of dress.
As I matured, thankfully, so did my taste in clothing. Once I moved to New York in 2019, my style evolved from “streetwear savant” toward the more “preppy chic” aesthetic I have today. Similarly to my time spent in Shenzhen, I would look for inspiration in my surroundings and the people who inhabited them. The only difference, however, is here in New York, everything felt so much more elevated. Almost as if there was this unspoken dress code that everyone followed. Put on your best look, even if it’s just to run a couple of errands. Eventually, I got the hint: you don’t need a special occasion to wear “THE” piece.
I find myself remembering one specific interaction I had with a stylish stranger dressed in a sleek brown bomber jacket. We struck up a conversation, and once I had worked up enough courage to ask, I discovered that his statement piece was from Eddie Bauer. Since that fated interaction, I’ve kept a close eye on all their work. Now, years later, it feels like a full-circle moment to be invited to the brand’s exclusive preview of its Reissue Collection—a capsule of remixed down classics from the fabled Eddie Bauer archive.
I arrived at the collection’s launch event on Rivington Street just around 6:30 pm. Tucked away from the madness that occupies the rest of New York’s Lower East Side, the atmosphere felt relaxed, quaint, and oddly familiar, a perfect vibe as the seasons begin to shift. After checking in outside, I stepped through the doors, only to be immediately greeted by a crowd of uber-chic individuals all gathered to celebrate the new collection. Friends of the brand mingled about between the space’s upper and lower levels, sampling hors d'oeuvres and custom cocktails while examining the latest additions to Eddie Bauer’s storied catalog.
After strolling around the top floor to indulge in a slice of moss-designed matcha cake and observe the installations showcasing the new puffer jackets and vests, I traveled downstairs to really immerse myself in the Eddie Bauer experience. I was swiftly approached by a lady with an iPad, asking if I wanted to customize a jacket for myself, and, of course, I obliged. Turning down a bespoke piece would simply be rude.
As she walked me through each step. I was able to choose my preferred style, size, and even add a tasteful monogram on my right wrist. As an added bonus, I was told my new jacket would be ready before I left the space! Such a quick turnaround and right on time, too, as we move further into fall. Once I secured my custom coat (I settled on the down puffer jacket in deep mahogany, très chic), I grabbed a drink and waited in line to create a personalized pull tag for my new outerwear essential.
My favorite activity, though, was the photo studio they invited guests to take part in—I mean, who doesn’t love a good photo op? Outfitted in pieces from the new capsule, my friend Viva, who joined as my plus one, and I stepped in front of the camera for an impromptu “family portrait.” Posturing and posing, we fully embraced our moment as the new faces fronting Eddie Bauer’s Reissue collection. (I’m always ready, Eddie Bauer team.)
With the night ending, I reveled in the company of my new creative companions, sipping and chatting like we’ve all known each other for years. This type of energy is something really special that, I believe, only a few brands can truly cultivate in both essence and tangible design. There’s just this nostalgic feel ingrained into Eddie Bauer’s DNA. You can just tell that it’s rooted in quality and timeless craftsmanship. Like an old friend who has seen you grow over time, but they’re always right there when you need them.
I think that’s something that I try to incorporate when thinking about my approach to style and which specific pieces I choose to add to my wardrobe. Over the last few years, I've fallen in love with the classic heritage brands that I've discovered scrolling on social and finding at the second-hand stores I frequent. As a result, I started experimenting with different cuts, fits, and silhouettes that I normally wouldn’t have gone for in the past. I like collecting garments that I can pull out of my closet and they always feel “of the moment,” whether it be today, tomorrow, or in 10 years. Something that is designed with intention and maintains its identity forever. This is the realm in which Eddie Bauer reigns supreme.
Click here to shop Eddie Bauer’s Reissue Collection.
