I Can't Stop Thinking About James Perse.
James Perse brings back memories of growing up in the 2000s. Not only because the designer was prevalent in the costume departments of TV shows like Desperate Housewives and 30 Rock, but also because of my mom’s collection of cotton tees and button downs that I always associated with adulthood.
Liz Lemon and Lynette Scavo in the cotton button down. Everyone had it and it was iconic! They still sell it here.
I also have a vivid memory of seeing celebrities purchase James Perse at Planet Blue in tabloid magazines.
Vanessa Hudgens, Kristin Cavallari and Ashlee Simpson shopping at Planet Blue, which had an entire section dedicated to James Perse in the early-mid 2000s. Every cool girl had their tees and tanks.
Now, at 29, a nice cotton tee feels like the height of luxury, and the weathered lounge pants remind me of my time living in LA. Especially now, in the world of WFH and athleisure, elevated lounge clothes are a wardrobe staple.
The foundation of my personal James Perse collection is the Vintage Tee and Terry Pant. I’ve been wearing them as a set and separates. I love the vintage wash of this pale blue.
In New York City, the James Perse Store is on Madison Avenue (and sits directly across E. 85th street from Butterfield Market, another one of my personal favorites) with an interior that looks like a Malibu dream house. Light wood walls, modern furniture and beachy decor houses the walls and walls of muted cotton tees, cashmere and lounge pants. I think, if I owned it all, I’d be the happiest person alive. Clothes can make you feel like that sometimes! For now, I’ve acquired a few basics to get me started and the Vintage Terry Hoodie is on my wishlist.
