Suits & Sneakers: Commonwealth Proper x atmos
CEO & founder of Commonwealth Proper (aka CMMP), Craig Arthur von Schroeder, knows a thing or two about a sharp suit. The Philadelphia-based brand is an innovative "new school" tailoring company, who since its inception in 2008 has expanded to DC, Pittsburgh, and Atlanta. Think sharp suiting and apparel with an unconventional and rebellious twist, while maintaining the same unparalleled traditional quality as heritage brands.
On Thursday 3/30, atmos x Commonwealth Proper will fuse our two distinct yet complementary worlds into an exciting evening of sneakers, fashion, and fun at CMMP's stunning new Georgetown Showroom. Prior to the event, we had a chance to chat with Craig to learn more about CMMP's origins, early inspirations, and more.
TELL US ABOUT COMMONWEALTH PROPER? WHERE DOES THE NAME COME FROM?
In the 1800s, Philadelphia was the country's garment production and style epicenter. The term “Commonwealth” pays homage to a group of progressive Philadelphia tailors who founded a labor union to improve working conditions. Their credo: “That is the most perfect government in which an injury to one is the concern of all.” We at CMMP believe in the collective good and our company is run that way. The term “Proper” denotes our belief that men’s clothing, above all else, should fit properly. You can sacrifice a lot of things related to clothing, but fit is not one of them.
Photos by Ryan Neevan
WHAT ASPECTS OF A SNEAKER DO YOU CONSIDER WHEN YOU’RE SHOPPING? WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A SHOE?
I like clean shoes, meaning simple and monochromatic. It's easier to work into an overall outfit when there's one color. I also look for comfort and utility - I travel a lot for work - going from Atlanta to DC to Philly and back in a given week, so they have to provide me with a level of practicality.
WHAT GOES INTO PAIRING THE PERFECT SUIT & SNEAKER?
If you're suit is solid, you can do a multi-colored shoe that pops. If you're suit has some pattern, it's best to go with a monochromatic solid color shoe. You don't want the outfit to look too busy or that you're trying too hard. Indeed, the suit & sneaker combo already has a level of ease and casualness, so you want to complement that with visual appropriateness.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN “ORIGINAL” TO YOU?
I've always been a big believer in knowing all of the rules and then bending them to create ones own personal style. Perhaps it is my background as a lawyer. But I get a lot of satisfaction in spinning the status quo to create something new. So being "original" to me is ultimately the play between knowing and acknowledging the past but using it to create something new and different.
WHAT SNEAKERS ARE CURRENTLY IN YOUR ROTATION?
I have worn my white/black classic Nike Blazers into the ground so I re-upped with their Jumbo Swoosh of the same colorway. I also work in a Navy Made-in-USA New Balance 990 and custom sneakers from a new brand made in North Carolina called Opie Way.
THE ATMOS X COLE HAAN SNEAKER COMES WITH A REMOVABLE TASSEL SHROUD. WHAT ARE WAYS YOU CAN STYLE THE SAME PIECE IN WAYS THAT ARE VERSATILE?
Versatility is one of the hallmarks of smart shopping and personal style. Being able to take one piece and style it in several ways for different environments and circumstances is just smart. For example, I buy suits with the idea of using the jacket as a separate blazer. And the pants to be worn with a T-shirt and sneakers. It's all about cost per use - the more use the less "expensive" it will ultimately cost you.
Join us for the ultimate fusion of fashion and footwear at the atmos x CMMP Suits & Sneakers event. The exclusive soirée takes place on Thursday, 3/30 from 6 - 9 PM, hosted at CMMP's brand new Georgetown Showroom located at 1355 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 200. You must RSVP to secure your spot. Trust us, you won't want to miss out on this night of style and sophistication.
RSVP now and secure your place on the guest list!