Jack Spade opens ninth store on Elm Street

Jack Spade opened its ninth store in a 700-square-foot space at 147 Elm St. on Friday, Oct. 5.

"The neighborhood has such a diverse group of professional clients who often commute into the city to make their purchases, and in some cases are already customers of Jack Spade. We loved the idea of bringing a store closer to them that brings the urban aesthetic they are looking for in a charming, casual setting that is closer to home. The neighborhood felt like a perfect fit," said Cuan Hanly, vice president and brand director.

The American menswear and accessories brand has stores throughout the United States and in London and Tokyo.

According to its website, www.jackspade.com, the idea "started in the loft Andy Spade shared with his wife Kate on Warren Street in lower Manhattan. The idea was simple: to make bags that were neither overly precious nor boring basics. They believed that bags could be both utilitarian and stylish. They began by making messenger bags out of waxed cotton and heavy canvas. The design was straightforward and functional. The materials were timeless and long-lasting."

They started selling them to people who use utility bags in their work. The first Jack Spade bag was sold to a hardware store in 1997.

Also from the website: "In 1999, Jack Spade opened their first store at 56 Greene Street in SoHo. The concept was travel bags, trench coats and general merchandise. It was a modern haberdashery mixing found furniture, model rockets, vintage Playboys and classic products: Levi's 501 jeans, Timex military watches, Lacoste tennis shirts and Mackintosh raincoats."

Jack Spade then took the basis of the products and expanded into a clothing line. Jack Spade clothing can be found in top department stores and specialty shops worldwide.

The store is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. For information, call 203-966-5272 or visit www.jackspade.com.