TO MEET · 08/26/2013
Mac McMillan: Pierrepont Hicks and Northern Grade
“We started with neckwear and honestly, we didn’t really have a plan other than to make some pieces that we thought were a little different,” Mac McMillan told us of his company, Pierrepont Hicks, “We wanted to be able to put our own spin into the process.”
Although their aesthetic has evolved since their launch in 2009, there are a few terms he’ll always use to describe it: refined, classy, timeless, and versatile.
“Minneapolis is an underrated town on so many levels and really does have some great style,” Mac explained to us. At this point, he thinks Pierrepont Hicks is at the forefront of it all.
In addition to Pierrepont Hicks, which has evolved from men’s neckwear to include jackets, pants and shoes for both men and women, he and his wife Katherine also founded Northern Grade. To put it simply, Northern Grade brings together an amazing selection of brands and designers (all with US-made products) in a variety of cities. They pop up for a few days at a time for a shopping extravaganza.
“Starting up Northern Grade gave us the opportunity to meet and become friends with a lot of other creative brands that are contributing to both fashion and style on so many levels,” Mac explained, “I am continually amazed by all of the creative people that live here.”
With Minnesota’s rough winters, Mac says residents always need a good warm coat and solid pair of boots. “Generally speaking, I would say that people want quality products and are drawn to ones that have a story behind them,” he explained to us.
For any season, a Pierrepont Hicks tie can be the icing on the cake for an outfit (and each style does have a story).
“This tie is made with a raw silk and was custom weaved for us by the top silk weaver in the world over in Europe. Guys love blue and this tie is a classic and can go with a lot of different looks. The raw silk and inconsistent fibers, give it an edge.”
“This tie was created in partnership with the world-famous brand Scalamandre, using their iconic Zebra pattern. Scalamandre’s iconic Zebra pattern dates to late 1930s New York, premiering at Gino’s restaurant on Lexington Avenue. It’s been hard to keep this one in stock.”
“Another raw silk that was custom woven for us. This has a great hue and very subtle polka dots that are all on trend.”
Pair a tie with a pair of frames, and you’ll be perfectly accessorized!
Frames pictured, in order of appearance with ties: Begley in Whiskey Tortoise, Bensen in Greystone, Percey in Charcoal Fade.
Photos by Collin Hughes