Timo Weiland

By Suzanne Singer
August 24, 2010

Timo Weiland (and design partner Alan Eckstein) made their debut in the fashion world with, of all things, neckwear. The label Timo Weiland launched in fall 2009, offering ascots and bowties that ended up on the neck of none other than Chuck Bass on the set of "Gossip Girl."

Weiland and Eckstein, who met in NYC over a mutual love of “European history, travel and a flair for dapper dressing,” have since moved on to full men's and women's collections. For fall 2010, Weiland and Eckstein said they were inspired by “1960’s New York and London transplants like The Rolling Stones,” and also more distant references—the theme for the line is “Martin Scorsese’s 'The Age of Innocence' meets 'Gangs of New York.'” While those two films might seem worlds apart, both are set in and around Manhattan in the 1860s and '70s.

The boys interpreted that influence as a proper way of dressing, infused, of course, with their modern twist. For women, this manifested in a mix of soft (silk dresses, chiffon skirts, tweeds, chunky knits) with strong (sharply tailored blazers and coats). The color palette showcases a mix of jewel tones and classics like ivory and camel. There are classic menswear influences, but the line still manages to retain a chic femininity.

The men’s collection is more “modern day dandy.” To keep true to their beginnings, Weiland and Eckstein have made sure to keep accessories as a strong aspect of their collections. They collaborated with milliner Albertus Swanepoel on turban-like hats and shoe designer Esquivel on Chelsea boots and distressed lace-ups.

Given their appreciation for the past, it's no surprise that Weiland and Eckstein are great fans of eBay. Both use the site to “find inspirational trinkets and baubles as well as antiques, vintage and other oddities.” Furniture and photography found on eBay play a role in inspiring their designs. Useful keywords include “antique,” “Edwardian,” “quirky” and “rare" and misspellings of all of the above. A favorite eBay find was “a beautifully, crumbly gilt gold Louis XIV fireplace gate,” and right now the two designers are trolling for simple and classic “naval berets and nautical ropes.”

Weiland and Eckstein gave us a sneak peek as what's caught their attention lately on eBay:

Roll over items for details

NEW Lomo Fish Eye Camera

“A new Lomo Fisheye camera [is] perfect for taking those Fear & Loathing-esque snaps of daily life and special traveling excursions whether business-filled or pleasurable.

(buy it now price, $5)

Belstaff Leather Jacket

“Belstaff was founded in Longton, Staffordshire in 1924. Since then, their waterproof 'high performance' jackets have not changed much in terms of style and have always been as cool as anything. A good find on eBay considering the high price tags that come with them in stores.”

(buy it now price, $389.63)

Antique Armoir

“This amazing English armoir is functional furniture art. Reminds us of when we all traveled together going to the Hudson River Valley and stayed at Bed and Breakfasts. There is something very magical about old furniture.”

(buy it now price, $600)

NEW The Strokes

“Is This It” Import CD and DVD “The Strokes, 'Is this it,' the greatest rock album of the decade. These guys released their album in 2001 and changed rock music forever. We still listen to this album everyday.”

(buy it now price, $14.99)

First Edition Jean-Michel Basquiat by Richard Marshall Fine

"We don't own first editions, but if we were to start collecting we would definitely put this in the collection. It's a true chronological study of Basquiat's work. It has everything from drawings, silk screens, paintings. Great find!”

(buy it now price, $300)

1986 Porsche 911 Cabriolet

“It’s a 1986 Porsche Roadster..Black with black quilted seats. Relatively "affordable"!”

(current bid, $10,500)

YSL Green Cashmere Blazer Jacket

“This ‘70s Yves Saint Laurent blazer is perfect for all evening events. His classic lines are timeless and his silhouette is still very modern. It’s a beautiful jacket!”

(buy it now price, $199.99)

Eleven Oversized Edwardian Silverplate Dinner Forks

“Every silverware set needs some special forks. These oversized Edwardian forks are beautiful. Great for any special dinner party involving an important toast! Cheers!”

(buy it now price, $60)