Midtown Detroit continues to go full steam ahead as being one of the most decidedly cool spots in the whole of Michigan. While there are, of course, many other places to go and see when you're in the Mitten State, Midtown is known for it's own unique brand of cultural attractions, awesome eats, and an interesting mix of retail brands. This month, Oregon's handmade leather goods brand Will Leather Goods opens up shop right in the heart of Midtown, adding to the already impressive cachet of brands in the area. Read on after the jump!

Today, a rather unexpected "On this Day" throwback post popped up on my Facebook feed: a "what I wore" photo of me back in 2013, blonde hair and all, sporting a leather-finish bomber jacket with a funky accent necklace. At first glance, this said bomber jacket looks just like any other trendy item that could easily blend into any high-street boutique; but upon closer inspection, bears a signature one-off element: a hand-sketched illustration of a tribal prince, immaculately drawn and printed onto the canvas. "Naa nako'y kapartner na printing press ani, para ma mass produce na ni nako" (I have negotiated with a printer to help me mass produce this jacket soon), the designer proudly told me during the meeting where I bought this jacket and offered to carry his upcoming RTW line in the store I used to help run. That was also the first time we actually got to know each other a little better, him whose work I've long admired from afar (though he has been a longtime collaborator for a lot of my industry friends). We struck a deal, and he promised he would return soon with actual stock to display. Life seemed good.

the Halston accessory wall. right?!

the double L's, a.k.a. Leah and Lala. Two of my favorite girls on the planet

obvi the gratuitous "my feet against the fallen leaves" shot ;)

My baby giving zero effs in this photo. Haha. In his defense, he was feeling under the weather. :( But isn't this view of Chicago so jawdropping?