A passion project begun in 2009 by Joshua Bingaman has become a celebrated staple in Texas-based menswear and opened its (first-ever) brick and mortar store doors, HELM, on Wednesday.
The 900-square-foot space on East Sixth Street features more than HELM Boots; the merchandise was curated with a unisex vision in mind. A small collection of sunglasses, lighters, art, leather goods and a handful of vintage items selected by Sam Hill are aligned in minimalist displays across the white-washed cabinets and cupboards.
The vibe of the store conjures up the image of, say, a fashion-forward wilderness-man on a coastal Northeastern town — fitting, as Bingaman's taken countless trips to factories in Maine and surrounding areas with the intention of supporting U.S.-based production and materials.
The domestic travels leading up to the store's opening paid off because, like HELM Boots, all goods sold at the store are American-made and are intended "to be passed down through generations."
HELM officially opens Thursday, April 4 and welcomes visitors Wednesdays through Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Helm Team: Rachel Baker, Joshua Bingaman, Hillary Bilheimer and Ethan Brown.
Along with boots, Helm sells items from Edwood Studios, CB I Hate Perfume and Stash Co.
Steven and Kelly Cutbirth.
Laurie Gallardo from left, Dan Gentile, Adi Anand and Noel Pitts.
HELM boots.
Lori Osborn from left, Mallory Brooks, Paxton Brooks, Jason Brooks and John McCleary
Rachel Staggs and Josh & Yvonne from The Octopus Project.
Items are intended for unisex use.
Leigh Patterson from left, Kirsten Dickerson and Ashley Horsley.
Johnny Ramon and Erica Foster.
Rachel Baker and Phil Harrison.
Sophie and Preston Parrott.
Austin Stowell from left, Christopher Bykowski and Noah Marion.
Matt Davis from left, Ricky Hodge and Marianna Mooring.
Jenny Turner from left, Jessica Michlik, Michelle Scott Alley and Stuart Sack.
Matt Mandrella and Ashley Cass.
Miguel Angel and Ziggy Ramsey.
Clipboard wall at HELM.
