A relaxed fit

The design team behind teen-friendly American Eagle's vintage tees and slouchy chinos geared the Martin+Osa retail concept toward the well-heeled yet casual 30 year old. Named for an adventurous, jet-setting couple, Martin+Osa aims to provide shoppers with casual clothes in lightweight fabrics for that “effortlessly chic” look. Think croquet, boating and weekend jaunts to the Hamptons.

The Bellevue Square boasts yacht-like wood paneling, canoes and boat bags reminiscent of "The Cape," not unlike its neighbor, J Crew. Unlike that retail chain, however, Martin+Osa taps into third party designers for some key pieces of merchandise — Persol sunglasses, Adidas tracksuits and Sue London flats sit alongside private label cashmere sweaters, nautical striped-tees and linen shorts. This is a place for unique combos and relaxed cuts. The sweet chino is a best-seller, and there's nary a suit or button-down in sight. Prices are reasonable, and the offerings are of much higher quality than you typically find in a mall shop.

By Natalie Bow
Special to NWsource