Ben Ahlers and Todd Snyder Launch Lagavulin-Inspired Menswear Collection
Actor Ben Ahlers discusses his style evolution and the new Scottish-themed collaboration.
1Heritage Meets Modern Fashion
Todd Snyder celebrates its 15th anniversary by partnering with the historic Islay distillery Lagavulin. This collaboration draws direct inspiration from the rugged Scottish landscape, featuring earthy tones and traditional textures. The collection includes brown suede jackets lined with tartan and Fair Isle zip-ups, designed to transition seamlessly into modern urban wardrobes.
2Actor Ben Ahlers' Influence
The campaign features actor Ben Ahlers, known for his role as Jack Trotter in The Gilded Age. Ahlers brings a unique perspective on heritage menswear, having spent significant time in period-accurate costumes. He notes that the consistency of his character's wardrobe has influenced his own personal style choices in daily life.
3Philosophy of Personal Style
Ahlers emphasizes that clothing serves as both a public presentation and an internal feeling. He advocates for incorporating creative accents, such as tie pins or artistic cane heads, into contemporary menswear. By focusing on well-made base structures, he believes individuals can express their personality through subtle, intentional details in their daily outfits.
4Physicality and Performance Preparation
Reflecting on his role in Death of a Salesman, Ahlers details the rigorous physical preparation required for the stage. He maintained a five-day-a-week training regimen involving cross-training, lifting, and yoga. During the five-month run, his focus shifted toward recovery techniques, including sauna sessions and cold plunges to manage the show's physical toll.
5Behind the Campaign Scenes
The photoshoot took place on the island of Islay, providing an immersive experience for the entire production team. Ahlers highlights the collaborative energy on set, noting the support from both the Todd Snyder crew and local distillery workers. Engaging with the locals offered him firsthand insight into the traditional whisky-making process.
6Curating the Perfect Look
Ahlers identifies the suede stable jacket as his favorite piece from the new collection. He appreciates how the texture and color mimic the mossy peat found on Islay. To complete the look, he suggests pairing the jacket with khaki barrel jeans, creating a balanced aesthetic suitable for the streets of New York.
7The Role of Uniforms
Ahlers draws a parallel between his character's transition from footman to businessman and the concept of a personal uniform. He values the structure provided by consistent clothing choices, which allow for creative expression through accessories. This approach reflects a broader trend of valuing quality and intentionality over fast-changing, disposable fashion cycles.
8Cultural Craftsmanship Significance
The collaboration underscores the enduring appeal of heritage brands and artisanal production methods. By bridging the gap between Scottish distillery traditions and New York fashion, the collection highlights a shared commitment to quality. This partnership serves as a reminder of how historical aesthetics can inform and elevate modern, everyday functional clothing.