IT’S DIFFICULT to pinpoint exactly why specific pairings make sense in our world, but when they come together we’re certain they’re a match made in heaven: For example, coffee and donuts, pumpkin spice lattes and fall, worn-down pickup trucks and cowboy boots. And when our favorite menswear brands formulate their own unique collaborations—ones’ that generate buzz while sticking to their core values—we oftentimes also spot the synchronized beauty right then and there.
Recently, Lands’ End teamed up with country music star Blake Shelton to announce the “When You Know” collection, a new line of classic wardrobe staples infused with an American Workwear aesthetic. Think: cozy flannel shirts, rugged bootcut jeans, and soft cashmere sweaters that can accommodate burlier guys.
“I may not be a fashion icon, but I do know what’s comfortable,” Shelton tells Men’s Health. “This is fashion for guys who want to look good, no matter where they are or what they’re doing, which is something I think we can all relate to.”
And it’s hard to argue with the collab’s results. Ahead, we caught up with Blake to learn more about what fashion means to him and to hear how the design process came together. Plus we ask how much of a say his wife, Gwen Stefani, had in the drawing room.
Read more: Best Jeans for Men
VIEW ‘WHEN YOU KNOW’ COLLECTION HERE
When designing this collaboration with Lands’ End, what new were you striving to offer men within the collection?
“I may not be a fashion icon, but I do know what’s comfortable. This is fashion for guys who want to look good, no matter where they are or what they’re doing, which is something I think we can all relate to. Whether it’s flannels, jeans, or a great jacket, I’m the guy who has my favorite style in every color.
What’s important to you when choosing what to wear?
“For me, clothes are about a sense of familiarity, utility, and comfort. When clothes are done right, it’s easy–when you know what works, you stick with it.”
We know Gwen Stefani is a fashion fan. Did she have any advice in designing this collaboration?
“Gwen has such an eye for fashion but also knows what’s authentic to me. Both of us also really love that a portion of proceeds from the new line go towards Habitat for Humanity.”
Would you wear any of these pieces on a date night?
“We made clothes you’ll know are keepers the second you put them on. For date night with Gwen, I’m grabbing a button-down shirt with our “On Stage” jeans. You’ll look and feel like a million bucks but still be comfortable.”
Do you have a favorite piece in the collection that you enjoy wearing most?
“This collection brings together the styles that I love and wear with what’s close to my heart. The colors are inspired by everything from the blue sky of my ranch to the rich ambers of fall. There’s even a vintage heartland camouflage that’s made up of America’s heartland states and a six-string guitar plaid inspired by my guitar’s six strings. I also love our new corduroy work shirt and flagship flannel. We designed a doublecloth work shirt specifically for this collection that I think is really somethin’ special.”
What accessory do you find most useful and a must-have?
“Besides my guitar, I’d have to say it’s our cooler tote–perfect for fishing, picnics and tailgating. Just like everything else I cooked up with Lands’ End, I think it’s gonna fit pretty awesome into folks day-to-day.”
The “When You Know” collection is now live over at Lands’ End. Below, we curated our favorite picks to cycle into your fall wardrobe.
Land’s End Wool Shirt Jacket
Land’s End Sherpa Lined Corduroy Jacket
Land’s End Traditional Fit Corduroy Work Shirt
Land’s End Cashmere Waffle Crew Neck Sweater
Land’s End Big and Tall T200 Fleece Snap Neck Pullover
Land’s End Big and Tall Cotton Blend Heartland Sweater
Land’s End Black On Stage Jeans
Land’s End Expedition Trapper Hat
Land’s End Denim Tote
Now 12% Off
Land’s End Printed Cooler Tote
John Thompson is the Gear and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he covers fashion, grooming, gear, and technology. He was previously the Style & Gear Editor at BroBible.com, and a commerce writer for TheManual.com. His interests include shopping for rare vintage clothes and following his favorite baseball team, the Kansas City Royals.
Ted Stafford is the Fashion Director of Men’s Health. He oversees all style and fashion content for the brand, and also styles their fashion stories. His active lifestyle informs his passion for translating great designs into real-life style, a favorite part of his job. Prior to joining Men’s Health he worked at GQ magazine and Calvin Klein