Why I Started Chasing New York
I figured my first post should outline why I started Chasing New York and how my background has intertwined with the fashion world for nearly two decades. This journey has been anything but linear, but each step—whether intentional or accidental—has added a layer to the story.
As a young boy, I stumbled into skateboarding, and with it came a sense of belonging and style that would later evolve into what we now call "streetwear." At the age of 10, I wasn’t dissecting fashion or pondering cultural movements—I simply wanted to wear what the pros were wearing. But looking back, this marked the birth of my fashion sense and the realization of the power of clothing to set you apart. My “skater” phase carried me through high school, a time when fashion risks were rare, and most people played it safe.
Fast forward to university, where everything changed. Moving to Montreal was a transformative experience for me. It’s hard to live in a city like Montreal and not have it shape you if you’re even remotely interested in art, culture, or fashion. The city’s tapestry of design-driven restaurants, tattoo parlors, and luxury boutiques left an indelible mark on me. My five years there were formative: I dabbled in vintage reselling, worked in high-end wine bars and nightclubs, and embraced the city as a playground for experimenting with style. Not every outfit was a win (I still cringe at the thought of my Yeezys-and-biker-jeans phase), but that period taught me to take risks and develop instincts for what works.
After undergrad, I moved to Halifax for business school. It was a time of personal growth but, admittedly, a fashion drought. Halifax is a fantastic city, but its sartorial scene wasn’t exactly inspiring. My wardrobe consisted of two ill-fitting suits and a rotation of black t-shirts and jeans, which, to my surprise, still managed to be considered “stylish” by my peers. It was a period where business skills took precedence over outfits—a necessary detour, but one that left me craving more creative expression.
Following grad school, I found myself in corporate finance in Toronto. The uniform was as uninspiring as it gets—rows of navy suits pounding the pavement on Bay Street. A merino wool pullover and blazer combo was enough to stand out. While Toronto is undoubtedly a fashion-forward city, the circles I ran in prioritized efficient Excel models over well-curated wardrobes. It was a valuable chapter, but I knew I needed to return to my roots.
And so, we arrive at Chasing New York. Born out of frustration with the monotony of corporate life, I founded CNY as a way to reconnect with my passion for style and individuality. Nestled in Barrie, Ontario, Chasing New York is a boutique specializing in quiet luxury. We focus on brands that prioritize craftsmanship, quality, and timeless style over loud logos or fleeting trends.
Our mission? To be more than a store. I want CNY to be a hub for people who appreciate fashion as much as I do. This Substack is an extension of that vision: a space to share insights, offer style tips, spotlight trends, and explore whatever piques my curiosity in the world of luxury fashion.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Let’s build something meaningful together—a community of people who share a love for style and the stories behind it.
Subscribe to our substack here: Chasing New York Blog
Best,
Logan