Designers Timo Weiland and Alan Eckstein make clothes for men and women whose idea of playing dress-up takes flight in full, fanciful garments that are rooted in strong construction and design.

If you find it hard to pinpoint the exact “Timo Weiland” aesthetic, you’re not alone. Descriptors as varied as “downtown preppy” and “Elizabethan England” have been tossed around to describe the frocks, which in our opinion, meet in that magical middle point of French civility-inspired garments that actually hold up to repeat wearing — and seasons. It’s clothing that’s foppish and dapper, but hardly frivolous. Think cropped blazers, knit sweaters and classic trench coats, updated with oversized collars, playful trim and button (and buttonless) detailing. The collection reflects what the designers say are their personal aesthetic sensibilities and a “broader desire to spur a return to the art of dressing.”

Born in rural Nebraska and raised between New York and Florida, Weiland majored in Economics, Spanish Literature, and Business Management at Vanderbilt University, before returning to New York to pursue a fashion career, which began with an eponymous collection of unisex neckwear. Eckstein, meantime, studied communications at FIT and held brief internships in the fashion industry, before teaming up with Weiland to launch their full label last year.

The two recently took time out to jot down some ideas for us as part of our web exclusive series of “things that never go out of style.” Here is Weiland and Eckstein’s top-ten list:

1. Good manners
2. Enthusiasm
3. An expertly-fitted button down shirt
4. Well-worn vintage loafers
5. A classic two-button suit
6. A sexy fit model that’s funny too!
7. Perforated leather
8. Polka dots
9. A record player
10. Baroque furniture

For more information about the designers (and to view videos and photos from their latest collections), visit www.timoweiland.com.

- TC