Fresh on the scene, CADET recently opened its first boutique in Williamsburg, Brooklyn followed by a re-launch of its online store. The shop’s attitude and structured men’s furnishings are inviting, as is the easy going staff eager to help or simply allow patrons to peruse uninterrupted. Begun by partners Raul Arevalo and Brad Schmidt, CADET is proud to be a completely in-house operation. Made in the U.S. at their factory in Bushwick, Brooklyn in order to ensure the quality of the product, the craftsmanship of this indie brand with a military DNA is well maintained. Arevalo and Schmidt oversee all aspects of production and the hard work is evident.
A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology with a degree in men’s tailoring, Raul won the Chairman’s Award for best men’s collection in 1995 before moving on to head the design departments for brands such as Abercrombie & Fitch and Club Monaco. He ultimately decided to go out on his own with his partner, Schmidt, who had successfully run an online retail business. This set the wheels in motion for CADET.
Taking cues from post-war military academies with a focus on precision, clean lines and a crisp aesthetic, CADET makes the military uniform chic again. Carefully selected fabrics, custom colors and an attention to fit and construction create a timeless, quality garment. CADET’S signature pieces include the officer’s shirt, the military popover, and the cadet pant with tuxedo stripe. With an emphasis on cut and fit, and simple aesthetics, CADET offers a collection of clothing that allows for pieces to work with any wardrobe. Consider getting back to basics with Cadet’s soft cotton tees and cargo shorts, or pack a pair of CADET’s two-tone swim trunks in your satchel and hit the beach in relaxed comfort with your local duds.
Offering free alterations with every purchase to ensure every piece fits as if it were tailor made, CADET’s is an offer that not even the Squire can refuse.