A Little Background:

Next, the store, opened its doors in 2006. Next - the mantra, the philosophy, the idea - is about loving what you do, having fun and betting on the future. We could spend our time in casinos doing the same thing, but just love fashion too much. That’s what this blog is about - expressing what we love to do.

But let’s get back to the store for a sec. Our store was the brainchild of six brains working together in a collective process led by one brain. That one brain belonged to Jerry Kamhi, the president of ThinkFast. The other six brains belonged to members of The Next - Robert Rosenthal, Steve Silver, Rick White, Latrice Neal, Michelle Jones and William Beard. The goal was to create a store - and a brand - that could deliver on the promise of betting on what’s “next” in street fashion for men and women. Exclusive, quirky, eclectic fashion. Brands you couldn’t find just anywhere. And high-demand, lust-worthy products from iconic brands. Our brand is a bet on other brands we think you will love.

The concept requires buyers with a little vision, a dart board and a a few Bombay Saphire Martinis (shaken not stirred). Okay, all joking aside, the concept requires people who 100% love what they do - trend spotting and bringing it to you. Here are the main folks who make up the buying team. We will be adding more folks as we build out the blog.

Deirdre Maloney, a principal in Brand Pimps & Media Whores (BPMW). She buys our womens stuff and really is the “Queen of Cool.” I mean, come on. Umm, “Brand Pimps & Media Whores!” Wouldn’t you like to see that on your W-2? No mom, it’s not a porn company.

Robert Rosenthal, Next business guy (every company needs one) and men’s buyer. Mr. Black Jack, slot machine, and roulette wheeler for fashion! Robert is a great guy who likes to get things going and helping people get their stuff off the ground. The consummate risk taker and mensch.

Steve Silver buys shoes. He was brought on as the “Creative Critic” with a sense of when not to go to crazy. We love Steve’s passion for women sneakers and demystifying what it all means to pick the best collections on the planet. He travels the world hunting for the best kicks, and we are really proud of his sneak-sense.

Pictures (coming soon)!