Pumps & Pleats: Duds for studs at Karbon

Story and photos by Michèle De Meglio

Are you a fella who secretly loathes polo shirts and khakis? Are you tired of boring basic tees? Are you looking for some pizazz?

If so, Pumps & Pleats has the store for you!

Karbon, a gentlemen’s boutique in Midwood, is stocked with trendy casual wear, trendy work wear and trendy club wear. Did I say it is t-r-e-n-d-y?

For the T-shirt loving types who want something lively, check out the wall of graphic tees by Kidrobot, which calls itself the world’s premier designer and retailer of limited edition art toys and apparel.

Some of the shirts are funny (a purple bunny rabbit smoking a cigarette), some are pretty slick (a silly robot head) and some are, well, for adults only (a busty pinup girl).

If you want something fresh but not outlandish, try the crisp white tee emblazoned with a simple streak of electric blue graffiti. An added bonus - it’s part of a “2 for $30” deal.

Many of the pieces in Karbon offer classic styles with a cool, modern twist. For instance, take a $106 black bomber jacket by Premium Lounge. It’s updated with funky pockets and asymmetrical zippers across the chest.

A pair of black jeans is anything but basic thanks to grommets, zippers and studs on the back pockets.

Even traditional button-down shirts get a twist. A blue and white plaid shirt by 7 Diamonds ($88) features a set of “trio pockets,” offering entry via buttons and zippers. Somehow the look isn’t busy. It’s kinda cool! The name of this 7 Diamonds style could be the motto of any fashionable male leaving white polos behind — “Punk it up button down.” Preach!

Karbon is located at 1310 Kings Highway. For hours call 718-336-8606.

Michèle De Meglio is a native Brooklynite addicted to all things chic. Check out Pumps & Pleats each week for more adventures as she scours the borough for fab duds and accessories.