Alexander Stutterheim's eponymous line of hardy raincoats is evidence that unexpected discoveries and old memories can be the foundation for new creative endeavors. After unearthing his grandfather's beat-up old raincoat in an abandoned barn, Stutterheim became determined to create coats crafted with the same diligence, care and artisan craftsmanship, but modernized for the needs and tastes of today's man. There's no velcro, no Gore-Tex, no unnecessary embellishments. His vision sees contemporary minimalism seamlessly combining with old-world craft for a fresh new take on a garment that most of us don't think about until the weather turns foul. So this might be the perfect time to starting thinking about one. We caught up with Stutterheim recently to learn a little more about the up-and-coming brand.

What was it about your grandfather's
raincoat that inspired you?

It was a hardcore coat with no fuzz or compromises—totally designed to keep the owner dry in a downpour. Even the fabric had no interest other than function. Often these items have a strong character and a clean, minimalist design that needs little altering. So I just adjusted the cut a bit so it would work on the streets as well as on a boat.

Your tagline is "Swedish melancholy at its driest." How does melancholy relate to the clothes?

My granddad was a genius in many senses. He created a lot of fun and crazy things when he was in a creative mood. Like he'd go out fishing in the worst conditions. When he got back he would be happier and paint or tell stories to us kids. I wanted to explore the relationship between melancholy and creativity, sun and rain, and try to make people accept they are equally important for a full life.

And what's the one thing you'd want people to know about Stutterheim?

That we're honest people who make honest clothes and accessories with full hearts and no compromises. We care about craft and are willing to slowly build a great collection that looks good and works well in the rain and bad weather.