Let me start by saying that I typically avoid shopping malls at all costs. I, of course like most men, want to get in and get out with as little time wasted as possible. For the most part what malls lack these days, at least around NOLA, is exclusivity.

You can walk into and out of each store that slings products that will help you look exactly like everyone else. That’s what malls are meant to do. None of them cater to the real you, just the fist pumping preppy slightly over indulgent you.

Ensign located on Freret St. uptown, with it’s distinctive and very approachable lineup, provides both male and female customers with a unique and very un-mall like experience.

With brands like Benny Gold, In4Mation, Gravis, SLVDR, Manik, Amongst Friends, and The Hundreds, Ensign stocks a wide range of shoes, jackets, t’s, denim, and hats with epic amounts of detail at very affordable prices. Several items stood out for me including the Benny Gold T’s, the matte finished Hundreds shades, SLVDR button downs, as well as the Manik caps and decks.

The best part about shopping at Ensign is they do everything well. The generous amount of unique stock never veers toward one style or niche, and they have a great mix of color-ways and fits. On top of keeping everything current on display, they are constantly alerting everyone when new gear arrives, all the while remaining fresh.