Street-savvy clothing line Three Stones has been on the fashion scene since 1989, evolving from its guy-oriented, graphic-shirt roots to a line that now offers a more sophisticated, all-gender-friendly collection. As co-owners of Three Stones, Michael Rooney and Susan Nishimura work collaboratively to fine tune a balanced, fun, and wearable collection.

With 12 years in the fashion industry, Nishimura brings a sense of refined style and a keen eye for details to a genre that can easily be stagnant, floundering in a sea of factory-quality fleece and baggy, shapeless garments. While Three Stones offers its fair share of fleece, its custom-designed blends are of a higher quality than those of most other competitors.

Taking their cue from high-performance sports such as snowboarding, Three Stones uses high-tech fabrics such as microfleece to ensure their garments offer a balance between edgy form and practical functionality.

The company's principals are ever aware of emerging styles. "We were doing long and lean when everyone else was still doing boxy hoodies," reminisces Nishimura.

Three Stones puts a unique spin on its fair-priced Charlie coat and Sweden sweater.

The layered look has been a dominant trend in fashion for years, from mainstream to couture. During that time, Three Stones has provided the key elements. "We offer all the layers, from shirts to hoodies, to coats and jackets," she says.

The increasingly popular coats and jackets are a recent addition to the Three Stones repertoire, top sellers in a niche market that caters to the younger buyer who's looking for a high-quality garment with unique details that is still affordable.

Based on fleece, the designs are anything but typical. Jackets feature design elements such as blazer lapels, a duffle front (complete with wooden toggles) or faux fur lining. These coats, made with a heavier bonded fleece, are more structured and have a quilted lining for extra warmth. They also feature unique elements such as a funnel neck, an asymmetrical front closure, or a stylish belt.

These details set Three Stones apart from other street- and board-apparel offerings. Even its most basic hoodie comes adorned with a jacquard back panel, embroidery, and slash pockets with buttons.

"We're a hybrid of mainstream and streetwear…with a twist," Nishimura laughs. Details such as wood buttons, satin lining, toggles, and snaps change each season to keep things fresh and dynamic.

The only thing that stays constant is their commitment to their customers. "We're not price-driven; we're customer-driven," Rooney asserts. "We're priced below the higher name-brands, but above the mass-produced items."

Both owners admit there's always some pressure from the larger chains to change their pricing structure, one reason why they prefer working with independent boutiques. "We're not out to gouge the customer, we're just looking for something that's fair for everyone," Rooney affirms.

Three Stones is available at: Off the Wall, Below the Belt, Mystic Wardrobe, North Shore Girl, Exposure, and Pacific Boarder. Prices: tops $30-$50; hoodies $70-$90; jackets $100-$130; and coats $150-$190.

Link: Three Stones official site