Birds of North America X Neil MacCormick 'Square Boy' Tee

The cutest cropped tees have come in from Birds of North America in collaboration with artist Neil MacCormick. Neil has painted full time since 1984 and co-owns Birds of North America with his partner, designer Hayley Gibson. The two have shared a studio since meeting in 2006.

Notes from Hayley Gibson:

I’ve aways loved this painting of Neil’s - the summeriness of it, the graphic red and white logo, the yellow awnings, and the name of the business. It’s such a special looking place!

Though I don’t have any personal experience of Square Boy restaurant, this painting really reminds me of my university summers in Toronto when I was in my early 20’s going to TMU
for fashion design. I 100% would have frequented this place back then for Sunday morning hangover brunch if it had been in my neighbourhood! 😆

Neil didn’t know of this restaurant when he took the photo either - it was just a place that stood out strongly to him on one of the lengthy walks he would take around Toronto to look for inspiration for paintings. This day he was on the Danforth, and was struck by what an anachronistic presence this restaurant had: ‘The whole thing was so big - such a statement - it was shocking that it was still there and that no- one had managed to knock it down. Also that it wasn’t a chain - it was just this random place.’

The inspiration picture was taken just a few years before my time in Toronto began, and I’ve since learned that Square Boy is a beloved east-end institution on the Danforth that has been serving affordable Greek and diner-style food since 1964. It still exists, and the sign is as grand as ever!

Sizing Notes: These tees fit slightly on the larger size. About a size larger than the Bird's classic size chart suggests. If you like traditional Birds sizing, we recommend ordering 1 size down or stick to your usual size for a more relaxed fit. 

Extra fit tip:  if you have a favourite classic tee at home, and you'd like the same fit, just lay it flat and measure across the chest to find the closest equivalent in the chart at the end of the photos!

Hayley is 5'7" and wears size M Cropped Black tee, and Neil is 6'1" and wears size XL Classic White tee

100% Organic Cotton Jersey Milled in Toronto (Medium Weight)

Machine Wash & Tumble Dry

The classic tees will shrink 1" total in length with a wash and dry, and the cropped tees will shrink just 1/2" total. We haven't found there to be any width shrinkage with washing and drying.

Made in Toronto, ON

When you shop at Victoire, you're supporting independent designers and Canada's garment industry. This garment is designed by Hayley Gibson and proudly manufactured in Canada. Hayley has been making and designing clothes since 2007 and it's because of customers like you that her label can thrive!