Fred Perry and Raf Simons proudly present Part One of their final collection together...
Over the past 15 years, Simons has used Fred Perry as a canvas for exploring his obsession with British youth culture – from the Manchester scene to Northern Soul, punk to the 100 Club, all reimagined through his distinctive lens, imbuing modernity into Fred Perry classics. It’s fitting that their final collections are a celebration of communities coming together, united in music, fashion and friendship. These pieces will undoubtedly become immediate collectibles. Taking direct inspiration from youth culture today, the collection embodies the spirit of independence, inspired by the clothes worn at raves, club nights and gigs.
Influenced by Simons’ fascination for uniforms, silhouettes and fabrics feel utilitarian and hardy, with military-inspired knits and jackets, workwear trousers and heavy-duty accessories. Equally suited to a day’s hard graft as they are at a techno rave.
Bespoke graphics are a feature throughout the collection, taking inspiration from the early industrial record covers that came out of the UK, US and beyond during the late ‘70s. Obscure British artists dominated the scene, with equally obscure album artwork. Bold graphics with stand-out fonts made for iconic record sleeves and became synonymous with the era. Influenced by this scene, abstract graphics feature across T-shirts, polos, outerwear and knits – designed as large-scale prints or embroidered onto badges and patches. Inspired by the DIY spirit of youth.
Shot by British photographer, Ewen Spencer, who is renowned for capturing the energy and spirit of youth, the campaign sees the collection worn during beat-punk band Kid Kapichi’s UK tour, with support from SNAYX and MONAKIS in Brighton’s independent music venue Chalk. Un-staged, the shoot took place with real musicians, a real gig and amongst a real crowd. A snapshot of UK youth culture today.
Available from Thursday 16th February 2023, the collection can be purchased online at fredperry.com and in select global Fred Perry shops.
