JW Anderson x Persol is the one collaboration you need to care about proper now
Jonathan Anderson may be finest recognized for his deliciously luxurious collections produced beneath his guise because the artistic director of Spanish model Loewe, however it’s actually for his uniquely esoteric aesthetic – demonstrated not solely by means of his work on the aforementioned LVMH-owned model but in addition at his eponymous label – for which the designer ought to be celebrated.
Not solely did Anderson query gender norms lengthy earlier than it was stylish, sending skirt-clad male fashions down his JW Anderson runway, however he additionally embodies a particularly British eccentricity, which is current by the bucketload in his new assortment of eyewear with Persol.
As soon as favoured by the likes of Steve McQueen and Cary Grant, the Italian model has an extended historical past of cladding the faces of the world’s most trendy males with elegant sun shades and the brand new assortment combines the model’s low-key, high-quality product with Anderson’s playful strategy. Colors are daring, silhouettes are sudden and elegance is excessive.
Impressed by the daring colors and shiny lights of the Balearic Islands, the unique 649 and 0009 frames are reinterpreted in clashing hues (suppose Tango-orange frames with cobalt arms). “True to JW Anderson’s resourceful creativity,” explains the model, “the one-of-a-kind color results of this restricted version type are created utilizing recycled acetate offcuts from the manufacturing chain to provide new life to current matter.”
GQ spoke to Anderson solely in regards to the new assortment, which launches at present.
Why did you see Persol as being a superb match to create a sun shades assortment with, Jonathan?
I’ve all the time been a fan of Persol. I personal Persol. I put on them on a regular basis. They’re such a traditional and so nicely designed and crafted. I cherished the concept of working with a model with that stable base already established.
What makes the brand new assortment so particular?
I believe it’s about taking part in with classicism on this second. It’s about letting go and having enjoyable. Forgetting a number of the issues which were affecting us these days.
Clearly sun shades serve a operate, however past that what position do you suppose they play within the wider type canon?
I believe what’s wonderful about sun shades is that they are often worn by anybody. You’ll be able to create statements with sun shades, like sneakers. And you may be playful and go along with extra excessive shapes. You can also make an announcement. Or not.
Who, in your opinion, are the most effective sun shades wearers in historical past and why?
Steve McQueen. Clearly. He’ll all the time be an icon. Dame Edna. Justin Vivian Bond.
What’s your favorite pair within the assortment and why?
The 649 in blue and crimson. It’s a form that I already put on and I like sporting one thing made out of recycled supplies.
Is that this the beginning of a long-term relationship or a one-off?
We will see…
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