This week has seen the world go collab crazy with an insane number of cross-pollination projects that commercially crank up our shopping as we move into autumn. From fine art t-shirts and cosy slippers to new versions of outerwear classics and even a toy rocket, here are some of the many new products that have caught our eye in the past few days.
Son of a Tailor X Matthew Johnson
With their made-to-order bespoke take on leisurewear, Son of a Tailor are our go-to for the perfect fit white t-shirt but this week sees the launch of their first foray into print. Don’t worry: they’ve not gone full-on Marimekko, rather have collaborated with American photographer Matthew Johnson who shot a few very subtle, abstract fine art images of Copenhagen which have then been printed on the back of their classic t-shirts. It’s a limited edition of 250 per style but we imagine this could be the start of a very successful series for the brand.
Carhartt x Subu
Autumn sees not only the arrival of sweater weather but also the season where a good pair of slippers can come in handy. They need to be cosy enough to feel warm first thing in the morning but robust enough to get you to the recycling bins or even the corner shop if you forgot milk. It’s the sort of thing that the Japanese do very well so no surprise that Carhartt looked to SUBU to collaborate with to create a special version of their Cordura. Somewhat confusingly called a sandal (it isn’t), this is a padded slide in durable nylon canvas in the iconic Hamilton Brown colour. They come in a matching bag so you can take them on weekends away to your summer house too.
Lego by Pharrell Williams
A weekly news is not a weekly news without a piece about a new venture by Pharrell Williams. Seems there is nothing he can’t (or won’t) turn his hand to, reaching an almost ridiculous level now as he reveals himself to be a LEGO designer. Just released is his 966-piece set that fans can build into a black and gold spaceship that swoops from the table leaving behind a pastel-coloured jet stream and clouds. Raised marketing eyebrow aside, it’s actually a pretty cool model when finished so maybe something nice to do to fill a long winter evening.
Timberland x JJJJound
Timberland are having quite a moment these days. Hot off the heels (pun intended) of their collab with Louis Vuitton, they have also been working with Montreal-based lifestyle gurus JJJJound to create a special version of their iconic 6-inch boot. Originally designed in 1976 by the Abington Shoe Company, the then-named Timberland boot was such a success that the makers changed their name to match it. Now it has been reimagined in black or oxblood brown leather for a slightly more dressed-up vibe. Of course, it still retains the waterproof GORE-TEX lining and Vibram sole but mercifully comes in quite a bit cheaper than the LV version…
Comme Des Garçons x North Face
In this collab-heavy week, it comes as no surprise that two heavyweights in this field, Comme des Garcons and The North Face are making an appearance. It’s the second time around for this marriage which brings together the former’s design chops and the latter’s outstanding technical abilities. Some of the pieces are a little ‘put our logo on your basic piece’ to be honest, but the sludgy green quilted jackets and fleeces are way cooler than most outdoor wear and should cut a dash in more locations than when just out hiking.
