Backstage at Represent's "The New Breed" 2017 Fall/Winter Show

British fashion label Represent came to New York Fashion Week: Men’s with the goal of sharing an Industrial Revolution inspired collection. “The New Breed” harkens back to the northern England upbringing of co-founder George Heaton and his team. Featuring a plethora of British flags and slogans, there were also plenty of boots which the company has developed a cult following for. The show featured loose fits and various accessories, a modern take on the humble blue-collar garb of the past. HYPEBEAST took a look backstage before the show started and shared a few thoughts and words with George. Check out the behind the scenes shots above and read the interview below.

The themes of your collections are filled with urban and contemporary vibes. Is this a result of your environment or vice versa?

Our surroundings influence the collection majorly because we were brought up in the north of Britain. It’s where the Industrial Revolution happened and it was a big fashion movement for the UK. Our collection brings in the subcultures that were around in those days with a modern touch to the aesthetic.

Describe your creative process behind a new collection.

It takes around six months. We start out plotting our inspirations via Pinterest moodboards with the design team, being myself, Mike, James and Stefan. From there we go to our fabric suppliers in Paris and the UK and we get shown color palettes and then we discuss the collection’s look. We don’t necessarily draw outfits, we put fabrics to pieces and try to develop from there. Our suppliers will then develop initial secondary samples in fabrications chosen.

What are some of the design elements you wish to remain consistent as your company progresses?

Denim is a staple. Our stretch-denim sells very well and a lot of our customers come to purchase that. Along with that — our Italian jersey has come to a point we feel very satisfied with it now across our light and heavyweight casuals.

What are your thoughts on streetwear brands collaborating with high fashion labels?

I really like some of them and I really despise some of them. The Supreme x Louis Vuitton one looks really nice.

What are some of the trends you’re noticing today in the industry? Likes and dislikes?

The classic British work boot is something shown everywhere more recently than ever. Dr. Martens are the perfect example of this silhouette and style and they’re the best at it. We’re developing our own work boot which we introduced recently. It’s a smarter addition to our footwear lineup. In addition to this we’re currently near the end of the Alpha 2.0. Creating custom mold soles and the last shape. Going back to the trends — to each their own. We create what we like and want to wear. Others create differently.