WP Store Marks 40 Years of Archival Fashion with Collaborative Barbour Collection
Documenting its historical influences in Episode 3 of WP’s interview series.
Continuing its look back at 40 years of homegrown fashion archiving, Bologna-based WP Lavori in Corso highlights its long-standing connection with Barbour through a new capsule collection. The three-piece range – co-designed by menswear director Ian Bergin – aligns with pivotal moments in its relationship with the brand, and are closely recounted in WP Store’s ongoing interview series.
“We have been with WP for years”, says Helen Barbour in the the third episode of WP stories, “For them to be there every step of the way is really important”. Joined by Dame Margaret Barbour, the chairwomen of Barbour share how the British outerwear label and the distributor have grown in unison with WP’s research foundation.
The first item in the 40th anniversary collection harks back to the early days of Barbour and WP Store’s journey – the Speydale model. This contemporary take on the heritage garment that was originally worn by sailors features a cord collar, hood and a slightly raised bottom hem. It also pays homage to the naturally-waxed coatings that the brand issued when it was introduced to Italy by WP Store.
Wp Store
Wp Store
Wp Store
Wp Store
Wp Store
Coming in green and blue-toned iterations, the Bedale jacket, a popular item from the ‘90s, joins the range with its iconic 100% wool makeup. The piece signifies a time where Barbour’s appeal started to seep into a new category of wearers who channeled an “understated British country” look. The collection is rounded off by the brand’s most casual-look jackets – the Game Parka, which boasts modern versatility as well as Barbour’s robust construction.
In the episode, Bergin reflects on the collection saying, “It’s very respectful of the core of the brand, what we stand for and our DNA.” He adds, “All the details you expect from Barbour are there but it has a certain twist and perspective to it”. With its Wax for Life program, the brand hopes the collaborative WP store pieces will remain in wardrobes across Italy, and the world, for a lifetime.
Explore the inspiration behind the collection by watching episode 3 of WP Stories in the gallery. To shop the capsule collection, head to WP Store’s website now.
