Fred Perry x Raf Simons’ Final Collection Imbues the Community Spirit of UK Counterculture
Take a look back at their partnership highlights in a new round-up video.
In the final chapter of Fred Perry and Raf Simons’ long-standing partnership, the two creative forces pay homage to the countercultures who used fashion and music as an outlet for community expression. Through Simons’ cutting-edge lens, they launch a new collection that carefully reimagines the influential styles born out of the hardships of the late ‘80s and early ‘90s.
Using a minimal palette of white and black as well as an accent tone of deep blue, garments in the latest range offer a more pared-back feel in contrast to its bolder previous installments. The archetypal Fred Perry polo shirt sets the tone of the line-up. For one iteration, the polo shirt is dipped in blue with a white central zip and matching collar tips, and in another, block-toned hues complement a classic button fastening and a metal logo details. These are paired with a variety of jackets typical of the era such as a Harrington-style overshirt, bomber jacket and a high-collared parka.
In a more direct reference to the rugged ‘90s styles, the pair introduce a take on band T-shirts with contrast binding and black lettering. Meanwhile, Fred Perry’s go-to cardigan is adapted with punk-inspired square paneling that alternates between blue and black. For an added layer of customization, these pieces can be elevated with a selection of pins and badges.
Focusing on music, fashion and friendship, the accompanying campaign brings to life the integral themes of the early ‘90s that went on to inspire musicians and creatives in the UK today. It sees filmmaker Jim Longden join musicians DJ Keyrah, DJ Kojay, Joni Sammuels as well as Oskar Gudinovic and Aaron Hurley of the Cardinals in front of the camera in the heavily referenced 100 Club. Take a closer look at how they revive the styles of the new collection through a contemporary lens in the lookbook above.
As Raf Simons and Fred Perry wrap up on 15 years of close-knit collaboration, Hypebeast takes a moment to celebrate the iconic partnership by looking back at its most defining moments. Explore the best collaborations, activations and campaigns in the TikTok video here.
@hypebeast The final Fred Perry x Raf Simons collection is out now 🔥 #FredPerry #RafSimons #FashionCollab #TikTokFashion ♬ Unwritten Bracelet – DJ BAI
To shop the final Fred Perry x Raf Simons collection, head to the brand’s website now.
