Raf Simons has expanded its focus to include Northern Soul music, tapping Fred Perry for a new collection of reworked polos, patches, and a parka jacket. The collection aims to honor the North of England, a place that Raf Simons was familiar with culturally. Comprising Raf Simons’ signature polo shirt, T-shirts, rollneck tops, denim offerings, blazers, jackets, and socks, the upcoming collection focuses on imaginary music labels, artists, and figures as its main motif, producing band-inspired merchandise with Northern influences.
Standout pieces include a three-button blazer with a rose motif and graphic on the chest, dual-branded laurel wreaths which decorate a series of polos, and a ‘Parka’ that features embroidered patches on the rear.
The Raf Simons and Fred Perry collection launches online and in select Fred Perry stores on August 11.
Northern Soul-Inspired Apparel
Raf Simons Taps Fred Perry for a Northern England-Focused Capsule
Trend Themes
1. Northern Soul-inspired Fashion - The fusion of Northern Soul and Fashion reflects an opportunity for clothing brands to create innovative collections that pay homage to and celebrate regional cultures.
2. Music-inspired Merchandise - The use of band-inspired merchandise for fashion can have a disruptive effect on the industry through tapping into the emotional connection people have with music.
3. Reworking Classic Pieces with Culture-focused Design - Reworking classic pieces to include designs that focus on regional culture can provide clothing industry players with opportunities for delivering something unique to consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Clothing Manufacturing - Clothing manufacturers can create Northern Soul-inspired collections by reworking classic pieces while incorporating designs inspired by regional cultures.
2. Music Merchandise Retail - Retailers of music merchandise can disrupt the industry by adding fashion-inspired clothing to their merchandise offerings.
3. Regional Tourism - Regions with unique cultural identity can consider diversifying their tourism offerings by adding fashion or music-related events, allowing visitors to experience their regional culture in different ways.