Cool Hunting
OK47, were founded in the spring of 2000, and have quickly evolved from selling just a small set of t-shirts to a full line of mens and women's clothing and accessories. Ironically they operate out of the top floor of a converted sweatshop in Toronto's fashion district--but all of their clothing is consciously made sweatshop free, under an ethical business model. They call themselves deliberate outsiders, the name OK47 derived from the assault rifle, the AK47, carried by revolutionaries worldwide. It's what they call a "surreal contradiction." They prefer to ignore trends and make clothing for people going on their own paths. They have a solid line up of mens shirts and a nice blazer with the interior lining printed up with what looks to be stolen watches pinned inside. For the women they have a lot of very nice skirts and shirts. The art that doesn't make it onto fabrics, becomes available for sale as prints.
Award-winning London based illustrator Von has long been a CH favorite so when he decided to launch a range of tees and totes we grabbed the chance to find out more. Why did you decide to brand into fashion now? As much as t-shirts have been done a million times before I still get excited when I come across a really nice design printed...
Renowned in the late 80s and early 90s, John Fluevog’s Art Deco-inspired footwear collection is experiencing a renaissance with their new 2006 winter line. The dandyish Capone ankle boot (pictured) features patent leather (a typically flamboyant choice of material) and a pink lining sobered by a grey colorway and classic brogue styling. The result is a fresh approach to the Canadian cobbler's tradition of...
My favorite fashion-fuck-you brand, SVSV, is making a slice of their uber-exclusive, hyper priced items accessible in a new store that just launched 10 minutes ago. There's a selection of t-shirts, hoodies, hats and scarves in addition to these favorite porcelain bullet replicas. Originally intended as a fund raiser to combat gun violence, proceeds from sales of the bullet pendants will be used to...
Late last summer, Rubin covered the t-shirt company Wallpaper Squared. They've described it as consumerism gone mad. Using everyday objects like lamps, sunglasses, and sneakers, they've created interesting patterns that embrace the vibe of consumer fetishism at its fullest. Hurrah for stuff!...
Basel Switzerland based Yummy Industries is armed and ready with their sewing machines. They have a bunch of interesting products like t-shirts, bags, keyties and belts. This woven belt is made of drawings stitched right onto it. All of the designs have a rugged yet appealing aesthetic to them. It's all available in their online shop....
Unconventional in every sense of the word, Melbourne duo Hank and Matlok are causing a stir down under with cutting-edge art, quirky prints and intelligent fashion. CH caught up with the duo during their recent exhibition at Robio to talk about art, beer and fashion. (Click images for detail.) What's with the name? Hank: Blame our parents. That's what we normally do. Matlok: Yeah,...
The Pharos Project
Hank and Matlok
Neon Shoes
Radio Village Nomade
Ghostly Swim: Interview with Sam Valenti
Creative Index
Interview with Maarten Baas
A Paper Tiger
Von Totebags and T-Shirts