Gilded Age For UNIQLO
A few years back, Japanese retail giant
UNIQLO organized its first Designers Invitation Project, aiming to bring the work of promising but lesser-known designers to the greater public's attention. As part of this initiative, UNIQLO has joined forces with Gilded Age to produce a capsule menswear collection set to release in May 2009.
If you’re not familiar with Gilded Age, it’s a label that has made waves in the fashion world by specializing in producing garments inspired by the blossoming period of New England’s industrial age. Using some of the oldest machinery available, as well as hand-knitting techniques and natural dyeing processes, skilled craftspeople painstakingly create pieces for the brand that have an imperfect, vintage look to them. UNIQLO’s decision to collaborate with Gilded Age is, therefore, an intriguing one as it required merging an aesthetic based on one-of-a-kind pieces with a philosophy centered around mass-produced basics.
Thankfully, this one-off menswear line has successfully combined the best of both labels’ worlds. To remain true to their roots, Gilded Age used prints and finishes that symbolize the mindset the company espouses. Giving the collection a sporty spin helped incorporate UNIQLO’s vision of modern, easy-to-wear pieces. The result of the synthesis of Gilded Age’s casual luxury with UNIQLO’s emphasis on low-cost staples is a fresh take on classic American style in a palette ranging from deep indigo to grass green.
What they make: The range of Gilded Age for UNIQLO features separates that includes check shorts, a zippered jacket, a striped oxford shirt, and a semi-structured blazer.
Where to get it: UNIQLO
