As we welcome back firm favourites of the Jacket Required family to the spring/summer 2014 line-up, we also embrace new labels from across the globe.

Today we present to you a European collection of brands – hailing from Portugal to Copenhagen – making their Jacket Required debut.

senhor PRUDÊNCIO

Inspired by designer João Pedro Filipe’s grandfather, senhor PRUDÊNCIO aims to personify the 1950s Portuguese shoemaker. Having studied at IFM in Paris, interned with Felipe Oliviera Baptista and gained recognition from Louis Vuitton before collaborating with several international brands, Filipe now presents his own footwear and accessories range for men.

With contemporary design and 100% Portuguese production, the collection appeals to the fashion conscious and culturally aware.

Mads Nørgaard-Copenhagen

Mads Nørgaard and his father, Jørgen, are best known for simple, functional menswear, most notably the Breton-striped, long-sleeved T-shirt, which became the signature 1970s Scandinavian student uniform.

A legend on the Danish design scene, having opened a store in 1986, the Mads Nørgaard brand was established nine years later, evolving since its 80s inception, aiming to “make women sexier and men rougher – with a modernist gleam in the eye”. Minimalist design and beautifully cut casual separates are strictly edited with shirts and tailoring to complete the collection.

Bellerose

Democratique Socks

Established in Copenhagen in 2011 by a team of highly experienced fashion professionals, this Great Dane has been in the business for more than 15 years, with more than 150 years’ experience wearing socks.

Having found an opening in the market for high-quality socks at affordable prices, Democratique Socks closes the gap by offering a uniquely covetable collection, focusing on creating an enjoyable, wearable, everyday range that brings the finishing touch to head-to-toe dressing in an instant.

Bleu De Chauffe

Inspired by the industrial universe of the 20th century, Bleu de Chauffe produces work bags that mean business, reinvented in a contemporary and urban way with a clear and sharp design. Simple, practical and stylish, Bleu de Chauffe bags are handmade in France, priding itself on the traceability of its label – each artisan signs and dates each bag he has made, underlining the handcrafted aspect and uniqueness of each of these beautiful products.

With a brand name derived from the blue jacket worn by French factory workers and locomotive drivers in the late 19th and early 20th century – ‘mettre son bleu de chauffe’ is a popular French expression for getting to work.

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With debut brands, new label launches from current exhibitors, and returning favourites joining us at Victoria House, we present your passage to Bloomsbury and spring/summer 2014.

Billionaire Boys Club Black

Creative duo Pharrell Williams and Mark McNairy present their latest line for BBC – Billionaire Boys Club Black. While visiting Crye Precision, known for innovative design and manufacture of equipment for America’s armed forces, the all-black special operations uniforms captured their attention.

Made exclusively from black materials, BBC Black draws utilitarian elements together, celebrating the silhouettes of apparel, free from prints and colours.

Available in limited quantities across select ‘black diamond’ retailers worldwide, the collection is designed as the contemporary man’s everyday combat gear.

Reebok Classics

Classic (clas·sic) 1: judged over a period of time to be of the highest quality and outstanding of its kind.

A mistake in leather led to the birth of the Reebok Classic, which marked Reebok’s cross-over into fashion and lifestyle footwear, seeing comfort and performance characteristics fused with a stylish design, which has since become a cult fashion item. It takes history to make a classic.

Lacoste Essential Design

Authentic brand essence and simplicity of design combine to create Lacoste Essential Design. Creating footwear that is, timeless and classic, the label marks the difference between ordinary and unique.

For spring/summer 2014, Lacoste Essential Design presents four families in four distinct styles; weave, craft, luxe and hybrid. The collection is inspired for the season by the rugged environment, with a transition into a lighter and softer execution as we move into warmer climes. The feeling of quality workmanship shows the perfect mix between classic and innovative; the true essence of the brand.

Ebbets Field Flannels

Vintage and authentic, Ebbets Field Flannels was founded in 1988 and began recreating all-American sportswear inspired by team uniforms, colour and sporting emblems from non-major league baseball cards of their youth.

Twenty years later, Ebbets bring American athletic garments to a contemporary audience, creating individually handcraft vintage jerseys, jackets and caps in the United States of America the old-fashioned way. Sourcing authentic fabric and maintaining traditional techniques, the brand manufacture uniforms bringing iconic but relatively unknown baseball to the public eye with a unique twist.

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Continuing our invitation-only entrance policy, registration to attend the spring/summer 2014 show is now open. Please stop by the website and register your details to apply for entry to Jacket Required, 31 July & 1 August 2013.

Hartford Beachwear

Synonymous with quality fabrics, rich colours and authenticity, Hartford takes refined prints and mixes fabrics in perfect harmony, placing priority upon cut and proportion.
For spring/summer 2014, Hartford Swimwear echoes a 60s and 70s Californian vibe, playing with vintage prints and honing into iconic themes of surf, floral and geometrics. Juxtaposed with two and three-button blazers, printed chinos and slim-fit striped polos, the extensive collection reinvents classic looks with a contemporary interpretation – creating an Urban Ivy League style with a twist of the unexpected.
Stow & Son

Born in Madrid, Spain, Stow & Son produces footwear for modern and refined men. With a strong focus on tradition and heritage, all shoes are handmade in Spain and Portugal using traditional craftsmanship techniques and the best materials for a true vintage style.

Made the old-fashioned way, quality and elegance are never compromised. With the goal of producing and selling shoes for style, the Stow & Son spring/summer 2014 collection has been created for every day of the week, with everything from boots to sandals, made from materials including full-grain leathers, cotton, linens and hand-dyed yarns, all inspired by a classic but modern aesthetic.

Wolsey

Endorsed by Captain Robert Falcon Scott in 1911 during his historic race to the South Pole, Wolsey has gained a global reputation as an outfitter for pioneering men.

Founded in 1755 in Leicester, England, Wolsey is one of the oldest clothing companies in the world, quickly establishing itself as one of Britain’s premium manufacturers of finest quality hosiery and a champion of knitwear innovation.

For spring/summer 2014, a dedication to craftsmanship, British production, new technology and spirit of adventure remain at the heart of the brand. Celebrating its unique 260-year history, the brand embraces contemporary functional style, with the new range featuring military-inspired outdoor essentials, sportswear in cutting-edge performance fabrics and – respecting the origins of Wolsey’s iconic story – the ultimate in knitwear.

John Smedley

With a story that began over 229 years ago in the Derbyshire countryside, luxury British brand John Smedley join the spring/summer 2014 line-up with its world renowned fine-gauge knitwear collection.

Recognising its history while continuing to increase contemporary appeal, John Smedley was the proud recipient of The Queen’s Royal Warrant of Appointment earlier this year, rewarding supply to the royal family for five years or more. The brand also launched limited edition collaborations with labels Comme des Garçons, CHERCHBI and Umbro.

Offering a warmer option for colder summer days with a distinctive quality, John Smedley spring/summer styles are produced using Sea Island cotton for wardrobe staples with a unique and luxurious feel.

Until next time, thanks from all at…

A British summer provides the opportunity to appreciate a country whose weather doesn’t operate like clockwork. It’s the combination of warm and cold spells that make Britain great. Our island’s elements influence the way our cities, countryside and beaches look, and in turn dictate our choices in how we dress.

So should it be shorts and sunglasses, or jeans and jumpers; we bring you everything you need for spring/summer 2014, whatever the weather…

Today, we present a trio of new brands joining for the fifth edition of Jacket Required.

Lightning Bolt

Born in Hawaii in the summer of 1971, Lightning Bolt represents a philosophy that surfing, in its truest form, is a way of life rather than just another sport.

Today the Bolt is still a symbol that embodies the spirit of that mythical antihero. The label celebrates the passion of the individual and how surfing is one of the purest ways people can connect to nature while at the same time using it as a canvas for self-expression.

New to the Jacket Required brand mix for spring/summer 2014, Lightning Bolt prides itself on manufacturing a premium product for the conscious surfer that emphasises quality, style and utility.

PARKA LONDON

Making its premiere Jacket Required appearance this summer, debut brand PARKA LONDON creates a love affair between you and your coat. For men, each piece exudes confidence.

The collection puts the parka on a pedestal – maintaining that London / New York feel, but injecting a little French chic influence.

Consisting of classic trenches, macs and modern parka shapes, including bombers and leathers, the range continues the attention to detail which is core to the PARKA LONDON ethos, believing that it’s the innate details and little quirks that count.

With high-quality, hand picked fabrics, ranging from double-weave cottons to performance nylons, the brand introduces brighter colours for the spring/summer 2014 collection such as indigos, emeralds and burgundies along with light olives hues, creating an effortless summer style.

Burtonwode

Merseyside has given men plenty of things to be grateful for over the years: music, football and horse racing to mention a few. Burtonwode, named so after the M62 service station near Liverpool, creates boxershorts for gentlemen who seek something different to the predictable approach the market has become accustomed to.

Considering the individual, Burtonwode’s woven garments are both witty and stylish, with custom prints designed by artist David Huglin. Made in the UK from 100% softened cotton, these are simply superior quality pants that combine personality and comfort – so you can be true to yourself – underneath it all.

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Victoria House, Southampton Row. ca. 1920

Directed by John Turner, the video stars a duet of contrasting people that highlight the history and diversity of iconic Baracuta G9 including DJ Normal Jay, Golfer Ian Hingle and singer Ian Bruce. Look out for their webstore opening soon.

SWIMS

Norwegian brand SWIMS was established by Johan Ringdal in 2005 with the launch of colourful galoshes. The relaunch of the classic galosh with a modern twist proved to be a big success and can now be found in over 25 countries in more than 700 high-end stores. Not content with galoshes alone, SWIMS also offers jackets, loafers, shoes, umbrellas and bags – all based on classic, nostalgic designs, made with modern and unexpected materials. For a/w 13, SWIMS introduces two new styles, Harry and Emma, complementing its diverse range of footwear and apparel.

The Jacket Required team recently ventured to Sweden to track down Anton Sandqvist, founder of the minimalist luggage brand that shares his name.

Sandqvist, with Anton at the helm, has built a reputation for quality and purpose-lead design, influenced heavily by his childhood in rural Scandinavia… the very place we joined him, amongst scenic snowscapes.

Against a background of frozen tundra, Anton talks about the brand’s inception, its development and his love for working with his hands. Built upon Anton’s own desire to have something durable, simple and fit for purpose, Sandqvist has emerged one of the true gems of modern Scandinavian design.

“We make things simple and possible to repair … the simplicity of our pieces comes from inspiration through nature.”

Anton Sandqvist, Sandqvist

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What would an autumn/winter show be without a healthy portion of outerwear? The answer – rather cold and not terribly exciting. But fear not, we’re delighted to confirm Jacket Required has all bases covered with a myriad of curated outerwear labels lined up to showcase its winter-ready wares. Together we’ll weather the weather.

Patagonia

RICHARD HALLMAN © 2013 Patagonia, Inc.

Andreo, photographed by Bent René Synnevaag 

With international acclaim, including Norway’s ‘Designer of the Year 2012′, Norwegian Design Council’s ‘Award for Design Excellence 2012′ and praise from style bible Vogue Italia, it’s no wonder the designer label is making award-winning waves in the industry, drop by drop. The Scandinavian duo behind the project, bespoke tailor T-Michael and creative director Alexander Helle’s sartorial take on high-technology outerwear is inspired by 6050 days of vibrant Norwegian rain, creating stand-out garments combining the practicality of outdoor necessity, with traditional tailoring and a sensitivity to Japanese style.

MA.STRUM

Sydney clothing brand Vanishing Elephant, launched in 2008 by Arran Russell, Huw Bennett and Felix Chan, offers a classic aesthetic that aims not to reinvent but highlight the great subtleties of clothing with a modern take.

Libertine-Libertine was established in Copenhagen in the summer of 2009 by Rasmus Bak, Pernille Schwarz and Peter Munch Ovesen. A brand based on existentialism, quality and considered design, Libertine-Libertine’s collections strive to stimulate the creative soul without restrictions. Inspired by city lights, wild shores and contemporary culture, the label also collaborates on multifaceted projects with like-minded designers, artists and individuals. It defines an assured and effortless identity through seasonal styles and a new take on classics.

DODD

The brainchild of designer George Hudson, contemporary men’s label DODD delivers modern, wearable clothing. Proudly made in Britain, the brand delicately communicates a progressive attitude toward men’s attire.

Lacoste L!VE invokes the playful, innovative spirit of the man behind the crocodile, Rene Lacoste. The label draws from a colourful, sporty heritage and impeccable French elegance and mixes it up with contemporary styles to appeal to a young, style-savvy audience. Continuing with every new season, to trace its own path: that of a style, which, similar to the permanent laboratory of the streets it hails from, reshuffles all references in order to reinvent them. Between preppy chic and street cool, Lacoste L!VE’s a/w 13 collection twists the casual basics with a touch of irreverence and a healthy dose of independence. Through the medium of subtle palettes and witty graphics, jeans, chinos, shirts, knitwear and parkas leave behind the more classical approach in order to become a fully-fledged contemporary wardrobe: versatile, bold and assertive.

 

Rascals’

A new year, a new look, a new era and a preview of new brands at Jacket Required.

Kletterwerks

In the mid-seventies, founder Dana Gleason relocated to the Rockies and began to build outdoor gear for his climbing and skiing partners. At the time, the only available equipment was sub-par, at best. With the introduction of Cordura fabrics, Dana began to create what would become some of the most recognised backpacks in the outdoor industry.

Initially designed for American mountain athletes, the designs matured, gaining international production, gathering appeal within the fashion market, reaching celebrity status in Japan. Continuing production of both new and vintage patterns, Kletterwerks offers a complete line of packs, bags and accessories with original design detailing and modern amenities such as laptop sleeves, iPad cases and Dop kits.

AM Eyewear

From its inception eight years ago, AM Eyewear has evolved from a cheeky young upstart into a cult brand respected around the globe. AM Eyewear has grown its reputation both in its native Australia and internationally through commitment to cutting edge designs crafted from the highest quality materials.

Ever since the first five-frame collection debuted in 2003, designer Simon Ponnusamy has displayed an unwavering desire to combine quality with individuality. Each new collection is reflective of Ponnusamy’s many sources of inspiration, from his fast-paced life travelling and mingling with some of the world’s biggest rock stars, to his mother’s collection of vintage sunglasses and photos from her days in the fashion industry.

Veja

Established in Paris in 2004 by two childhood friends. Having spent the previous year auditing sustainable development projects, the duo developed a vision for doing things in a different way. Veja first launched a collection of trainers, followed by bags and accessories, combining principles of economic, social and environmental development.

Firmly rooted in Brazil, Veja’s trainers and accessories are made from ecological and fair trade materials including organic cotton sourced from the North East of the country, teamed with wild rubber from the Amazon rainforest and leather tanned with Acacia extracts.

Shwood

Shwood’s in-house manufacturing process merges precision technology with classic skilled craftsmanship to create a timeless art form. Every step, from veneering and precision lens cutting, to shaping and finishing, is conducted in its Portland-based workshop – promising an entirely handcrafted piece of wooden eyewear.

Minimum manipulation to the wood showcases the natural and unique splendour, making the product one of the most striking on the eyewear scene. In keeping with the premium grade wood, all models are accompanied by 100% UVA/UVB protection Carl Zeiss lenses imported from Italy.

Tyler & Tyler

Tyler & Tyler comes from the stable of a British family-controlled manufacturing company that have been making men’s fashion accessories for some of the UK’s leading fashion designers since 1969.

Proving that some of the best decisions are made with a beer in hand on a warm summer’s day, brothers Richard and Jonathan Tyler took the decision to launch their own collection in 2007. The label blends traditional manufacturing skills and state-of-the-art technology, to deliver classically styled accessories.

Le Specs

For anyone born prior to 1985, Le Specs was a household name, fast becoming synonymous with everything ‘Euro Chic’ and the sunglass brand du jour to own for every beach-combing eighties Australian.

Re-launched in 2006 after a 20-year vacation, the iconic sunglasses label once again became renowned for its fashion-forward and innovative designs at an affordable price. With the ubiquitous tag line ‘Le Specs, Le Tough’, the brand became an icon for the mid-eighties. The sunglasses were unbreakable and the product unmistakable.

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Deus ex Machina

Musto

Founded by Olympian sailor Keith Musto, Musto has almost 50 years’ experience in technical outdoor clothing, in high-quality sailing, shooting and equestrian attire. The brand combines a deep knowledge of specialist fabrics and intricate construction techniques to deliver an attractive product that serves the wearer whatever their sporting pursuits may be.

Aigle

Baracuta

A/w 13 will debut as the second instalment from Baracuta since its attainment by international distributors WP Lavori in Corso. WP has continued to manage the collection in respect of the honoured tradition of this British brand. A label that started in Manchester, a city synonymous with downpours, the a/w collection is its time to shine through the winter months. The Made in England brand continues to be inspired by the iconic G9 and G4 jackets. Modern materials, high craftsmanship and outstanding details make the new collection fresh yet maintains its classic elements. Twenty-five jackets complete the new range, including two seasonal colours from the Baracuta archive – earthy brown and military green – all continuing to feature the brand’s trademark Fraser tartan lining. Complementing the collection, Baracuta introduces 15 accessories defined by the iconic Fraser tartan for this new winter season, joining forces with other timeless British brands including Moon, Smart Turnout London and Fulton to produce umbrellas, ties, belts, scarves and underwear.

Lavenham

Launched in Paris in 1979, the brainchild of French designer Yves Chareton began as a vintage-inspired shirt company, recreating shirts of the 1940s and 1950s. Now producing a full menswear line, Hartford embraces simplicity, deftly translating its knowledge of vintage clothing into something wholly modern and wearable. Hartford focuses on the quality of its fabrics, cut and proportions to ensure it delivers easy-to-wear, stylish garments.

@Jacketreqd

Following on from Save the Date’s inaugural chat with the splendid gent that is Universal Works’ David Keyte, the team at Jacket Required decided to hot-foot it across to the mountains of Alsace to meet yet another distinguished, prominent protagonist in menswear and a close friend of the Jacket Required family – creative director of Edwin Jeans, Mr Reynald ‘REY’ Gautier.

Talking life, passions, denim and… bikes, the second film in the series shares an awe-inspiring experience, hanging on the laconic verbatim of a genuinely good and smart guy.

“It’s almost like creating a blueprint of your life if you look at a pair of jeans after two years, or three years. It reminds you of the places you’ve been. The things you’ve done.”

Reynald Gautier, Edwin Jeans

With the next edition fast approaching, we take this opportunity to remind you to register by completing the online Jacket Required February 2013 visitor application form. Please confirm your details through the official website to apply for the invitation-only event, so we can ensure our exhibiting brands are in good company.

Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out via Twitter, Facebook or by email and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Now on to our brand introductions….

The Jacket Required ‘Save the Date’ series debuts with a profile of David Keyte, founder of British brand Universal Works. The ex-miner talks about his approach to menswear and his humble vision for the future.

Curated by the Jacket Required team, directed by photographer and film maker Ivan Ogilvie, the film illustrates what Jacket Required is all about – it’s the people and the brands that make it what it is, hence this short series to celebrate our friends, family and the talent they hold.

“The old man that gets on the bus at 9.15 in the morning in three jackets and has two bags – he’s the inspiring one for me.”

David Keyte, Universal Works

Jacket Required x Universal Works from Jacket Required on Vimeo.

Read what he had to say below, and the published ‘This Fashion Life’ Drapers article.

We hear expansion plans are afoot with Jacket Required – what is happening?

There is an additional space within Victoria House that up until now, was not available to us. It is the old Bloomsbury Ballroom which is a sublime, 10,000 square foot, wood panelled ballroom with an art deco mirrored bar room. We had hoped we would be able to use it one day as the aesthetic is perfect for the show and when it came available, we booked it up immediately. It will allow us to increase the floor space by 10,000 sq ft and around 35 – 40 additional brands which is great as we have had to turn exhibitors away previously – although we are fast approaching capacity for this next event. We are super excited at the reaction once people see the new part of Jacket Required.

 You’ve got 10,000 more sq ft for the February show – what will you fill it with?

Expect more of the same. We have been lucky enough to have been approached by some top calibre brands and we are very excited to be able to accommodate them within the new space. The actual ballroom will be able to house 30 brands and then in the bar we will place an agency with a few brands so they can get a nice representation of their collections. The ballroom is also the perfect venue for the aftershow party which will take place on the evening of the 8th Feb. We are in talks with a couple of brands that are interested in throwing a big knees up in there so watch this space.

What is the international scope for Jacket Required, both in terms of attendees and exhibitors?

It is unlimited, we have had exhibitors and buyers from every corner of the globe. We are expecting a very healthy international attendance for the February show.

What has ITE Moda added to the mix since their purchase of Jacket Required earlier this year?

Structure. Between Craig, Alice and myself we were pretty pushed in terms of handling everything from the sales, invoicing and production. A company with the experience and expertise in Moda have been able to free the three of us up so we can focus on the parts of the show that we specialise in. With the full support of the Moda team, it ensures that we are confident, able to take the show to the next level and begin to compete on a level playing field with some of the biggest shows in the world.

What are the plans for future shows beyond the February edition?

There is a new venue in the pipeline which is literally a stone throw away from Victoria House. It is a vast space on several floors and means, if we need to, we can really open Jacket Required up to a whole host of new exhibitors as we will have the space and the right location.

Why the ‘invitation only’ policy?

Craig and myself have both shown brands from our agencies regularly at other shows over the years, and at some, you actually end up having people there trying to hard sell us, as exhibitors, all manner of different things which we really don’t need or want. The focus on dealing with buyers at tradeshows was starting to become less and less, and we wanted to ensure exhibitors at Jacket Required get to see only the best buyers and press. Some shows were literally becoming more like a circus and it was all about volume of people through the door/visitor numbers and no concern with whether these visitors were even relevant to the brands on show. It had to be taken back to the basic requirement of being at a show to write orders and we feel at Jacket Required, we are achieving just that.

If you could sign up one brand for Jacket Required that you don’t currently have, who would it be?

I couldn’t say just one as there are a whole host of brands we would love to have there. On saying that though, we are unbelievably proud of the brand mix that we have and feel that it is a true refelction of what is going on at the top end of the menswear market.

Who do you think are Jacket Required’s competitors, both here and abroad?

We really admire what Pitti do in the beautiful city and surroundings of Florence. It would be amazing to have a venue like that here in London and to be able to reach the same high standards, season in and season out, that they have set.

How do you think the rest of the world perceives British style?

With great admiration, and in some instances envy in the amount of talent that comes out of these isles. We continue to pioneer in all areas of fashion.

What are your views on high street fashion?

It is necessary and fast becoming more accepted within the menswear market. However, I am hugely opposed to the sort of retailers that prosper from using sweat shops and cheap labour. They know who they are.

How long will the ‘heritage’ trend carry on?

It’s over isn’t it??

My day usually begins with…

Getting woken up by my children, Mabel and Ernest, at an ungodly hour, having breakfast with them and then a 10 mile cycle to work.

If you could wear one brand for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Ralph Lauren

How do you switch off after a hard day at work?

Tending to the carrots, cabbages and cauliflowers in my allotment. My prize winning broad beans are a sight to behold.

Who would play you in the movie of your life?

Jean Claude Van Damme……..my all time hero.

What would be on the soundtrack of that movie?

A Blade Runner’esque score by the legendary Vangelis. It would work well with Jean Claude’s exemplary acting skills.

Whose personal style do you admire?

My father’s… he was always the best dressed and stylish man in any room.

What’s the most extravagant thing you’ve bought but never worn?

Maradona’s football boots at a charity auction.

Thanks to the success of our most recent show and those preceding it, we’ve been afforded the opportunity to extend our event space. After much deliberation, the elegant Bloomsbury Ballroom, located within Victoria House, will expand the total floor space by an impressive 10,000 sq ft.

This additional space has allowed us bring in some exciting new brands to complement those who have taken part season-on-season, including:

MWC

MWC watches is based in Zürich, Switzerland, and was founded in 1974 by Wolfgang Obrigheimer, who is still closely involved with the company despite now being in his late 70s. Wolfgang’s passion and unwavering work ethic is echoed throughout MWC, which is a leading supplier not just to the military but also to police forces, anti-terrorist units, mining companies, salvage companies and various government departments.

Majestic Select

Established in 1976, Majestic is an American apparel brand associated with Major League Baseball (MLB), National Football League (NFL) and the National Hockey League (NHL).

For 2013, Majestic will launch MAJESTIC SELECT, a new Japanese premium line that is driven predominately by Japan’s love for vintage and American lifestyle and culture. Adapted by its Tokyo design team, the MAJESTIC SELECT line will leverage the all-American Major League Baseball logos and vintage-style graphics on classic baseball-inspired satin jackets, coach jackets and shirts. Construction of the products are true to American vintage sportswear, with printing techniques including heavy washes, thick rubber prints and cracked finishes faithfully replicating a piece of apparel that one would find in the most remote American thrift shop. Logos and labels all reference Bangor, Pennsylvania, an East Coast small town and the birth home of Majestic, close to where Majestic still produces on-field uniforms for MLB.

Loreak Mendian

Bloomsbury Ballroom entrance, Victoria House. ca. 1920

Chapter 1: Change is the Only Constant

…And so it was for the A/W 2012 exhibition that Jacket Required found a new location and spiritual home: The Bloomsbury Ballroom. Occupying the basement of this legendary listed building in the heart of London – where east meets west – seemed more than appropriate. “We weren’t concerned about whether the buyers would come to the new location; we knew they would. We were just worried that it might change the feel of the show. There was sense in Shoreditch that we were all taking part in something new, making a real collective statement – I wondered if it would feel the same when we expanded and took on this new space,” says Craig Ford, codirector of Jacket Required. Now after two seasons at the historic Bloomsbury Ballrooms, more changes are afoot. (See Chapter 5)

Chapter 2: Fortune Favours the Bold

With brands like Edifice, Levis Vintage and Our Legacy joining already participating labels such as Penfield, Universal Works, Garbstore, Mark McNairy and Human Made, Jacket Required did indeed change and evolve – developing an even more recognisable voice than before. “More space allowed us to show more of the brands we liked; a broader range of brands yes, but all of them relevant and with something to say”, Explains Ford. …The risk paid off and the second show was a huge success. What sealed it for many was the location – a sense of history rediscovered. …Inspired by the original Bloomsbury group, Jacket Required recognised that they were witnessing and facilitating a sartorial regeneration.

Chapter 3: Judge the Man by the Company he Keeps

“The key to the show,” explains Mark Batista, “is selection.” Batista co-directs the show with Ford: “We’ve run shops, we’ve run shows before and we realised that menswear was becoming more sophisticated – as a business and as an aesthetic. It was important that the people in the show all felt the same way – so for myself and Craig, although we could have filled the space twice over, for us it was really a question of careful curation.” Like the original Bloomsbury set, Jacket Required is very selective when it comes to the company it keeps. “The brands in the show, all different, have their own identities but share something similar – like an attitude.”

Chapter 4: He Who Would Lead Must Follow

Very early on Jacket Required realised that the other key element to the show’s success was relating to consumers. “First and foremost it’s a trade show; it’s about stores buying from brands – planning for the forthcoming season. But it’s also about giving some of those brands a kind of platform. There’s a mass of guys not in the business who are really interested in emerging styles and brands. It’s important for us to engage with them too – to share some of that excitement we feel and let them know what they can look forward to in the months to come.”

Chapter 5: A New Chapter

Jacket Required February 7th and 8th 2013. For the forthcoming show, Jacket Required A/W 2013, more changes are planned. Some of the new projects planned by JR will complement the new street level entrance – with the show’s registration and admission moving to the Ballrooms original, grade 2 listed doorway on Bloomsbury Square. “What we like about the building is that it is both old and new – it’s classic and modern. The brands we host include a number of heritage brands and a number of forward-facing brands – but even the most forward-looking among them is built on something solid – a knowledge of what’s gone before. For this forthcoming season we’re creating projects that will reach out to the public in a way that brings those elements to life,” explains Ford.

@JacketReqd

After months of planning it’s safe to say that the show was a resonating success! Both with the exhibitors and visitors alike. Friday the 13th was probably our busiest day ever! Talking to most of the exhibitors there was definitely a trend of great contacts and strong interest from both a sales and press point of view.

As with previous shows street style was always a great focus. Mr Mark McNairy graced the show with his presence on both days and was a pleasure to talk to as always. iD Magazine were also here interviewing and photographing key individuals from each brand so look out for that feature soon.

And last but not the least we would like to thank everyone who has supported the show from its inception and everyone who dropped by. See you next season.

@JacketReqd

by SchoolBoyCouture 

Some pics from this morning below the break.

by SchoolBoyCouture

Pics by SchoolBoyCouture

Combining style and quality, classic and modern – the best in international menswear now.  After only two seasons, Jacket Required has already become an important feature on the international menswear map.

A combination of authenticity and sophistication, it caters the best of modern streetwear along with the best of today’s tailoring-inspired and heritage-based labels.

Jacket Required’s curational approach has given it a reputation for excellence not just among the domestic British buyer and brands, but internationally as well.

This season, our second, saw the trade show relocate to a larger space in order to house the increased number of participating exhibitors – from 38 to 98, among them over 60 brands from abroad.

“It’s partly about timing”, explains Craig Ford, one of the shows founders. “At the moment, there’s a great deal of interest in British brands, sure, but the menswear industry in the UK over all – the stores, the magazines, the websites, the customers and the designers – are all going through a very exciting phase right now as well.”

The countdown has already begun for the third show – 13th and 14th July. Again, held in Victoria House, Bloomsbury, historically one of Britain’s most fashionable districts, a slightly earlier schedule than previous shows.

“As part of an international and domestic calendar it’s important that we’re flexible” – explains co-founder, Mark Batista, “considering the scale and unpredictability of the London Olympics and Paralympics it was an easy decision to make.”

This year sees the London Games and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Jacket Required London may not be the biggest event of the summer, but it’ll certainly be the best dressed.

See you there.

This is our final update prior to the show which begins on Sunday morning ; we hope this finds you well and you’re prepared for the event we’ve so carefully put together over the past months.

The event will be catered by London’s A Little of What of Fancy, who offer a wide range of authentic British foods with a modern twist.

Complimentary drinks are to be supplied by Saint and Rekorderlig. The later is a superb, family-brewed cider company hailing from Sweden, whilst Saint are British craft lager specialists. There will of course be non alcoholic beverages available also.

The showguide will be available when you register.

In closing, we’d like to take the opportunity to invite you to a special retail event by Bedwin and The Heartbreakers entitled “London Bound,” at Garbstore on until the 21st March.

We look forward to seeing you all at the show in a few days. We’d like to extend our thanks for your continued support. As always we can be contacted via email, Facebook or Twitter should you require any assistance prior to or during the show.

We look forward to seeing you there

Jacket Required

Chevignon Heritage by Milan Vukmirovic

Americana-Sportswear brand Chevignon have teamed with Milan Vukmirovic to rework military inspired pieces from their vast archive. Vukmirovic founded Parisian boutique Colette in the late 1990s, later going on to work with the likes of Gucci and Jil Sander.

With such experience, we’re excited to see how his vision informs this capsule collection, one which promises to triumphantly revisit early Chevignon designs.

Veja

Veja, established in 2004, produce high quality sneakers. The brand utilize organic cotton from the Northeast of Brazil, wild Amazonian rubber and ecological leather. Their beautifully simple products demonstrate great attention to detail, representing a series of conscious decisions made to support struggling economies, workers and the environment in South America and beyond.

Bedwin & The Heartbreakers

Bedwin are known for a delightfully minimal approach to men’s attire, recognised for their ability to translate vintage designs into wearable, modern goods. Durable and stylish, their clothing is constructed from the finest of materials, inspired by classic Americana and various forms of workwear.

Brooklyn We Go Hard

Brooklyn We Go Hard (BWGH) began by using the humble t-shirt as a canvas for a growing brood of artists & photographers, driven by a passion to celebrate creativity in a very direct way.

In the later part of 2011, satisfied with the progress of their tees, the French label expanded to offer casual shirting and a strong range of sweatshirts.

La Paz

La Paz, established in 2001, is a Portuguese brand that focuses on producing well-made, staple garments. Designs are informed by an appreciation of heritage wares, made with great attention to detail and featuring a range of interesting fabrics.

Edwin

Edwin pride themselves on an expert knowledge of denim and a forward-thinking approach to menswear. In recent years the brand have expanded to offer full apparel around a superb denim line and have gone from strength to strength in doing so.

Their  AW12 collection includes the introduction of blanket denim which has been specially developed in Japan at the Kuroki mill. This denim has been created by using different colour yarns and has the inside appearance of woven old blanket, which is where the inspiration originated from. The exterior of the denim has a neppy character, and once the denim is rinsed, it shows off its deep red cast tone. This denim fabric has been cut into a small series of very clean and minimal shapes, where the character of the denim truly shines through.

Should you have any questions regarding these brands or any other aspect of the show, please don’t hesitate contacting us via email or either social media channel – Twitter or Facebook. And don’t forget to register.

With a such diverse range of British brands due to showcase A/W goods, here’s a reminder of a what’s to come….

Sanders

Based in Rushden, Northamptonshire, Sanders & Sanders Ltd has been creating handmade shoes for over 130 years, and is now in its fourth generation of family management. Sanders shoes combine timeless English elegance with modern materials and a relaxed contemporary style.

Mr. Start

Launched in 2007 by founder of Woodhouse Philip Start, Mr Start is a Shoreditch based tailoring brand. Forward looking, modern and architectural, Mr Start has an unrivalled everyday elegance.

Wolsey

Established in 1755, Wolsey was one of the early pioneers of the Industrial Revolution and has clothed some of Britain’s bravest and most inspirational men, including arctic explorer Captain Robert Falcon Scott, Britain’s soldiers in World Wars I and II, Olympians and British royalty.

Re-inventing British classics to craft a stand out collection, Wolsey distinguishes itself as a genuinely authentic and contemporary British heritage brand.

Holland Esquire

Founded ten years ago by Nick Holland, Holland Esquire offers a full menswear collection of jackets, outerwear, knits, shirting, footwear & jersey-wear. The label is renowned for its classic use of British fabrics styled with a fine attention to button and stitch details.

House of Billiam

Established in 2009, House of Billiam began by producing direct-to-consumer custom apparel. The brand is built around an innovative approach to streetwear, whereby high quality fabrics and finishes are applied to iconic garments, pleasantly skewing our perceptions of such pieces as the humble hoody or classic varsity jacket.

Universal Works

Universal Works draw inspiration from classic British attire, paying special attention to our nation’s outdoors heritage. Known to produce wares informed by such archetypes as the countryside hunter or iconic shipyard worker, the brand continually innovate and deliver their version of highly functional, typically British clothing.

Hentsch Man

Hentsch Man is a simple, elegant and wearable menswear brand, providing classic wardrobe basics. The products have been designed to emphasise fit, eliminating all fanciful details and ensuring the clothes are flattering. Collections are compact, offering a handful carefully selected items, rather than a bombardment of too much choice.

WS by Walker Slater

Scotland’s Walker Slater have recently launched their WS label, combining a great love of tweed’s heritage and the best of contemporary tailoring. Drawing inspiration from quintessential gentlemanly attire, their elegant garments boast silhouettes equally at home in both an urban and rural environment.

Brutus

Brutus was born in 1966, originally founded by brothers Keith and Alan Freedman in the east end of London. The label became synonymous with youth movements who took pride in their appearance, with their Trimfit shirts taking centre stage as a staple garment of that time.

Over 40 years later and Brutus is back with Keith’s son Jonathan at the helm, proudly reviving their iconic Trimfit shirt. From the 3-finger collar to the shaped and darted waist, every detail matches the original. Heritage tartans have been recreated from the extensive Brutus archive as well as fresh new oxford cloths and fine ginghams fit for the kings and queens of a new England.

Should you have any questions regarding these brands or any other aspect of the show, please don’t hesitate contacting us via email or either social media channel – Twitter or Facebook. And don’t forget to register.

Sandqvist

Founded in 2004, Sandqvist have developed a recognisable aesthetic in a relatively short time, now commonly known for their restrained, modernist reinterpretation of classic luggage & accessories.

The young Swedish brand primarily work with premium cotton canvas and leather, offering minimally styled solutions to the chores brought about by our daily carry.

London Undercover

London Undercover, established in 2008, aim to re-introduce the humble umbrella to the modern market. Since their launch the brand have demonstrated ample imagination to rekindle interest in an often under-appreciated product, combining sleek, contemporary design & traditional craftsmanship to great effect.

Andersons

Andersons, an Italian brand, specialise in fine hand-woven leather belts, all of which are manufactured in Parma, Italy. The founder, Mr Carlo Valenti, chose an English name when he established the company in 1966 because of his appreciation of traditional British style. This design sensibility has been combined with distinctly Italian fine craftsmanship to cement Anderson’s position as one of the leading belt manufacturers.

Calabrese

In 1920, tie enthusiast Eugenio Calabrese created his own brand after deciding to complete a collection that would satisfy his various moods. In the 1960’s, his son began distributing the ties to top tailors and boutiques before the brand went on to develop a selection of accessories and bags. Their modern day products, much akin to Sandqvist, also make use of both canvas and leather.

Il Busetto

Il Busetto join us as another brand proudly hailing from Italy. They produce in wide range small leather goods, best known for their vibrant colours and rare seamless construction. A small team of artisans work diligently to produce their wares, staying true to age-old italian methods of production.

Kelty

Founded in 1952, Kelty cater for a wide range of consumers, offering a myriad of bags and accessories with outdoors roots. Founder Asher Kelty originally began the brand in his garage, producing items to outfit his friends who, like him, were outdoors enthusiasts. Bags are highly practical, made to the highest quality, offering great products to the urban adventurer and seasoned mountaineer alike.

Brooks

Able to boast over 150 years of experience, Brooks are one of the most highly respected of all British cycling brands. Their name is synonymous with quality, known for exquisitely crafted saddles, bags, clothing and bike accessories.

Ebbets Field Flannels

Ebbets Field Flannels hail from USA and specialise in historically-accurate vintage sporting attire. With over 20 years in business EFF have grown to produce wares covering a number of sports, though are arguably best known for their premium quality baseball caps.

Rose and Rose

Robert Rose has created a line of luxury scarves that combine modern architecturally inspired patterns and draws on global art, travel and culture. Created from a rich palette of pure silk, wool and cashmere, each scarf is individually enclosed in handmade eco-friendly packaging.

Under

UNDER is a contemporary underwear brand for men, raising the bar for the humble everyday basic to garments of distinction and desirability.

Conceived in London via Amsterdam and crafted in Portugal, UNDER is designed to tackle an unfathomable gap in the menswear market, namely to create luxury underwear with design, quality and contemporary culture at the heart of it – undergarments to match the care and attention that the sartorially inclined man gives to his outer wardrobe.

Should you have any questions regarding these brands or any other aspect of the show, please don’t hesitate contacting us via email or either social media channel – Twitter or Facebook.

Mark McNairy

McNairy boldly augments classic silhouettes with unexpected pattern, colour & a medley of fine materials. A ‘no regrets’ attitude is apparent throughout with shoes that range from the elegant to the unashamedly loud.

ohw?

ohw? (pronounced ‘who’) is a new casual footwear label from Stephen Gill and Hiro Chen, two gents with a combined 40 years of industry experience.
The duo pride themselves on a grasp of clean, contemporary design and a superb attention to detail. Each shoe has some hand-stitching and is individually hand-signed by the person doing the final quality check -  demonstration of their all round commitment to quality.

Gourmet

For years, refined Italian and casual all-American men’s looks have been imitated, rehashed, reworked and reinterpreted season after season but never before have the collided as they do in Gourmet.  This is a new, revolutionary, remixed laid back luxury.

Fracap

Originally produced solely for the Japanese market, these hard-to-find hiking boots are fast becoming an international phenomenon. Every pair of Fracap boots is handmade in a small factory in Lecce, Italy, and have been supplied to both the Italian military and police since their 1907 inception; a solidly endorsement of their fit-for-purpose design and durability.

Veras

Founded in the mountains of Spain in 2010 by Neil Morris, formerly of Drooghi Clothing, Veras encapsulates the Mediterranean lifestyle, known for offering lace-up espadrilles and classic moccasin chukkas. The brand were warmly embraced throughout summer and now we’re excited to see how their style translates for the colder seasons.

Sebago

Sebago produce footwear with nautical roots, inspired by their native New England. Their shoes combine time-honoured craftsmanship with contemporary detailing, resulting in attractive footwear that can withstand an active life by the waterside, countryside or in the city.

Should you have any questions regarding these brands or any other aspect of the show, please don’t hesitate contacting us via email or either social media channel – Twitter or Facebook

This week we’ve chosen to highlight our Scandinavian brands, eager to see how native experience of colder climes informs their wares for A/W 12.

We’ve a healthy brood of labels hailing from the Nordic regions, each with a very different persona & goods to offer.

Dunderdon

Born in the Swedish port of Gothenburg in 1997. Dunderdon was founded by the carpenter Per-Ivan Hagberg; the mission of Dunderdon has always been to create clothing for craftsmen who appreciate superior construction and smart design. Whether conceived for a blue-collar professional or a no-collar creative, every article of clothing has been created with purpose and has seamlessly integrated both form and function.

Denim Demon

Started 2006 by three brothers, Denim Demon is a denim brand with personality. Crafting and cutting jeans with their family’s indigenous Sami culture in mind, this is an original and inspirational denim brand with true heritage.

Libertine Libertine

Libertine-Libertine was established in Copenhagen during the summer of 2009 by Rasmus Bak, Pernille Schwarz and Peter Munch Ovesen. Motivated to create a brand based on existentialism, high quality and well-designed products, Libertine-Libertine strives to stimulate the creative soul without restrictions.

The brand are best known for punchy accents atop classically styled garments along with a warm embrace of colour, pattern and texture.

Suit

Launched in 2004, Suit is a menswear line targeting those who seek classic style combined with a contemporary look. Suit is the brand of choice for the modern male individualist with an astute eye for style and detail.

Rascals

The brand was founded in 2008 on Noerrebro, Copenhagen by Martin Jorgensen. The objective was to create an approachable street wear brand capturing the spirit of Copenhagen, it’s people and strong bike culture. Rascals’ combines effortless fashion and sports wear with an emphasis on subtle detailing and solid quality.

Rascals’ Real people – No history.

Our Legacy

Our Legacy has made a significant impact on European menswear in a relatively short time. They quietly arrived on the scene 6 years ago, offering a selection of very wearable, subtly styled garments. Since then, OL have studiously went about growing the brand and defining their own style; they consistently deliver attire that blends key aspects of 80s and 90s menswear along with more contemporary looks, details and fabrics.

For hotel recommendations, both in East London and near the show, please have a look here.

For queries of any kind please don’t hesitate to reach out via email, Twitter and Facebook – be sure to look out for our updates across those platforms as we bring you more information regarding the show.

Jacket Required
Victoria House Basement
Unit 6
37-63 Southampton Row
WC1B 4DA
–
12th February 2012
10am – 7pm
13th February 2012
10am – 6pm

Edifice

Edifice, hailing from Tokyo, specialise in smart-casual attire. They look to classic pieces from a gentleman’s closet and carefully build on them, applying subtle accents and modernist revisions to great effect. They pride themselves on attention to detail, quality fabrics and a consistent elegance throughout all of their collections.

Human Made

Human Made appeared at our first show and was met with great positivity. Its British tradeshow debut allowed buyers to truly appreciate Nigo’s attention to detail in person, a sight that helped confirm his unwavering commitment to producing quality goods.
The brand was built with a vintage backbone, a reaction to a deep review of Nigo’s (much documented) personal garment collection. Pieces are inspired by all manner vintage attire, crafted from premium materials and finished impeccably.  Garments combine rugged notes of yesteryear with more contemporary silhouettes, often including vibrant accents and just a pinch of playful attitude.

Riding High

Though Japanese, Riding High heartily embrace American casual style, best known for their premium knitwear. Pieces are produced on very rare looms that date back to the 1920s and 60s; they weave slowly by today’s standards, though in doing so they reduce tension and produce a truly robust fabric that offers a luxurious soft handle.

PEdALED:

From Tokyo Japan, PEdALED is the most stylish and authentic rang of Urban bike apparel available in the fashion market today. Hideto Suzuki, the owner and Creative Director of PEdALED travels the world selecting great fabrics and then designs a complete wardrobe with incredible attention to detail so you can wear PEdALED on or off the bike. Each product is only Made in Japan.

Following our last update that focused on brands from U.S.A, we now look to highlight a trio of Australian brands.

Vanishing Elephant
Vanishing Elephant were amongst a handful of the young brands that truly shone at our debut show, leaving their mark alongside a broad range of seasoned pros.

The brand consistently delivers refreshing, pleasantly eclectic attire – comparable in part to such brands as A.P.C, Our Legacy and Y.M.C. Deservedly renowned for confident use of colour and pattern, they create elegant garments for the modern gent.

Neuw
Neuw, much like Vanishing Elephant, are a relatively young brand who aspire to innovate with a medley of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design.

Primarily a denim brand, Neuw actively research vintage pieces and revise their looks to better satisfy modern tastes, creating a range of hardwearing, quality goods.

Three Over One
Three Over One appreciate durable fabrics and practical attire. They focus on reinterpreting iconic workwear, subtly blending old and new to create simple, utility lead designs.

Great care is taken to work fabrics in such a way that gives them plenty of character, arriving at a lived-in look that separates their goods from many others on the market today.

As always we can be reached via email, Twitter and Facebook should you have any queries – be sure to look out for our updates as we bring you more information regarding the show.

To receive an invitation to Jacket Required, please register your details at http://www.jacket-required.com/visitors/

Jacket Required
Victoria House Basement
Unit 6
37-63 Southampton Row
WC1B 4DA
–
12th February 2012
10am – 7pm
13th February 2012
10am – 6pm

Website: www.jacket-required.com
Twitter: @JacketReqd
Facebook: /Jacket Required

We’re pleased to report we’ve made sterling progress behind the scenes, busying ourselves in a run up to the holiday break. Thus far the show is shaping up to be a worthy successor to our well-received debut, with further confirmation of new brands and great feedback from prospective buyers.    At present, we are 90% sold out with only 10 spaces left…………not bad eh?? Mindful of the current climate, we thought it apt to draw your attention to premium knitwear brand, S.N.S Herning.

Founded in 1931, the Danish outfit have a wealth of knitwear experience. They began by making garments for fisherman, tasked with producing attire that was hardwearing and warm, providing a key line of defence against freezing temperatures. Initial success with numerous fleets allowed them to graduate to ‘civilian’ production, expanding their lines year by year.

Today they’re still known for robust knits, attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to replicating patterns, fabrics and styling of original garments.

S.N.S make a concerted effort to remain true to original production methods & employ a small, yet highly skilled team to man a family a vintage machines in their factory in Herning, Denmark. Each piece is crafted using premium materials & has been a huge catalyst in a wave of likeminded brands reintroduced quality knitwear to the European market.

Another brand we’re very excited about is Silas. Originally launched in 1998 inspired by Britain’s skateboarding culture, Silas garnered significant attention before an unexpected departure from our shores in 2007.

Though ’07 saw its UK operations closed down in their entirety, their Japanese factory continued to produce and progress the label.

Now, several years on, 2011 marks their return to British shores and we couldn’t be happier.

There’s promise of much change, maturity and exploration of new fabrics and styles – all of which has us all terribly eager to view their output in 2012.

The Silas of old tapped into a variety of urban looks & developed them, often streamlining designs & introducing clever accents coupled with premium fabrics – definitely one to watch in the coming year.

Our next update will include further highlights of a selection of brands from our growing roster, along with further details on accommodation in the area.

Should you have any queries please don’t hesitate to email our team and we will be sure to promptly address questions regarding any aspect of the show. As always, we’re also available via Facebook and Twitter.

Details of accommodation offers will also be provided shortly,

From all of the good folk here at Jacket Required we’d like to wish you a healthy, wealthy and prosperous 2012, stay safe and we’ll be delighted to see you all in the New Year.
Until next time

From all at
www.jacket-required.com

The forthcoming Jacket Required menswear show – 12th & 13th February 2012 – features a new location and more exhibitors but retains the same focus on quality of brand, diversity of offering and uniqueness of experience.

For this the shows second season, the exhibition is taking place in the Bloomsbury Ballrooms, a large modern showroom space with mezzanine level flooring housed in an Art Deco period building. As the name suggests, the new location is historically associated with the fashionable art and literally group known as The Bloomsbury Set.

Possibly one of the most underrated British art movements of the Twentieth Century, the Bloomsbury Set with the likes of Lytton Strachey, EM Forster, Virginia Woolf and George Bernard Shaw were a glamorous, witty and incredibly talented group of friends who met on a regular basis in the creative London suburb of Bloomsbury.

George Bernard Shaw
1815–1885

Jacket Required are pleased to announce our second show will be taking place on the 12th and 13th February 2012 in a central London location.

Following on from the overwhelming success of our first exhibition, we will be doubling the amount of exhibitors within a beautiful, historic building and look forward to seeing you there.

Part 2 – click the picture for full article

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CARHARTT UK AFTERPARTY

Just a quick reminder of our immense brands list which includes Porter, Human Made, Bedwin & The Heartbreakers, LA Panoplie, Vera, aNYthing, Beats by Dre, Crojack, Chevignon, Fracap and Ben Sherman Modern Classics that have not shown at any other global tradeshow.

Today’s final update looks at a variety of brands from across the globe, little treats we’ve yet to formally introduce through our string of pre-show updates.

Brand Focus | Global

One Nine Zero Six
One Nine Zero Six is a new capsule venture from veteran sportswear brand Gymphlex; a project captained by designer Jeff Griffin. The range acts as a dynamic expression of Gymphlex’s existing love of sportswear, yet introduces this central inspiration in a subtle way, resulting in a sports-inspired, mature collection of garments.

Vanishing Elephant
In 2008 three friends, Felix Chan, Huw Bennett and Arran Russell, decided to join forces and launch a line committed to creating clothing of quality, purpose and elegance. Making their mark with a classic aesthetic, each collection heralds a return to gentlemanly style.

This trio of gents came into Vanishing Elephant with very different backgrounds – Chan was a buyer for Incu, Bennett had his own sales agency- Hand In Glove, and Russell specialised as an art director and was behind UK brands Marshall Artist and Maharishi. They took their varied experiences and began VE united by a passion to, through their creative works, craft a sense of refined masculinity, subtle regality and popularise classic style.

Chevignon Togs
This classic French Casual wear brand Started in 1979 and inspired by Vintage American Outerwear, became a massive phenomena in the UK in the 1990s, and is set to grow ever further with it’s recent re launch for Autumn Winter 11. At present the brand have two distinct ranges, Legend and Unlimited. The Legend range focuses on casual attire, where as Unlimited looks to showcase their more progress pieces, pushing forward their contemporary wares alongside a backbone of beautifully made, staple garments.

LA Panoplie
Another of our French labels is LA Panoplie – they mix contemporary French fashion culture with an urban spirit, creating a modern, distinctive men’s silhouette with a strong focus on outerwear. Sustainable, timeless and stylish clothing, sensitively and subtly designed.

Gram
Gram are dedicated to making sophisticated sneakers. In response to a growing niche, somewhere between sneakers and traditional shoes, Gram create their hybrid footwear. Their roots lie in the classic Scandinavian design aesthetic; design with clean lines and attention to details. The brand is centred around the concept of weight, with each shoe being named after its weight in grams.

See you on the weekend.
All at Jacket Required

Twitter (@JacketReqd)

Founded in 1906, Gymphlex have produced fine sportswear for over a century. They’ve built a credible reputation around functional, quintessentially British sporting attire, which today acts as a welcome portal to an almost forgotten, smart-sports aesthetic.

Though their mainline is produced to be fit-for-sport, the brand has recently undertaken a special project lead by designer Jeff Griffin (of Griffin), which sees them explore the possibilities of a men’s lifestyle collection under the moniker One Nine Zero Six.

This capsule project shows great promise for the brand, which pulls from their native experience of sportswear, coupled with Griffin’s understanding of contemporary, utilitarian design.

Garments from SS 12 benefit from a delightful sense of uniformity, they’re confidently minimal with a preppy twist – harking back to the near regal feel of Gymphlex’s core products.

SS12 includes a range of shirting, light outerwear and some rather appealing knit options, arriving as a convincing expression of growth from a brand that, after 100 years in industry, still demonstrate a hunger to succeed and progress within an exceptionally competitive marketplace.

Welcome to the final week before our grand debut.

For this update we’ve chosen to focus on several of our accessory brands, highlighting those labels whose efforts go beyond clothing.

Beats by Dr Dre

Beats is a joint venture between Interscope & Geffen Chairman, Jimmy Lovine, world renowned producer Dr. Dre and audio tech wizards, Monster Cable. The trio came together to produce a series of audio products that not only embodied modernist style, but also high-end performance that mirrors an authentic studio experience. Since their 2007 launch, Beats have enjoyed a number of successes, most notably their current occupation of both the No. 1 & No. 3 positions of worldwide best selling headphones.

In the words of Dr. Dre himself: “People aren’t hearing all the music. Artists and producers work hard in the studio perfecting their sound. But people can’t really hear it with normal headphones. Most headphones can’t handle the bass, the detail, the dynamics. Bottom line, the music doesn’t move you. With Beats, people are going to hear what the artists hear, and listen to the music the way they should: the way I do.”

We firmly believe aligning ourselves with a brand that embrace such a commitment to quality and performance will surely resonate with our guests, and ultimately your potential customers.

Calabrese
In 1920, tie enthusiast Eugenio Calabrese, created his own brand after deciding to complete a collection that would offer a large enough range to suit his mood. In the 1960’s, his son began distributing the ties to top tailors and boutiques before the brand went on to develop a selection of accessories and bags. Today those bags stand at the forefront of the brand, crafted from the finest cotton canvas and dressed with beautiful leather facings.

Porter
Founded In Japan and inspired by the basic need for a tool “to carry”, and made whole heartedly to a high standard using the skills of Japanese craftsmen, Porter bags by Yoshida & Co. are created to last.
Porter’s confidently minimal designs often appear simple on the surface; yet consistently include innovative storage features and robust technical materials. They place product purpose at the heart of their brand, separating them from a pack of would-be peers.

Seil Marschall

Originally established in 1896 and operating with the ethos that our best machines are still our hands, Seil Marschall is a family run business who believe in providing the highest quality, long lasting outdoor wear. Much like Calabrese, Seil Marschall specializes in canvas and leather, offering cleanly styled, hardwearing items season to season.

See you this weekend
All at Jacket Required

For SS12 Dockers have trawled the length and breadth of khaki history, building on a seemingly unmatched knowledge of the fabric and its various applications. In a progressive departure from their existing library of wares, SS12 sees the brand focus on khaki’s utilitarian appeal, promoting the fabric’s often under-appreciated ruggedness through a series of military inspired designs.

This extension of the brand’s universal image is lead by the Dockers’ K-1 khakis; the K1 range features a soft and rumpled K-1 chino in rich Cramerton cloth, a Kurabo custom selvage twill chino, and a Utility cargo pant, all of which delightfully merge premium fabric with a work-ready aesthetic.

Khaki, in its most primitive guise, was first introduced over 165 years ago. It was used across a great spectrum of military attire, applauded for it’s robust, durable nature. Over time, its use through a number of fashion channels has, in some cases, muted our understanding of its true hardworking character, with many of us gravitating toward denim with little consideration to other options.

The Dockers K1 ranges aims to reignite interest in khaki, presenting it in such a way that not only bodes well for the future of the fabric, but also for the brand as they strive to maintain pole position as one of the world’s contemporary khaki specialists.

This week’s update is a rather large one, with a number of exciting developments having been made behind the scenes; we cover food and drink, Nordic attire and the all-important post-show party.

Visitor Registration
As we now count down the days to our show, we’d again like to remind all visitors who have yet to register for the event, to do so over on our website. We’ve a submission form up there for all of your details, which we kindly ask you complete.
Our debut event is operating on an invite-only basis, so once we’ve received your details we’ll confirm if your application has been successful, forwarding a formal invite by email. We aim to issue invites within the next week, so please do take the time to register.

Find Us online
Though we’ve got our hub in www.jacket-required.com we’re also on Facebook and Twitter; so please do connect with us, share your thoughts and voice any questions you might have. We’ve also got our blog up and running so please do check in for the latest updates and brand stories at http://www.jacket-required.com/blog/

The Local Area
This week has certainly been a productive one; we’ve tirelessly scoured the streets in search of the premier venues for both food and drink to share with our attendees. Our search has swiftly populated the Local Information portion of our site, now filled with news of London’s favoured eateries and fine watering holes. For those not familiar with the area (and even those who are) we’d kindly suggest having a look over our picks. We’re certainly welcome suggestions should you think we’ve missed a great spot around the show; you can share your ideas over on  Twitter and  Facebook.

Catering
We’re proud to announce Dalston’s A Little Of What You Fancy will be providing on-site catering for our event. Specializing in authentic British cuisine, their young, modestly furnished restaurant sits in the heart of Dalston, quietly challenging London’s collective palette Tuesday through Sunday.

Their menu (covering breakfast, lunch & dinner) certainly maintains a British backbone, though benefits from subtle French influences amongst several others. Dishes are packed with the freshest local produce, with standout offerings such as seared scallops, beef bourguignon and rainbow trout deservedly taking centre stage within a well-considered seasonal menu. In addition to great food they also stock some delightful drinks including Sipsmith GIn and Vodka, wines from Borough, Aubert and Mascoli, and beer from the Kernal Brewery.

Though small and relatively new to the London food scene, they’ve garnered significant interest, receiving positive reviews from the Evening Standard, Time Out, Metro, Eurostar and the New York TImes, to name but a few.

Should you like to enjoy their food before our show or find out more info, you can find them at 464 Kingsland Road, Dalston, London E8 4AE, call on 0207 275 0060 or visit them on the web http://www.alittleofwhatyoufancy.info/

Carhartt Party

Our good friends at Carhartt are throwing a BAR & GRILL event on the evening following our first date, August 7^th. Please RSVP as soon as possible as numbers are limited. Beers as always will come courtesy of  the Meantime Brewing Company, and food care of the best burger van in town, The Meat Wagon. Music will be channelling the sounds of the Carhartt homeland, Detroit

Accommodation in London
With the show drawing ever closer our recommended hotels are filling up fast; to avoid disappointment we suggest heading over to our hotels page to explore our picks of the best places to stay. For info on special offers please direct email queries to Leila@spin-agency.com

This week we’ve chosen to pull together our Nordic brands, providing a smorgasbord of inspiration as the show draws ever closer. As we’re sure you’ll notice, themes of hard work, subtlety and uncompromising simplicity stream through our picks, showcasing some of the most exciting labels within our predominantly European line-up.

Denim Demon
Started 2006 by three brothers, Denim Demon is a denim brand with personality. Crafting and cutting jeans with their family’s indigenous Sami culture in mine, this is an original and inspirational denim brand with true heritage, style and last.

Dunderdon
Born in the Swedish port of Gothenburg in 1997. Dunderdon was founded by the carpenter Per-Ivan Hagberg, the mission of Dunderdon has always been to create clothing for craftsmen who appreciate superior construction and smart design. Whether conceived for a blue-collar professional or a no-collar creative, every article of clothing has been created with purpose and has seamlessly integrated both form and function.

Libertine Libertine
Libertine-Libertine was established in Copenhagen during the summer of 2009 by Rasmus Bak, Pernille Schwarz and Peter Munch Ovesen. Motivated to create a brand based on existentialism, high quality and well-designed products, Libertine-Libertine strives to stimulate the creative soul without restrictions.

Rascals
The brand was founded in 2008 on Noerrebro, Copenhagen by Martin Jorgensen. The objective was to create an approachable street wear brand capturing the spirit of Copenhagen, it’s people and strong bike culture. Rascals’ combines effortless fashion and sports wear with an emphasis on subtle detailing and solid quality.
Rascals’ Real people – No history.

Sandqvist
The Stockholm-based bag brand Sandqvist was founded in 2004 by Anton Sandqvist. Sandqvist products are for everyday use, combining simplicity, durability, style and function. Read up on there latest collection over on our blog

Suit
Launched in 2004, Suit is a menswear line targeting those who seek classic style combined with a contemporary look. Suit is the brand of choice for the modern male individualist with an astute eye for style and detail.

Velour
Dedicated to those who are fashionable but who don’t try too hard; Velour is the brand for those looking to convey an effortless sense of style. Velour provides a range of exemplary clothing, having perfectly balanced comfort and looking good.

See you in a few weeks.
All at Jacket Required.

The show is now only a few weeks away, which means we’re keen to ensure you have all registered to attend. We’d again like to remind all visitors who have yet to register for the event, to do so over on our website. We’ve a submission form up there for all of your details, which we kindly ask you complete.

Our debut event at the Rochelle School, Club Row, London, E2 7ES is operating on an invite-only basis, so once we’ve received your details we’ll confirm if your application has been successful, forwarding a formal invite by email.

Find Us online

Though we’ve got our hub in www.jacket-required.com we’re also on Facebook and Twitter; so please do connect with us, share your thoughts and voice any questions you might have. We’ve also got our blog up and running so please do check in for the latest updates and brand stories at http://www.jacket-required.com/blog/

Selectism Feature

Our friends at Selectism.com took some time to speak with the trio behind Jacket Required; Mark Batista, Craig Ford & Andrew Parfitt. The video covers their collective motivation to start the show and what they hope to achieve from our debut event. Have a look at our blog.

New Brands

This week we’ve chosen to highlight some of our favourite British brands showing at Jacket Required, inspired by the recent addition of Wolsey to our line up.

Wolsey

Wolsey is a British brand with a staggering 250 year history; specialising in quality shirting, knitwear and outerwear, the brand has produced clothing in a refined, typically British style for over two centuries. Their collections embrace a sense of British prep and refinery, in an understated, elegant fashion that makes their wares wholly appealing to the modern man.

Antenne Books

As an exciting departure from our numerous clothing brands, we’re happy to announce the addition of  Antenne Books,a London based distributor of artist’s books and zines. They primarily work with emerging presses including Nieves, Seems, Hassla and OH WOW. The company proudly act as a platform for independent publishers that exist outside of the publishing mainstream, their roster includes such titles as Teenage Kissers by Ed Templeton, Towards a Warm Math by Lucas Blalock and many more.

Ben Sherman Modern Classics

Ben Sherman have focused on the future by reminding themselves of the past. Using over a half century of experience, they have skillfully defined what they feel are the most essential aspects of a gent’s wardrobe. These pieces have then been subject to subtle, modernist revisions lead by an open attitude to colour, pattern and texture.

The collection marks a definitive transition for the brand, demonstrating their willingness to evolve and remain relevant.

Chapman Bags

John Chapman, based in Cumbria, produces a wide variety of day bags and more substantial luggage, made primarily from premium cotton canvas, leather and the finest tweed. The company proudly make all of their wares in-house, employing a highly skilled team to help realise their designs.

Chapman have a reputation for embracing traditional British style without losing functionality, garnering great interest in recent years with such iconic names as Nigel Cabourn commissioning their factory to produce pieces for his label’s luggage collection.

Garbstore

Garbstore, the brainchild of Ian Paley, are well versed in what could be considered the best of ‘new vintage.’ Ian’s designs are fueled by numerous pockets of inspiration, with a delightful bias toward workwear and military attire. The Garbstore team consistently revise key vintage pieces, injecting their contemporary vision with unrivaled vigor. Their collections differ season to season, without reliance on trend – they produce clothing that feels right at the time and that is as practical as it is stylish.

Accommodation in London

With a short time until the show, we highly recommend browsing our picks of the best hotels in the area. There’s several to choose from, though we do advise you act fast to ensure you secure your preferred location. For info on special hotel offers please direct email queries to Leila@spin-agency.com- some of which must be booked by 24 July to enjoy a discounted rate.

There’s now less than a month to the show and the excitement is growing as we move closer to our debut event.

As mentioned in previous communications, we’re keen to ensure all visitors register to attend. All visitors who have yet to register, please do so over on our website. We’ve a submission form up there for all of your details, which we kindly ask you complete.
Our debut event is operating on an invite-only basis, so once we’ve received your details we’ll confirm if your application has been successful, forwarding a formal invite by email.

Footwear Focus
For this edition of the newsletter we thought we’d share a run-down of the footwear brands set to share SS12 in less than a months time. We’ve an eclectic mix that we’re confident will satisfy your tastes, whatever they may be.

Veja

Veja are a Parisian sneaker brand founded in 2004 by Sébastien Kopp and Francois Ghislain. The company formed in response to variety of negative issues surrounding Brazilian industry, a move lead by investigation into economic instability, social injustice and environmental damage across South America.

Through Veja the duo have successfully linked a wide body of trades throughout Brazil, empowering locals with a decision to use their nation as Veja’s production hub. The brand employ a small network of farmers to source their organic cotton, which forms the base of many of their flagship shoes and now appears frequently throughout their expanding accessory line. They also utilize Wild Amazonian rubber for their soles, harvested by Seringeiro forest farmers and produced on-site, alongside using local leather workers to tan and introduce premium leather to their designs.

To check out a preview of Veja’s Mediterranèe shoe line for SS12, head over to our blog.

Sanders
Now in its fourth generation of family management, Sanders & Sanders Ltd represents a kind of company rarely seen in Britain today. The Sanders team is based in Rusden, Northamptonshire, and can boast over a century in business making fine footwear. Their shoes certainly fly the flag for British quality, pushed forward by their knowledge of the past and a deft grasp of the future; now marrying modern materials with an understanding of contemporary style to produce some of the most exciting British shoes on the market today.

Fracap
2010’s focus on craftsmanship and heritage attire certainly fashioned a great platform for Fracap to flourish. Originally produced solely for the Japanese market, these hard-to-find hiking boots are fast becoming an international phenomenon. Every pair of Fracap boots is handmade in a small factory in Lecce, Italy, and have been supplied to both the Italian military and police since their 1907 inception; a solidly endorsement of their fit-for-purpose design and durability.

Pointer
Pointer was founded in 2004 by Gareth Skewis in reaction to a footwear market increasingly saturated with technical trainers; Influenced by classically designed shoes Pointer comes from a skateboard/streetwear background but appeals to those looking for something less ubiquitous and more refined.

Gourmet

For Years, refined Italian and casual all-American men’s looks have been imitated, rehashed and reinterpreted season after season, but never before have they collided as they do in Gourmet. The brand carefully infuses classic elements of streetwear style with premium materials, achieving a luxe-aesthetic that’s fit for day-to-day wear.

Maians
Detailed craftsmanship meets urban street style: this is the Maians formula, and it’s what characterizes each deftly assembled pair of our unabashedly good-looking shoes. Created by one of Barcelona’s most consummate designers, Alfonso De La Fuente Rey, each pair of Maians is handmade locally using regional material and vulcanized rubber: a painstaking process that results in a unique brand of footwear that is dashing, durable, and incomparably comfortable.

Veras

Founded in the mountains of Spain in 2010 by Neil Morris, formerly of Drooghi Clothing, Veras encapsulates the Mediterranean lifestyle by offering lace-up espadrilles with a twist and classic moccasin chukkas in various summer fabrics and an array of colours. While not treading a new path in casual footwear, Veras, with its classic, subtly tweaked designs, provides simple yet effortlessly stylish shoes. After a fantastic first season where most of its designs have sold out, Veras is again concentrating on the basics and constantly providing footwear that look as good on the feet as they do on the shelves

Find us online
Though we’ve got our hub in www.jacket-required.com we’re also on Facebook and Twitter; so please do connect with us, share your thoughts and voice any questions you might have. We’ve also got our blog up and running so please do check in for the latest updates and brand stories at http://www.jacket-required.com/blog/

Accommodation in London
With the show drawing ever closer our recommended hotels are filling up fast; to avoid disappointment we suggest heading over to our hotels page to explore our picks of the best places to stay. For info on special offers please direct email queries to Leila@spin-agency.com

In line with Veja’s previous releases, the Mediterranée is a beautifully simple shoe that’s subtle enough to team with a variety of outfits. The upper is made from a light beige organic cotton and sits on brilliant white Amazonian rubber sole, finished with a contrasting accent panel wrapping the lace bed.

The shoe combines elements of the classic boat shoe and low profile sneaker, providing a great canvas option for those lighter days in spring leading to wear throughout summer – a great indicator of what’s to come from one of the most consistent sneaker labels around today.

Founded in 2004, Sandqvist have developed a recognisable aesthetic in a relatively short time, now commonly known for their restrained, modernist reinterpretation of classic luggage.

The young Swedish brand primarily work with premium cotton canvas and leather, offering minimally styled solutions to the chores brought about by our daily carry. Their typically Scandinavian, pragmatic approach to design sees them offer a range of well thought out bags, wallets and other accessories that continue to develop in line with the lifestyle needs of their audience.

Their collections boast a delightful sense of uniformity, achieved through a blend of confident colour choices and well considered stylistic repetition – choices encouraged by their surroundings and dynamic outdoors heritage, so intrinsically linked with products from their homeland.

There’s an evident fondness of block colour and a passion for simplicity shines through with such consistency demonstrating a grasp of purpose-driven design, nodding toward an independent mindset, without reliance on trend to dictate their movements.

AW11 continues where prior efforts left off, again embracing an outdoors-inspired theme though with an arguably greater emphasis on leather goods. Standout pieces include the Arne canvas laptop bag, several iPad cases and a special collaboration with Stockholm’s Herr Judit (vintage store) – the Christian tote, available in stunning tan leather.

For more info head over to http://www.sandqvist.net/

We hope you’ve all enjoyed an unusually bright weekend in Blighty, now for another update from the team here at Jacket Required.

For those who may of missed last week’s update, we’re happy to again relay our excitement regarding our relocation. To help accommodate our growing brand list we’ve made the decision to shift our venue, opting for a larger space only a few streets away from our original location. The event will now be held within Rochelle School’s Club Row building – details of which can be found on our site.

Visitor Registration
With the show dates drawing ever closer, we’d again like to remind all visitors who have yet to register for the event, to do so over on our website. We’ve a submission form up there for all of your details, which we kindly ask you complete. Our debut event is operating on an invite-only basis, so once we’ve received your details we’ll confirm if your application has been successful, forwarding a formal invite by email.

Find Us online
Though we’ve got our hub in www.jacket-required.com we’re also on Facebook and Twitter; so please do connect with us, share your thoughts and voice any questions you might have. We’ve also got our blog up and running so please do check in for the latest updates and brand stories at http://www.jacket-required.com/blog/

Brands on board

Edwin

Edwin is a label synonymous with quality denim, boasting over 50 years in business. This Japanese outfit are responsible for a consistently diverse denim portfolio, known for their forward-thinking attitude, attention to detail and innovative production techniques. Though specialising in premium denim, Edwin have been busy developing clothing around their key denim interests, now boasting full-circle collections that will no doubt promote additional attention in the brand.

Penfield
Penfield are outdoors specialists, a brand born to tackle the often-harsh climate of their native New England, USA. Though their goods have been designed with protection from the elements and practicality in mind, the brand continue to introduce striking visuals that transcend stereotype when it comes to such durable, fit-for-purpose attire. Years on from their inception in 1975, Penfield now offer much more than simply outwear, crafting head to toe collections that convey their roots in the outdoors without sacrificing style, instead leading the way in attractive, rugged clothing.

Universal Works
Universal Works produce quality goods that marry an appreciation of classic British style and an embrace of contemporary design. Their pieces subtly collate influence from all manner of British attire, coming together in a delightfully understated mish-mash of new and old. With a distinct penchant for military and workwear garments, the brand focus on empowering British manufacturers, sourcing their materials and craftspeople from within our homeland – forming a chain of Brit production and design that brings their vision of simplistic, ready-to-wear clothing to life.

Accommodation in London
As we mentioned last week, we’ve collected information on the best hotels in the area and have now secured some special offers for our attendees. For a breakdown of our hotel picks head over to the website; for info on special offers please direct email queries to Leila@spin-agency.com

For AW, the brand focus on multiple textures and layering, drawing influence from both UK and US military attire from the earlier half of the 20^th century. Garments benefit from modernist revisions when it comes to fit, streamlining typically bulky workswear silhouettes to appeal to today’s gent; appeal amplified by the inclusion of some high contrast accents in the form of various scarlets and burnt oranges, working well with the more muted green and khaki tones.

The collection boasts a great sense of unity, character, and ultimately a sense of theatre and history. A great step forward for their ‘brilliant basics’ reputation.

Important news to start – To help accommodate our growing brand list we’ve made the decision to shift our venue, opting for a larger space only a few streets away from our original location. The event will now be held within Rochelle School’s Club Row building.

Originally built in the 1880s, Club Row is former infants school that has been lovingly restored, now acting as one of London’s premier exhibition spaces and the first home of Jacket Required. Full details of the venue can be found over on their website along with a whole host of imagery to enjoy: http://www.rochelleschool.org/

Rochelle School,
Club Row
Arnold Circus
London
E2 7ES

Google Maps: http://bit.ly/keUcOo

Visitor Registration
As we did last week, we’d again like to remind all visitors who have yet to register for the show, to do so over on our website. We’ve a submission form up there for all of your details, which we kindly ask you complete.

Our debut event is operating on an invite-only basis, so once we’ve received your details we’ll confirm if your application has been successful, forwarding a formal invite by email.

Find Us online
Though we’ve got our hub in www.jacket-required.com we’re also on Facebook and Twitter; so please do connect with us, share your thoughts and voice any questions you might have. We’ve also got our blog up and running so please do check in for the latest updates and brand stories at http://www.jacket-required.com/blog/

New Brands
With a new venue comes the opportunity to house additional talent, with that said we’re proud to have now secured appearances by both Raleigh Denim and Maharishi.

Raleigh Denim

Raleigh Denim is a small company hailing from Raleigh, North Carolina, headed up by husband and wife team Victor and Sarah Lytvinenko. The pair began making jeans in their apartment whilst both in college, a home project that now acts as a humble first chapter in their brand history.

Both Victor and Sarah had only set out to build jeans for themselves, though interest from friends and local boutiques soon helped propel the duo to securing their first studio space and ultimately their own factory in Raleigh. They’d set out with the ideal of creating the perfect jean for themselves, yet are now are in the position to share that ideal with a wider audience, currently employing a range of skilled local craftspeople to help them continue perfecting their product.

Raleigh pride themselves on their dedication to premium quality, opting to use non automated machines to produce their jeans, giving the jeansmiths an added level of control and promoting a wholly more tactile production experience – each piece is therefore entirely unique. Jeans are produced from famous Cone Mills’ denim, numbered and hand signed by the Lytvinenkos, with no pair leaving the factory without a personal inspection by both founders.

This is a level of dedication rarely heard of today and we’re so excited to house the product at our show, a ‘see it to believe’ level of quality that surely can’t be missed.

Maharishi

Maharishi are certainly one of the most dynamic, principled names in menswear. Launching in 1995, their attire has been built around a set of interlocking values that sees the brand focus on ethically produced, environmentally-sound clothing. Their collections feature a heavy influence from military design, as evidenced by a wide array of camouflage and innovative patterns that defy trend and continually demonstrate an independent mindset.

Maharishi make use of natural materials wherever possible, yet present them in new, interesting ways – weaving seemingly basic materials with technical fabrics to create new, exciting garments.

Though military influences have helped define the brand as we see it today, Maharishi are focused on reclaiming camouflage from military association, instead attempting to introduce our conscious with its roots within nature.

Such an interesting ongoing narrative begs the question what’s next? We hope you join us in finding out come August – There’s definitely more than meets the eye with this label, as they’ve proven in a highly successful near two decades in production.

Accommodation in London
We’ve now populated our Hotel section over on our website, providing information and special rates on the best spots in the area that’ll provide a great base to help you attend the show with the least fuss possible. Please do head over to our site for more details.

Bedwin & The Heartbreakers are amongst a select few to have successfully extended a reach beyond their native Japan in recent years, taking their place amongst a trans-continental fleet of forward-thinking brands.

Now nearing the cusp of a decade in production, Bedwin have realised a recognisable house-style built around practicality, focusing efforts toward producing wearable clothing that skillfully evades the pitfalls of passing trends.

They do so with a balanced outlook that equally embraces the past as it does the future, often consulting vintage archives and presenting interest in classic workwear to help develop their lines.

Though citing such inspiration may seem wholly ubiquitous in context with 2010’s somewhat unexpected explosion of rugged attire, Bedwin can do so in all sincerity.

The Japanese label has consistently struck a credible balance between the new and old, tastefully streamlining vintage fits with subtle, minimal styling.  In doing so they open themselves to acceptance across genres, appealing to man’s seemingly innate attraction simplicity and comfort.

Bedwin proudly work to the ideal of achieving ‘paramount quality’ as is their message stitched onto each garment, and with that said, we include some of our favourite looks from their ‘Raspberry Beret’ SS11 collection; a delightful prerequisite to housing their SS12 in just under 2 months time.

For more info head over to www.bedwintokyo.com

For further info on Jacket Required please email info@jacketrequired.com

Bedwin & The Heartbreakers are amongst a select few to have successfully extended a reach beyond their native Japan in recent years, taking their place amongst a trans-continental fleet of forward-thinking brands.

Now nearing the cusp of a decade in production, Bedwin have realised a recognisable house-style built around practicality, focusing efforts toward producing wearable clothing that skillfully evades the pitfalls of passing trends.

They do so with a balanced outlook that equally embraces the past as it does the future, often consulting vintage archives and presenting interest in classic workwear to help develop their lines.

Though citing such inspiration may seem wholly ubiquitous in context with 2010’s somewhat unexpected explosion of rugged attire, Bedwin can do so in all sincerity.

The Japanese label has consistently struck a credible balance between the new and old, tastefully streamlining vintage fits with subtle, minimal styling.  In doing so they open themselves to acceptance across genres, appealing to man’s seemingly innate attraction to simplicity and detail.

Bedwin proudly work to the ideal of achieving ‘paramount quality’ as is their message stitched onto each garment, and with that said, we include some of our favourite looks from their ‘Raspberry Beret’ SS11 collection; a delightful prerequisite to housing their SS12 in just under 2 months time.

For more info head over to www.bedwintokyo.com

With less than two months until Jacket Required, we’d like to extend a huge thanks to all who’ve expressed interest thus far. Such attention has only served to enhance our belief in the UK’s retail landscape, promoting childlike enthusiasm often absent in the narration of our homeland’s style spectrum.

With the show just around the corner we’ll be rolling out weekly email updates to help keep you in the loop, all alongside our blog and Twitter providing information as and when it becomes available.

Visitor Registration
This week we’d like to remind all visitors who have yet to register for the show, to do so over on our website. We’ve a submission form up there for all of your details, which we kindly ask you complete.

Our debut event is operating on an invite-only basis, so once we’ve received your details we’ll confirm if your application has been successful, forwarding a formal invite by email.

Latest Brands On Board
As we continue to welcome new brands to our platform, we thought it apt to share news of our latest acquisitions.

Cro’Jack
Cro’Jack are modern-day champions of British production and materials, citing our nation’s diverse working heritage and associated attire as prime inspiration for their ready-to-wear designs.  The label skilfully translate historic styles into pieces that now meet modernist expectations, all of which appear suitably robust to tackle use across all walks of life

Orlebar Brown
In 2007 Photographer Adam Brown took an unusually proactive approach to develop one of the lesser explored aspects of men’s style; swimwear. Brown identified with men looking for stylish, quality swimwear who were restricted by a sparsely populated marketplace, his answer was Orlebar Brown. The brand focuses on providing a striking medley of form and function; consistently releasing hard working designs that look as comfortable in the pool as they do out of it.

Human Made
Human Made is the latest in a long line of projects for Nigo, of A Bathing Ape fame. This relatively young label was created with a vintage backbone, a reaction to a deep review of Nigo’s much documented personal garment collection.

Though the term ‘new vintage’ is often paraded through the style media, Nigo’s take on the aesthetic is rivalled by only a handful of established outfits. He confidently combines rugged notes of yesteryear with contemporary silhouettes, premium detailing, and vibrant accents – all whilst employing age-old production techniques where possible, retaining a physical connection to artisanal production methods rarely seen in today’s market.

Next Week | Accommodation in London
Next week we’ll be providing information of accommodation in London and outlining some special deals for those attending the show.

Until next week, all the best from the team at Jacket Required.

Best regards

All at
WWW.JACKET-REQUIRED.COM