Levi’s has recently teamed up with Central Saint Martins MA Fashion students in an effort to release three unique limited-edition collections. This collaboration is a notable part of Levi’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and its aim to bring fresh perspectives into the fashion industry.
The Levi’s by Levi’s range, which made its debut in October 2020, centers around the idea of repurposing branded dead-stock to create innovative new pieces. For this specific collaboration with Central Saint Martins, the selected students were granted an incredible opportunity to reimagine and repurpose Levi’s back catalogue, showcasing their creativity and contributing to the realm of sustainable fashion.
Of all the talented students at Central Saint Martins, three individuals were chosen for this project: Charlie Constantinou, Juntae Kim, and Pip Paz-Howlett. Each of them approached the collaboration with their own distinctive touch, exemplifying the research-based design process unique to Central Saint Martins and offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable fashion.
Charlie Constantinou delved into the potential of zips and fastenings as transformative elements that allow for a personalized fit in garments. He drew inspiration from function-focused, high-performance clothing that can be easily customized to suit individual needs, adding modular design elements to his work. Constantinou also drew influence from the DIY ethos of punk fashion, infusing his creations with a gritty yet fashionable style.
On the other hand, Juntae Kim took inspiration from a rich archive of European rococo and baroque costumes and artworks. He skillfully juxtaposed these intricate and ornate elements with the simplicity of Levi’s iconic pieces. The result is a captivating collection featuring vibrant floral embroidery on trucker jackets, alongside gold architectural curlicues that transform the waistlines of jeans. Kim successfully blends history and modernity, creating a truly unique aesthetic.
Finally, Pip Paz-Howlett adopted a graphic and psychedelic approach for his collection. Drawing inspiration from the imagery of queer youth culture in the 1960s and 1970s, Paz-Howlett utilized eco-friendly pigments to silk-screen his own artwork onto 501 jeans and trucker jackets. His pieces encapsulate a vibrant and expressive energy, paying tribute to an era of liberation and self-expression.
These limited-edition collections can only be found at Levi’s Haus London, the brand’s concept store located on Great Marlborough Street. This strategic location places the store amidst prominent shopping destinations such as Carnaby, Soho, Oxford Street, and Regent Street. The prices for this exclusive collection begin at £150, showcasing the value and uniqueness of these collaborative creations.
Levi’s collaboration with Central Saint Martins not only solidifies the brand’s dedication to sustainability but also emphasizes its commitment to nurturing and promoting emerging talent in the fashion industry. By providing a platform for these young designers, Levi’s continues to push boundaries and shape the future of fashion, allowing new voices to be heard and showcasing the possibilities of sustainable fashion.
Useful Links:
1. Levi’s Official Website – Men’s 501 Original Jeans
2. Central Saint Martins Official Website
