PARC - CLASSIC MENSWEAR MEETS CONTEMPORARY STYLE words Filipe Phitzgerard - photography Iolo Lewis Edwards
After ten years of experience in the fashion business, Central Saint Martins designer duo Paul Rawson and Anthony Campbell join forces to create Parc, your new and exciting menswear label whose debut collection for Spring/Summer'19 arrives making a bold statement of luxury meets boy-next-door aesthetic. Both Rawson and Campbell have acquired experience in various facets of the industry, and it was inevitable that over a decade in the industry would lead them into starting their own label.
The duo takes inspiration from the opposite ends of the "sartorial spectrum" bringing together the sophistication and luxuriousness of classical tailoring and the care-free vibe we often see in streetwear. And this combination could not be done at a better time as we see this deep connection between old and new becoming stronger within contemporary menswear design. For S/S'19 Paul and Anthony play not only with contrasting textures and fabrics but techniques, bringing the classical tailoring craftsmanship into the modern days while applying new methods that elevate the collection as a whole.
Spring/Summer'2019 sees a tight composition of digital prints coming together to create the perfect backdrop while checks and chevrons reveal the skate and surf culture influences; and because it is done to perfection, the garments remain luxurious rather than obvious streetwear. Parc gently disrupts the traditional soft tailoring norms by bringing metallics and multi-colored Jacquard into the equation. The added cutaway raglan sleeve seams and the semi-sheer aertex back-panels add an extra layer of cool to the pieces. The matching tailored shorts with elasticated jockstrap split-back waistbands are just another high note in this successful debut and translates into garments the visionary and fresh approach both Rawson and Campbell have to offer.
Parc's debut S/S'19 collection is truly refreshing and exciting. It reveals a hybrid take on conventional craftsmanship while perfectly combining aspects of contemporary sportswear designs and fabrication. Aesthetically, Parc is bold and assertive pushing into luxury menswear but without taking things too seriously. It keeps its cool and optimism while working with intricate designs and bold prints. The balance of sobriety and boldness is done at a high level of perfection and speak of the duo's earned credentials in the industry and in design and we can't wait to see what they unveil next season. Bravo!
