Go touch water
On watery outdoor fashion, footwear designers getting recognition, and other recent finds
Are we all going fishing once we’re done hiking?
As hiking, trail-running, and rock-climbing have shaped fashion over the past few years, I feel like outdoor looks could become a bit more aquatic. Nautical heritage is nothing new (think Ralph Lauren), but not many brands really offer a modern take on watery activities.
For example, these fishing shots from Brut give me the same fun activity energy we usually see in rock-climbing campaigns. William Ellery, through his scout-inspired aesthetic, also does a great job of making fishing look cool, thanks to thoughtful accessories and consistently strong styling.
On the nautical side, cashmere brand Ghiahia recently introduced its athletic line, VELA, letting you tap into the sailor aesthetic even if you’re not from the yachting club. So far, the brand’s approach reminds me of early Teddy Santis work.
I’m not sure it’ll be as widely adopted as more “grounded” outdoor hobbies, but fishing, sailing, or even watersports still feel largely unexploited as sources for cool gear. Same utilitarian logic, same technical approach to clothing, just wetter?
Footwear designers getting their flowers
That won’t solve the fashion industry’s crediting problem on its own, but it does feel like in-house footwear designers are getting more recognition.
Seeing Thibo Denis, formerly at Dior and now at LV, being recognized by name rather than just through the houses he works for feels like a real shift. A few years ago, before designers’ IG burner accounts were a thing, getting that kind of visibility without being the house creative director was rare. Let alone being interviewed in mainstream newspapers.
If you’re not familiar with his work, here are a few personal favorites from his signature chunky silhouettes and fat laces.
Another name worth remembering is Ryan Forsyth, who designed many of the recent Crocs pairs that felt more distinctive.
This might just be a nerdy bias from reading the fine print though, so maybe don’t quote it at the dinner table. I’m no Anna Wintour.
In no particular order
SATISFY broke down its successful launch of the Rocker, its first trail running shoe, through an in-depth brand analysis with cool visuals.
For a deeper dive into the fashion industry’s crediting problem mentioned earlier, this is a great read.
If you’re in the mood for some background music, I made a quick 30-minute mix from my recent playlist. Expect housy rap, in French and English.
And if you’re still hunting for last-minute stocking stuffers for the performative males in your life, I’ve got you covered.
Recently pinned: Cecilie Bahnsen turning archival The North Face into couture.
Cecilie Bahnsen for The North Face
This journal is where I collect design, fashion and culture that inspires me. If it sparks something for you, let me know, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Subscribe for free to get the next entry in your inbox. Thanks for reading!
You've inspired me to shoot something in this vein.