Fashion is full of contradiction. We typically don't wear workwear clothes to work. We aim to express our individualities yet more often than not, fall into different style tribes. And, fashion camouflage is more about standing out than actually hiding in plain sight. The latter seems to be an obsession within the industry; making military-inspired fashion that's paradoxically, outstanding. There's not that much else that we love more than making the mundane into something a little more stylish.
Instead of slapping on an uninspired camouflage print on its clothes, Fred Perry has collaborated with Arktis, a brand that's been making legit military-grade gear for more than 30 years. The Fred Perry x Arktis collection takes its inspiration from an Arktis original: the splinter-style camo print. This specific pattern is taken from the latter's archive and has been most prominently adopted by the Swedish military, which still uses it till today.
Before you write this collaboration as another contradictory fashion statement, there are similarities between Fred Perry and Arktis. For one, they're both established in the UK. While Fred Perry was birthed by a Wimbledon champion, the brand grew to be part of a subculture that's synonymous with music and sports. Similarly, the camouflage print grew popularity outside of its military use through the need (and later, want) for cheaper, used clothes found in surplus and thrift stores, subsequently becoming an integral part of many different subcultures. And of course, the Fred Perry look and military attire are both uniforms in their own right.
The Fred Perry x Arktis collection goes full-on camouflage throughout all 12 pieces. There is no juxtaposition between solid blocks of colours and camo, nor is there a shy hint of camo accent. This collection is designed like how military uniforms are—all or nothing—and comprises of T-shirts, bags, shoes, outerwear and the classic Fred Perry pique shirt.
The Fred Perry x Arktis collection is now available at the Authentic Shops in ION Orchard and Bugis Junction.
