In one of the more unique fashion collaborations we’ve seen, the TSBA Group has signed on fashion brand Gresham Blake to create an apparel line based on the fabrics used on seats on the London Underground.
We suppose one benefit would be, if you choose the right seat for the right suit, you’d be almost invisible!
TBSA says the agreement will see Gresham Blake designing a limited edition line of apparel using Transport for London’s (TfL) moquette fabric. The range includes tracksuits, shirts and dresses with three designs inspired by the distinctive and brightly-colored moquette fabrics used on seating of the London Underground.
“London is one of the fashion capitals of the world, and TfL is intrinsically London; the brand is perfect for apparel and accessories collaborations,” said Jo Edwards, Head of Global Licensing for the TSBA Group. “Gresham Blake, who is so well known in the fashion world for his statement designs, has created a fantastic range of product that showcases the moquette, just one of the many assets available under the TfL brand.”
Gresham’s signature design style means these statement pieces will stand out from the crowd, and further awareness will be generated through the release of a high-energy video and music track, We’re Going Out, that showcases the product.
The inspiration for the collection was drawn from assets taken from TfL’s more than 150-year history, the TBSA says. The moquettes, together with the iconic roundel and Tube map for the Underground, are recognizable the world over. TfL’s rich archive of materials and designs offers licensing partners inspiration to blend the brand’s heritage with current trends, using colors and themes to inspire new takes on classic iconography and designs.
“The London Underground has an unparalleled history; so much ground-breaking design in its past from tunnel construction to the famous logo and ingenious map,” Gresham Blake said. “I looked at the fabric on the seats and thought it would be great to make a range of clothing including shirts and tracksuits.”
The Gresham Blake x TfL range is highlighted in an accompanying video, shot (naturally) at a disused section of Charing Cross station:
Social media is already seeing the likes of Fatboy Slim and Rag’n’Bone Man wearing the tracksuits following the video and track’s release, under the Shakeable Germ label featuring Atlantalili, with several other high-profile stars such as Romesh Ranganathan, Iain Stirling and Steve Coogan to follow.