Stefan Cooke (Instagram) debuted their SS24 collection in collaboration with Mulberry, aiming to set a new tone for menswear and sustainability in high fashion. Stefan Cooke and Jake Burt, the duo behind the brand, have reimagined masculinity through various silhouettes. We see small waists, mini skirts, and pre-loved handbags boldly gliding down the runway, showcasing elite craftsmanship.
This collection held a playful attitude. Sunburn foam was used to create surreal tops that were inspired by the foam fingers you can see in the crowd at American sporting events . These tops were not dissimilar to the Loewe FW23 womenswear looks. Each top bore a sun-bleached colour palette. Broad shoulders and a drop waist featured on raincoats meant as an ode to marching bands and military uniforms. The knitwear pieces felt earnest in their colour palettes and patterns with sash detailing. Star-spangled V-necks act as a nod to athletes and winners. The broad-shouldered garments were made with shoulder pads and vintage rugby jerseys to create a quarterback-style silhouette. It feels as though Cooke and Burt were hoping to champion anyone wearing this collection. Hence the marching band and Superbowl inspiration.
The pair are also going for sustainability, with pieces made from deadstock leather and suede. Cooke and Burt have established themselves as designers who value the craftsmanship and structure of their garments and this led to the collaboration with Mulberry, both brands are able to retain their standards for artistry without sacrificing their DNA and pre-loved Mulberry bags were ornamented with Stefan Cooke motifs. The “remade vintage bag” concept is incredibly popular at the moment and it seems an obvious choice to jump on the bandwagon while endorsing sustainability.
Cooke, Burt, and their team have managed to deliver on their ethos without sacrificing their brand DNA. A wonderful collection.
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