BLOOD BROTHER

The British brand of streetwear founded in 2011 by Nick Biela and James Waller has been gaining traction in recent years, most notably for its thematic collections. What began with six monochromatic statement T-shirts grew into a full range of ready-to-wear built around a cultural or political theme each season. Spring/summer 2016, for example, focused on the idea of “Colony,” of displacement and relocation, which was reflected in pieces made from recycled fabrics and a palette reminiscent of space, the new frontier. The latest takes its cue from the lottery, with numbered balls featuring as the show’s backdrop, perhaps a jab at the ostentatious dressing of the nouveau riche. This translates into loud logo sweatshirts paired with quilted joggers, and even a golden puffer jumpsuit made more dapper by deft tailoring. Yet togetherness is the main ethos of the brand no matter the theme, its name speaking of the ability to overcome challenges, be they exploring unfamiliar territory or tackling cultural issues, as long as they are faced together. Sartorially, this means creating seemingly disparate pieces that come together cohesively when layered, no matter which season they’re from. Think an oversized tuxedo jacket with biker jacket zips layered over a logo-print turtleneck and worn nonchalantly with a baseball cap—just one example of the sophisticated street look for which the brand has become known.