fig. 1

Years after the much documented kidnapping of FLY53 Team Captain and talisman Lenny
“Wolfman” Grubbs, rumours have surfaced of his escape and a new cause has been brought to the attention of the international media.
These rumours are confirmed by numerous sightings of the Wolfman and his new recruits (fig. 1) as they mass ranks to spearhead the next FLY53 collection; Spring / Summer 2007.

The FLY53 brand message is hammered home with continued references to the “Lightning Scythe & Barley” crest emblem (fig. 2), signifying the Wolfman’s intent to go against the grain while embracing the countryside folklore embedded in his wild, untamed and mysterious past. This forward thinking instinct and love for tradition has created a bond with FLY53 that is set in stone, and promises many great collaborations.

fig. 2

fig. 3

fig. 4

The Wolfman and his Fly53 devotees believe that the wreath imagery in its’ crests signifies regeneration, a new life force, a concept from ancient heritage which would call upon leafy crests and influences from nature to protect against evil forces (hence the popular superstition of “touch wood”). This notion of “regeneration” reinforces the “growth / harvest / re-growth” ethos of the FLY53 brand, where re-invention and forward movement is key.
Throughout the FLY53 SS07 Collection, graphic references to “The Noble Pioneers” and the “FLY53 Team” (fig. 3) hark back to the Wolfman’s days as a sporting legend with his beloved FLY53 Champion Kickball Team, who famously ignited the 1970 Bolivian Olympics.
A unique FLY53 camouflage and repeat floral print also breath life into the collection (fig. 4), adopted as uniform for the emerging FLY53 faction and defining a strong aesthetic. With the Wolfman now rumoured to be firmly at the helm, bold graphic statements of hope and idealism filter into the basics with references to Solidarity and a new FLY53 Utopia (fig. 5).

fig. 5

AW-07 FLY53 COLLECTION

In its 11th year FLY53 has graduated to the big school and after a term of stealing lunch money and flushing heads has quickly become “King of the Playground”.

This season we’ve reduced the usual Outerwear ingredients down to the very essence of a modern street wear collection. A strong work wear and military influence runs throughout the collection but details are pared down with an almost Zen like discipline.

The silhouette is slim, with tailored jackets as always at the core of this very British look. The silhouettes and tailored construction continues into more functional pieces where technical and ‘waxed’ fabrics are reinvented to update and sophisticate the street look. Wool Melton’s are twisted to create original updates on traditional forms. Precise, intricate branding details strengthen the brand. A new metal button and dye cut metal logo has been plundered from the uniforms of the FLY53 Army for civilian use on wool jackets and coats.

Simple lightweight outers derived from classic sports silhouettes continue our run of consistent best sellers. In a world of mechanically retrieved meat the prime cut FLY53 Rumpsteak stands proud.

In the jersey area a generally monochrome palette is enriched with injections of pure colour taking its lead from the work of Peter Saville.  Heavy industrial mutes contrasted by blocks of vivid Hues in both print and garment shock the eye creating interest and excitement. Washing is a minimal allowing colour to remain solid. The graphics also give a nod to the great man. Complimentary clashes of colour and typography give an electronic feel reflecting the new mood in music.

Carbon finishes and intricate pigment prints give a much-needed update to fleece hoodies. Combining wool with fleece adds a cleaner and sophisticated feel to the basics.

The denim and leg collection offers a depth to suit all buyers’ tastes with proven winners and future favourites.  Colt steel in Japanese denim and articulated leg detail remains a classic and the Lucky Charmz offers a true work wear jean for years to come.  The Raw denim Piggy Back jean is available in skinny & regular cut with options in black and blue denim and a classic Bedford cord for all tastes. Classic Fly53 fatigues make a come back and some classic slacks!

Knitwear follows the theme of the collection with classic English pieces lifted by flashes and details of vivid acidic colours.  Lightweight 12 gauge knits start the offer in v-neck, crew, cardigan and stripe options.  All tastes are catered for, from patterned mid weights to fully camo lined heavy weight zip thorough.

Shirts are clean with the work wear and military feel that the outfitters are renowned for.

FLY53 upholds the tradition of the English Gentleman’s Outfitter with a collection of sartorial heavyweights.

Web site - www.fly53.com