MAN_UP_GIRL

----- http://www.manupgirl.co.uk ----- A collection inspired by the evolution of men’s skate-wear over the last four decades. ‘Man Up Girl!’ is the first skate-style inspired brand solely for women that combines traditional functional shapes with feminine detailing, creating a casual twist on a classic style. Influenced by early skate artwork, Hugh Holland’s seminal photography and the Memphis group. The loud prints and busy textures which dominated the 80s skate aesthetic have been included into the ‘Man Up Girl!’ image, documenting the stylistic progression of the subculture. Elements of current skate culture are also brought in, with strong geometric patterns and digitalized prints combined with textured fabrics such as scrunchable knitwear and hand embroidery to create fun, unique and tactile pieces. With a strong emphasis on imperfections, the carefree nature of skating is realised in the cut of the clothes, as garments are irregularly twisted and tucked allowing for new shapes to develop from classic menswear forms. Echoing the communal spirit of the skater lifestyle, the brand ethos is based on a ‘beg, steal and borrow’ outlook, bringing in people from a mixture of disciplines to contribute and collaborate. From stickers, posters, decks and mixes ‘Man Up Girl!’ captures a snippet of what it is to be a fully-fledged brand. For the girl who is effortlessly in the know, young, fun and nonchalant. ‘Man Up Girl!’ blends simplicity with functional design and colourful prints, to make an alluring and wearable collection.