2014
is a special year for Lee, the iconic denim brand is celebrating its 125th anniversary, a landmark for the American brand. To showcase this milestone, Lee is commissioning a series of projects and events, collaborating with four of their favourite designers to re-imagine the brands most popular fits and finishes.To start the year long celebration, Lee has bagged some major players in the denim industry to join their festivities. The re-imagined product offering comes from Swedish denim legend Orian Andersson, Emma Francois of Sessun, Carol & Sarah Prion and Gregory Derkenne of Filles A Papa…and most exciting of all…Donwan Harrell, creative director of PRPS. If you’re a denim head, you’ll know PRPS. Harrell is known for using traditional techniques with innovative design, the key elements to his standout collections at PRPS.
When Lee approached Harrell about the collaboration, a life long fan and collector of the brand, he jumped at the chance and was given full access to Lee’s deep archives, as well as complete creative control of the exciting project.
Focusing on Lee’s most iconic fits, Harrell explored the brands styling throughout history and decided to blend the icons which his own unique washes. Experimenting with vintage laundries, his extreme interpretation of the classics completely stands out on the infamous Rider Jacket and original Cowboy Pant. Made to look battered and bruised, the denim is heavy 14 Oz red-line selvedge denim, which can only be woven on traditional shuttle looms.
The attention to detail in the jeans is incredible. Inside each style you will find exclusive prints illustrated with vintage Lee advertising – a definite draw for the super collectors out there. The key details like signature pockets and shanks also blend together Harrell’s and Lee’s history.
With the release date currently under wraps at the moment, keep your eyes peeled for one of the most exciting celebrations of the year.