WHEN two rule breakers come together you know you’re in for a treat. Well, Calvin Klein and Palace’s unpredictable collaboration, entitled CK1 Palace, unites two sides of contemporary fashion.
Celebrating their shared appreciation for nostalgia and self-expression, the graphic, streetwear orientated aesthetic of Palace merges with the timeless understated designs of Calvin Klein.
Willem Dafeo for CK1 Palace. Photograph: Alasdair McLellan
The Pet Shop Boys for CK1 Palace. Photograph: Alasdair McLellan
Reimagining the signature CK classics, like the underwear, denim and tees, the colour palette remains untouched but the fusion of logos injects a twist on the known. Incorporating the Calvin Klein logo with the tri-ferg Palace badge, the staple pieces begin to echo a more modern tone. The thoughtful reinvention of loved garments play on lengths and are designed with a baggier fit in mind as the silhouette plays tribute to the famous 90s era.
Adwoa Aboah for CK1 Palace. Photograph: Alasdair McLellan
Lucien Clarke for CK1 Palace. Photograph: Alasdair McLellan
Though visually playful, the collaboration showcases the first-ever transformation of the iconic unisex scent, CK One. Outwardly showing appreciation for the perfume, one that defined an era as it defied gender boundaries, the ‘remix’ of this famous smell was an apt addition to the capsule.
“I feel so lucky to launch our first ever fragrance with Calvin Klein. CK One disrupted the status quo and to be able to make a new version of it in a Palace way has been a dream” says Lev Tanju, founder of Palace.
Lola Leon for CK1 Palace. Photograph: Alasdair McLellan
“From our first conversation, there was such a natural connection and a mutual appreciation and understanding of one another’s brand vision and DNA. It’s been really exciting and inspiring for me to see how people outside of Calvin Klein interpret the brand and its history,” explained the Global Chief Merchant, Jacob Jordan.
Dame Joan Collins for CK1 Palace. Photograph: Alasdair McLellan
Shot by Alasdair McLellan, the campaign showcases the hometown of both brands, flipping between New York and London. Starring an enviable cast of cultural icons and young aspiring creatives, the likes of Dame Joan Collins, Willem Dafoe and the Pet Shop Boys feature alongside Adwoa Aboah, Unknown T and Lola Leon, to show the unmatched roar of the coming together of these two brands.
With deep-rooted identities, the crossing of these narratives is an organic collaboration we are all happy to see.
by Imogen Clark