Oliver Spencer x Vulpine Cycling Blazer — a very British tailoring collaboration
James Greig | February 12, 2014
Let me begin with a confession. I once rode a bike in my Oliver Spencer suit (a treasured possession usually reserved for weddings and other such Important Occasions). But it being winter and with rain imminent, it felt a little dangerous, and I feared for its wellbeing.
As if to allay my fears, Mr. Spencer has collaborated with cycling apparel brand Vulpine to create a jacket which is truly suited for cycling.
At the risk of underplaying the design process, it takes the former’s cool English aesthetic and adds a dash of the latter’s technical expertise, resulting in a garment that is tailored to your on-bike position but still looks sharp on arrival.
We caught up with Vulpine’s Nick Hussey to find out more about the design process…
Who approached who?
Oli asked me after we’d met a few times. We met over sushi (I know I know) when I was invited out by a friend within weeks of Vulpine launching and Oli loved the concept and execution. I was already an OS customer. We got on immediately. Then he invited me to his shows and we carried on chatting. It just made sense. Lots of shared values. Especially cycling. Oli commutes by bike every day. It’s all gravy.
What was it like working with Oliver?
Apart from the waterboardings it’s great. Oli made the jacket, with us guiding. Manufacturing is the hardest part. Design is ‘easy’ if you have a strong idea and direction. And it’s fun. Oli had a style and we helped adapt it and offer cycling ideas and our experience on cycling fit. We both have such a love of a certain British style and understand cycling, that it was ludicrously frictionless.
Can you tell us anything about the upcoming womenswear collaboration?
Nope. Except it’ll be something that makes sense when you look at Oli and my sensibilities together.
The blazers have been made in England from showerproof fabric, with trademark Vulpine reflective detailing on the fold-back cuffs, collar and tail, and under-arm ventilation to keep you from overheating. Whilst they lack the distinctive tartan lining and contrast buttoning of Oliver Spencer’s own jackets, the addition of a signature Vulpine button on the lapels is a welcome one.
Ladies won’t be left out for too long, with a womenswear offering slated for Autumn/Winter 2014.
Oliver Spencer x Vulpine Cycling Blazers are available now from both the Vulpine and Oliver Spencer online stores for £295.
Posted to Cycle Style
by James Greig
