Nigel Cabourn has worked in the fashion industry for over forty years, but his clothing has little in common with most people's concept of the word 'fashion'. He is influenced not by trends but a longstanding passion for vintage clothing, fabric and details. These elements have formed the basis for much of his output and continue to be a vital part of his collection today.
Nigel was a student at Northumbria University from 1967-1971 and he started his own label while in his final year of study. Against all advice he stayed in the North of England, which soon became another major source of design inspiration. This cold, windy location has certainly influenced him and he is known to be one of a few true outerwear specialists.
Nigel has collected vintage clothing since the early 1970's and has an archive of over 4,000 pieces including salvaged British Military uniforms, Workwear and a trove of exploration garments unearthed from all corners of the globe. It is this ever- increasing vintage archive that is the cornerstone of each collection, not a response to a particular trend or general demand. Each collection has a real story, sense of history and integrity underpinned by the highest level of quality.
Today, Nigel remains the hands-on driving force behind the Nigel Cabourn brands, working closely with the design and production teams and collaborators to produce around 8 collections each year.
This will be Nigel Cabourn's second collaboration with Converse. After previously having done the Chuck Taylor All Star Bosey and the Plimsole, Nigel worked on the Chuck Taylor 1970 this time. Giving it a white upper, red details and branding. Using Ventile fabric for the upper, the shoe is essentially weatherproof. Available in very limited amounts in store only tomorrow Friday March 28th at both our Vancouver locations. If any pairs remain after in store sales tomorrow, they will be available online at a later date.
via Nigel Cabourn