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November 13, 2019

The North Face AW19: New Arrivals

From peaks to pavements; The North Face is not only world famous for its outdoor gear, but is now considered a global street culture standard. Exciting new arrivals to The North Face’s AW19 Collection feature instantly-recognisable logos, classic colourways and eye-catching prints – boasting the brand’s signature aesthetic.

The winter weather is well and truly here and every wardrobe requires a practical and reliable jacket to fight off the inclement weather. Combining unbeatable warmth and comfort, The North Face offer the understated Lhotse Jacket. Proudly named after the fourth highest mountain in the world, the Jacket is filled with goose down and features a full zip closure and adjustable cuffs and hem – allowing the jacket to fit perfect to you and ensuring ultimate warmth throughout the entire day. Two exterior side entry pockets and one inner security pocket grant easy access and safeguard all of your essentials. Similar to the Lhoste is an instantly-recognisable silhouette that channels ‘90s vibes; the Nupste Jacket. Boasting Durable Water Repellent coating and ripstop fabric, the Nupste is also filled with 700 goose down.

Adaptable and practical; The North Face Mountain Q Jacket guarantees to stick with you for many seasons to come. Lightweight and beautifully dressed in an eye-catching tangerine colourway, the Mountain Q Jacket will sit perfectly within your outerwear wardrobe – whether you’re hitting the streets or the mountain peaks. Boasting a waterproof polyester outer and fully breathable mesh lining. If bright colours aren’t your vibe, an alternative is the Mountain Q Jacket in black. Equally as iconic, the silhouette features an adjustable drawstring hood and hem and is detailed with The North Face branding.

Ideal for layering, The North Face presents the Denali Jacket. Offered in three impressive colourways including blue, turquoise and yellow and named after the highest mountain peak in North America, the Denali is constructed from polar fleece with unique nylon overlays. Practical and functional, four zip pockets add an alternative spin on the silhouette. Vertical and horizontal zip pockets to the chest and two easy-access side-entry pockets.

Inspired by silhouettes from 1996, the Nupste Vest boasts a boxy design that guarantees to keep you feeling warm and snug during the colder seasons. Offered in two exciting colourways, the gilet is filled with goose down and features a concealed stow-away hood. The Nupste Vest can be easily thrown on when the weather is unpredictable and pack-away design allows the garment to be folded and stored into its right-hand pocket.

Every outfit requires perfect layering pieces to see you through the colder months, and The North Face have you covered. Presenting a range of hoodies and tees – ideal for constructing an outfit that keeps you feeling warm and looking good. The North Face Apline Hoodie is a staple piece for your off-duty rotation. Dripping with The North Face branding, the hoodie boasts large logo accompanied by ‘Fine Apline Equipment’ branding printed unapologetically to the chest. The collection includes a range of different t-shirts including Fine Alp Equipment Tee and The North Face Basic Tee. Crafted from superbly soft cotton, the t-shirts are designed with movement and ventilation in mind.

No winter instalment would be complete without a handful of accessories and The North Face AW19 Collection is no exception. Presenting the Bobble Hat in yellow / black and Logo Beanie in twill beige. Both crafted to exceptional standards and coated with the brand’s signature aesthetic. The knit pieces guarantee to deliver both style and comfort.

Shop the whole collection online and in-store now.

October 16, 2019

Stone Island Shadow Project Contour Parka

A design imagined under the concept of ‘Variable Adaptability’. The Stone Island Shadow Project Contour Parka is available at aphrodite.

Remember Stone Island’s so-called ‘Toffee Wrapper’ jacket from way back in ’92? Well, this Shadow Project Contour Parka doesn’t stray too far from the unforgettable essence of that retro number. Glazed in the same rusted hue, the jacket rolls out as a striking silhouette from Shadow Project’s 23rd collection, yes you heard that right, their 23rd collection! So, with such a monumental touchpoint insight for Shadow Project, the tastemakers behind the brand felt this hooded garm would be the perfect piece to conceptualise under their ‘variable adaptibility’ notion for the new season.

By ‘variable adaptibility’, we’re talking about the need for change dependant on your setting or unexpected weather, which, if you’re living in good old England like us fine people, it’s an element you, unfortunately, need to consider on the daily. Shadow Project call out the collection with these words, ‘the looming conditions of winter serve as a starting point for the concept of variable adaptability. Mechanisms of conversion, attachment, and expansion serve to widen the use of potential garments, empowering the wearer to modify them in accordance with shifting environmental circumstance.’

So, with that said, how does this Shadow Project Contour Parka actually diversify to battle general changes in scenery or harsh weather conditions? Well, sitting underneath its dual grid nylon outer that’s both translucent and light-refractive, not to mention insanely durable, is an insulating layer of quilted padding, perfect for retaining heat and protecting the wearer from declining temperatures. Additionally, in honour of its ‘Contour’ moniker, drawstring adjustments clinch in the design at its hood, hem and cuffs, locking in warmth while custom-fitting the design to your own personal stature. Furthermore, nylon jersey inlays tonally articulate the base – starting at the cuffs and working their way right up to the style’s chest to present an element of flexibility in areas which move the most.

As well as being garment-dyed, this Shadow Project Contour Parka also boasts an anti-drop agent, designed to supply a lasting viel of water repellency on the outer, while further detailing comprises of the brand’s signature, all-black compass badge at the left sleeve, joined by two hand-warmer pockets and a utility zip pocket on the arm.

Anything but bashful, this Parka is commanding in every sense, whether it be in colour, construction or purpose. Take a leap out of your comfort zone this season and soak up the goodness on offer from Stone Island Shadow Project as they continue to serve up their 23rd capsule to the industry’s watching eyes.

September 3, 2019

Latest AW19 Arrivals: AMI, APC & COMME des GARÇONS

Discover What The Autumn-Winter ’19 Season Has In Store

Luckily for us, and especially luckily for you, we here at Aphrodite have found ourselves in the possession of some stellar attire for the upcoming AW19 season. So, whether the understated, clean lines of APC are just your thing, or COMME des GARÇONS’ unconventional silhouettes are the must-have pieces for your collection – we reckon you’ll have no trouble picking up some staples this season.

Two noteworthy labels, both of whom operate from their base in the tangled streets of the City of Lights, have transcended this season’s offerings with their clean-cut aesthetic and comparable design codes. Parisian imprints, AMI and APC, are steered by lauded male designers and share the same minimalist outlook and effortless French elegance through each and every collection.

Bringing a much-needed pop of colour to the doom and gloom of the autumnal period, AMI’s Alexandre Mattiussi has indulged in a selection of sweet shades to kick things off. With hues ranging from punchy pistachio, buttery beige and vanilla, AMI’s tees, sweats and hoodies will illuminate any dull weather standing in your path and serve your ensemble a brighter note. Silhouettes are anything but slender, in the mind of Mattiussi – the boxier the better. But, of course, no AMI piece is truly complete without the signature ‘Ami de Coeur’ emblem in pride of place, again – showcased larger than life for AW19.

Much like its French neighbour AMI, Jean Touitou’s label APC is very much predictable, and we mean that in the greatest possible way. Every year APC avoids ‘trend’ fashion and the unsustainability associated with that; delivering in turn styles that promise to remain relevant for years to come, free from ostentatious surprises and certainly nothing too out of the ordinary. For AW19 you can expect to see a plethora of branded pieces, whether it be tees, sweats or accessories, they’re all proudly sporting the label’s abbreviated ‘Atelier de Production et de Creation’ moniker.

Take for instance the simple navy sweat below, both cosy and comfortable, the design wouldn’t look out of place in five years’ time thanks to the timelessness of Jean Touitou’s fuss-free aesthetic, an element of APC that’s helped it pave such a presence within Parisian youth culture.

Across the globe and within the affluent, architectural streets of Tokyo’s Aoyama district, Rei Kawakubo’s talented team has been hard at work producing the next COMME des GARÇONS SHIRT range. Less avant-garde than the brand’s main collection, Kawakubo’s SHIRT diffusion line sees a range of shirting designs delivered in a multitude of palettes. The hoodie and coach jacket below play on the pinstripe theme found across the COMME des GARÇONS SHIRT collection this season.

Built in fine stripes of blue and white, the traditional coach jacket is seldom seen in a pattern of this kind, making it almost certain to stand out throughout urban settings this season. Also subverting the norm, the hooded, pinstripe piece in the brand’s line up is definitely not bound for off-duty days like the conventional hoodie, instead, the cut, construction and fit nod more to formal, weekend outings.

All of this, plus a variety of sleek, smart accessories on offer both in-store and online will ensure your wardrobe receives the seasonal refresh it needs. Shop all the featured garments on our website or in our Sunderland city centre store now.

August 28, 2019

Stussy AW19: First Look

Stussy’s AW19 Collection Showcases The Brand’s Dedication To Pushing Boundaries

Presenting an exciting mix of tactical and contemporary pieces, the arbiter of streetwear Stussy returns with a refreshing instalment that boasts the brand’s signature Californian roots. With a heritage that started way back in the ‘80s, Stussy is now considered a global standard within skate, hip-hop and street culture. The AW19 collection plays with the brand’s rebellious aesthetic and features instantly-recognisable logos, signature silhouettes and classic prints.

Transitioning from summer to winter requires a fit that can withhold the unpredictable weather and the Panel Track Jacket does just that. Assembled with jagged contrasting colour-block panels that channel ‘90s inspiration, the track jacket showcases the brand’s dedication to taking classic silhouettes and re-thinking them with signature Stussy aesthetic. Masterly lightweight, the nylon construction is the ideal layering piece. We paired the track jacket with some of our favourite garments from the latest batch; including Stripe Crew T-Shirt and Utility Cargo Pant.

Committing to the ‘90s theme, the Stripe Crew T-Shirt boasts a nostalgic, sporty aesthetic. Adorned with the label’s world-famous logo amongst striking, colour-block stripes – the heavy build crew neck is offered in a loose, period-appropriate fit. This season Stussy has created truly energetic and wearable pieces that will add that well-needed pop of colour to any winter wardrobe.

If you’re looking for a functional, cold-weather necessity – Stussy have you covered. The next highlight from the collection is the Utility Jacket. Boasting four front pouch pockets with three additional zip pockets, the utilitarian design is ideal for storing all your every-day essentials. Rubberised branding adds a modern update to the piece whilst retaining traditional utility features. Water-resistant, versatile and perfect for layering – the nylon jacket guarantees to stick with you for many seasons to come.

Again, we paired the jacket with the Utility Cargo Pant in Black. Dripping in utilitarian design – the nylon trousers are fitted with two back flap pockets and roomy cargo pockets to the legs. Developed to hold your everyday must-haves. Adjustable waist and cuffs allow the functional trousers to fit perfect to you.

Adding to their already impressive arsenal of lightweight jackets, Stussy presents the Torque Jacket. Dressed in an orange colourway, the 100% cotton jacket gives off some serious autumnal vibes. Point collar, button-down placket and four double pouch pockets – the piece combines the classic overshirt silhouette with Stussy’s favoured utilitarian design.

Of course, no Stussy instalment would be complete without a handful of classic sweats that provide premium comfort and work perfectly for the season. The rich autumnal colour palette really shows within the collection of bold layering pieces – offering hoodies and sweatshirts in a variety of different colourways. Our personal favourite is the Basic Crew Sweatshirt in Orange and Basic Stussy Hoodie in Lemon.

The Stussy AW19 collection will be launching on 30/08/19 both in-store and online at Aphrodite.

August 20, 2019

BALMAIN AW19: A Monochrome Masterpiece

Filtered through Olivier Rousteing’s monochrome state of mind, Balmain’s Autumn Winter ’19 collection is set to be a sumptuous head-turner.

In retrospect, although no one could have anticipated it at the time, 2011 would be the year to transform fashion forever. In Paris particularly, operations were following a startling shift; a then 25-year-old Olivier Rousteing had courageously taken the reins at the historic house of Balmain – a move that would go on to redefine fashion’s agenda for the foreseeable future.

In Rousteing’s celebrated eight years at Balmain’s helm, the house has firmly broken into the 21st century. The label’s lauded predecessors such as, Mr. Pierre Balmain himself, and Oscar de la Renta, had already cemented the house’s path to elegance, yet none had quite stirred up the contemporary appeal as that of Rousteing. In the seasons just before Olivier’s succession, Christophe Decarnin tried his talented hand at triggering modernity within the house, falling just short to that of Rousteing’s superlative standards.

Now, for Autumn Winter ‘19, the house calls on a plethora of diverse inspiration – sourced from far and wide. As-ever designs in the collection fuse contrasting themes of grunge and glamour; an aesthetic the label has become synonymous with under the guise of Olivier. Additionally, subtle Eastern influences gently unload into the capsule, no doubt much to the delight of the brand’s vast and loyal following on that side of the globe. And rounding off the lineup is Balmain’s first official foray into footwear; a collection sparking huge significance for Olivier Rousteing and a monumental touchpoint for the brand as a whole.

Kicking things off with a slew of luxe, monochrome pieces, the Autumn Winter ’19 capsule effortlessly blends the realms of luxury and streetwear. For example, the pairing of the brand’s velvet teddy jacket and branded hoodie here creates the perfect balance of sumptuous style and casual layering. Added accents, in the form of a baseball cap and the brand’s B-Troop Strap sneakers, signify the outfit’s obvious urban status, while the logo-laden aesthetic further unravels through simple base layers, including a short-sleeve signature tee and all-black trousers.

By insisting on the injection of sportswear cues throughout Balmain looks to not only hit a home run this season but also shoot some hoops on the hardwood and the proof is in this next outfit. With a sweatshirt that wouldn’t look out of place on the baseball field and the aptly dubbed ‘B-Ball’ sneakers on foot, the look is wholly sport-luxe.

The sweatshirt, in particular, unites Western and Eastern influences; not only does it shine the spotlight on one of America’s beloved batting games, thanks to its striped base and colour-blocking formula, but it also introduces Japanese design language into the mix – tooling Rousteing has displayed an affinity for in the past. Together with the distinctive cultural elements, an all-black Balmain belt bag gives the look a functional, finishing touch for urban dimensions.

The lack of ostentatious hues throughout the collection is sure to be welcomed by all those wishing to curate a versatile wardrobe, with plenty of pieces up for grabs that can be effortlessly mixed and match. The adaptability of the following look is demonstrated through its monochrome palette. Made up of a woollen blend sweater and taped joggers, the ensemble deliberately leaves bold colours behind for a sleek, street-led look which is without question cut for comfort.

Altogether, the Balmain AW19 collection makes a superb case for versatility. The high-key to low-key contrast of the garments ensures you’ll stand out in the streets while giving you the opportunity to experiment with mixing and matching a number of pieces from the lineup. Hats off to design favourite, Olivier Rousteing, yet again…

August 12, 2019

Y-3 Take Sportswear To The Next Level

Since 2003, when adidas and avant garde designer Yohji Yamamoto put their heads together in the pursuit of more unique ventures, Y-3 has always been an interesting one to watch. Established well before the days when the word Athleisure was even coined, let alone unblinkingly accepted onto some of the biggest runways in the world, the brand not only carved a reputation for challenging the pre-conceived conceptions that surround sportswear silhouettes as a whole, but set the bar when it came to how collaborations can and should be done.

Perhaps one of the most alluring qualities Y-3 possess is their sense of identity. Inspired by the contrast between smart and casual outfitting and fuelled by a growing disinterest with making, ‘fancy clothing’ the brand combines Y3 founder Yohji Yamamoto’s more left-field approach with that of adidas’ performance-driven sensibilities, balancing, twisting and combining iconic elements from both sides into something that feels wholly Y-3.

Uniting the majority of their offering under a monochromatic banner, Y-3’s decision to remove colour from their designs allows more emphasis to be placed upon shape, form and function giving way for a selection of technical nuance and interesting use of fabrics to find their way to the surface.

Take for example this seasons interpretation of the classic track pants. Placing the bold contrasting three stripes to the inside leg for a slight spin on a quintessential trait, the pants are imbued with masterful modern tailoring with a relaxed fit through the thigh, slight taper to the ankles and a cropped length. Finished with inner zip cuffs, four pockets and an elasticated drawstring waist, the track pants give way to a tonal Y-3 logo for a hit of subtle branding.

Track tops have also been given some love with asymmetrical details and subtle alterations aligning the somewhat everyday garment with the other quality bits up for grabs. Featuring a contrasting varsity style applique YOHJI callout to the back, the jacket also comes with adjustable cuffs, a fleece lined interior and two front concealed zip pockets, the track top comes complete with tonal stripes and Y-3 logo to the left side only.

Unsurprisingly some of the main talking points found throughout the collection are the accessories, most notably Y-3’s fresh interpretation of the cross-body bag. Constructed in a sling design, the bags come with the ability to be customised to suit the wearers desired needs with straps and storage compartments easily added or removed.

Staple pieces have also been given a precise update with t-shirts, hoodies and hats boasting an array of enviable qualities which include sleek one piece constructions, juxtaposed monikers and signature Yohji cuts.

Making their welcome return both the Y-3 Ren and Kaiwa can be found amongst the greyscale ranks. With updated colourways applied and notable characteristics preserved the sneakers make use of adidas’ affinity for footwear to ensure their staunch looks are matched with plenty of practical utility. Sat alongside the decisively geometric Y-3 Yuuto, which revives one of the first sneakers ever released by Y-3, and the ultra-contemporary Yohji Courts the brand once again prove they are not to be crossed when it comes to on-foot craftsmanship.

Shop the full Y-3 line-up online or in store now.

June 28, 2019

CP Company AW19 : Urban Equipment

CP Company AW19 Arrivals

Attention all goggle hood fanatics we’ve just found ourselves in the possession of a fresh batch of CP Company garments. Spanning graphic print t-shirts, overshirts, joggers, hoodies and just about everything else you could wish for, we’re sure this first glance behind the CP Company AW19 curtain will certainly pique your interest for things to come.

Promising more of the same militaristic styling and technical nuance that has propelled the Italian brand into cultural stardom, this first arrival digs its heels deep into the brand’s signature trademarks with plenty of rich garment-dyed colours, complex fabrication and lens detailing up for grabs.

To kick proceedings off it would only be right that we get things underway with all things chrome metal. An inherent component of their outerwear offering, thanks to its versatility, functional qualities and dyeing capabilities, the fabric is often seen spread evenly across collections no matter the time of year.

More recently, with the overshirt becoming a more prominent piece in contemporary wardrobes, the nylon-based material has had its moment to shine, lending itself perfectly to the jacket meets shirt combination and compounding with the classic CP design ethos to dazzling effect. Case and point these rather stunning black and blue examples below…

Taking on a somewhat more traditional silhouette than some of CP’s overshirt output the garments hold the brand’s core values of usability and practicality at their core. Boasting a diverse, almost unfair, the line-up of intrinsic properties that encompass everything from breathability to elemental resistance, the lightweight jackets come imbued with quick-drying qualities and are treated with unique colour processes for a distinctive finish. If that wasn’t enough you can also find both a zip pocket to the chest and sleeve accompanied by the unmistakable lens motif and some handy adjustable cuffs.

Elsewhere CP Company set their experimental sights on more cotton-based endeavours, using their years of clothing expertise to revamp quintessential pieces of casual outfitting. Taking the usual zip hoodie formula to its very limit, this season sees the off-duty piece bolstered out with a google lens buckle secured hood, a partially ribbed hem and two front zip pockets for a more pragmatic approach. Pair it up with the brand’s ever-on-point joggers and you’ve got yourself an ensemble presenting maximum comfort laced with an urban edge.

Sweatshirts, t-shirts and polo shirts have also received some love with not only a quality dusty pink colour on offer but a number of top-notch adaptions of CP Company’s usual callouts present and correct for all of your branded needs. Spanning subtle tonal embroidery, not so subtle argyle style patterning and tasteful patchwork there really is something for everyone to get their teeth stuck into no matter you’re your preferred approach.

With archival inspiration and a desire to innovate fuelling their steadfast sensibilities, CP Company has consistently surpassed expectations, evolving collection to collection in a way that not only pushes the brand into new territories but manages to preserve the very essence that has got them this far. It seems, based upon what we have got our hands on up until now, CP Company AW19 is set to be no different.

Browse our entire CP Company range including the latest AW19 arrivals in-store and online here.

June 18, 2019

Y-3 AW19 Collection: First Look

The first drop of the Y-3 AW19 Collection Has Arrived! Take a look what is up for grabs below…

After 16 years working in partnership as the driving force behind now world-renowned brand Y-3, adidas and Yohji Yamamoto present the next evolutionary step in their collaborative efforts using their AW19 collection to take a look back into not only the defining historical moments that have shaped both collaborators staunch sensibilities but, the unique intricacies that have fuelled their success.

Focusing in on the ‘70s. ‘80s and ‘90s Y-3 present a collection that for the first time since its inception makes use of archival pieces both from Yamamoto and adidas. Using these select few pieces as a basis to shape an expectantly avant-garde design direction around, AW’19 sees essential adidas garments infused with the designers strong stylistic character and inherently Yamamoto pieces loaded up on generous helpings of three stripe innovation.

Through years spent understanding their counterparts craft and the forward-thinking approach of their dynamic relationship, both adidas and Yamamoto have manged to pave the way when it comes to challenging the preconceived notions surrounding sportwear, crafting line-ups with immense depth, personality and unmatched quality.

Channelling the collection around a multitude of themes including BUILD – whereby the craftsmanship of a garment is paid particular attention to – and SPECTATE – which makes reference to the movement and unity of sports culture – the collection encompasses everything from outerwear to accessories and represents a fresh interpretation on the signature Y-3 aesthetic.

Influenced by the branding found on sports teams, the collection sees an athletically styled YOHJI callout displayed across a varied and expectantly monochromatic line-up which culminates, most notably, with a traditional collegiate varsity jacket. A contrasting feast for the eyes the jacket features embroidered patch branding to the sleeve and chest and comes quilted with primaloft for exceptional levels of insulation. Cut slightly short in the body for added shape the jacket is complete with an array of quintessential detailing including a ribbed collar, cuffs and hem and a plethora of sporty striping.

Re-imagined with streamlined minimalism, this first snippet of the collection also gives way to a number of classic Y-3 footwear silhouettes given new life through subtle alterations. A staple of the Y-3 sneaker line-up the Kaiwa with its towering proportions and premium mix of suede and leather uppers sees a triple black overhaul whilst the Ren is given an alternating colour mix, utilising harsh distinctions to enhance its recognisably modern appearance.

Of course, technical nuance features heavily throughout the duos new body of work, no more so evident in accessories such as the side bag. Boasting a number of compartments and wearing capabilities the bag comes fully customisable allowing the user to detach and re-attach straps and sections as they see fit. Coming in both white and black the bags feature numerous storage options guaranteed to add functional flair to even the most basic of outfits. Headwear is also high on the agenda within the accessory ranks, with a baseball cap complete with aforementioned YOHJI branding alternatively placed to the side found amongst the impressive assembly.

Harboured from years spent working with one another this collection showcases the harmonious understanding and mutual appreciation both adidas and Yamamoto share for one another. Through a deep respect for individual craft and the natural fluidity of ideas Y-3 manage to effortlessly blend the worlds of thematic clothing and utility driven sportswear, forging an unshakeable legacy one collection at a time.

The Y-3 Autumn Winter ’19 collection launches both in store and online at Aphrodite 20/06/19.