ss19 | Aphrodite

ss19

July 25, 2019

Nike AF1-Type: A Timeless Silhouette with a Twist

A Timeless Silhouette Offered In Two New Exciting Colourways

Returning with a fresh instalment of their newly launched N.354 series, Nike unveils the AF1-Type in “Black / Pink Tint” and “Summit White” colourway.

Originally launched in 1982, the iconic Air Force silhouette was the first basketball shoe that featured a pocket filled with air in the heal for extra cushioning; ensuring support, comfort and a strong foundation. Now, Nike dives deep into the Department of Nike’s Archives to reimagine the pre-production prototype that is the AF1-Type and yields exciting results.

“Black / Anthracite / Zinnia / Pink Tint”

Stripped down but highly detailed, the Air Force 1 Type boasts a handmade aesthetic. Showcasing the brand’s dedication to timeless silhouettes and pushing the boundaries on footwear design. The most recent colourway that Nike has to offer is “Black / Pink Tint”. A unique colour scheme that flaunts detailing that symbolises the past, present and future.

The pair features several unique elements. A key modification is the Velcro strap closure system that sits across its heel. A transparent skin-like material on the inner of the shoe showcases the closure system and adjustable coral pink details. Handwritten Nike Swoosh resting on the rear tab, seam tape and exposed stitches create a handcrafted effect and gesture a first-draft of a potential future product. Pencilled “n.354” sits proudly to the outer panel, influenced by American long-distance runner Steve Prefontaine’s fastest mile.

A padded stretch tongue gives a retro feel. Round indented segments and perforated pattern add further detailing whilst offering additional ventilation. A double-in-size toe cap, with geometric, crocodile-skin-like patterning, inspired by the technical manuals found inside shoeboxes from the ‘70s and ‘80s. A nostalgic piece of detailing that also presents a futuristic vibe.

“Summit White / Red Orbit / White / Black”

The second colourway is “Summit White”. A crisp, clean colour scheme that is equally as iconic as “Black / Pink Tint”. Faux hand drew “n. 354” is dressed in black and sits beneath bright coral tape detailing. A contrasting padded stretch tongue adds an extra pop of colour to the AF1-Type model, boasting cobalt blue. Although minimally branded, the design offers a modern take on a pre-production prototype.

Known for their comfort and practicality, Nike doesn’t cut corners when it comes to the quality of the AF1-Type. A partial breathable inner sleeve offers a sock-like feel, allowing comfort and ventilation all day long. Flywire cables and adjustable heel strap not only provides a unique closure system but additional support around your midfoot also. The AF1-Type is built with cupsole construction; delivering a harder feeling whilst offering more foot and ankle support. The Nike air unit provides lightweight cushioning and comfort, just like it did back in 1982.

The Air Force body has been a huge success since the ‘80s. The silhouette is now considered a global street culture standard. Frequently being re-envisioned by major fashion houses and Nike designers, there are hundreds of AF1 designs and collaborations available on the market today.

The Air Force 1 Type in “Black / Pink Tint” and “Summit White” is coming soon both online and in-store at Aphrodite.

May 28, 2019

SS19 Swimwear: Take The Plunge

Swimwear Styles To Invest In This Season

As blazing temperatures sizzle on the horizon and the summer season officially looms, holiday planning never strays too far from the imagination. The chance to escape reality and unwind is music to the ears. Fairly soon you’ll be digging your suitcase out of storage, blowing off the cobwebs and curating endless swimwear looks. And tipping the top of your checklist? Perhaps the most indispensable item of them all, swim shorts.

If the spring summer 19 catwalks are anything to go by, short shorts are set to truly rock the scales. Lauded designers across the board held a penchant for micro-shorts this season, with the ‘thigh’s the limit’ phenomenon spilling into the menswear circuit yet again. While we understand thigh-high hemlines aren’t for everyone, taking the plunge this summer could earn you some serious sartorial stature. Generally though, the consensus from brands – from high-end to the high-street – is to not hold back. Leave the mundane mood of your 9 till 5 life behind, have some ice-cold beers at the ready and dare to stand-out.

Vibrant palettes and patterns present another opportunity to challenge your comfort zone, labels such as Paul Smith and Ralph Lauren all make a commanding case for this. For example, Paul Smith’s multi-stripe swim shorts cast a rainbow of striking hues across their base. Boasting the brand’s synonymous ‘Artist’ stripe, this pair are guaranteed to get heads turning in the heat of summer. If you were after a head-to-toe look from the designer, look no further than Smith’s cross-strap sandals. With a contoured foam footbed, rubber tread outsole and colourful thread running throughout, what more could you need?

If you’ve thrown good investment into your swimwear and want the world to know, DSquared2 are your match. Logo-charged and loud, the brand’s holiday offerings speak words of their own. Take these monochrome swim shorts, they’re unapologetically draped in the Italian label’s identity, while to their interior, a soft slip lining ensures they provide the most comforting wear. Channel the monochrome aesthetic from the ground up with a pair of Balmain sliders for that final seal of luxury and stability poolside.

Sweeping the scene each and every summer, all-American label Ralph Lauren has found itself as a holy grail of swimwear for some years now. When balmy climates call the brand becomes an instant go-to, kitting out the masses with their ever-expanding range of swim shorts. Pursuing project pink this season, this vivid pair will stand the test of time in your holiday capsule, year in, year out. Crafted with a comforting mesh interior and three handy pockets, these bottoms possess as much substance as they do style. Double-up on Polo credentials with a matching pair of slides, showcased here with a padded foot strap and cushioned footbed for elevated comfort.

Opting to leave the staggering altitudes of the Alps behind, Italian label Moncler set up camp near crystal-clear waters this season. Practicing their presence in uncovered territory, the brand bring their tricolour accents to your holiday rotation. Taking the form of a classic chevron pattern, this pair of Moncler swims shorts unlock the label’s signature touch while remaining entirely practical for poolside activity. Ensuring the tricolour theme stays fluid, the brand’s matching red, white and blue sliders will sign off any look.

With myriads of swimwear looks on tap, BOSS frequently master a sense of summer casual that’s earned the label some timeless kudos throughout the years. Products on offer span tees, swim shorts, bags, sandals and beach towels, all imbued with the cool and comforting mentality of BOSS. Harnessing a blue and yellow colour scheme, the brand stick to the rules this season with a completely coordinated offering. Opening with a well-fitting pair of swim shorts, this swimwear set also includes a matching drawstring bag for carrying all your essentials and a cotton-terry beach towel.

With countless deliveries hitting our racks every week, set yourself apart from the crowd this summer with the plethora of swimwear on offer at Aphrodite. Life’s a beach until further notice. Shop our entire holiday shop here.

May 13, 2019

Vacation Shirts: From The Shores To The Streets

Spring Summer Shirting Styles

For some time now the vacation shirt has boasted an unbreakable bond with the menswear industry. While trends may come and go for many reasons, vacation shirts lead the way for surviving fashion’s passage of time. Packed with some serious staying power, these bold button-ups are a certain hallmark of spring summer, each and every year.

But what makes these camp-collared shirting styles so popular? Well, as the saying goes, ‘fortune favours the bold’, and these often-raucous designs have a lot to answer for that. Their head bending patterns seek maximum exposure, while their boxy, breezy cuts prove undeniably suited to the season’s sweltering climes.

SS19 Offerings:

With more vacation shirts hitting the market than ever, and more on the horizon, there’s no avoiding this lightweight layer. So whether you’re setting your sights on the tropical enclave of Hawaii or the city’s tangled streets this summer, the following vacation shirts will offer suitability for both.

DSQUARED2

Dean and Dan Caten, the Canadian duo behind DSquared2, can always be relied on to supply some seriously striking looks. Truly taking the vacation shirt trend to dizzying new heights, the Catens offer up this azure blue style. Guaranteed to make a splash at a number of summer occasions, the Italian made DSquared2 shirt surprises with a ‘spring has sprung’ kind of vibe. With this in mind, we’ve chosen to pair ours with some tonal companions, including a reflective pair of Ray Bans and smart navy trousers.

RALPH LAUREN

Opting to head back to the vacation shirt’s ostentatious roots, this flamboyant Ralph Lauren shirt will command attention for all the right reasons. The all-American label have us picturing island living with the breezy rendition. Its viscose body will ensure you remain cool and comforted through every sun-soaked getaway while staying bang on trend. We recommend reserving this garment exclusively for sandy shores and pairing with some breathable chino shorts for a smart-casual spin.

PAUL SMITH

If Kaleidoscope palettes or patterns aren’t for you, former tailor Sir Paul Smith may have your answer. Lacking colour and bold accents in the slickest way, this crisp white Paul Smith vacation shirt is every inch timeless. Crafted in Portugal and therefore sealed with exceptional quality, there’s no unnecessary fuss about this cream piece – making it the most versatile option on our lineup yet. Wear untucked for a look that cuts a casual figure.

ALBAM

Similarly, sticking to their expertly understated ways too, British label Albam choose to strip things back. Leaning on a relaxed silhouette and a cedar pink tone, this 50s inspired Albam shirt turns back the sartorial clock. Both traditional and classic, the garment’s build features a relaxed camp collar and patch pocket for a subtle touch of practicality. We reckon an enduring pair of jeans and the blissful surroundings of a beer garden will do this style some summer justice.

FOLK

Much like Albam, fellow London label Folk are fastidious about quality. And for that reason, we know you can rely on this vacation shirt’s longevity. Made from super soft cotton, with an exclusive Ikat design spanning its base, this Folk shirt takes us back to the 50s era – yet again. In a bid to tune into the garment’s vintage design cues, we’ve highlighted the style with a pair of charming boat shoes. A spacious APC tote completes the outfit and will help you navigate the nonchalant look into urban settings.

If, however, you’re not down with that shirt’s serious case of the blues, the brand has plenty more on offer. Perhaps these green or yellow Folk shirts will feel more appropriate for your rotation? They’re built with the exact same airy design and don’t need a pattern to make an impact.

PATAGONIA

Finally, in a surprising move from Patagonia – an outdoor centric brand with a feel for adventure, the label turn over a new leaf this season. Literally. Free from a wholly technical aesthetic here, this Patagonia shirt is draped in a leafy palm pattern.

Designed to look equally cool buttoned to the top or worn open, we imagine this laidback version will go down a treat on your summer holiday. Especially on the Mediterranean coast, six beers deep and far beyond.

May 7, 2019

Stussy Spring/Summer Collection

Stussy Brings Familiar Influences to Spring/Summer Collection

Streetwear stalwarts Stussy have always drawn from their home turf of Laguna Beach for inspiration; specifically, the artists, skate kids and surfers that inhabit the California locale. Less concerned with fashion than with projecting a level of tribal awareness for whichever subculture or crew they might roll with, thrift shops and surplus stores were the go-to spots to replace the latest shredded sweatshirt or pair of trousers. Stussy’s latest collection captures this effortless spirit to perfection, combining a wealth of influences to create something quintessentially Stussy, which we’ve highlighted in our latest photo editorial, shot on location in that most laid-back of locales: the laundrette.

Vintage-style sweatshirts and hoodies — in looser, period-appropriate fits — form the core of the collection, boasting graphics and embroidery inspired by everything from thrifted varsity sweats to old motorsports memorabilia. Sticking with the preppy theme, wide striped rugby shirts also make an appearance, cementing their spot as one of the best layering pieces a man can have in his wardrobe: a bit smarter than a sweatshirt, but more robust than a polo, the rugby shirt is the perfect workhorse for the transitional months.

Keeping things versatile for the warmer weather, the outerwear includes a deep indigo coverall jacket in heavy canvas and a pullover ripstop track top in a bold, 90s-style colourway. Running the gamut of collegiate style, sportswear and vintage workwear, this is one of the Stussy’s most eclectic, yet wearable collections yet.

The standout piece is the aforementioned coverall jacket. A staple of American workwear for decades, the jacket’s ready availability, hardwearing construction and utilitarian look have made it a menswear favourite, and this version is one of the best we’ve seen. Subtly differentiated from the originals with a more robust fabric, contrasting stitching and a printed Stussy Stock logo to the chest, the jacket is the perfect throw-on piece for any time of year.

Get the look for yourself: find the whole range of Stussy SS19 in-store and online now.

April 24, 2019

adidas x Missoni: Celebrating an Athletic Legacy

Since its inception in 1958, Missoni has worked its way up the ranks to become a globally-recognised luxury brand. Inspired by founder Ottavio Missoni‘s paintings, the brand’s signature is the intricate, boldly-coloured woven patterns it uses in its textiles. Zig-zags, checks and stripes all feature prominently, in a dazzling array of colours from muted earth tones to bright jewel shades. Missoni’s textile work has even been recognised as having artistic merit, having been featured in exhibitions all over the world.

adidas, by contrast, is a leading name in both sportswear and lifestyle clothing, creating countless innovations for athletes in its lifespan. At first glance, the two brands couldn’t be more different, which makes the upcoming adidas x Missoni collaboration seem like a bit of an odd one. But looking a little closer reveals that the Italian textile artists and the German sportswear kings have more in common than first thought.

Prior to founding his namesake brand, Ottavio Missoni was an accomplished hurdler, even representing Italy in the 1948 Olympic Games. This led to his first foray into the clothing industry, where he and teammate Giorgio Oberweder invented a range of lightweight wool tracksuits. The suits were so effective that they were adopted by the entire Italian Olympic team, and pushed Ottavio — along with his wife, Rosita — to start experimenting with different methods of fabric weaving. This led to the first Missoni-branded goods being available in 1958, after which the Missonis experienced global demand for their unique vision. Widely credited with being one of the original labels to bring Italian ready-to-wear to the world, Missoni became known as pioneers of the fusion of sportswear and tailoring, predating the athleisure trend by several decades.

Now, adidas have teamed with Missoni to bring Ottavio’s original concept up to date for the modern era. Leveraging both brands’ expertise to the fullest, the adidas x Missoni apparel is crafted from a lightweight wool blend that utilises adidas’ Primeknit technology along with trademark Missoni textile patterns and colours. This lends the pieces both the flexibility and moisture-wicking properties of performance athletic gear and bold, eye-catching Missoni signature style in both multicoloured and monochrome varieties.

Finishing off the collection is a trio of adidas x Missoni Ultraboost Clima trainers. The perfect choice for this collaboration, the Ultraboost straddles the performance and lifestyle categories with ease. This edition sees the traditional Primeknit uppers upgraded with Missoni-designed patterns for a hit of luxury appeal, while each boasts a contrasting medial lace panel, delivering a typically idiosyncratic Missoni finish. The rest of the shoe remains the same, riding atop a precision-tuned Boost sole unit with embedded Torsion technology, ensuring the collection’s performance characteristics remain uncompromised. Whether you’re a Missoni fan, an adidas collector or just want to flex at the gym in style, the adidas x Missoni collection is truly unmissable.

The adidas x Missoni apparel and footwear collections will be available in-store and online on the 25th of April from Aphrodite Clothing. As always, numbers are strictly limited, so make sure not to sleep if you want to secure your favourite pieces.

April 19, 2019

Parisian Perfection: APC & Maison Kitsune

Paris has long been regarded as a cultural epicentre; not just of fashion, but of style. While some of the world’s biggest luxury brands call the City of Lights their home, it’s Paris’s inhabitants that have captured the world’s collective eye. Whether taking a break at a café, running errands or just strolling around the arondissements, there’s just something about Paris that brings out that laid-back style. Get some of that style savoir-faire for yourself with the latest from A.P.C. and Maison Kitsune.

A.P.C. & Maison Kitsune SS’19

Both hailing from Paris, these two brands capture their home city’s vibe perfectly through their use of classic patterns, relaxed cuts and playful graphics. We’ve highlighted some of our favourite pieces in our latest editorial shoot. It may not be Paris, but it comes pretty darn close.

Higher or Lower?

There’s no simpler men’s style technique than ‘high-low’ dressing: that is, pairing something considered traditionally smart with more casual pieces. Take the combo above, for example: while the APC coat is of a classic ‘Balmacaan’ style, the custom-woven fabric is spring weight and lightens the silhouette considerably. Meanwhile, the Maison Kitsune t-shirt is one of the more subdued pieces in the brand’s lineup, but holds its own thanks to the slubby cotton jersey and superior Portuguese construction.

Both pieces complement each other effortlessly for a smart-casual double whammy. Combine this with the glen-plaid check pattern of the A.P.C. coat and the muted graphic on the Maison Kitsune t-shirt for extra Paris-points.

Daily Chores

There’s probably no more stereotypically ‘French’ garment than the striped long-sleeve t-shirt, so it’s no surprise one would appear here. For decades, actors, musicians and general cool people have turned to the classic mariniere as part of their daily uniform. It’s no surprise — they pretty much go with anything, from workwear to cutting edge capital-F Fashion. This version from Maison Kitsune is a beauty, constructed from a satisfyingly weighty jersey fabric and finished with the brand’s signature Fox logo.

We paired it with A.P.C.‘s upscale take on the traditional bleu de travail French worker’s jacket, which elevates the functionality of the original with a textured fabric and metallic buttons for a contemporary take on classic Gallic garms.

The Parisian Job

Still on an elevated workwear vibe, the above outfit is based around A.P.C.‘s two-piece Job set. Comprising an overshirt and a pair of straight-leg carpenter pants, the ensemble swerves away from painter-decorator territory with the use of a luxe striped fabric, delivering the typically Parisian skew on Americana that only A.P.C. can provide.

Wear the full set or mix and match the pieces with your existing wardrobe — the trousers in particular are something special, complete with the full complement of utility pockets and hammer loop. Throw on one of Maison Kitsune‘s beefy-yet-refined hoodies for the chillier days and you’re set for Springtime in Paris (or wherever else you happen to end up).

Check out the brands’ pages for even more of the good stuff, and make sure to keep an eye on our social feeds for the latest drops.

April 17, 2019

Bring it Back to 1996 with the Nike Air Zoom Alpha

Perhaps second only to Nike‘s own Air Max, Zoom Air is one of the most ubiquitous and beloved footwear technlogies to have emerged in the last few decades. Preferred by runners and basketball players for its low-profile deployment and agile, responsive nature, Zoom Air is a performance-oriented evolution of the Air Max concept. Utilising a podular design with specially-shaped pockets of encapsulated gas, the tech can be tailored to the requirements of each sport, even to individual players as seen in the numerous NBA signature models that deploy Zoom to varying degrees. Yet, while the original bearer of the Air Max label — the Air Max 1 — retains an unparalleled status as a pop culture icon, the same cannot be said of the first shoe to use the Air Zoom moniker: the 1996 Nike Air Zoom Alpha.

A technological marvel from the moment of its release, the Alpha was nevertheless quickly overshadowed by its immediate successor, the Nike Air Zoom Spiridon, whose flashy metallic branding and evolutionary mesh build resonated more strongly with sneakerheads of the time. However, as is often the case, fashion comes and goes in cycles; now, in 2019, the bulky leather panelling and aggressive stance of the Air Zoom Alpha are a perfect fit for streets rife with similar silhouettes.

Boasting a distinctive ‘wave’ design that Nike would revisit the next year in the Air Zoom Spiridon and Air Max 97, the Air Zoom Alpha is built from layers of breathable mesh and hardwearing synthetics, set atop a Phylon midsole that carries on the undulating visual language while providing extra comfort and shock absorbency. Meanwhile, underfoot the signature Zoom ‘pods’ can be seen to the outsole, used as a basis for the outsole tread pattern and promoting healthy foot movement — which translates to a supremely comfortable ride for modern wearers.

In honour of its cult classic status, Nike have reissued the Air Zoom Alpha in two distinct colourways for Spring 19: one hews closely to the sneaker’s OG colourway, with mid-90s monochrome bolstered by Nike Running’s signature Volt Yellow shade; the other delivers bold colour pops in green and red in a visual homage to a certain Italian fashion house that’s beloved by streetwear aficionados. Whichever you choose, the Nike Air Zoom Alpha is the perfect choice to flex your Swoosh knowledge this season.

The Nike Air Zoom Alpha Trainers in Black / Wolf Grey / Volt and Lucid Green / Habanero Red will be available in-store and online from Aphrodite Clothing from the 19th of April. Make sure to zoom in early to secure your size.

April 11, 2019

Moncler SS’19: From Summits to Streets

Moncler SS’19 showcases the brand’s dedication to the perfect blend of functionality and fashion. After spending years mastering the harshest conditions found atop the highest peaks, the Italian luxury brand turns its attention to the concrete jungle and applies their refined mountaineering sensibilities to a collection filled with bold graphic prints, urban appeal and contemporary style.

All White Ensemble

This all-white ensemble gives visions of fresh powder snow at basecamp and offers a more laid-back take on Moncler’s usual aesthetic. The Montreal Jacket in White boasts a technical design whilst dripping in French tri-colour goodness with unapologetic branding to the chest and sleeve. This piece will have you feeling comfortable but looking good. Whether it’s on top of the slopes or just your casual rotation. We styled the versatile jacket with some of our favourite garments from the latest batch; including Moncler Sweatpants in White and Moncler Hoodie in White.

Presenting an athletic style whilst committing to the theme of ‘as white as snow’, we paired the all-white fit with the brand’s Anakin Sneakers in White. Assembled from panels of white and light grey suede and a paint-splattered black and white rubber sole. These contemporary sneakers finished with a lace-up front in a red colourway; staying devoted to paying homage to their namesake town, Monestier-de-Clermont.

Toned Down Fit

Going back to their roots, Moncler didn’t forget to include some of their revered padded garments in the new collection. Designed with the finest ‘duvet neuf’ quilted panels; this seasons Gui Gilet is not only a personal favourite of ours but probably one of the best insulating layering pieces we’ve come across. Moncler ensures to deliver their products to the highest standard and this piece is no exception, featuring a two-way zip closure, angled side pockets for easy access and the brand’s iconic logo plaque to the chest.

The outfit is completed with the similarly impressive Dreux Jacket. Although this is a more lightweight version of the time-honoured padded down jacket, Moncler doesn’t cut corners on quality with this piece. The Dreux is the ideal addition to your technical outerwear collection. Crafted with 90% down, 10% feather padding and perfected in Romania. Two-way zip fastening and elasticated cuffs and hem assure to keep in all the warmth. A no brainer when it comes to inclement weather and unpleasant temperatures. Finished with some understated joggers; the vibrant orange lining in the hood contrasts with this all-black outfit and will add a pop of colour to anyone’s wardrobe.

The brands recently released Bubble Sneakers offer a seemingly relaxed look with plenty of intrinsic practicality. There was no holding back when it comes to the construction of the Bubble Sneaker. Printed branding to the sides, the brand’s signature colours to the collar of the shoe. A rubberised Moncler badge sits proudly to the tongue. Crafted with perfection in mind, these sneakers combine luxury construction with sportswear aesthetics.

Shop the rest of the Moncler SS’19 collection online and in-store now at Aphrodite.

March 14, 2019

adidas Originals x Artist Keiichi Tanaami

adidas Originals x Artist Keiichi Tanaami for Apparel Collection is available at Aphrodite.

adidas is no stranger to collaborations — after all, they changed the game with their Run-DMC co-sign back in the 80s — but lately they’ve been moving away from musicians and sports stars to tap into ideas from other disciplines, including modern artist Daniel Arsham, pro skater and illustrator Mark ‘Gonz’ Gonzales, and even Transport for London, the operators of the London Underground tube system. Continuing this curative approach to collaboration, this season the Herzogenaurach brand introduce their ‘Gallery Series’ of artist collabs from across the globe, with the first stop in Japan with pop artist Keiichi Tanaami.

Born in 1936 as the son of a Tokyo textile worker, Tanaami grew up in the aftermath of World War II, and translates a lot of his experiences into his psychedelic work, mixing bright American-influenced pop imagery with nightmarish monsters and mutations of familiar iconography. As a contemporary of Andy Warhol, Tanaami holds an eye for both artistic and commercial expressions, so the esteemed artist’s partnership with such a large entity as adidas makes perfect sense. The Three Stripes commissioned the collection alongside a gallery show at Tokyo’s NANZUKA, which showcased the artist’s expertise in multiple media, from large-format paintings to sculpture, all depicting the signature Trefoil logo in different interpretations and contexts.

The capsule collection of apparel – “wearable art”, as Tanaami puts it – continues in a similar vein, taking familiar adidas pieces and splicing them with Tanaami’s garish and discomforting characters, inserting them into the Trefoil to uncanny effect. Keeping the overall colour palette limited to black and white makes Tanaami’s creations stand out even more on pieces like the rugby shirt and classic hoodie, while keeping them safely in wearable territory.

A collaboration in the truest sense of the word, the Keiichi Tanaami for adidas Originals collection will be available instore and online from the 21st of March.

Older Posts