When viewing Creatures of the Wind Spring 2015 collection you can feel a sort of a united ambiguity, that often takes shape when the focus is more organic than goal oriented. A vibe of authenticity runs through the collection, that is rare today in many other collection where authenticity is forced or passes completely unaddressed. Even though the color palate differs from light blue to fire red, it comes across as a natural progression, showing a spontaneous and natural flair a few fashion houses possess.
The design duo behind the brand Creatures of the Wind are Shane Gabier and Christopher Peters, both graduates of the School of The Art Institute of Chicago. Following graduation, Gabier departed to Antwerp to work at Dirk Schonberger as a menswear designer. Peters, on the other hand, worked as a studio assistant to artist and designer Nick Cave, until, in 2008, the duo launched from Chicago what is today a blossoming fashion brand. The brand was given instant recognition with their first collection featured on the cover of WWD magazine. The following years, the collections were driven by both concept and narration, drawing inspiration from everything – from subcultures to mythology. Dedicated to thorough research and cultural references, Creatures of the Wind frequently collaborates with artists and designers, including Tabitha Simmons, Pamela Love and Erickson Beamon.
Well-known for their hands on approach, Creatures of the Wind keeps control of sustainability, a central concern for emerging brands today. While most of their products are primarily produced in New York City, the brand has also initiated production in northern Japan, while their shoes are made in Italy and the fabrics come from some of Europe’s finest mills. Brocades, jacquards and handmade laces create an amazing sartorial experience especially when paired with vintage English wool and Japanese cotton. Creatures of the Wind create complex and appealing fashion stories in each of their collections with varying shapes presented in a vast color schemes. They are speaking to a younger audience, but with the voice of someone older and wiser – a true characteristics of a timeless brand.
Victoria Edman
