Pattern Pulp

Marketing Men's Camo




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Camouflage is a seasonal staple – especially in men’s fashion. Whether colors, textures or materials are being swapped, it’s an adaptable pattern that’s assimilated with pop culture trends (far beyond military aggression).

Here are a few outerwear items from Valentino and Coach. The campaigns are similar in vibe and feel, from the model choice, pose and faux outdoor scenery. For better or worse, it seems like Juergen Teller and Terry Richardson still have a grasp on the photographic direction in play…as we’re still seeing head-on flash photography in a rough-around-the-edges kind of way. It is refreshing though, to see pops of color softening the set and scenery – the tulips in the Valentino spread add a lot of oomph to the storytelling.

 

Using Instagram to Spot Trends




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For better or worse, Instagram keeps me in the loop. Anyone else feel this way?

From observing work-in-progress from inspiring creatives to following design shows I can’t attend, the influx of imagery is really useful and pretty inspiring. Oftentimes, it helps confirm theories that have been floating around in my head- in regard to trends popping up in various design communities around the world, (say in Australia, Helsinki and L.A), and also leads me to new ideas and talent. It’s a pretty useful tool beyond selfies and party pics.

Yesterday, I took a screenshot of the Phillips Auction House invite. It seems fairly standard at first, but I loved the combination of camo and metallic in an upscale layout. This artistic commerce pays homage to Andy Warhol, presenting part of a timeless series. This lead me along the path of neon camo and got me thinking about where it’s popping up this season. You can always expect reinterpretations, so it’s worth following the art world to stay abreast, if not ahead of curb. Art always leads fashion (in my humble opinion).

Here we have sneakers, (bags and wallets) from Valentino. The kicks straddle a unisex vibe, but are sold in the men’s department. This chambray/camo/drawstring pullover by General Idea is another commercial, yet creative direction for guys that feels fresh this season. If you’re looking to simply add elements of the concept to your wall or iPhone, check out Joe Van Wetering’s work. His prints speak to the camo-loving monochromatist.

 

Book Review: Disruptive Pattern Material




When most of us think of camouflage, our minds immediately drift to military or military-inspired designs. As pattern enthusiasts, however, we know there’s more to the story than meets they eye.

Hardy Blechman took it upon himself to delve into the vast world of camouflage – charting the pattern’s history from its roots in nature, through to its adoption by the military and on to its current popularity and use within modern civilian culture. Over 6 years, he’s gathered over 5,000 images and interviewed an extensive cast of consultants. From the expected military uses to art, biology, music and fashion, Disruptive Pattern Material comprehensively examines the art and science of camouflage with a little something for everyone. Click here to purchase.

Tracking Repetitive + Awesome.
On Instagram.