London-based genderless streetwear label Aries has returned with a first look at its Spring/Summer 2022 collection that spotlights another diverse range of influences, patterns and motifs.
For this collection, the brand has incorporated both graphics and references to both high and low culture which have been utilised across a selection of signature motifs — such as the Aries temple logo and “No Problemo” slogan — as well as new climbing-inspired trousers and Oxford shirts.
A key theme for the collection is nostalgia. Speaking to HYPEBEAST about the collection, founder and creative director Sofia Prantera said, “I think looking back for inspiration is natural, but I would never want to be too literal and I am not interested in straight copies of vintage items; it’s about learning from the past and developing the new, so these references are scattered throughout the collection in a very subtle way.”
The new collection also sees the label pay homage to the notion of imperfection, particularly across the line’s dyeing process. Having gained a reputation for its dyeing and washing techniques, a number of pieces within SS22 arrive in a sun-kissed, bleached finish, creating a dead-stock feel to the collection. “I like a challenge. The manufacturing process has become a lot easier and by trying to achieve uniqueness and imperfection you challenge this process and get something new,” Prantera explains.
Finally, this season also marks the return of Aries’ tongue-in-cheek graphics, with everything from a “No Yoga” slogan to rude graffiti appearing. Continuing with the multidisciplinary theme, the graphics used have been inspired by a diverse range of influences including “Obscure Vintage, Squeak the Mouse, Frigidaire, Pollock, Rothko, Hydro-dripping, slogan graffiti, Chamberlain,” each of which is utilised across this season's picks.
Selects from Aries’ SS22 collection can be seen below, the full range is set to launch on January 28 via the Aries webstore.
