Raf Simons and Fred Perry's relationship continues to revolve around the thirty leaf laurel logo originally used in the 1960s' but for A/W 09, the laurel gets a metal rusting treatment and is enlarged and embroidered on the classic polo shirt. In addition, Simons has also designed a special centenary outfit in honour of Fred Perry, which is complete with reworked brogues, giving a hint of the direction Raf Simons wants to go with his Fred Perry collaboration for seasons to come. Simons was kind enough to add his few cents about the collection whilst busy with his own menswear collection being presented at the end of the month.

Dazed Digital: How has your working relationship with Fred Perry developed over the past few seasons?
Raf Simons: The collaboration has developed in an excellent way. We started off positively and it has only gone from strength to strength. I think they are a very professional team who share the same spirit and mind. Quality is very important for me and the Fred Perry quality is definitely outstanding. As well as being professional, they are also lovely to work with.  

DD: Did Fred Perry's 100 Yr Anniversary have any effect on the A/W09-10 collection that you did for Fred Perry?
Raf Simons: No, we wanted to keep the collection separate however we did collaborate on a suit design for the 100 year celebration inspired by an outfit that Fred Perry wore in 1947.

DD: Where did the initial inspiration of rusting metal come from?
Raf Simons: The inspiration came from the artist Carl Andre. We always aim to have a clear aesthetic so we can focus on the Fred Perry classics but with a twist and in this case it was through a metal effect.

DD: Can you tell us anything about what is in store for Fred Perry x Raf Simons S/S 10....?
Raf Simons: The main aim for S/S 10 was to offer a complete, structured collection and to build on this range going forward by creating a wardrobe' collection that includes apparel, footwer and accessories. We feel this has been achieved in A/W 09 and are looking forward to creating a S/S 10 collection which mirrors this in both quality and style. Colours will be bright.

CREDITS
Photography Mari Sarai
Styling Robbie Spencer
Hair Naoki Komiya using Bumble and Bumble
Model Michael T at FM