Now that it’s really starting to get cold (at least on the east coast), it’s time to start looking for new jackets that make a statement. For those who don’t want to just stick with the typical (and boring) Northface jackets, take a look at the various ones 55DSL are offering this season. 55DSL started off as an experimental spin-off of Diesel, but has now developed is own fun and exuberant personality. It has created a creative fusion of radical sports (surf, skate, snow) and urban culture. 55DSL wants their clothing to transition effortlessly from the sports scene, whether it be a mountainside or skate park, to the city scene. If the line’s clothing can withstand the weather and conditions of the mountainside, it should be able to withstand the toughest elements in the city.
For the warmer days, there are a number of lightweight sport jackets such as the JOBEAUTY for women and the JETSTORM for men. The JOBEAUTY offers a more feminine version of the typical 80s-nostalgic sports jacket for women. It’s blue at the bottom of the jacket, which then fades into black at the top. This way, instead of having to decide between getting a black or navy jacket, you can get both colors in one. 55DSL’s logo and name are highlighted in this collections colors: hot-red, turquoise, and purple. Then, for those days where it’s cold enough to kill you, 55DSL has puffers (Jacco for women and Jip and Jipper for men) and military parkas (the Jagg for men and the Jagg FL for women). These puffers offer an urban alternative of the typical down Northface with their shiny exteriors. If you’re looking for a longer coat to protect you from the wind, try the Jagg, which is made out of tough aviation-style satin. For girls, a military-style jacket can give edge to a more feminine outfit. The company also offers FiftyFifty5 light jackets that are comfortable enough to be worn like a sweatshirt, but warm enough to be worn as a jacket. Putting a sporty twist on the grunge trend this season, 55DSL offers the Fujii Lin and the Fujiwara Lin, which has a printed check on a polyester piquet.
In addition to its wide selection of jackets, 55DSL offers a whole line of shirts, sweats, pants, hats and eyewear for both men and women. Everything in the collection has a sporty look with an urban twist. Personally, I reallly like the colored denim jeans that come in turquoise and purple. According to the company’s Fall/Winter ‘08 press release, the “collection was inspired by hi-fidelity stereo equipment and twisted references to the late 80’s. Quirky audiocassette graphics, as well as old LP covers, are corrupted with our usual irreverence.” For those of you who haven’t checked out this brand, check them out at a store near you. In fact, if you live in the Orange County area, check out the new pop-up 55DSL store at South Coast Plaza opening on November 3. Finally, on somewhat of a sidenote, 55DSL’s slogan “Live at least 55 seconds per day” is pretty true. Life can be pretty hectic, but we should all take the time to slow down and enjoy it, whether through fashion, music, or culture.
Get a sneak peek of the entire Fall/Winter collection here.