The Shag in his custom-made Devel jacket.
Fashion collaborations bring another level of creativity and excitement to what is already an innovative industry, and we were curious to learn more about local label Devel's collaboration with Southern California artist Shag, aka Josh Agle. We interviewed Devel designer, Danielle Gardner, for our Style File Q&A series back in March, she specialises in making unique custom-made clothing which has a vintage feel and is beautifully constructed and finished. Shag is best known for his paintings which have a distinctive 1950s and 1960s vibe, which celebrates the cocktail culture of the time in a commercial art style.
When Gardner interviewed Shag for a story on his work and how he likes to party for Glory Days magazine's recent party issue, she discovered that his personal style was just as vibrant and playful as his artwork, sparking the idea that a fashion collaboration between the two would be a fun project. After mocking up her idea for the jacket and presenting it to him, The Shag Jacket began to take shape and references his swinging style brought to life by her careful workmanship. Since Shag's home is in the sunshine state of California the jacket is lightweight but in a smoking jacket style that is perfect for the Palm Springs soirees Agle himself hosts.
The details of the jacket are really impressive, with so many little features built into the design, the pockets that are incorporated into the couch and fireplace are particularly cleverly done. We love the idea that Gardner has made a version of Shag's artwork minus the people because the person that matters most is the one wearing the jacket. Looking at his artwork you can see that she truly captured its aesthetic in this piece and the way that he has styled it certainly has a cool retro vibe. No doubt Devel will be getting many more custom orders from this brilliant piece of wearable art.
Images supplied.