Francis Leon is a high-end contemporary streetwear brand inspired by sportswear, that combines sharp construction, luxury quality and effortless styling. With a nonchalant, cool and casual asethetic, they are one to keep on your radar, especially when they cite Rooney Mara, Freja Beha Erichsen, Mick Jagger and Charlotte Gainsbourg as their muses. This season is all about the misfit in the middle, so Twin spoke to designer Jo Turner to find out more.
Tell us about the Republic of Francis Leon…
The republic is how we refer to everyone related to the brand in some way… our community; from our customers, to our retailers, our photographer, agents and all the people behind the scenes. It’s about building relationships and creating something bigger than just the clothes or the brand.
What signature style/pieces can we expect from the brand?
Our signature pieces are the jackets. We mix high-quality Italian leathers with different fabrications to enhance fit and comfort. They are designed to be lo-fi luxury; casually effortless… a jacket you can throw on over anything.
What is the Francis Leon girl doing this spring? Where does she hang out?
She’s working, socialising, going to events or just hanging out in the park reading a book.
Launched in Australia, now based in London, how does this affect the collections? Does it?
I’m not sure. Our product range has changed a fair bit since moving the businesses over to Europe. We focus mostly on outerwear now. The two markets are very different, it’s quite hard for a brand to service both at the same time. Our aesthetic always leaned a bit more towards Europe than Australia, so it was quite a natural and straightforward move for us.
What are your favourite pieces from the SS14 collection?
The Avenger. It’s just a great classic biker, but at the same time a little bit different. It’s made in the softest lamb leather you can buy, with under-sleeve panels in perforated breathable neoprene for comfort and movement.
With a tomboy-ish nature and relaxed sensibility, what inspires these garments?
Each season there’s a Francis Leon heroine/character that continues through an adventure – this season, Collection 12, she finds herself a stow away on a rundown circus train. This is shown through hints of worn metallic leathers and lightning bolt details. But we always want to maintain a comfort and relaxed nature – an effortlessness; laidback sophistication.
Any collaborations or capsule collections on the horizon?
Yes, we’ve done a collaboration with Barbour International launching this winter. But definitely on the look out for more… so watch this space!
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