-shirt shops and vintage stores.
Lewi Brown: From Athlete to Streetwear Designer
Professional athlete turned streetwear designer, Lewi Brown, has taken a unique path to success. As the founder of Earls Collection, Brown has created a brand that combines his personal story with a distinct design aesthetic rooted in authenticity. His latest collection, “For Earl,” continues this tradition by incorporating pieces that reflect his family, heritage, and identity. The collection’s name pays tribute to his middle name, which holds a special significance as it was shared by his late father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. What was once not fully embraced has now become a symbol of resilience and pride for Brown, as he turns his family name into a defining element of his creative journey.
Inspired by Classic Workwear Brands
In his upcoming collection, Brown draws inspiration from classic workwear brands such as Carhartt and Dickies, blending utilitarian influences with softer textures like mohair knitwear. While previous collections from Earls have shied away from overt references to Brown’s professional sports career, this collection sees him revisiting those roots and incorporating archival elements for a full-circle moment.
An Exclusive Interview with HYPEBEAST
In an exclusive interview with HYPEBEAST, Brown reflects on the personal significance behind “For Earl,” the inspirations driving his latest designs, and how his creative journey has evolved since leaving professional sports. The “For Earl” Autumn Drop One will be available on Thursday, April 3 at 10am AEDT/Wednesday, April 2 at 7pm EST.
A Collection with Heart and Personal Narrative
When asked about the upcoming collection, Brown shares, “The ‘For Earl’ collection is really special to me. It’s a project that encompasses everything I’ve been working towards in terms of my vision for the brand. It’s more than just clothing; it’s a personal narrative. There’s a lot of heart in this one.” He goes on to explain that the collection is an extension of who he is, with a focus on experimentation with textures, shapes, and materials. While it may be a departure from previous collections, it still embodies the essence of Earls.
A Natural Evolution with a Refined Aesthetic
Brown also discusses how “For Earl” differs from his previous collections, stating, “It’s a bit of a leap for us in terms of design. I really pushed myself to do something that felt like a natural evolution, but still fresh.” He notes that while there are familiar elements from previous collections, the overall feel of this one is more refined, showcasing the growth of the brand. When it comes to workwear, Brown draws inspiration from his childhood favorites, Carhartt and Dickies, which he believes have a timeless Americana appeal.
Influenced by a Trip to Japan
Brown also shares that a recent trip to Japan played a role in the collection’s design. “Walking the streets of Shibuya and Harajuku, going into old t-shirt shops and vintage stores, really influenced me,” he says. This trip sparked his interest in incorporating vintage elements into the collection, adding to its unique and personal feel.
