Tropical Futures Institute and Eastern Margins Collaborate on Capsule Collection
The Tropical Futures Institute (TFI) and Eastern Margins have joined forces to create a special capsule collection that draws inspiration from Asian underground culture, diasporic identity, and tropical regions. This collaboration, described as “built for heat” and “styled for the margins,” features unique items such as a sarong and bike jersey, showcasing DIY aesthetics and rave art from East and Southeast Asia.
TFI and Eastern Margins: A Fusion of Asian Underground Culture and Diasporic Identity
TFI, the tropics-inspired label founded by Chris Fussner, has teamed up with Eastern Margins, a London-based collective known as the “home of Alternative Asian culture,” to create a new aesthetic that combines elements of digital culture, Drain Gang, and tropical themes. The result is a collection that is both visually striking and culturally significant.
“Built for Heat” and “Styled for the Margins”: The Collection’s Unique Pieces
The collaborators describe their collection as “built for heat,” “born from the tropics,” and “styled for the margins.” Each piece, including a pink baby tee, a cobranded bike jersey, a graphic t-shirt, an embroidered trucker cap, and a sarong, incorporates DIY aesthetics and rave art from East and Southeast Asia.
The Sarong: A Highlight of the Collection
One of the standout pieces in the collection is the sarong, which takes inspiration from traditional garb worn in various tropical Asian cultures. The sarong features a “tropical drainer” design by Bea Cruz, adding a unique touch to this versatile garment.
TFI: Bridging Art, Design, and Research in the Tropics
Founded in 2017 by Chris Fussner, TFI aims to shed light on contemporary culture in the tropics, particularly in the Philippines and wider Southeast Asia. Fussner states that TFI’s goal is to represent diverse expressions across the tropics and bridge the worlds of art, design, and research.
TFI x Denim Tears: A Popular Collaboration
TFI has previously collaborated with Denim Tears, resulting in the widely recognized “LATE CAPITALISM” graphic seen on caps and tees. The collection was first released at Dover Street Market Singapore and is now available on the TFI web store.
Get Your Hands on the TFI x Eastern Margins Collection
The TFI x Eastern Margins capsule collection is now available for purchase on the TFI web store. Check out the campaign shot by Khristiandt Lerona in the gallery above for a closer look at the unique pieces in this collaboration.
