Sportswear and high fashion are always hard to blend well. Many labels have their collections leaning in one main direction–whether they mean to or not–either towards high fashion with little to do with sportswear, or vice versa. Sasu Kauppi however has found the perfect balance between the two elements.

Head designer Sasu Kauppi (yes it's a namesake label) founded the unique unisex abel in 2011 after graduating from the Central Saint Martins College of Art And Design in London. Kauppi aimed to create a brand inspired by renegade subculture whilst also paying strong attention to detail. He has successfully achieved his aim by continuing to create clothing that has been described as “spontaneous with a raw twist”.

The pieces are definitely spontaneous as each collection has its very own identity inspired by popular subcultures that many people can relate to. Sasu Kauppi’s latest collection is called “Sequel” and has a strong connection to science fiction. Using darker tones such as black, navy and dark grey, the AW14 collection presents the darker side of science fiction, whilst also using bolder tones to present a playful side. Sheer and denim fabrics work together to blend sleek and rough textures that create a collection that seems to have a life of it’s own.

Kauppi is indeed adept at blending elements, fabrications and influences to create designs that reflect contradictions and juxtapositions that make perfect sense when worn.

http://www.sasukauppi.com

Words/ Lauren Payne