U launches menswear

Luxury streetwear label U Clothing is launching its menswear collection for SS12. Set up in 2010, U will feature everyday wardrobe pieces, such as deconstructed shirting, luxury sweats and workwear for men from next season.

Like the womenswear range the new collection is designed by Rafal Antos, Rietveld Academy (NL) graduate and formerly Design Manager at Gap Europe. Inspired by Californian lifestyle, U fuses 70s beach culture effortlessly with Japanese precision. The deconstructed designs have a modern feel to it and are made of luxury fabrics such as finely spun jersey, french terry and Italian shirting.

After investigating clothing factories in LA, U moved its production to Italy earlier this year. In Europe the quality and craftsmanship meet the high-end standards of the brand and the often complex cuts and detailing require know-how and precision.

Founder and Designer Rafal Antos said: “We are very excited to launch our first menswear collection. Our aesthetic is very masculine styled, which crosses over into our womenswear. We like the idea of producing luxury basics, a wardrobe of pieces you wear and love every day."

The brand has currently signed to Futurenet and Tomorrow Ltd, one of Europe's leading sales agencies who have distributed brands such as Raf Simons. U Clothing is available in the UK from selected stores such as Harrods and Harvey Nichols. The luxe casualwear has been worn by celebrities such as Gemma Arterton, Eva Mendes, Reese Witherspoon and Courtney Cox-Arquette.

Image: U SS12