In a bold move to expand their creative horizons, Pas Une Marque, known for its thought-provoking designs and philosophical underpinnings, has unveiled their eagerly awaited Autumn/Winter 2024 collection “Seams of Dissent” during NYFW at New York Men’s Day, marking a significant milestone for the brand.
Spearheaded by the brand’s founder and creative director Sean Coutts, Pas Une Marque has consistently challenged the norms of the fashion industry, pushing boundaries and sparking dialogue with their innovative approach to design. Sean Coutts has cultivated a distinct aesthetic that seamlessly blends philosophical inquiry with sartorial expression.
With meticulous attention to detail, each piece in “Seams of Dissent” seamlessly merges classic elegance with avant-garde elements, signaling a paradigm shift in contemporary fashion. To design the collection Pas Une Marque joined forces with sculptor Johnson Tsang, renowned for his ability to blur the lines between reality and art. Together, they crafted pieces that transcend traditional definitions of fashion, pushing wearers to question perception and embrace a new era of wearable expression.
Read below for our interview with designer Sean Coutts as he discusses the inspiration behind “Seams of Dissent”, his creative process in challenging fashion norms, and the message driving Pas Une Marque’s innovative approach to design and philosophy.
1. What inspired you to create the “Seams of Dissent” collection?
The “Seams of Dissent” collection is inspired by our enduring commitment to challenge and redefine the conventions of fashion and society. Drawing from the rich tapestry of philosophical thought and the rebellious spirit of the modern-day philosopher, we sought to create a collection that not only questions the status quo but also offers a new perspective on individuality and expression.
2. The collection uses state-of-the-art materials and unexpected silhouettes. Can you walk us through the creative process that involved both sourcing materials and designing?
Our creative process is deeply intertwined with our commitment to sustainability and innovation. For “Seams of Dissent,” we embarked on a global journey to source state-of-the-art materials that not only push the boundaries of fashion but also align with our environmental ethos. Each material was chosen for its unique properties and the story it tells. Design-wise, we blended these materials into unexpected silhouettes that challenge traditional fashion norms.
3. Can you highlight any standout pieces or signature elements within the collection?
The key motif, symbolizing the unlocking of new perspectives, is central to the “Seams of Dissent” collection. Personalized keys with “PAS” initials are hand-sewn onto pieces, including knitwear and brushed alpaca wool coats, representing the wearer’s journey towards self-discovery and challenging norms.
4. A large focus in the collection is redefining fashion norms and creating a personal identity. How important is self expression within fashion and what made you decide to make this an element within the collection?
Self-expression is the cornerstone of Pas Une Marque. In a world where fashion often conforms to rigid standards, we believe in the power of clothing to serve as a canvas for individuality and dissent. This collection, with its focus on redefining norms, is an invitation for wearers to explore and express their own identities through the medium of fashion, challenging them to think beyond conventional boundaries and to craft a personal style that truly represents who they are.
5. What sets Pas Une Marque apart from other brands?
Pas Une Marque stands apart through our commitment to blending philosophy with fashion, challenging societal norms, and fostering a culture of inquiry. Unlike other brands, we see fashion as a means to provoke thought, encourage dialogue, and inspire change. Our collections are not just clothing; they are a call to action, urging individuals to question, explore, and redefine their understanding of the world around them.
6. Sculptor Johnson Tsang partnered to blend the collection with his vision of wearable art and challenged perception. Could you share the thought process in deciding to team up with him?
Partnering with Johnson Tsang was a natural extension of our brand’s ethos. His ability to blend reality with surrealism and challenge perceptions through his art resonated with our mission to question and redefine the boundaries of fashion. Together, we sought to create pieces that are not just wearable but are also thought-provoking, blending Tsang’s unique vision with our philosophical underpinnings to challenge wearers and onlookers alike to see fashion, and the world, through a new lens.
7. During New York Men’s day models were seen wearing Hoka sneakers. Can you explain the inspiration behind this?
The choice of Hoka sneakers for New York Men’s Day was a deliberate juxtaposition that reflects our philosophy of challenging norms and expectations. Known for their comfort and performance, these sneakers symbolize the breaking down of barriers between luxury fashion and practical, everyday wear, underscoring our belief in the fusion of form, function, and fashion.
8. Pas Une Marque translates to “Not a Brand.” Can you explain the meaning behind this and how it is mirrored in the new collection?
Pas Une Marque, or “Not a Brand,” embodies our commitment to transcending the traditional confines of fashion branding to become a movement that champions philosophical inquiry and the reevaluation of societal norms. This collection mirrors that ethos by challenging wearers to question the established narratives of fashion and identity, encouraging a deeper engagement with the clothes we wear and the statements they make about us and the world we live in.
9. What do you hope people will take away from the collection pieces themselves as well as the message behind the collection?
We hope that people will see each piece as more than just clothing; they are invitations to engage with the world in a more thoughtful and questioning manner. Through “Seams of Dissent,” we aim to inspire wearers to embrace their individuality, challenge preconceived notions, and contribute to a philosophical dialogue.
10. What’s next for Pas Une Marque?
As we look to the future, Pas Une Marque will continue to push the boundaries of fashion and philosophy, exploring new materials, techniques, and collaborations that reflect our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social commentary. We are excited to deepen our engagement with our community, exploring new platforms for dialogue and expression, and to keep challenging the norms that shape our world. Our journey is one of perpetual evolution, driven by a desire to question, to create, and to inspire a more thoughtful and inclusive fashion landscape.
Presented by APG
