#alexander helle

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Making an entrance

Ph: Beyond Fabric

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Norwegian Rain SS19 Collection - Pitti Uomo 94 Preview

By now there’s no need to go deep into why I love Norwegian Rain so much: simply put there’s nothing like it on the market and I feel utterly lucky to be part of their team. While you could say my opinion is biased, let me start by saying I fell in love with their project way before joining it. Furthermore, the collections speak for themselves and if you take a moment to further inspect them, I’m sure your opinion will not diverge from mine.

The sheer functionality of Norwegian Rain raincoats is superb, withstanding both rain and wind indefinitely, while their unique Japanese-inspired designs add just the right amount of elegance and individuality. Despite highly technical in essence, with thoroughly researched recycled fabrics at its core, the sartorial construction allows the high-tech to remain hidden. Then it comes down to the small details: padded interiors, cashmere linings, horn buttons, removable storm flaps, hoods and belts, the works.

SS19 it’s not only about new styles, patterns and pastel shades, but an in-depth look at the trademark designs to improve them to perfection. Better trimmings and construction allow for elegant draping, ensuring the raincoats don’t reveal the lining when worn opened. Sartorially inspired pinstripe fabrics make their way into the lineup, along with color blocking and the recently added waterproof apron. The accessory range remains strong with hats, shoes and 3 bag styles: backpack, tote and weekender, all waterproof as required.

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Team Norwegian Rain

Pitti Uomo 91

Ph: Beyond Fabric

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That unique feeling

Ph: Beyond Fabric

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Alexander Helle and T-Michael

Ph: Beyond Fabric

[beforeeesunrise]

Pitti Uomo 90

Alexander Helle & T-Michael

Photo by YuYang

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An Updated Biker

Few jackets portray such a strong trademark image as the iconic Biker. Originally a leather jacket descending from the aviator version, the motorcycle jacket experienced a rise in popularity on a variety of channels and subcultures. Be it through Marlon Brando’s characters in numerous films such as “The Wild One”, or its adoption as the go-to uniform for rebellious youngsters during the punk era, the biker jacket quickly became an acclaimed model across several branches of popular culture. Combining the unruly nature of rock ‘n roll and punk culture with the alluring sex appeal of leather, the biker jacket soon crossed boundaries into high fashion territory. This strong link is one that remains to this day...

With the wide range of variations now available on the market, namely in terms of fit, materials and details, I wanted to share with you one of the most exclusive and outstanding to this date, courtesy of Norwegian Rain. Reinventing the original biker through the use of its exclusive technical waterproof fabrics, added length and sleek lines, the brand was able to deliver a garment with a much more sophisticated feel to it. Recapturing its aviator origins, a detachable shearling collar has been added, along with an array of subtle pockets spread throughout and the iconic asymmetrical closure, this time around with two-way zippers that result in several silhouettes. Besides the inherent aesthetic appeal, the beauty of it resides in the uncanny versatility, looking just as beautiful paired with denim on a bike, as with more polished attires such as the one depicted here. I love how it contrasts against the vintage bespoke oatmeal flannel trousers and the double denim combination of vest and polo shirt. To top it off, the knitted tie introduces hints of burgundy picked up by the burgundy derby shoes. 

Details: The Biker by Norwegian Rain, washed denim vest by Fortela, made to order denim polo shirt by Naked - Filippo Matera, vintage oat flannel sartorial trousers by Rota, burgundy derbies by Manuel Gomez Artesanos, silk knit tie by Vandoma and Pleat shades The Bespoke Dude Eyewear.

Model and Styling: Miguel Amaral Vieira

Ph: Filipa Alves

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The Ultimate Rain Coat

Although theoretically, Spring should be announced through the coming of warm, sunny days, what we’ve experienced in recent years is a delay in the arrival of such days, with rain and wind stretching as late as May. This recurrent phenomenon gives a whole new meaning to Spring Showers, highlighting the importance of adjusting your wardrobe, namely through the addition of waterproof garments such as waxed coats, trenches or lightweight parkas. Today I present to you, what I believe to be the ultimate rain coat: The Double Breasted by Norwegian Rain.

I’ve praised the outstanding creations of design duo T-Michael and Alexander Helle several times before. Living in Bergen, the rainiest city in Europe with up to 320 rainy days per year, the decision to create unique weatherproof garments was not so much a matter of passion as it was a necessity. The result, as you know by now, is a collection of carefully curated coats that fuse highly technical fabrics, with traditional tailoring techniques and a hint of Japanese flair and sensibility. From statement models that make the most of volume and proportion, to understated suit jackets that blend perfectly with formal wear, Norwegian Rain delivers a vast selection of pieces suitable for all styles. Being one of the very few brands that actually presents technological innovation to the fashion industry, the nordic brand is one to keep a close eye on. 

Choosing just one model from their collection poses a though challenge, but after careful consideration I ended up going for the The Double Breasted. Besides the outstanding silhouette, quality and design itself, one of the aspects that appealed to me the most was the outspoken versatility of the coat: reminiscent of traditional double breasted trench coats, this version pairs as beautiful over a suit as it does with rolled selvedge denim and military boots. The technical fabric is simply superb, coming in military green herringbone spread across several layered elements that allow to wear it open, semi-fastened or fully buttoned, portraying different silhouettes according to your attire. Details are never-ending, after wearing it several times I still manage to find another pocket, adjustable strap or customised label, that further emphasise the personal style component. As a matter of fact, this is a piece that can be worn in opposite ends of the style spectrum and still look unique, depending on whether you adjust the waist strap, resort to the belt or throw on the hood and storm flaps. Definitely one of the most striking garments that comprise my current wardrobe.

Details: olive green herringbone double breasted coat by Norwegian Rain, MTO Loro Piana Doeskin blazer by Gentleman Tailors, cashmere cardigan by Annapurna 5+1, striped dress shirt by Ann Demeulemeester, herringbone new classic pants by CAMO, tassel loafers by Bexley, vintage silk knit tie and watch by Rolex

Model and Styling: Miguel Amaral Vieira

Ph: Filipa Alves

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