New To HIP: Nicholas Daley
Founded in 2015, Nicholas Daley’s eponymous label connects music, style and culture. In Daley’s early years he was surrounded by musical influences – his parents even ran a reggae night – which gave rise to a diverse taste from soul, to jazz and reggae. Daley’s musical palette has defined his approach to style – previous references have touched on icons like Miles Davis and Jimi Hendrix, developing the brand’s tasteful aesthetic.
What makes Daley’s label unique is the combination of cultural relevance and timeless craft. After growing up in the Midlands, Daley moved to London to study menswear at the prestigious Central Saint Martins. His graduate collection in 2013 was even purchased by Tokyo’s esteemed lifestyle retailer BEAMS, connecting the designer to the Japanese market and its textile expertise. Artisanal methods also lie at the heart of Nicholas Daley – the brand has assembled a group of hand-knitters all across the midlands. Another layer to the designer’s craftsmanship is a focus on local manufacturers to produce exclusive pieces using bespoke fabrics.
Daley’s vision is multi-disciplinary – guided by ‘culture, community and craftsmanship’, the designer has supported independent artists and record labels, experimented with imagery and lookbooks and even put on his own music show. Each Nicholas Daley collection also ties back to a powerful identity that goes beyond music and clothing. Daley explores his multicultural Scottish-Jamaican roots and translates ideas about heritage and memory in a wider Black British narrative.
With Daley the recipient of multiple awards within the industry and having collaborated with the likes of adidas, Fred Perry and Fender, the designer represents one of the most exciting contributions to contemporary clothing.
Nicholas Daley – New To HIP For SS23. Online Now.