Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XVII

2 1 5 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I Sportswear from the 1980s is reimagined with tactile fabrications: a white-striped black loose- legged tracksuit in supple, lustrous leather; springy white terry towelling used in shorts and hoodies; papery nylon printed with fluorescent camouflage constructed into lightweight parkas and shorts; jersey-bonded leather amps up coat volumes. Like graphic lines on a silkscreen print, red and blue thermo tape is applied to outline seams and pockets on a trench, trousers and shirt. Relaxed jeans with worn-in knees are patched with faded denim polka dots. Accessories show a similar flair for punchy detail. A chunky serrated tread elevates traditional baseball sneakers and neon-soled sandals. Thick-rimmed eyeglasses and mirrored sunglasses shade the eyes with style. Bags are oversized and highly functional: a large holdall two-zip bag is constructed with two front pockets, whilst a nylon backpack features any number of handy compartments. All are rendered in a variety of vibrant hues and Pop Art-inspired prints. There’s also a line of brightly coloured soft wheeling luggage. Top everything off with one of DS2’s baseball caps or a leather belt to complete the look. Head designers Dean and Dan Caten are twin brothers whose dual creative vision is apparently every bit as harmonious as their identical physical appearance. They can sometimes be controversial figures in the fashion world, famed for their irreverence in addition to their bold designs. The Catens, though, are smart enough to always ensure that their own feisty personalities never overshadow the sheer vibrancy of their work; it merely serves to provide a fittingly assertive backdrop. The clothes always take centre stage, and rightfully so. Their instinct for sportswear is spot-on. Underneath all the swagger is an impeccably tailored, beautifully constructed range of clothing that will appeal to all – and that’s what truly commands your attention.