Brand Profile: Oliver Spencer

Learn more about this British designer who cannily combines traditional tailoring with modern function.

Not Available Lead
Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

Not Available Lead

OliverLead
Oliver Spencer SS10 Menswear Collection

BRAND: Oliver Spencer

SINCE: 2002

FOUNDED BY: Oliver Spencer

HOME BASE: London

WHERE TO FIND IT: Oliver Spencer, Forward Forward

WHY WE CO-SIGN: British designer Oliver Spencer started his eponymous menswear label in 2002 to "create clothes that bridge the gap between workwear and fashion; mainstream and utility". He combines his sophisticated tailoring expertise (honed from his years as a tuxedo designer), with modern, streetwear-inspired sensibilities, then peppers in aesthetics from America, Japan, and of course, his homeland. The resulting collection is marked by quality craftsmanship and the manifestation of his aforementioned vision, one that effectively and charmingly blurs the line between dress-up and dress-down.

Spencer's clientele consists of iconic figures from the Rolling Stones to Arcade Fire, and movie stars Orlando Bloom and Benicio del Toro are also known to be enthusiastic fans. And the British designer spearheaded costume designing for Guy Ritchie's 2000 flick Snatch, casting Brad Pitt and Jason Statham in duds befitting such rugged (and extremely stylish) London criminals. Bottom line? Oliver Spencer comprises all the visual elements we're crazy about and exemplifies a versatility that makes this brand well worth checking out.

Keep reading for our interview with Oliver Spencer and his five winter essentials. Our picks from his collection are also after the jump...

Oliver Spencer's Five Winter Essentials
1. Gilet with a shawl collar.
2. Peaked wool hat that transforms into a full balaclava.
3. Wedged brogue boots by Oliver Spencer.
4. Donkey jacket.
5. Corduroy tie.

Oliver1
Oliver Spencer SS10 Menswear Collection
Complex: What was the first designer item you bought?
Oliver Spencer: A Yohji Yamamoto reversible jacket

Oliver2
Oliver Spencer SS10 Menswear Collection
What's your favorite piece in the collection?
Oliver Spencer: The shawl collar gilet in Tyne Red.

Are there any special projects/collaborations we can look forward to in the near future?
Oliver Spencer: We have a collaborative shoe collection with Topman.

Oliver3
Oliver Spencer SS10 Menswear Collection
What can we expect in your next collection?
Oliver Spencer: Yellow Sowester hats because all it ever does in London is rain.

• CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE COMPLEX STYLE POSTS!

Latest in Style