On Tuesday evening I made the long-overdue pilgrimage to the city of my favourite football club (United not City) but I was in town for a completely different agenda…The Bench AW12 collection launch party. Clothes, Cocktails and Foosball after the cut. 

Firstly, I must state it is so refreshing to witness a brand stick to its roots instead of running to London to host its events. Bench made a great decision in extending its Manchester hospitality and by doing so emphasising the ‘Self Made‘ message.

A Self Made success in its own right, Bench has evolved from a group of friend selling their t-shirt designs in Manchester to a global lifestyle brand.

On arrival to the infamous 2022NQ, myself and fellow London fashion blogger Platform P were given a overview of the collection. The inspiration for the ‘Self Made’ collection is the idea that city dwellers are longing for the great outdoors…the rugged terrain and unknown.This season’s collection is a story of adventure and exploration with pieces built for comfort and versatility.

The cliche but well delivered autumn palette of khaki, rusty orange and burgundy

Military details, multi-pockets and wild-craft inspired trims

The Devil is in the detail

Rum fuelled cocktails provided by the eccentric ‘UK Tiki Team’.

The temptation was too much. Chilli hotdog provided by the Harvey Nichols Street Food team

Nacho Cheeseeee

The dreamy vocals of Lulu James

I decided it would be unfair for a 9 time foosball world champion like myself to compete in the tournament to win an iPad 3…

Bench has teamed up with Vice Magazine to produce a booklet titled ‘A book about people making it happen’. A closer look at the creative and independent individuals in cities around the world and the new collection inspired by them.

My only negative is that I would have loved to learn more about this aspect of the collection during the launch party. If your interested in check it out here or get your hands on the digital version of the book here

All good nights must come to an end. Big shout out to Canoe Inc 

Channel Orange  x Self Made