Spring/Summer 18 interview with Lennaert Nijgh from Benzak Denim Developers
As to the Robin Denim SS18 series, we have already heard some exciting details about the upcoming collections of Momotaro Jeans, Rogue Territory and Japan Blue Jeans. Today, in the fourth chapter, we will speak with Lennaert Nijgh, founder of Benzak Denim Developers. Following the same five questions, Lennaert will share some cool details about items that will be released coming spring.
Photo Courtesy of Benzak Denim Developers
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What can we expect from Benzak Denim Developers considering the first collection of 2018?
Since BDD has been working with a continuous collection, we have been looking into items that could be added to the current collection. For AW17 we are releasing a new tapered fit (B-03, for the BENZAK – EUROPEAN MADE line) and we will continue exploring this fit for SS18. Also new for AW17 are stone washes, and this will be expanded in SS18 as well. Completely new for the brand are non-denim pants, based on the new B-03 fit. The fabrics we use have very interesting features and constructions, but are all indigo dyed and still do not feature any elastane (the entire collection remains 100% cotton). We feel that a lot of consumers are looking for comfort in clothing, and with this offer we can adapt to this trend without putting aside our concept and beliefs.
For AW17 we are releasing a super heavy 500gsm hooded sweater in grey melee, and we are going to expand this segment with other garments in different colors.
For our ‘made in Japan line’ we expect to release a new tapered fit as well, but this is still in development. This will not be part of a specific summer or winter drop, but will be released whenever we feel it’s ready.
We also partnered up with Talon who is now supplying all our zippers for various garments.
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Where does the initial inspiration for the upcoming collection come from?
Our entire collection is based on function over fashion, and timeless pieces, and we try to keep this in our future collection as well. If you look a bit more specific at the items we are creating for the BENZAK – EUROPEAN MADE line, you can see a connection with American sportswear, like our tees and sweats. The new stone washed jeans also goes very well with this look.
Photo Courtesy of Benzak Denim Developers
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Can you describe the process behind the upcoming collection?
We always look at our current offer and look for options to expand our lines. For example, our tee line has enough options at the moment; we offer 3 styles in multiple colors plus some new long sleeve baseball tees for AW17, and we don’t think we are in need of anything new in that segment for now. But we only have 4 sweatshirt options, so that has been our focus within the tops range. That also goes for the bottoms: why offering 10 new dry denim options if you already have so many to choose from? So we have explored the washes and non-denim pants more elaborately. Of course, there will be some new dry denim options to choose from, we would never abandon our core business.
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For denim brands, autumn/winter is usually the best season to sell, have you tried to change it with the new spring/ summer collection?
We try not to think in seasons and offer the same collection throughout the year, because there are different weather conditions all over the world. Instead of bringing new tees, we bring heavy sweats and keep on offering heavy denim fabrics. So, no, not really.
Photo Courtesy of Benzak Denim Developers
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What do you think is the most promising item in the upcoming collection?
We believe that our non-denim pants offer will turn most heads, especially because they are not expecting it from BDD. But we are sure that even the most hardcore denim lovers can really learn to appreciate them!
Photo Courtesy of Benzak Denim Developers
Photo Courtesy of Benzak Denim Developers
Photo Courtesy of Benzak Denim Developers
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