Rick Owens Revives Health Goth With New Champion Collaboration

A match made in a high school alternate universe, the goth meets the American jock and launches a sportswear rebellion.

First debuted at his SS20 show last June, Rick Owens presents his latest collaboration with American heritage label Champion, and the result is a dystopian sports luxe style that brings together Rick Owens’ monochromatic aesthetic and Champion’s Reverse Weave technology.

Described by Owens as ‘stripped-down togas, loincloths and robes,’ the capsule collection combines Champion’s signature hoodie, jersey and basketball shorts with Rick Owens’ avant-garde detailing in the form of loincloth skirts, between-the-leg popper closures and oversized silhouettes.

 A somewhat serendipitous partnership, this isn’t the first time Rick Owens has taken style cues from Champion. “When I started my label in the Nineties, I hand-drew my logo as a cross between the Champion logo and a Jean Patou perfume label. They both had a similar vintage calligraphic flair,” the designer explained. 

In keeping with the monochromatic tones that earned him his ‘master of darkness’ status, the collection is presented in black and pearl colourways and features a co-branded star graphic, a subtle nod to Rick Owens’ sub-label DRKSHDW.

Fitting the brief of the social media led ‘health goth’ trend, Rick Owens X Champion’s anti-neon sportswear will have you lifting weights to the tune of Nine Inch Nails at your next gym session.

Words by Alexandra Oliver
13th March 2020
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