London is a city of manifold facets, and there's a home-grown fashion brand that represents every last one. On occasion, they align—taking the city's fluid, mutable nature as inspiration. The latest example of such a collab is between the respective figureheads of the metropolis' punk and skateboarding subcultures: Vivienne Westwood and Palace.

Following a teaser simultaneously posted by both brands' Instagram accounts, a lookbook shot by Shoichi Aoki (founder of FRUITS magazine) for the incoming drop—what's seemingly the first of a series of collections—has revealed its vibe.

Suitably, it's very Camden x Southbank.

For those who reside outside the M25, that means oversized graphic tees and shirts styled with slightly slouchy utilitarian trousers and conspicuously avant-garde accessories; co-ord denim, co-ord tartan and co-ord graphic sweats; and lots and lots of opportunity for layering. This is England, remember.

“This collection is a true reflection of our shared values and influences,” says Palace co-founder Gareth Skewis, “bringing together two distinct perspectives united by a common ground of independent thought, all with a uniquely London twist.”

“It felt natural for us to join forces, it was a very playful exercise,” adds Vivienne Westwood's creative director, Andreas Kronthaler.

The sharp-eyed will spot that the collection is littered with Palace and Westwood earmarks of past and present. Of course, the Vivienne orb makes several appearances; as does the Palace triangle.

Beyond that, the nods are more obscure. For example, a print named "salon" that harks back to Vivienne Westwood SS92 decorates several pieces, including a Gore-Tex jacket made ready for wandering through bustling markets and strolling beside the Thames this autumn.

Palace x Vivienne Westwood launches in the brands' respective boutiques—including their webstores.

Originally published on Esquire UK

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