Paul Weller Launches Menswear Brand

The Modfather Paul Weller has broken away from his ties with Pretty Green, announcing the launch of his own menswear line.

Real Stars are Rare is a joint venture between the former front man and Phil Bickley, owner of the Tonic menswear store on Portobello Road.

The inaugural autumn/winter 2014 collection is described as a fusion of sharp tailoring and quality fabrics.

Fifty-five-year-old Weller explained the name, saying: “Real stars are rare… they only come out at night.”

“Make of that what you will but I like it and there’s a lot of truth in it,” he added.

The launch is a natural progression for Weller, following on from various menswear collaborations. In 2011 the English singer/songwriter created a capsule collection for Liam Gallagher’s Pretty Green label. Shortly after, he fronted the sixties-inspired John Varvatos campaign alongside new talent Miles Kane.

Weller acknowledged his appreciation for fashion as he spoke about the release of his own creation: “Clothes and music, music and clothes, for me they go hand-in-hand. They’ve helped shape who I am”.

The brand aims to be a reflection of Weller’s own style. The initial offering includes outerwear, tailoring, shirting, knitwear and accessories. A rich palette of plum, charcoal and petrol blue sits alongside grey tones as well as hints of chocolate brown and dogtooth print.

Outerwear is served by a fly-front fastening navy car coat, while tailoring comes through in single and double-breasted wool jackets, and slim bootcut trousers in superfine kid mohair.

One hundred percent cotton poplin dress shirts feature next to more casual short sleeve Henleys, and 33 gauge 100 percent wool merino knits.

Plans have already been set in motion for further collections and possible collaborations, with Weller telling: “We’ve got big ideas and plans. This autumn/winter launch collection is just the start”.