Jeff Griffin is the designer behind Griffin. He graduated from St. Martins with distinction in his Master of Arts degree in 1990.

Biography.

Jeff Griffin is the designer behind Griffin. He graduated from St. Martins with distinction in his Master of Arts degree in 1990. He initially worked in Italy with such labels as Valentino and Americanino, but was headhunted to design and launch the 'Voyage' label.

From this success came the inspiration for his own label collection, which initially launched under the name 'Griffin Laundry' in June 1993.

Concept.

Griffin design is focussed on producing a garment of the highest quality aesthetic, from conception to realisation of each and every piece. Working alongside pattern cutters in Italy, our designs are nurtured and evolve until they become a Griffin garment, with a distinct hand finished feel.

Griffin designs are as conceptual as they are functional; they are at the cutting edge of technology with a touch of the hand-made. Griffin interprets classic military design, and gives it an innovative utilitarian twist. This is combined with a creative usage of fabrics through dying techniques, washes and finishes to give garments their own, unique Griffin identity.

'Griffin Laundry' has been re-introduced as a rawer, purer alternative to Griffin, and is a label, which reflects modern living, focusing on natural fabrics, detail and washes.

 

Philosophy.

Griffin is about questioning and challenging the restraints of society, always kicking against the acceptable. Thought provoking and political stances taken by Griffin, such as anti-war and anti-establishment, have provided opportunities to work with noted graffiti artists such as Banksy, and photomontage artist Peter Kennard.

Griffin isn’t just fashion but a creative design force. We value authenticity and have utilitarian inclinations combining elements of militarism, combat and sportswear. Working from concepts, pieces are created – drawing on the experiences of the conceptual and creative people who surround the Griffin team. Griffin is a creative team whose various talents and fields of expertise span the artistic disciplines.

2000 saw the launch of both the online and concept store on Portobello Road, London. It is this concept store that Griffin has used as a blank canvas for docking and

exchanging ideas, as well as showcasing creative expression.

Background.

The Griffin label has developed enormously since its conception fourteen years ago. Initially following the traditional catwalk mode of presentation it quickly evolved conceptually into something much more amorphous and challenging, using installations to create an interactive experience with his customer. The Griffin collection constantly pushes forward conceptually, occasionally encompassing social political commentary to add ethical value to the brand while maintaining the highest levels of Italian manufacturing and consistent product development through its relationships with European mills producing advanced textiles. Griffin has an experimental approach to fabrication that involves progressive and complex dying techniques to achieve its unique finishes. Stockists include; Harvey Nichols; Selfridges; Flannels; Barneys New York and Dover Street Market, London.

Celebrities such as Damon Albarn, Moby, Tom York, Ewan McGregor, Banksy, Jazzy B and Brian Eno, Blur, Coldplay, Gorillaz, Jamie Oliver, Lamb, Miss Dynamite, Oasis, prodigy, Rankin, Radiohead and U2, have become fans of Griffin clothing.

Collaborations.

Since 2000 the Griffin studio has worked with a variety of companies covering mainline product as with Iceberg to commercial sportswear product as with Converse demonstrating the studios professional versatility.

Collaborations play an important part in Jeff Griffin’s work. In the past he has collaborated with: Sony, graffiti artist Banksy, iconic label Baracuta and more recently with technical sportswear specialists Berghaus and Artist Stanley Donwood. He is also engaged in an ongoing collaboration with protest artist Peter Kennard. For the Griffin A/W 08/09 collection an exciting collaboration has started with Mackintosh producing an exclusive Griffin ‘X’ Macintosh signature raincoat.

Authentic Griffin, Tees, Hoodies, Trousers, Jackets and more are available from www.griffin-studio.com