Streetwear doesn’t necessarily conjure up thoughts of marine life and vintage scarves, but for Bristol designer Jennifer Wheeler, three ideas have never fused so easily together.
Since she showcased her first collection in 2007, Wheeler has caused a stir in the fashion industry. Now a top seller in Topshop’s Oxford Circus store, Jennifer Hope Clothing has also been approached by Billabong UK’s sister brand, Two Seasons. While this may seem an odd grouping, Wheeler’s collection effortlessly combines femininity with a gritty, urban edge (this makes more sense when you consider Alexander McQueen, John Galliano and the cultural surroundings of Bristol were her initial inspiration). Neon tie-dye leggings, simple monochrome T-shirts and brightly coloured beanie hats form a vibrant edit that oozes attitude. And with autumn/winter on the horizon, she’s on a mission to prove that neon isn’t just a summer fad.
For the most recent campaign, Wheeler teamed up with FHM, Q and FRONT magazine photographer, Tom Barnes to capture the essence of her streetwear brand. And the great thing about this particular campaign is it’s not pretentious or trying to be something it’s not; Jennifer chose her London manager and blogger, Kitty Cowell along with two other models to accurately portray her label. Jennifer Hope Clothing is about real personalities, wearing real clothes in everyday scenarios. What’s not to admire about that?