Mulberry has revealed the latest Mulberry Editions collaboration series. It features Nicholas Daley, a London-based designer who has created a collection of bags and accessories that are music-inspired.
Daley is well-known for his exploration of his dual Jamaican/Scottish heritage and music. He has reinterpreted Mulberry’s iconic unisex “Antony” satchel and introduced Mulberry’s first venture into music accessories with a guitar strap and a saxophone belt.
Daley has used the 1960s and 1970s era-defining sounds to create the capsule. He updated the ‘Antony” with whipstitch fringe and braided motifs, a nod towards the costumes and accessories worn on stage by Miles Davis and Roy Ayers.
There are five sizes available, including an oversized version. Daley also updated Mulberry’s iconic hardware by flipping its Postman’s Lock so that the twist runs north to south, framing it in fine embroidery.
To echo the rich textural play of Daley’s ready to wear collections, the capsule’s tonal palette includes navy, ochre, and oak. It also features contrasting panels made of suede, grained Leather and Cotton Canvas.
Mulberry x Nicholas Dley unveils first music accessories
Daley can also use the collaboration to share his passion for music with Mulberry by creating a line of musical accessories that are luxurious and stylish. This is a first Mulberry product.
The accessories for music include a fringed guitar and saxophone strings, made in complementary suede colors, along with a plectrum bag and bucket hat that feature embroidery techniques that echo the artisanal leather goods from North Africa and Caribbean.
Daley commented on the collection by saying in a statement that he had created it with musicians in mind. It was almost like an accessory wardrobe for them to use on stage.
“Mulberry collaboration has been a great privilege. Mulberry’s support for British craftsmanship and its commitment to sustainability have always been a part of my identity. They were open to new ideas and helped me to see the possibilities. I hope people will find a connection with the pieces and enjoy them for many years.”
Mulberry’s ‘Made to Last ethos is combined with Nicholas Daley’s community-conscious design approach to design in the Mulberry x Nicholas Daley collection. The regular and oversized Antony models were made in Mulberry’s Somerset carbon-neutral factories. All leathers and suedes used have been accredited by the Leather Work Group, the world’s leading certification for responsible leather manufacturing.
Mulberry’s chief executive officer, Thierry Andretta said: “We are proud that Nicholas Daley has been included in Mulberry Editions. Mulberry is excited to have Daley as a creative partner. His vision for modern British crafts, passion for music, and commitment to sustainable craft share our Made to Last ethos make him an exciting partner.”
Mulberry and Daley have created a film to mark the launch. It features the bags in live jazz with Shabaka Hutchings’ composition. The session was accompanied by Grammy-nominated recording artist Lianne Havas. Other artists in Daley’s “creative family” are also featured in the film, including Jasmine Kayser, Shirley Tettah and Daisy George. There is also a horn section with Elijah Clarke, Grifton Forbes Amos and David Laleye Thomas.
Mulberry x Nicholas Daley collection launched in-stores and online on January 13. Prices start at 150 pounds for the plectrum pouch and go up to 1,795 for the large Antony.
