Convict Apparel

Convict was an apparel label examining prison life and its visual culture. Founded by Kelvin Vidler after leaving Bench in 2007, the label first launched in 2010 with a second iteration in 2014. The aesthetic centred on prison-inspired motifs - through both deign and illustration - and a largely black-and-white colour palette, forming a stark, monochromatic streetwear identity.

Early explorations focused on obvious prison tropes—bars, razor wire, and watchtowers. A single razor wire motif was chosen for its geometric form, paired with a strong logotype, creating a simple yet meaningful mark. The black-and-white restriction carried through all branding and garments, reflecting the conceptual framework of prison culture while building a bold, recognisable brand identity.

Sketchbook Process

The sketchbook phase explored early concepts based on client direction, many of which were experimented with but ultimately shelved. Visual research drew heavily from prison culture, including dice, gang markings, Russian and Mexican prison tattoos, and Chicano motifs. Additional explorations included British HMP insignia, quincunx symbols, and physical prison elements like watchtowers, fencing, chains, and razor wire.

Typography experiments combined ornate script styles with heavier, institutional letterforms to balance expression and authority. While British references were explored, the project ultimately adopted a more cohesive Americana-inspired approach. This stage reflects the clothing brand creative process, showing experimentation and the formation of a distinct fashion brand identity.

Apparel Designs

I was given some small notes from the client which were incorporated and experimented with but ultimately shelved. Early concepts explored dice, prison tattoos (notably Russian and Mexican), and Chicano imagery to create visual storytelling for the brand.

Primarily inspired by Mexican prison tattoos with italic flourishes, these motifs were contrasted against thicker typography. Some British imagery was explored, but the final brief emphasized an Americana ethos. The sketches feature gang-signs, the quincunx, watchtowers, fence chains, razor wire, and HMP coat-of-arms concepts.

Varsity Jacket

In addition to the usual fare of T-shirts and sweatshirts I created designs for a series of varsity jackets. The above is a good example of what I was trying to accomplish- I didn’t want to have the logo plastered all over the garments as I feel this comes across as a little too obvious and cheapens the brand somewhat so I preferred to stick with something a little different and much more understated.

I used cardboard as I thought it was very appropriate for the brand evoking a street art, and of course it was economical and very easy to get hold of. I had used the medium previously in the Lifecycles group show in London.

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