Marbek Apparel

It was in 2010 when the two founding members of Marbek were studying for a fashion degree in a London university. But instead of looking at trends on the catwalk, the two friends became more interested in the various styles on display on the streets of London. Their vision was further developed after a paint-balling trip where they combined the ideas to create their first camo jacket in 2013. This would prove to be the foundation of a brand that drew inspiration from London's street culture.

I was brought on to create a series of hang tags which would be used across the labels own online retail system in addition to Marbek's retail partners. This role evolved into looking at the brands logo and logo and logotype along with exploring the possibility of using the hang tags designs on the clothing themselves.

Sketchbook Stage

I worked initially on a large series of label concepts for use both inside and outside the garments. The caveats that I had to adhere to were the military themes as well as a global sensibility. I incorporated elements of the Armed Forces in subtle way such as geometric shapes that resembles rank chevrons as well as stars (there was some debate as stars were very in keeping with the US Army and we wanted to keep it British).

I looked at British Army n lo United States Army rank epaulettes, in particular, along with other elements to get an idea of layout and typography but as far as type went it wasn’t as much of a constraint.

Marbek was a young clothing label based in Acton, West London; later moving to Camden. Initially it’s focus was looking at a worldwide sensibility but the focus has shifted to a more military vibe which was more in keeping with the urban camouflage look Marbek had. After I had finished the initial work on the labels I was asked to have a look at the company’s branding.

Not being given the usually conditions I would have liked to have had, I would have to try and come up with a concept in a short space of time. The one stipulation I was given was, “Military, but not violent.” Doing some very brief brain-storming and drawing on my own experiences I came across the idea of a chess piece, specifically a knight, which I felt answered the brief perfectly.

Hang Tags

I worked initially on a large series of label concepts for use both inside and outside the garments. The caveats that I had to adhere to were the military themes as well as a global sensibility. Incorporating elements of the Armed Forces in subtle way such as geometric shapes that resembles rank chevrons as well as stars (there was some debate as stars were very in keeping with the US Army and we wanted to keep it British.

Amongst other things, I looked at British Army rank epaulettes to get an idea of layout and typography but a far as type went it wasn’t as much of a constraint.

Further to the hang tags there was discussion to expand the design work to concepts to T-shirt designs themselves as they were considered to be eye catching enough to work on tees themselves.