Fashion

A-COLD-WALL* | Samuel Ross’ Creative Direction & Collection

Originally renowned for combining British grit with a utilitarian, streetwear aesthetic Samuel Ross and his creation of A-COLD-WALL* has completely galvanised the fashion industry.

Intellectually, high-brow it has now established its reputation for refined menswear and asserted itself firmly among the elite fashion designers in the UK right now. Join us as we take a look at Samuel Ross, his creative direction and the latest collection. 

Samual Ross’ Background

Studying graphic design and illustration at De Montfort University in Leicester, Ross rose up away from the conventional fashion background. As fate would have it Ross joined Virgil Abloh for a three-year working relationship off the back of an Instagram message. Spanning the BEEN TRILL collection to the start of Off-White and working on Mr Kayne West’s collection for A.P.C, Ross perfected his art and remained one of Abloh’s trusted advisors until he passed in late 2020. 

Samuel ross

@acoldwall

Samuel Ross A-COLD-WALL*

Taking inspiration from building designs and architects such as Messrs Hames Turrell, Massimo Vignelli and Francis Kéré, Ross launched A-COLD-WALL* in 2017. The A-COLD-WALL* initial style embraced a utilitarian, streetwear foundation with a functional aspect of product design which saw the brand rise rapidly in popularity. 

Since moving the A-COLD-WALL* fashion week schedule to Milan they have showcased they were not just a hot-for-a-minute streetwear brand. Off the back of his BFC/GQ menswear fund prize in 2019, he produced a mature collection where hoodies were replaced with suit jackets and trainers were traded in for brogues. Furthermore, as most accounts in Milan stated that the streetwear bubble had burst A-COLD-WALL* had once again successfully navigated the fashion world ahead of the curve, refining the label into a mature future-proof menswear-centric space. 

Propelling further throughout the pandemic recording their highest revenue, Ross revealed how it had changed his outlook in his own life and now in his designs. Father to a young daughter, Ross described the change as notions of boyhood to manhood. Becoming a minimalist, he removed all decorative objects that had no function or qualitative attributes in his home or studio. This lifestyle change has allowed him to establish a more minimal, functional performance-tailing aesthetic within the label. 

A COLE WALL

@acoldwall

The Latest Collection | Pre-FW22

For Pre-FW22 A-COLD_WALL* combines the practical and the aesthetically pleasing. Understanding the need for the physical and digital world, the collection has integrated the metaverse throughout its aesthetic.

In keeping with the A-Cold-Wall directness, the Pre-Fall22 collection acts as a mirror to the intimidating things going on in the world.  The standout pieces from the collection was a double-layered storm jacket and the blended jumpers with spray effect finishes.

ACOLDWALL

@acoldwall

Now one of London’s most notable contemporary brands A-COLD-WALL* constantly challenges the psyche and the way we view shape, form colour and design. Finishing off with some questions, explore the new collection at Coggles now. 

Does A-COLD-WALL* fit true to size?

The designs alternate between slim and oversized styles. However, it is true to size so it’s recommended you shop in your normal size. 

Where are A-COLD-WALL* made?

Tomorrow London Holdings acquired a “substantial minority stake” in A-Cold-Wall*. Meaning that the brand production moved from Leytonstone to Vincenza – The Italian home of luxury goods. 

 

Written by Holly Thompson

Featured Image Credit – @acoldwall



Holly Thompson

Holly Thompson

Writer and expert