Kick Game x Jeanius Bar Atelier

What inspired you to start Jeanius Bar Atelier?

My first ever collection back in 2015 had the same vibe. Levi’s jeans were my first ever canvas to create on so in 2019 I grew a little tired with the more luxury side I was working on. I wanted to take it back to my roots with a fresh project, the same vibe as back then but with a new energy and more a futuristic silhouette inspired by some off the Japanese and American OGs.

You seem to have quite a strong streetwear based aesthetic to your pieces, how has streetwear affected your work as well as your personal style?

I mean, I think as humans we dress accordingly for where we’re at, especially when we’re young so I guess that’s just what was natural to me. Since I was younger I’ve just always wanted to look cool, it’s been my priority. 

The way that your garments sit on a shoe is unique. Was this a factor when creating your first silhouettes and what sneaker works best with each style?

Yes, I always stress this so much. The relationship between your trousers and your shoes is more important than what the pieces are themselves. It all has to be harmonious, it’s about matching pieces as gracefully as possible whilst also not looking like you’re trying too hard. 

I would say for the denim it has to be an Air Force one no doubt! For the cargos and workwear trousers, I say something a little more bulky like a Lanvin or OFF-White trainer.

What is your favourite sneaker and why?

I was talking about this recently in the Kick Game store and I think after all these years I can say it’s the 4. The comfort, all my jeans whether skinny or baggy look good with them and as a whole, in the uk they’re not very hyped like the 1s.

Sustainability has become a more important topic than ever, was this always a key inspiration for your work and do you feel there is danger in sustainability becoming a buzzword? 

To be completely honest with you. When I first started this ting, I wasn’t thinking about any of that stuff. The reason why I was using vintage garments is because it’s all I could afford. I knew the quality of Levi’s and I know with a little finesse I could get it for decent prices. It’s later down the line that I learned the impact of the fashion industry on the planet so it’s kind of the clothes that taught me it rather than the other way around. Once I learned that my way has actually been better all along, I was like okay it’s go time.

What would you say to people who are sceptical about buying second hand/vintage garments? 

I would say, when you watch a sick movie, the best characters clothes are never brand new looking they always have a curated worn in signature look, and that’s what it’s about man. You want your clothes to have character. Then you add in a good dry cleaners and it’s lit.

Tailoring and attention to detail are key for you, what do you feel that other brands could do better/could learn from you?

I think they should really get down on the ground and get locked in with a tailor to really start understanding how to give your garments the intended look rather than just relying on a factory. Work with your local people man.

What would your dream collaboration be and what would you want to create? 

I think my dream collab would be with Levi’s themselves officially. I would make the sickest jeans for the masses to be able to buy directly from Levi’s at a more accessible price as they are literally the plug.

How will sustainability affect fashion moving forward? 

I think that it opens up the scope to a whole type and range of designers! When I first started I was a little insecure and trying to rush having my stuff made in a factory from new because I thought the industry doesn’t respect upcycling but here we are so I think it will make the game much more interesting. It’s refreshing to have both sides available to the highest level.

What is the future of Jeanius Bar Atelier?

Our main priority is building a strong community aspect and giving back as well. I really want it to be a platform for people to literally be able to get what they want. I just want to give people a good feeling when they visit us.