Publication

Douglas Gunn co-founded The Vintage Showroom, a London-based, definitive collection of 20th-century menswear. Growing up during the 1980's, a period marked by the popularity of American vintage styles, has fuelled in Gunn a parallel interest in classic American cinema and vintage clothing. Over the years, Gunn has avidly collected vintage pieces and focused on showcasing the craftsmanship and durability of past garments. Gunn co-curates the Hong Kong Design Institute's (HKDI) upcoming exhibition, "The Fashion Union", which centres around workwear. Here, he tells us more about the exhibition and his views on the current trends in workwear and vintage fashion.

"If your motivation is profit, I would say there are countless better investment opportunities. Only those who are genuinely passionate about vintage should consider becoming collectors." DOUGLAS GUNN

Gunn believes that Hong Kong, as a global trading and cultural hub, serves as a vital conduit for transmitting goods, information, and creativity worldwide. He aspires to bring the stories of workwear and vintage fashion to this vibrant locale: "We aim to convey global narratives through the exhibition. It will showcase early workwear and practical clothing examples from around the world. Upon viewing the exhibits, I hope that young designers will discover the fascinating history of workwear and find inspiration for their designs. At the same time, I wish to share lesser-known yet intriguing stories about workwear and its design."

The exhibition will not only feature classic Western workwear but will also integrate elements of local history related to Hong Kong's workforce. "While researching the history of the docks in Hong Kong, we uncovered photographs of dock workers in our image archive, as well as their traditional attire, which was incredibly inspiring." Gunn explains. Gunn further cites denim as an example, pointing out its historical connection to Hong Kong: "Most people believe that denim originated during the California Gold Rush in 1849, which coincided with its arrival in Hong Kong. Two years later, in 1851, over 25,000 people had emigrated from Chinese Mainland to California, marking the period when denim emerged." This influx of immigrants intersected with Western workwear culture, indirectly contributing to the development of denim as a staple in work clothing.

Historically, workwear was designed specifically for labourers, emphasising functionality and practicality. However, over time, these utilitarian designs have become highly sought-after fashion elements. "The original intent of denim clothing was to provide affordable work attire that could withstand years of wear until it was completely worn out. As a result, the stitching and construction were quite rudimentary. Interestingly, vintage denim pieces are now sold at high prices worldwide." Gunn observes.

In Gunn's view, workwear has always played a significant role in fashion design: "On the streets of London, many individuals interpret workwear in unique styles. Perhaps these people are unaware that their clothing aesthetic derives from workwear principles, but those principles have subtly influenced various street styles and cultural groups across generations." Aside from collecting vintage clothing, Gunn also delves into the stories behind each piece, which culminate in The Vintage Showroom, a source of inspiration for designers, stylists, and collectors alike. There, he preserves and celebrates vintage and workwear cultures.

Through his passion for vintage clothing and workwear, Gunn seeks to bridge the gap between the past and the present, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and history of these garments. He believes that by sharing these stories, he can inspire a new generation of designers to think critically about fashion and its cultural significance.

The upcoming exhibition at HKDI will be a testament to this vision, showcasing a range of workwear that highlights its evolution and enduring relevance in the fashion world. By presenting the garments themselves the narratives underpinning them, Gunn hopes to cultivate a greater understanding of the importance of heritage in contemporary design.

Gunn's commitment to vintage fashion and workwear exemplifies a profound respect for the past while simultaneously engaging with the future of design. His work serves as a reminder that fashion is not merely about aesthetics; it is also about storytelling and the connections we forge with the garments we wear. As the exhibition approaches, it promises to be an inspiring experience for all who attend, offering an unique perspective on the intersection of history, culture, and fashion.