Exhibit: Umbro 100
Umbro, the iconic sportswear brand, takes center stage in a groundbreaking exhibition at Ambika P3, presented by the Westminster Menswear Archive. From April 12 to 28, 2024, "Umbro 100: Sportswear x Fashion" delves into the revolutionary collaborations that reshaped the landscape of athletic attire, kicking off with their groundbreaking partnership with Paul Smith in 2002.
For over a century, Umbro has been at the forefront of sports fashion, continually evolving from its functional origins to become a global symbol of style and performance. The exhibition showcases over 118 garments, tracing the evolution of sportswear through five immersive sections.
Beginning with "Manchester," the exhibition explores Umbro's roots intertwined with the rise of football as a spectator sport in the industrial heartland. It celebrates the brand's commitment to textiles, sport, and style—pillars of Manchester's identity. The "England" section delves into the national identity reflected in sportswear, from the iconic 1966 World Cup shirt to contemporary reinterpretations by fashion luminaries like Kim Jones and Peter Saville. In "Tailored," Umbro's emphasis on fit and construction is spotlighted through timeless classics like the Ramsey Jacket and Barcelona Shorts, illustrating how sportswear has been tailored for performance over the decades.
"Replica" examines the power of sportswear as a unifying force, exploring how template designs and iconic motifs create a sense of belonging for teams and fans alike. Finally, "Diamond" traces the evolution of branding in sportswear and fashion, from subtle labels to bold logos, epitomized by Umbro's iconic diamond emblem.
Featuring collaborations with designers ranging from Paul Smith to Off-White, the exhibition highlights Umbro's global influence and enduring legacy. Rare garments sourced from around the world offer a glimpse into the diverse reinterpretations of British sportswear.
Dr. Danielle Sprecher, co-curator of Umbro 100, reflects on the exhibition's significance: "We spent over five years sourcing these rare collaborations, demonstrating Umbro's global reach. It's a unique opportunity to see how designers from around the world have reimagined British sportswear through Umbro."
Don't miss this unparalleled exploration of the intersection between sportswear and fashion. "Umbro 100: Sportswear x Fashion" is a testament to Umbro's enduring impact on style, performance, and cultural identity.
From 12-28 April 2024 at Ambika P3.