When Bape launched their new URSUS Bape Collection a couple of years ago, and chose Tet from WTAPS as creative director for the line, we were definitely excited. After years of doing the same thing and exclusively being known for super bold and colorful all over prints, it seemed like the right move. Tet took a bit of a more grown-up direction for the line, which was like WTAPS mostly inspired by vintage military goods.
Fast forward to 2011 and the Bape main line has at this point further adapted to general fashion trends as well, meaning that vintage and heritage goods have entered the collection. Collaborations with Harris Tweed and Mackintosh are part of the Bape main line, as well as work with Porter and other great brands. In our opinion, these kind of collaborations should have gone into the URSUS Bape line. Why?
Here we present the new URSUS Bape Spring/Summer 2012 Lookbook. What can we say about it? To be honest not much, because it could not be any more boring. If it was labeled GAP, we would actually believe it. Simple tops, no exciting accessories and the entire more grown-up approach that we saw in the first collections also seems to be gone, best showcased by the 16 year old model, that was used for the lookbook. Unfortunately, URSUS Bape seems to have come to an end. That is at least our opinion. When we applauded the simplicity at launch time of the brand, it has become so simple at this point, that any excitement is simply missing. Simple is fine, but you still do need the right details to convince a customer.
Check out the full line after the jump and make up your mind. We would love to hear your thoughts.
