In a land where pessimism is practiced as a vocation, and pivotal news moments include Freddo chocolate hiking up its price, or things like “the wettest summer on record,” Britain’s decision to leave the EU is decidedly serious in comparison. David Walliams and Matt Lucas must have seen this coming, foreshadowing what is to really become Little Britain.
As the rest of Europe gears up to bid “Cheerio” to the UK, Highsnobiety’s shopping team takes a step back to look at its contributions to the world of fashion. A real box of “Allsorts,” Britain’s style legacy reaches as far, as it does wide. From Robert Carlyle’s Begbie epitomizing hooligan chic in Trainspotting, to the get-rich-quick stylings of Del Boy Trotter, and the once-praised tailoring of Saville Row, Britain’s style story is clad with too many notable moments to mention in a single post.
For better or worse, Britain, such moments continue to excite a very special kind of nostalgia in your subjects living abroad. We will forever be indebted to you for giving us subcultures like the mods and skinheads, the stylings of the fans on the fringes of your football stadiums, and teaching Drake how to dress like a roadman. So, as contemporary British philosopher Mike Skinner once sang, “Dry your eyes, mate, [...] it’s over.”
Shop our list of the best products to buy for Brexit below.
Our Legacy Parka
“As many of you will undoubtedly know, the fishtail parka became synonymous with London’s mod subculture. Once styled over the top of formal layers, the fishtail parka introduced an edge of casualness to post-1950’s fashion. Fast forward to today, and wearing one promises to improve the quality of your Oasis “Wonderwall” cover — shoutout to Liam.”
Stone Island Jacket
“Does anyone remember that Stone Island jacket worn in Nick Love’s The Football Factory? The white shell that has become the stuff of legend? Well, anyway, the latest Naslan Light Watro isn’t quite the same, but it still riffs off some of the former’s aesthetic cues.”
Officine Generale Red Turtleneck
“If any of you are a fan of Only Fools and Horses — the undisputed bread and butta of British comedy — you will undoubtedly be familiar with Del Boy Trotter’s red roll-neck sweater. Style this Officine Generale Funnel-Neck with a gingham-check flat cap, some sort of shabby-chic shearling coat, and you’re ready to pitch a remake to David Jason himself.”
adidas Arsenal Shirt
"Much like Brexit Britain, Arsenal's current state could be attributed to poor leadership that has resulted in a disillusioned following. But Britain loves an underdog, so show some support for a sinking ship."
Our Legacy Washed Jeans
“For me, light wash, box-cut denim pants are part and parcel with 1990’s British style. Juxtaposed next to the sheen polyester finish of a football top, you’re in to give any British subject a hit of pure nostalgia.”
Prada Derby
"Look at the beautiful things that can happen when Britain works constructively with another European country."
Hunter x Stella McCartney Wellies
"If Brexit somehow leads to the royals seeking refuge elsewhere, maybe the McCartney family is a rightful replacement. From one name of British royalty to another — the Hunter welly."
Nike Air Max 90 Sneakers
“These hardly need an introduction. Any attempt to acknowledge the might of the all-white Nike Air Max 90 would only fall short of expectation. From the Tesco carpark, all the way up to GCSE prom, this stalwart silhouette has left an indelible mark on Britain’s footwear scene.”
Burberry Scarf
"From MC Devvo to Kate Moss, Burberry print is synonymous with a long list of the country's greats. Nothing says, ‘British style’ quite like the iconic Burberry check."
C.P. Beanie Hat
“A pioneering icon of the counterculture, designs like C.P. Company’s Goggle Beanie are inseparable from the aesthetic makeup of England’s bigger cities.”
Marni Sunglasses
“For me, thick-framed sunglasses transcend a number of notable moments in British fashion. From The Full Monty, all the way back to the mods, shades like these from Marni will help you hide your tears as you look toward a future with an 11-starred flag.”
slowthai Nothing Great About Britain Album
"With no leader in sight in which we could place our trust, Northampton's slowthai became the voice of a pissed-off generation. The Brexit town crier lays claim to the charade's perfect soundtrack."
Union Jack Tie
"If you're partying with Brexiters, chances are you'll spot a few Nigel Farage-style Union Jack ties floating about. Best to blend in and save a bottle and glass (Cockney rhyming slang for ‘ass’) kicking."
Official Brexit Tea Towel
"Oh god, as if Brexit wasn't tragic enough already, the Conservative party only went and dropped official merchandise, including a piece that lets you do the dishes with Boris Johnson's face. Arguably one of the more useful results to come from the decision."
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