Not So Ape Enters the Elevated Essentials Chat
Fashion has a lot to offer. From the elaborate, often avant-garde ensembles that grace runways across the world to the highly anticipated collaborations fueling online conversation, the state of dress is more important than ever these days. Still, I think I speak for most in saying there’s nothing better than some high-quality basics.
Even as the discipline of style grows with each micro-trend and exorbitant fit pic plastered on our timelines, comfort and quality still reign supreme. In spite of the unrelenting hype cycle, Japanese clothing brand Not So Ape has officially thrown its hat in the ring as the latest disruptor focused solely on producing the best silhouettes for everyday wear.
Founded in Tokyo circa 2017, Not So Ape represents the unique human ability to creatively express ourselves through chosen mediums––a luxury our primordial ancestors did not share. Merging distinctive global street style with unparalleled Japanese quality, Not So Ape focuses on designing essential items made to be permanent fixations in your rotation, transcending flickering style codes and passing fads.
For the brand’s new Autumn/Winter ‘23 collection entitled “Revolution of Love,” Not So Ape offers a fresh take on utility-inspired garments and focused detailing as an ode to the rebellious spirit in all of us that challenges societal rules, fighting to define love on our own terms. Manifested through precise design and original graphics that articulate the brand’s thoughtful messaging, the three-part collection is a subtle masterclass on crafting an intentional series of elevated staples in an era veiled in inconsequential aesthetics and oft-careless construction.
Through its latest capsule, which includes a series of heavyweight tees, sweatshirts, and pants, along with collared bomber jackets and an oversized parka design, Not So Ape seeks to invoke a rejuvenated sense of inspiration, challenging the way we think about the bonds that connect us and the clothes we choose to wear.
Take a look at some of our favorite pieces from Not So Ape’s AW23 collection:
Sidewalk Flower T-Shirt
This oversized tee boasts a clear message reflecting the new capsule's daring ethos. Available in Cream, Moss, and Taupe colorways, the Sidewalk Flower tee is custom-sewn from 100% Japanese cotton, featuring a detailed ribbed hem neckline and bold graphic imagery for quality you can see and feel.
Bomber Jacket
Who doesn’t love a good bomber? Am I right? Lined with deep-piled fleece and a classically designed collar, AW23’s featured bomber jacket keeps you cozy without compromising style. Constructed with the brand’s signature boxy design, the military-inspired look comes equipped with two snap-closure front pockets and an accompanying utility pocket outfitted on the shoulder, serving as the staple item everyone needs in their wardrobe.
Heart Logo Crewneck
Cut for a more baggy look, the soft-spoken design of this crewneck provides the perfect middle between casual and dressy. Not So Ape’s sweater top features a drop-shoulder silhouette that maintains the ideal proportions to give the wearer a clean, gathered aesthetic. With a subtle barbed wire heart crest gracing the front of the black and grey melange colorways, the Heart Logo Crewneck offers a reliable look that will never fade out of style.
Cargo Pants
Workwear is in its prime right now, thanks partly to the popularity and versatility of cargo pants. This season’s featured utility trousers from Not So Ape showcase a more refined design, highlighted by their baggy, straight-legged fit. Mirroring classic styles of the same vein, AW23’s Cargo Pants come equipped with two front slash pockets and four accordion leg pockets. Made from polyester twill, these essential pants are the epitome of everyday wear.
Oversized Parka
As the standout item in this season’s capsule, the zip-up coat, made of a cotton/nylon blend, gives boring trenches the boot. Designed with removable sleeves, the Oversized Parka draws inspiration from military-esque motifs, giving wearers the power to customize their look depending on what the day calls for. Light enough to be worn on its own and adaptable enough to be part of a more layered look, this utility-style trench incorporates versatile elements into a concise silhouette.
Shop the complete AW23 collection at shop.notsoape.com.
