New Zealand suiting brand Crane Brothers seems to be going from strength to strength this year. Following the opening of its Sydney outpost last month - the first outside of Auckland - comes Gubb & Mackie, a ready-to-wear line designed by Jordan Gibson. Drawing on the brand's tailoring skills, Mr Gibson's first season is at once refined and hardworking, its naval slant both classic and in tune with contemporary fashion, shown here on industrial designer Jamie McClellan. We took five minutes to speak with him.
Why was Gubb & Mackie launched as an aside to Crane Brothers?
Gubb and Mackie was launched to cater to the many clients we have for whom wearing a tailored suit is not a regular occurrence: artists, designers, actors, writers...
What is the mood or pervading aesthetic of the line?
The foundation of naval tailoring remains. This is complemented by themes of travel and the modern businessman which have been interpreted in hardwearing, utilitarian clothing with a high level of quality and attention to detail.
What's the story behind the name?
The founders whose namesake forms the brand name were a couple of servicemen who established the brand in 1949 when they begun making bespoke officer’s uniforms for the New Zealand Navy.
Are there many similarities to that original brand?
Techniques utilised when the brand was founded still remain including bar-tacking pockets for strength and piping seams. The key fabrication is a tropical weight Italian pure cotton, which has been lab dipped for authenticity. This is featured in jackets, trousers and coats. Further highlights are a cotton and metal blend along with Liberty of London floralprints.
