The Library unveils its recalcitrant #RebelTheSystem SS18 collection

An overhaul, rebrand and huge dose of social awareness are the main elements behind The Library – formerly, Music Lost Generation. The pert Cape Town streetwear brand is an in-your-face take on Cape Town culture, race and gender disparities and a reminder to South Africans of their rich, but painful history, “I want this brand to grow into something bigger than just streetwear and design,” the brand’s creator – who chooses to remain anonymous – proclaims, “I see The Library as a vessel to preserve South African history, culture, and social struggles.”

The #RebelTheSystem release is an assortment of to-the-point text and graphics referencing a uniquely South African anecdote. The collection features four different insouciant silhouettes: “Hosh my brue”; “When we were black”; “Black is beautiful but disenfranchised” and; “Love, protect and respect our women” t-shirts. These are also available on the tote bags except for the “Love, protect and respect our women” design.

The mighty brush of @chuqban (known for his abstract illustration) provided the collection understated imagery in line with the old South African flag. Head turning and thought provoking quotes are collaged onto T-shirts, with the minimalist color palette of white, orange and blue against neutrals.

The SS18 collection is a simple, no fuss no frill line-up of t-shirts, 5 panel caps and tote bags. The designs draw heavily on the apartheid era, racial and gender discrimination, social and economic inequality, as well as Cape Town culture and slang.

 

Photography: Nicole Jacobs (Insta: @nicolephotocol)

Models: Koketso Buthelezi (Insta: @kokie_b )

Wade Lube

Esther Joy Cupido (Insta: @estherstarrycupido)

Art Direction: Thato Lengosane (Insta: @2gulpswithjuju)

 

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