Brown Linen Trousers

Paul Harnden Shoemakers is one of the most iconic yet also one of the most mysterious brands in the world of avant-garde and artisanal fashion. 

Little is known about the British designer and his work since he is notoriously shy and there is barely any information out there. However, what is known is that Harnden, who really started as a shoemaker in 1985, expanded his line to clothing in the year 2000 with the help of fellow designer Elena Dawson. Dawson, who left the brand again in 2006, has since made a name for herself in the industry (please see our catalogue for a piece from her) as one of the most important designers in this niche,

Yet, although so little is known, for many, Paul Harnden is the most important designer within the world of avant-garde fashion and basically the point where it all started. A whole generation of designers like John Alexander Skelton, Archivio J.M Ribot and Ziggy Chen are all to some extent inspired by his work and his methods. 

Notably, fellow fashion designer John Galliano and German filmmaker Wim Wenders are also both fans of Harnden´s work.

Now, getting to the piece. This pair of trousers is a typical pair of Paul Harnden bottoms. Nearly all of them have quite a similar look. They are normally made to be worn with suspenders, have a slight drop crotch and an antique look to them. All of that is also true for this piece. It furthermore has a beautiful micro Prince of Wales pattern, a comfortable cotton lining and a triangular pocket at the back. The quality is, as always with Paul Harnden, exceptional. 

Harnden mainly draws inspiration from garments from the past, most notably the 19th century, although there are also some influences from the late 18th century and the early 20th century. 

For many, his level of craftsmanship is beyond compare. He uses a lot of century-old techniques that are responsible for the outstanding quality and the antique look of most of the pieces. All pieces are fully handmade in England/Scotland and designed in his studio in Brighton.