AA80

Stitching Sustainability into Trend

Cover Photo Courtesy of AA80. Photography by Kevin Furr - Delta Imagery, Western Canada Fashion Week

The global COVID-19 quarantine in 2020 was isolating. People divided, the world shutdown, it was hard to go about daily functioning. While many looked for ways to cope with the new “usual”, others took the extra time they had to explore topics and hobbies they probably would not have otherwise, leading to an influx of amazing entrepreneurs. Amongst them was Farrel Taylor. 

Merely a high school student when the pandemic hit, the period of social isolation inspired Farrel to reflect on himself and the future he was paving his way towards. This thought wasn’t foreign to Farrel, who previously had considered what sort of legacy he would leave behind, asking himself “what do I want to do with my life”.  Though pensive, he balanced his thoughts by browsing online for clothes. While this may be something we could all relate to, Farrel’s time window-shopping served as inspiration for how he would leave a legacy behind. 

Photo Courtesy of AA80. Photography by Ferd Isaac - Republic 311 Photography, Western Canada Fashion Week

 Sparked with inspiration, Farrel soon created a moodboard, collaging his favorite finds and fashions into an image of motivation.  Designers such as Jun Takahashi and Raf Simons also played a role in how Farrel visualized and used clothing, specifically jeans, as a medium that can not only be manipulated by several techniques, yet can also be a means of sharing a message. With ideas and creativity flowing, once in-person classes started back up, Farrel took the opportunity to enroll in all of the fashion courses available in his final year of high school, dedicating himself to his passion of designing.

Coming from an artistic family, Farrel Taylor admits his creative muscles were likely there all along:

“My whole family is rather creative. My mother is an excellent artist and has littered our house with her creations. I feel as though some of that creativity seeped into me and the rest of our family.”

Photo Courtesy of AA80. Photography by Kelly Rosborough - House of Bokeh, Western Canada Fashion Week

Photo Courtesy of AA80. Photography by Soko Fotohaus, Western Canada Fashion Week

When discovering his personal style, Farrel looks back at one of his brother’s vintage t-shirts as being a garment he always envied, a style that has driven his own creations in recent times. The trickling influence of his personal style awakenings is greatly seen in his creations. With the re-emergence of 90’s trends, similar styles to the vintage tees, including the grungy looks and baggy, distressed jeans provide Farrel with a level of comfort, both in terms of creating and wearing. Gathering inspiration from this resurgence, and adding a twist of his own preference, has led Farrel to establish his brand, AA80. 

The infusion of family in Farrel’s brand is ubiquitous. Whether igniting his creativity or standing by him as he explores different designs, Farrel’s family has left an impact. Similarly, when it came to choosing the name of his new brand, Farrel looked back at his childhood for inspiration. Farrel’s family dog, Valkyrie, was paralyzed after complications as a puppy. The tracking code tattooed to her left ear, in case she got lost, was AA80. Farrel has kept her memory alive, tattooing the same code behind his left ear. For him, AA80 is synonymous to new opportunities, a message which has held its weight as he pursues fashion. 

The use of thrifted pieces gives AA80 its unique, rustic look. Thrifting early on, Farrel quickly saw that despite there being trendy, new clothes coming up in style, there are an infinite amount of nice, pre-existing clothes - if you look hard enough. It is good to note that while you are able to find certain styles, thrifting also allows you to take the issue of sustainability into your own hands, helping to counteract environmental concerns. Farrel’s frequent trips to the thrift shop were done with the company of his mom. Recognizing his mother again as one of his greatest supporters, Farrel credits her with providing him with many great concepts. Their mutual understanding and vision on fashion has allowed for the two of them to exchange design ideas, something he hopes to use one day in collaborating with her in his designs. 

Photo Courtesy of AA80. Photography by Ferd Isaac - Republic 311 Photography, Western Canada Fashion Week

 For those looking to launch their own line, Farrel suggests exploring as many mediums as possible. With inspiration permeating all realms, the influence one form of art has on another can inspire a whole new creation. However, despite how thorough this exploration, Farrel states that the “line between inspiration and copying is thin ''. Viewing the work of your mentors and inspirations may overtime seep into your own, though building and fortifying your own creativity deepens your confidence and enhances your brand. Through hard work and determination, Farrel has created a guide and continues to build upon it as he progresses his achievements. Most recently, AA80 had the amazing opportunity to feature at the Spring 2022 Western Canada Fashion Week. With tight deadlines and high nerves, the energy put into its creation resulted in a fantastic show and stunning pieces. 

Going forward, Farrel aspires to continue growing AA80, taking on runway shows and pop-up shops. While continuing to produce the trademark distressed denim and Tri-cut hoodies, Farrel hopes to soon include the creation of handmade rings. Mixing and matching, grafting sections together, AA80 exudes a look of style and comfort, bringing together sustainability and stitching it to trend.

To find Farrel Taylor’s designs, head over to AA80.org or browse his creations on Instagram at @aa80official.