British singer-songwriter James Bay is well known for his signature folksy music. But since the release of his debut album four years ago, the fedora-wearing, long-haired lad from Hertfordshire has also earned a reputation for his rockstar style credentials. And now, Bay is sharing that style with the rest of us by launching a collection with high street menswear giant Topman. The capsule line features 13 key pieces, from T-shirts to trousers and jackets, with the 26-year-old playing a pivotal part in the design process. “I’ve taken a lot of inspiration from performing live and the way I dress on tour,” Bay says. “Many of the details I’ve focused on are also based on my own original drawings and sketches.” Bay’s collection includes personal touches throughout, featuring hand-drawn illustrations from his sketchbooks and lyrics from his music. Topman’s creative director, Gordon Richardson, says it’s been exciting to collaborate with someone outside the world of fashion because it “challenges all our normal perceptions”. Each piece, he says, reflects Bay’s unique personality and the two-time Brit Award-winner was involved in everything from pantone selection to the choice of stitching. Key items from the collection start from £25 and go up to £200 for the more tailored, evening pieces. Here are some of our favourite items.
Key Pieces
Prices from the collection start from £25 and go up to £200 for the more tailored, evening pieces. Here are some of our favourite items.
Black Embroidered Denim Trucker Jacket
The collection includes a staple black denim jacket, featuring an embroidered illustration of two hands interlocking on the back. The design was inspired by Bay’s 2015 debut album Chaos and The Calm. It’s sure to have a lot of emotional resonance for Bay, but for the rest of us, it offers even the sleekest wardrobe a side of ruggedness. Buy Now: £65
Black Suit Jacket & Trousers
Of all the collection’s statement piece, this two-piece jacquard evening suit is up there with the most eye-catching. It uses Bay’s own fingerprint as an all-over abstract print that gives a subtle, sophisticated finish. You can’t say the collection isn’t personal. Buy Now: £190
Black Sequin Bomber Jacket
One of the collection’s bolder pieces is this black, sequin bomber jacket with satin sleeves. The jacket carries a perfect contrast between the body’s sequins and its overall edgy finish. Bomber jackets are a must-have for, well, every season, and this one is loud enough to pair with a simple T-shirt and jeans combination underneath. Buy Now: £200
Black Jeans With Taping
Bay’s collection is partly inspired by what he wears on stage and on tour. These skinny jeans – themselves a Topman speciality – are no exception. They feature slim, embroidered side panels to make them stand out from the average indie-boy uniform. Perfect for finishing off pretty much anything in your wardrobe. Buy Now: £50
Suede Harrington Jacket
While it certainly helps, building a rock ‘n’ roll look isn’t all about wearing head-to-toe black. Bay’s premium suede Harrington jacket comes in a versatile brown shade and is finished by a zip front closure and dual snap fasten pockets on the chest. Wear yours (naturally) over black jeans and a black T-shirt or roll neck for a failsafe frontman look. Buy Now: £130
Shop the full James Bay collection in store and online at Topman.com now.
