Marcus Wainwright — Rag & Bone, Founder and Chief Brand Officer

Marcus Wainwright — Rag & Bone, Founder and Chief Brand Officer

“Authenticity is one of the most important words that we use at rag & bone, as it’s in everything we do.”
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According to rag & bone’s founder, Marcus Wainwright, the brand was born “with the idea that when you put something on, it should make you feel great.” With a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and above all, authenticity, rag & bone has amassed a global following of dedicated fans since the brand’s founding in 2002. “Authenticity is one of the most important words that we use at rag & bone, as it’s in everything we do.”

After many years of partnership with our friends at rag & bone, we’ve caught up with Marcus to chat about where the internationally-recognised label draws its inspiration from, what influenced this season’s collection, and what Marcus is up to in isolation.

Tell us a bit about what influences you? Images/experiences?
All sorts of things—what I see people wearing on the street, stuff you pick up from traveling, and generally what’s going on in the world. Now more than ever its vital to acknowledge what’s happening and adjust to a new reality!

Tell us a bit about this current collection featured on Incu.com?
Spring 2020 is about individuality and highlighting characters that make up New York. The attitude is effortless, with function and versatility at the forefront. The collection can be worn whatever way you want by layering and mixing the things that define rag & bone—American workwear, English inspired tailoring, military and sport.

What is your current WFH creative process? Has it changed lately?
It has definitely been very challenging in the last few weeks, but it’s been incredible to see the partnership between everyone in the company. We’ve been working remotely while still making the best collection possible. While we don’t have the human element of working with a fit model or being around each other in person for meetings, it’s inspiring to see the same passion and energy as if we were still together. I’ve been spending quite a lot of time in my shed pondering what’s coming next!

Your go-to WFH wardrobe pieces? Can’t live without?
A classic work outfit – I pretty much wear jeans and t-shirts. Now that I’m spending more time at home, it’s more evident what you actually need in a wardrobe. This isn’t a time to own anything that doesn’t feel essential or not well made. 

Authenticity is one of the most important words that we use at rag & bone, as it’s in everything we do.

What have you found yourself drawn to doing during this time?
This has been an opportunity for us to get back to the roots of what rag & bone stands for: clothes that have longevity and are authentically made. We’ve challenged ourselves to think about the idea of protection and safety and value, and how to continue making clothes that are sustainable and don’t fall apart.

What are you grateful for right now?
Health is very important right now, as is staying connected to the people you have around you. I’ve been in touch more frequently with family and colleagues, and reconnecting with old friends. If there’s a good thing as a result of all of this, it’s a reminder how important community is to each of us.   

WORDS BY MARIAH HANNA
IMAGES BY MARCUS WAINWRIGHT

@Incu_clothing