Born from a bona fide friendship between the founders, Soho Yacht Club x Duke and Dexter’s collaboration unites two interpretations of contemporary London style. The former, a rising streets-approved outfit dreamt up by Ellis Gilbert, brings the edge; the latter, an eight-year-old Hollywood-approved shoemaker established by Archie Hewlett, provides the prep. Together, they deliver ‘Members Only’ – a collection that, despite what the name suggests, belongs to all.
“Ellis used to come through to our Covent Garden store back in 2016 to try on the shoes and catch up with the team, so this really is a beautiful full-circle moment,” says Hewlett.
“Been a fan of D+D ever since I discovered it, and then I met up with Archie for a pint and loved the brand even more,” says Gilbert. “Now, we're just two pals chasing our dreams and having fun.”
The collection comprises five pieces, including a heavyweight cotton jersey graphic tee (embroidered on the front and printed on the rear), a lightweight nylon summer suit (a co-ord camp collar shirt and shorts) and an embroidered corduroy cap, each of which utilise Soho Yacht Club’s all the go signature style.
And, as might be expected from a Duke and Dexter collab, there’s a pair of made-in-England penny loafers, too. Unlike its mainline offerings, the special-edition slip-on is complete with a dual-branded coin positioned in the vamp slot – putting the penny back into penny loafers. The shoe is defined otherwise by a blacked-out look accented by white stitching, and a soft pink leather insole that bears the wordmark of the two labels.
SYC Black X Pink Penny Loafer
The Soho Yacht Club x Duke and Dexter ‘Members Only’ collection is available now on the D+D webstore, with prices starting at £40. Those who purchase a piece will be in the running to be invited to a secret party celebrating the collaboration set to take place in the heart of London in the coming weeks.
