Since 2001 Howe has blended European tailoring and fabrications with an aesthetic that designer & president Jade Howe himself calls, ‘cowboy punk meets English country gentleman.’ Howe is a full collection of premium sportswear that includes denim and non-denim bottoms, tees, wovens, sportcoats, vests, as well as classic 3-piece suits with a rock ‘n’ roll edge. The collection, which combines West-Coast alternative music lifestyle influences with an English tailoring feel, has won raves for its original graphics, treatments and details.
Designer Jade Howe feels a close connection to the brand’s loyal following of artists, musicians, creative entrepreneurs, and the new type of business-meets-street professional he refers to as ‘indie executives.’ “We articulate an authentic point of view that our customer relates to – he responds to the fact that we are developing a lasting look, not just a trend, “
Some of the recent rockers/leading men Howe has dressed include Franz Ferdinand, Tony Hawk, Weezer, Rob Patterson of Korn, Chester Bennington of Linkin Park, and The Rock. In late 2005 Jade Howe received a Stuff Magazine Style Icon Award (along with Kanye West, Giorgio Armani, Kings of Leon & John Varvatos) in recognition of the cultural impact of the ‘Howe’ look and lifestyle.
PER WELINDER
Google Per Welinder, and your internet search will reveal the history of a champion pro skater; a legend who performed the stunts in cult film Back to the Future, and a two-time World Champion Freestyle Skateboarder. His face has graced the cover of Transworld Skateboard magazine more times than any other athlete, except one.
Today, Welinder has turned to the business world, having earned his MBA from Anderson School of Business, UCLA . Welinder is the CEO of Blitz Distribution, home of the most recognized skateboard brands in the world, including Birdhouse, Hook-Ups, a Japanese animation company, Flip Skateboards, Fury Truck Co and Baker Skateboards.
Recognizing the need in the men's sportswear market for a contemporary collection, Welinder launched Howe Denim with designer Jade Howe, in 2002. Sportswear International magazine awarded Howe the best new collection in 2003. Born in Sweden,Welinder now resides in Huntington Beach with his wife Elaine and their two boys, Lukas, 9 and Benjamin, 6.
