Combine the energy of a lifelong explorer with the know-how of a textile development junky and you get Spencer Phipps, a young American designer who has made eco-conscious fashion his top priority. Contrary to the stereotype of the reclusive designer locked away in an ivory tower and immune to the real-world consequences of his work, Phipps prefers to explore his deep connection to the Earth – even in the form of mud. His aesthetic is synonymous with the great outdoors, where he derives all his inspiration and energy, whether he is grappling up boulders or trekking through the Amazon rainforest. He navigates the fashion world with a certain distance, fully aware that it desperately needs to move beyond the clichés tied to its exclusivity and elitism, as well as its social and ecological cynicism. Spencer dreams of creating a more just and humane fashion industry, without dulling its edge or sacrificing its capacity to dream. No longer content to design beautiful garments, many of today’s young designers appear driven by an urge to make sustainable fashion more seductive. Now is the time for meaning.

For Spring/Summer 2020, the designer linked up with the French mountaineering brand Millet to design some high-performance outerwear pieces that fit in perfectly with his outdoor aesthetic. Millet was actually founded in 1921 and is a pioneer in the development of alpine clothing. They have accompanied climbers of the Mount Everest and are the official sponsors of the guides in Chamonix, Grindeval and Cévennes. Phipps’ whole collection is not only very stylish, it as also wearable in extreme conditions, whether rock-climbing or trekking in the forest. The designer dug into the Millet archives and upcycled existing fabrics to create all the fleece pullovers, nylon windbreakers and utility backpacks. Discover some photos of the campaign below!