Universal Works is a contemporary menswear brand which was founded by David Keyte in 2009. The brand is inspired by different elements of Keyte’s past, creating nostalgic looks with influences including soul music and traditional work wear. Universal Works provide a huge range of garments, outerwear, footwear and accessories, which effortlessly work together to create their signature aesthetic. The UK brand was originally based in Nottingham (where their Head Office and web store are still based) and is now stocked overseas, across the globe from Los Angeles to Seoul. This brand has a really unique approach to menswear fashion and their consumer, highlighting their passion for quality clothing and uplifting sense of humour that brings the brand to life.
Previously, the brand has taken on a variety of collaborations with the likes of Birkenstock, Goodhood, Oi Polloi and Nottingham based Japanese restaurant Kushi-Ya, alongside their recent collaboration with leading sportswear specialist Adidas, merging contemporary menswear and sportswear to create an innovative lifestyle collection. Universal Works prides itself in creating quality, honest clothing which is based on a good fit and simple design, this is clearly reflected in the wide range of products they produce each season. Universal works manufacture their garments both within the UK and overseas, rest assured working with the most trustworthy factories that they’re proud to be associated with. Their four main UK based stores include Universal Works Nottingham Broad Street, and London locations including Universal Works Coal Drops Yard, Universal Works Berwick Street and Universal Works Conduit Street.
Their collections are thoughtfully considered in terms of silhouette, colour and fabric. The overall workwear aesthetic becomes merged with contemporary menswear trends including streetwear, utilitarian silhouettes and classic British heritage. One of their most recent collections features a range of oversized pieces with deep, rich colouring and a mixture of textures. Here’s some of our favourite pieces from the current Universal Works AW19 collection, which is available at a variety of our trusted retailers including The Hip Store and Dandy Fellow.