Africa-harvested cotton shipped to Japan. Denim cloth woven on vintage shuttle looms. Finished edges in purple selvage. Craftsmanship rivaling Savile Row....Donwan Harrell created Prps in 2003 with the goal of authenticity in mind. His collections are conceived with a purpose as he designs each garment for a function. The details set him part.
Raised in North Carolina and Virgina of the US, Donwan grew up in a logging and hunting family that understood the word “utilitarian” when it came down to clothing.
His father introduced him to the drag car racing scene, which has become an endless source of inspiration for tattered garments, oil stains, and wrinkles which he incorporates into his creations.
Donwan eventually set out to explore the small towns and villages of Japan. After 2 years of meetings and formal tea ceremonies, the young American designer selected a few family-run denim manufacturers—expertise artisans of the trade—to create his garments.
Now, seven years later Prps continues to research a plethora of influences, ranging from military uniforms to work wear and hunting apparel, and examine phenomena like the stains on a painter’s overalls or the wrinkles about a mechanic’s knees.
Prps—challenging the craftsmanship of Savile Row! You decide!
Photos Copyright Prps.
