While streetwear is a lifelong obsession for some, for many it acts as a springboard to a more refined clothing range. The latest brand which has risen from streetwear is French label Commune De Paris 1871.

Named after a French government that ruled briefly in 1871 (hailed as the first assumption of power by the working class) Commune De Paris started up in mid 2008. The team consists of three members in Sebastian Lyky, Edouard Launay and Alexandre Maïsetti. Maïsetti previously helmed streetwear brand Shaiwear, a brand which became infamous for a marketing campaign that attracted the ire of several high profile outlets.

While it can be risky for brands and fashion to use specific parts of history as a fashion inspiration, Maisetti feels comfortable doing so. Whilst admitting that he found the movement ‘aesthetically pleasing’, he also stated that ‘This period in French history is not only rich in symbolism and imagery, but also inspiring’. Going on to say that this was ‘a kind of homage’.

The clothes themselves are of the well made basics variety, with the clothes focusing on making a few things in the best way they know how as opposed to reinventing wheel. The cotton they use is Egyptian, whilst the rest of the fabrics (including cashmere and merino wool) come from Italy.

When it comes to the topic of prestige no longer being the sole factor to certain customers, Alexandre states, ‘People need to know that they pay a fair price. Prestige is a thing. But it can no longer remains the only stake.’