Dec 3, 2014 | By Kira
"When was the last time you wore something that was exclusively made for your body and taste?" ask the designers behind Café Costume, a men's clothing and accessory shop specializing in affordable, tailor-made pieces. Thanks to their unique, three-way partnership with architect designer duo DAMN and Twikit, the Antwerp-based pioneer of 3D customization, they plan to bring tailored, 3D design into the fast-paced world of men's fashion.
The collection includes 3D printed, customizable cufflinks, tiepins and money clips inspired by Kunstwerkstede 'De Coene', which is renowned for its love of and expertise in the traditional manufacture of laminated wooden trusses. This inspiration gives each piece a unique yet timeless look, perfect for stylish men who aren't afraid to stand out.
DAMN x Café Costume Tiepin
DAMN x Café Costume Cufflink
DAMN x Café Costume Money Clip
Caroline and Kim, the designers behind DAMN, came across De Coene's work for Expo 58, also known as the Brussels World's Fair, and implemented the Art Deco style into modern pieces for today's well-dressed man.
Their inspiration, design process, and results were introduced during the Courtrai Interior Biennale 2014 at both Ventura and in the Café Costume shop on the Leiestraat (they also have shops in Antwerp, Brussels and Ghent.)
DAMN's inspiration came from Kunstwerkstede 'De Coene'
Meanwhile, Twikit provided the 3D customization technology required to bring DAMN and Café Costume's vision to life. Twikit provides tailor-made toolboxes and creation apps that are integrated into to the product manufacturer's website.
Their easy and 'tweakable' approach to 3D designing takes care of the entire customization service until product delivery, while i.materialise's online printing service handles the 3D printing and logistics.
Using the DAMN x Café Costume website or app, customers can easily select a shape, their preferred material (sterling silver, brass, or gold-plated brass), and inscribe either their initials or a word up to five letters long. Prices range from around €75 for a brass tie pin to €250 for customized silver cufflinks, plus shipping costs and VAT.
Each item is delivered in a DAMN x Café Costume jewel case and require between 10-15 days to make, finish and ship out. If you'd like to see them in person, the products are also available at one of the four Café Costume shops in Belgium.
Tweakit's customization service makes it possible to create your personalized product via Café Costume's website.
This novel collaboration between a 3D design company, a design duo, and an established menswear shop is indicative of a shift towards the new world of craftsmanship, where both personalization and a high level of quality are in demand. 3D printing makes it possible to bring these characteristics together while remaining affordable and accessible. The future of fashion has arrived.
Posted in 3D Printing Applications
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