But will anyone pay this price for MS Paint-inspired threads?
There were some chuckles this week as Microsoft launched its own clothing line. Yes, seriously. Undeterred by Apple’s unsuccessful foray into fashion in the 1980s (see evidence of that further below), the tech giant had begun selling a range of clothing under the pun-tastic brand name Hardwear. And the designs were inspired by the company’s most mocked piece of software: MS Paint.
The nine-piece collection of tees, hats, sweats, jackets, and pants was designed by Gavin Mathieu, and it’s actually nowhere near as nerdy as you might expect. In fact, it’s actually pretty cool – and totally, unashamedly nineties in both spirit and style. But will people pay these prices? (maybe you will if you have money left after getting a saving with one of the best Microsoft Surface deals).
Microsoft describes Hardwear as much more than a clothing range – as all good branding should. It says the collection is reflective of the Normcore style, a lifestyle aesthetic that “puts the focus on individuals and not on the clothing they wear”. It’s also designed the range to inspire creativity by being simple, thus reducing any distractions to creativity. In an article on its website(opens in new tab), Microsoft says: “check out the collection, but don’t stop at the clothes. Understand and carry the message that creativity is not on you, it’s in you, and it knows no bounds.”
OK, we’re loving the message and the story that Mathieu, who’s the founder and creative director of Supervsn Studios(opens in new tab), was inspired to become a designer by using MS Paint. We also love the retro style, but the prices?
