This week, ICON Recommends: picking up a book at the Aesop queer library, dropping by the Wynn Hamlyn pop-up store and the latest Song For The Mute x adidas drop…

Wynn Hamlyn
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – MAY 16: A model walks the runway during the Wynn Hamlyn show during Afterpay Australian Fashion Week 2023 at Hyper Karting, The Entertainment Quarter on May 16, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by James Gourley/Getty Images for AAFW)
Wynn Hamlyn Sydney Pop-Up Opens

New Zealand designer Wynn Hamlyn has just opened the doors to his first ever Sydney pop-up store on Level 4 in Westfield Sydney on Pitt Street.

The store’s design, personally overseen by brand founder Wynn Crawshaw, reflects a thoughtful approach to blending Wynn Hamlyn’s signature style with elements inspired by Sydney’s coastal landscape. The interior features a palette of blues, from azure to cobalt, creating a serene shopping environment that echoes the tranquility of the sea. This setting is further enriched by the display of artworks by Ben Mazey, whose pieces add a layer of artistic expression to the space.

Crawshaw’s hands-on involvement in setting up the store—from designing to the actual setup—ensures that every detail speaks to the brand’s ethos of creativity and quality. This dedication to crafting a unique and engaging retail experience showcases Wynn Hamlyn’s commitment to its Australian audience, inviting shoppers to explore the brand’s distinct aesthetic and high-quality craftsmanship.

The pop-up will run until the end of February.

Level 4, 188 Pitt Street, Westfield Sydney 2000

Song For The Mute, adidas

SONG FOR THE MUTE x ADIDAS 003 DROPS

Stop the lights! The third collaboration between Song for the Mute and adidas Originals, dubbed ‘SFTM-003’, blends nostalgia with a modern twist, reimagining the iconic Country OG silhouette in three 90s-inspired colourways: pale grey and teal nylon, and classic black leather with suede details. The collection introduces metallic D-ring hardware and a custom paracord-inspired toggle lacing system, offering a futuristic yet nostalgic vibe.

Creative Director Lyna Ty presents a fresh take on heritage silhouettes across eight pieces of apparel, incorporating modern fabrication and detailing. The range includes Sherpa fleece zip-up jackets with digital print sleeves, distressed jersey hoodies, an oversized blazer, press-stud track pants in lightweight coated cotton, and custom jacquard knitwear showcasing intricate colour work.

The campaign, captured by photographer Atsushi ‘Jima’ Nishijima and styled by Art Director Stephen Mann, showcases candid moments of youth against urban settings, emphasising the collection’s dynamic energy. Hair artist Erol Karadag adds a touch of drama with theatrical wigs, enhancing the blend of heritage and contemporary themes throughout the collection.

Song For The Mute 350 George Street Sydney NSW 2000

Aesop, Queer Library

Aesop Queer Library Returns

It’s common knowledge that those who read also have the best skin…at least they do if they’re reading at the Aesop Queer Library and using the brand’s iconic B Triple C Facial Balancing gel that just celebrated 20 years on the market.

This initiative, now in its third iteration in Australia, focuses on contemporary stories and writers who are actively challenging societal boundaries and advocating for positive change. By spotlighting Australian and New Zealand LGBTQIA+ voices, the Aesop Queer Library endeavours to provide these underrepresented stories with a global platform, contributing to a more inclusive literary landscape. The books available have been sourced from independent queer bookstore Hares & Hyenas, as well as Allen & Unwin and University of Queensland Press, showcasing Aesop’s commitment to supporting local and independent queer literature. This year’s event not only fosters community engagement but also celebrates the rich diversity and creativity within the LGBTQIA+ community.

From February 7-11, Aesop’s QV location in Melbourne will feature a curated collection of works by 45 LGBTQIA+ authors from Australia and New Zealand, followed by its Bondi Junction store in Sydney from February 28 to March 3. Visitors are encouraged to explore this diverse selection of titles, which now includes an expanded representation of BIPOC, trans, and gender non-conforming authors, and select a complimentary book to enrich their understanding and discussions around queer narratives.

Aesop Melbourne QV Shop LO244/35 Albert Coates Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000

Aesop Bondi Junction 3038/500 Oxford St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022