Protégé and Fev Clothing

Dj Abrantee, David Haye, Rio Ferdinand and Anton Ferdinand are only a few celebrities who have been seen wearing Protégé and Fev Clothing. The bespoke urban label has risen from strength to strength in the last 18 months attracting a large following, taking the label from humble beginnings to fashion shows across the country. The release of the label's varsity jackets was a huge success in 2010 and enabled Protégé and Fev to enter into the combative fashion market. I thought I'd catch up with Justin Fevrier from South London,- one of the geniuses behind the label - to find out where it all started. Not only is Justin a talented designer and business man, but also one of the #100 Black Inspirational Icons this decade, alongside Trevor McDonald and Kanya King (Mobo's founder MBE) and Rudolph Walker (Patrick from Eastenders).


Where did you get the idea for you clothing line from and when did it start?

We launched in back in October 2009. The concept for P&F came from a painful experience I encountered in early 2009 - without going into too much detail - I suffered frightening injuries which resulted in me being hospitalised, sadly reducing my chances of sustaining a fully fledged football career.

However, I spent some time up in Yorkshire which allowed me to clear my head, as well as create new ideas. This enabled me to find a way of expressing how I felt about my accident into body Art using the image of battling cartooned chess pieces. This tattoo sparked a huge reaction and grabbed a lot of peoples attention , often prompting the question 'what does it mean?' Well for those who are intrigued; "the king piece can be knocked out the game, but the smaller pieces would have to move strategically around the board to beat it" relating to everyday negativity. From this, I managed to extract the Kween, Durty Bishop and Knightsmare designs which are the foundations of the label. I played around with the idea producing multiple sketches which are now worn and recognised nationally.


Why should people buy your clothing?

P&F is an urban inspired 'London street wear' label. Our diverse concepts are designed to capture the imagination of the public. Those who are keen on keeping there wardrobes up to date should really be on our Online Store right now to pick up high end quality garments for there everyday lifestyles.

We predict the change in fashion trends and combat the seasonal changes without mentioning the celebrity support and endorsed personnel such as ; Dj Abrantee (choice Fm), Rio (England captain) and Anton Ferdinand (Sunderland defender) finally Heavyweight Champion Boxer David Haye all seen wearing Protege & Fev.

Drake, Neyo, Travis Mc'Coy and Kelly Rowland were also seen supporting the UK brand last year.


What makes you different from other designers or labels?

In a many ways, we are very similar to the high niche market brands out there. But, what makes us different to a lot of labels is; we cut and sew our garments, they are manufactured and shipped into the UK from Asia, which naturally provides us with better materials. We were also one of the first to drop Melton wool and leather combo varsity jackets in the UK last year!

Lastly we are not categorised as an URBAN label, Although our designs have been inspired by our social societies. Our inspirations are important in our quest to maintain the aim of becoming a mainstream brand with the Ralph's and Lyle and Scotts of this industry.


Who is your competition?

I don't agree with the term competition as we all have our own reason's for doing what we love, which is designing. I'd say, who do I aspire to emulate or surplus? - in terms of reaction and coverage from the independent and street niche markets - That would definitely be: BENJART, TRAPSTAR, PLAY DOT APPAREL and DOPECHEF they're all market leaders at the moment.

Who would be the ideal face for your brand and why?

Kayne West - Mega ego, the guys mental. He's music is creative and he's a global fashion iconic figure. He'd look great in a KWEEN t-shirt and CAESAR SKULL sweatshirt.

Nikki Minaj - Lady of hip hop at the moment. She’s has a very successful start to her music career and has a huge female following


Do you have a slogan?

Old Beginnings New Endings: We have means to always starting again with the aim of a better ending.

What labels are you inspired by?

Ralph Lauren! Most definitely a huge favourite of mine and Ed hardy, for the fearless design factor he has, I love that and G-star raw.


What have you got planned for the label for 2011?

Yes 2011, we have loads in store this year god willing. We are currently in negotiations with US Rappers over endorsements, launching of a full E-commerce web store and 5 pre contractual agreements with independent boutiques have already been signed! There's loads more Protege & Fev street wear for you all to wear.

Hopefully, by the end of the year, our companies profile would have increased and we will become one the most recognisable brands in the UK.

To get in touch with Protégé and Fev Clothing, or to follow there brand you can contact them via their Official Site, Twitter, Facebook and personal Blog.