Sons of Man
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, where innovation and authenticity are key to standing out, Sons of Man is an up-and-coming brand making bold waves. Founded by Patrick P Yee, the brand is quickly gaining attention for its fearless approach to design, blending street culture with avant-garde aesthetics. It’s a label that doesn’t just produce clothes—it tells stories, challenges norms, and redefines what modern menswear can be.
When Oona Chanel sits down with Patrick P Yee, the conversation uncovers the origins of Sons of Man, tracing its roots back to the raw energy of underground street culture and Patrick’s early venture, Skoold In Korectuss. His vision for Sons of Man is clear: to create clothing that pushes the boundaries of conventional menswear through exaggerated silhouettes, unexpected textures, and a dialogue that invites wearers to express their individuality.
Patrick : “This is more than just a brand—it’s the start of a movement.”
OONA: “Every brand carries an origin story, often rooted in personal history and cultural context. Could you trace the conceptual lineage of Sons of Man and discuss how your experiences have shaped the brand’s identity and ethos?”
PATRICK: “Sons of Man emerges from a rich tapestry woven with threads of urban culture, artistic integrity, creative edge, originality, and innovation. Its conceptual lineage can be traced back to the early 2000s, where my underground designs began as part of the streetwear movement.
My immersion in urban music and culture—its raw underground energy, poetic lyricism, and cultural significance—ignited a deep passion. This first took form in Skoold In Korectuss, a brand that redefined streetwear by celebrating the authenticity of the streets through bold, provocative designs that resonated with a discerning subculture.
Skoold In Korectuss was more than just a brand; it was a cultural touchstone, challenging streetwear conventions. Its success laid the groundwork for Sons of Man, a natural evolution that refined the core principles of street culture, infusing it with the sophistication of tailoring and contemporary silhouettes.
The Sons of Man brand is not just a product of design—it’s an artistic expression of a collective consciousness. It stands as a testament to the streets’ enduring power to inspire and shape culture, while bridging the gap between rebellion and refinement.”
OONA: “Fashion can be seen as a dialogue between the creator and the wearer, where clothing becomes a medium of expression. How do you view fashion as a form of narrative or philosophy, and in what ways does Sons of Man contribute to this discourse?”
PATRICK: “Fashion, indeed, is a dialogue—a silent conversation between the visionary creator and the wearer. Garments are the linguistic constructs of this exchange, imbued with the designer’s philosophy and brought to life through the wearer’s interpretation.
With its foundation in the unbridled spirit of the independent artist, Sons of Man positions itself as a powerful contributor to this discourse. We anchor our identity in creativity, originality, and innovation, inviting wearers to become active participants in the narrative. Wearing Sons of Man is not just about clothing—it’s about embodying a philosophy and aligning personal aesthetic with the brand’s ethos.
This relationship elevates the wearer to co-creator status, propagating the designer’s vision while simultaneously expressing their own individuality. Those who gravitate toward Sons of Man are often pioneers of style, relishing the opportunity to push boundaries and challenge conventions.
In this way, the brand forges a connection between the designer, the wearer, and the world at large—enriching the ongoing conversation about fashion’s role in self-expression and cultural evolution.”
OONA: “Sons of Man is known for its exaggerated and voluminous silhouettes, which challenge conventional menswear norms. What statement are you making through these bold shapes, and how do you see the future of menswear evolving in response to such provocations?”
PATRICK: “Our exaggerated silhouettes are a deliberate departure from the conventional—a subversion of traditional menswear norms. By distorting and reimagining the male form, we challenge preconceived notions of masculinity and elegance, demonstrating that harmony can exist in unexpected places. Our designs invite wearers to embrace the unconventional and celebrate individuality.
We foresee a future where menswear becomes increasingly expressive and experimental. The boundaries between traditional gender codes will blur, fostering a more inclusive and diverse fashion landscape. While our approach may seem radical now, we believe it will inspire a new generation of designers to push the boundaries of menswear, leading to a more dynamic and exciting industry.
Oona: Your designs seem to oscillate between minimalism and maximalism, restraint and excess. How do you reconcile these opposing forces within your collections, and what does this duality say about the contemporary fashion landscape?
Patrick: My designs are rooted in the belief that some forms naturally lend themselves to maximalism, while others shine through minimalism. For example, intricate fabric techniques often reveal their beauty through minimalism, while bold shapes demand the exuberance of maximalism. This balance is not just a stylistic choice—it’s a strategy to keep the audience engaged and curious.
This duality connects with a diverse audience—those who appreciate subtle design and those who seek flamboyant expression. The ability to create impact in both minimalist and maximalist frameworks shows that boldness isn’t confined to extravagance; it can also be found in simplicity. In today’s fashion landscape, this balance allows for versatility and breadth, keeping things fresh and innovative.”
OONA: “In a world where fashion is increasingly intertwined with social and political commentary, how does Sons of Man engage with the cultural zeitgeist? Are there particular themes or issues that your collections seek to address?”
PATRICK: “At Sons of Man, we engage with the cultural zeitgeist through aesthetic and design purity. While we acknowledge the power of fashion as political expression, we focus on creating designs that celebrate innovation, originality, and artistic disruption. We aim to provoke thought and evoke emotion without overshadowing the artistry with political statements.
Our collections make cultural statements that resonate on a deep level while honoring the integrity of the art form. By staying true to our creative vision, we engage with the zeitgeist in a way that is meaningful and authentic, without compromising our artistic foundations.
Sons of Man is carving out a space in the fashion world where art, culture, and identity intersect. With a philosophy rooted in originality and disruption, Patrick’s vision is reshaping how we view menswear, offering a platform for expression, individuality, and the power of street culture.”
Interview by Oona Chanel
Designer Patrick P Yee
Photography by Sons of Man