London-based designer Harikrishnan Keezhathil Surendran Pillai, popularly known as Harri, is set to make a statement this Halloween with a unique collaboration. Teaming up with New Orleans’ whisky label, Southern Comfort, Harri has created a collection of costumes that embrace the spirit of the spooky season. In this exclusive interview, Harri shares insights into his journey, the inspiration behind the collection, and the exciting partnership with Southern Comfort.
Hailing from India, Harri embarked on his fashion journey in 2020 after graduating from the Menswear MA program at the London College of Fashion. With a focus on exaggeration and perception, Harri’s designs push boundaries and challenge traditional notions of fashion. His innovative use of latex allows him to play with different textures and create unique sculptural pieces.
Southern Comfort approached Harri with an exciting Halloween project, inviting him to reimagine classic costumes in an over-the-top manner. The collaboration was a perfect match, as both brands share a passion for creativity and pushing boundaries. Together, they aimed to create costumes that would be forever admired and remembered.
To select the themes for the three costumes, Southern Comfort conducted consumer research to understand people’s preferences for Halloween. Based on the findings, Harri and Southern Comfort incorporated bespoke elements into each costume, such as a Southern Comfort 5cl bottle holder integrated into the Vampire’s tie, the Witch’s necklace, and the Pumpkin’s waistband. This attention to detail adds a unique touch to the collection and enhances the overall Halloween experience.
The Halloween collection features three distinct costumes: the “Villain Vampire,” the “Golden Pumpkin,” and the “Red Witch.” Each costume showcases Harri’s signature sculptural artistry and attention to detail. The “Villain Vampire” costume combines elements of gothic fashion with metallic latex, creating a striking and powerful look. The “Golden Pumpkin” costume features an exaggerated silhouette and intricate detailing, capturing the essence of Halloween’s most iconic symbol. Lastly, the “Red Witch” costume incorporates a two-toned corset, a curved broom, and a structured hat, presenting a modern interpretation of a classic character.
Harri and Southern Comfort’s Halloween Collection will be available for hire on a first-come, first-served basis. This allows Halloween enthusiasts to experience the unique and captivating designs firsthand. The collaboration between Harri and Southern Comfort promises to make this Halloween a memorable one for fashion and Halloween enthusiasts alike.
Harri’s collaboration with Southern Comfort for the Halloween Collection showcases his exceptional talent and creativity. By reimagining classic costumes and infusing them with his unique design aesthetic, Harri has created a collection that is both visually stunning and true to the spirit of Halloween. With the availability of these costumes for hire, individuals can embrace the spooky season in style. This collaboration is a testament to the power of creative partnerships and the ability to bring innovative ideas to life.
