A unique partnership between Kepler game developers and designer Robyn has created a clothing collection inspired by the rich visual legacy of 90s and early 2000s video games.
A unique collaboration between game developers at Kepler and designer Robyn has culminated in an innovative collection inspired by the aesthetics of 90s and early 2000s video game media. This project emerged from a series of workshops aimed at blending Kepler’s gaming influences with Robyn’s technical skills, resulting in garments that are both visually striking and reminiscent of a beloved era in gaming history.
According to Simon, a spokesperson for the collaboration, the process involved garment dyeing and enzyme washing techniques, allowing for the reworking of graphics from Kepler. Some characters from Kepler even made an appearance on the clothing through thoughtful embroidery, which utilized 3M reflective tonal thread. Simon emphasized the collaboration and spontaneity that defined the project, noting that the models featured in the collection were chosen from the “shared community” of both Kepler and Robyn, reflecting the unifying nature of their interests.
During a photoshoot for the lookbook, an unexpected moment captured Simon’s attention. One of the models, Ben, was holding a screen in a manner similar to how one would hold a skateboard. “Everyone turned to look at each other, scrambling to get an image of a skateboard on the screen,” Simon recalled. “It’s my favourite image in the book.” This moment highlights the playful spirit inherent in both gaming and fashion within this collaboration.
The lookbook itself is infused with vibrant imagery, evoking the atmosphere of LAN parties, wherein players would gather to enjoy multiplayer gaming experiences. One standout photo portrays all the models engaged in various stages of gameplay, showcasing their expressions of confusion, concentration, and frustration—emotions commonly associated with intense gaming sessions. Additionally, the lookbook features mock advertisements that juxtapose dramatic posters for fictional dystopian first-person shooter games with whimsical ads for games aimed at younger audiences.
Initially, the collaboration was intended as an internal project rather than a commercial line. However, the team’s pride in their creation, coupled with the popularity of certain items on resale sites, led them to reconsider. Despite the limited availability of sizes, the Kepler team embraced their gaming ethos by developing a gamified website that echoes the visual elements of the lookbook. Visitors can unlock various achievements on the site, engaging in a playful challenge that resonates with gaming enthusiasts. Simon explained, “Hunting achievements on the website will feel familiar to anyone who loves games. That achievement pings a certain part of the brain.”
As a prize for participants, the winner not only stands to receive items from the collection but also gains access to every Kepler game release, including future titles—an offer highlighted by an interactive membership card placed in the center of the lookbook.
The competition is set to close on March 5, presenting an intriguing opportunity for fans of both the gaming and fashion worlds to connect through this innovative collaboration.
Source: Noah Wire Services