Billabong and Wrangler are putting a western spin on vintage surf. The seemingly unexpected partners are celebrating the best of both worlds with the launch of their first-ever collaboration in anticipation of back-to-school season. The second, fall-inspired installment, is set to come out in September.
Women’s shorts from the Billabong x Wrangler’s collection
According to a company press release, the collection pays homage to Billabong’s beginning when founder Gordon Merchant’s favorite Wrangler jeans inspired him to create the first pair of Billabong boardshorts. It also taps into Wrangler’s connections to cowboy and rodeo culture.
“Whether you’re passionate about riding in the rodeo arena or riding a wave, a shared loved for the outdoors can connect us all,” Wrangler’s Vice President of Global Brand Marketing Holly Wheeler said in a statement.
The Billabong x Wrangler collection is made with eco-conscious materials.
“We’re also feeling really good about the materials we used to create this collection,” said Brad Lancaster, Billabong Vice President of Men’s Creative. “End to end it’s a sustainable line, using recycled PETs, hemp and organic cottons and recycled materials for the trims – a first for Billabong, and certainly a step in the right direction for the planet.”
The Billabong x Wrangler’s collection
The men’s collection has more than 40 styles, including the Icons boardshort. The women’s line reflects the spirit of the ‘70s and country soul – shoreline tropicals and western-spun surf graphics. Come September, shoppers can expect to see Wrangler’s retro hues in jackets, denim, fleece and high-waisted cords.
“Just as a denim designer obsesses on creating the most functional and comfortable jeans for riding, we as a surf brand obsess on making the best product for life in and around the ocean,” Billabong Women’s Creative Director Allison Roberts said in a statement. “The result is a beautiful intersection of well-worn workwear, forever denim pieces, country surf and timeless bikinis.”
The collaboration comes through Billabong LAB and the campaign was shot around Northern New South Wales, Australia and included some of Billabong’s athletes.
The Billabong x Wrangler collection is available on billabong.com, wrangler.com and select retailers.
