Here in Greater Manchester, we’ve had some pretty decent exports over the years. We’ve produced culinary luxuries like Vimto and Eccles Cakes. Audible delights courtesy of the Stone Roses and the Happy Mondays. And wearable pleasures thanks to brands like Henri Lloyd, Reebok and more recently Gander – a brand that is determined to etch its way into our region’s history.
Like us, Gander calls the 1,276 km² area sandwiched between Merseyside and the Peak District, known as Greater Manchester, home. And it shows in every collection – garments are that bit warmer, that bit cozier, and wear the kind of colour palettes that can only have been inspired by the red brick walls and worn brown pub carpets that inhabit so much of our city.
We’re not sure whether Gander intended it or not, but over the last few years they’ve been slowly writing a wearable love letter to Manchester. And with their latest AW26 collection, it seems there’s still plenty of ink left in the pen.
For the AW26 editorial Gander have shifted the spotlight away from the usual modelling roster and onto people who can be found shuffling around Manchester’s streets most mornings. Shot against the red-brick backdrop of Ancoats, the campaign features a cast of Manchester locals and friends of Gander.
The Manchester references continue in the collection itself. The Peveril Jacket, named after the iconic yellow-tiled Peveril of the Peak boozer, returns this season in 100% waxed cotton with a high-density twill. It’s arguably the cosiest version yet – and one that wouldn’t look out of place draped over the well-worn bar stools or green baize pool table of its namesake.
The Cottonopolis Jacket looks deeper into the city’s history, taking its name from Manchester’s 19th-century nickname during the boom of its cotton and textile industries. Woven from cotton yarn and Australian wool on jacquard machines, it’s a fitting nod to the industry that helped shape the city – and, in its own way, Gander itself.
Gander is growing as a brand, there’s no doubt about it. But unlike others, they’re determined to remain true to their roots. Manchester bleeds through in every collection the brand puts out, and we’re proud to say that AW26 is no different.
Shop Gander’s AW26 collection at gandergander.co.uk
