There have been Rapha x Paul Smith collaborations in the past, but this time it’s the exclusive Rapha Cycling Club that’s getting the Artist Stripe treatment. The RCC x Paul Smith collection was conceived as the answer to the hypothetical question, “what if Paul Smith, a long-time racing fan, sponsored a cycling team in the 1960s?”
This limited-quantity collection blends the classic British racing green with Smith’s signature stripes. Those design aesthetics have been applied to Rapha’s recognizable kit to create clothing befitting a 1960s cycling squad. One piece was even inspired by a team-issued shirt that was worn by mechanics and soigneurs.
The men’s collection features three garments — a base layer, t-shirt, and midweight jersey, the latter two of which feature white RCC letters on the right chest. The women’s collection includes souplesse wool bib shorts, souplesse jersey, and classic jersey, the last two of which also feature the proud RCC monogram.