OUGD602 - PPP - Mamnick Interview

Here is an interview I carried out with Thom Barnett, who runs the menswear brand Mamnick based in Sheffield. I am extremely fond of his products and also his methodology to working. I am personally very interested in fashion and it could be an area that I look into specialising in within Graphic Design, so I thought it would be relevant to get in touch with some fashion designers that I am interested in. 

Questions

Tell me a bit about the origins of Mamnick, and the ethos behind the company. Why did you start it?

I founded the brand in 2012 with a naive idea to try and make a living by myself in a creative sector. I saw that no-one was using Sheffield steel in a more lifestyle-product context and that no-one was really promoting the beauties of the Peak District. Both had a place in my life and I brought them together at the beginning of Mamnick. 

How would you describe your methodology and style of work?

One thing at a time as beautiful as possible. 

What inspires you?

I find inspiration in everything. Things I’m surrounded by, people I meet, books I’m reading ranging from economics, politics to music and sport. 

What are your favourite brands and what is it about them that you particularly like?

I’ve always been a big fan of Massimo Osti’s designs and specifically older CP Company and SI (SPW period). I also like the work of Kenneth Mackenzie and his brand - 6876, whom I have been lucky to work with in the past.  

Do you believe that in some areas of fashion, branding is starting to become more important than the quality of the product and is that something you are trying to change with Mamnick?

It’s always been important and it always will be until we see a shift in culture. At the end of the day, it’s still just clothing to many people and not everyone is ‘bothered’ about where they’re clothing is being manufactured, by whom, or to what quantity. I’m trying to challenge that culture as I find it particularly interesting but I do think think that the brand ‘logo’ will always be important. Fashion is a very visual language.