Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Inspiration: Lacrosse x Gant

One of my favorite sports (after baseball) is lacrosse and it's getting its share of press due to the fact that it inspired Michael Bastian's new Gant collection. And although some lax purist would say that this has nothing to do with lacrosse (and I would agree with that), I like the idea of starting with a concept/theme and creating a entire line around it. I'm really looking forward to seeing what comes out of this collection.
Lacrosse originated with the Native American nations of the United States and Canada, mainly among the Huron and Iroquois Tribes. In many Native American societies/tribes, the ball sport was often part of religious ritual, played to resolve conflicts, heal the sick, develop strong, virile men and prepare for war. Legend tells of games with more than 100 players from different tribes taking turns to play.It could be played on a field many miles in length and width; sometimes the game could last for days. Early lacrosse balls were made of deerskin, clay, stone, and sometimes wood. Lacrosse played a significant role in the community and religious life of tribes across the continent for many years. Early lacrosse was characterized by deep spiritual involvement, befitting the spirit of combat in which it was undertaken. Those who took part did so in the role of warriors, with the goal of bringing glory and honor to themselves and their tribes.The game was said to be played "for the Creator" or was referred to as "The Creator's Game".
 
 

3 comments:

  1. Great post. Coming from a lax high school powerhouse (WRA), I would agree that the collection seems to have very little to do with actual lacrosse. Though it captures the 'athletic boarding school boy' very well.

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  2. Good call on the Boarding/Prep School vibe. My only hope is that it doesn't turn into Polo's Rugby.

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  3. Great history lesson! The whole lacrosse thing is lost on me though. That is one sport I have absolutely no skill at.

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