Carolyn Massey was lucky enough to receive an anonymous donation of military patterns, mainly from World War II, which formed the basis of the current collection. Taking it full circle, these patterns build on the darker military element indicative of the label -exploring it via union suits, flight suits and smocks released exclusively for Massey's research. She made the patterns more wearable today, by adding hoodies underneath jackets and placing long jumpers under beautifully tailored sleeveless jackets. Gray heavy great-coats had lapels pinned back with a row of buttons. Trench-coats in thick wool were twinned with a smart version of the marching-boot. Flights suits were accessorised with chunky balaclava-scarves. Smocks and pants had a touch of humour, being made in a peach leather. Carolyn Massey also sent a model down the catwalk in a daring silver Lurex all-in-one, union suit and worked on making the romper-suit more masculine by using denim, pairing it with a long-sleeved tee and dark tie-dyed ribbed leggings, slashed below the knee. In addition to delicate detailing and beautiful craftsmanship, Obsolete Prototype C53 sees the label diversify into printing techniques. Massey has developed a deconstructed print based on the postal art of artist Ray Johnson with a nod to the nonchalant elegance of a young Hunter S. Thompson on his travels. Working with print designer Sam Cotton, Massey allows the print to repeat and fade, like the 'worn' military uniforms - compounding the nostalgic feel to the collection.
