Queer Culture Meets California.
ERL has just launched its Pre-Fall Collection, “The Wild Bunch,” and it comes with an exciting twist: the brand’s first-ever collaboration with Peter Berlin. If that name doesn’t immediately ring a bell, don’t worry, we’re here to give you the rundown on Peter and why this partnership is everything.
Peter Berlin is a German-American photographer, artist, filmmaker, clothing designer, and model. He became a queer icon in the 1970s, renowned for his daring and meticulously crafted self-portraits that challenged norms of masculinity and public identity. Often featuring him in his signature skin-tight, self-designed outfits, Berlin’s work was a bold exploration of male sexuality and exhibitionism, influencing queer culture and art long before the age of selfies.
Now, ERL has taken it to the next level with “The Wild Bunch,” a collection that’s bow available. This line dives deep into a cinematic narrative, channeling the raw energy of a rebellious gang with deconstructed styles, tattered finishes, and bold leather pieces, all infused with ERL’s signature Hollywood-rooted aesthetic. You’ll find artisan leather jackets meticulously ripped and re-stitched, polos and a range of distressed motorcycle tees, undershirts, and mesh tops. This collection powerfully nods to queer subculture, drawing parallels to the iconic erotic art of Tom of Finland and, of course, the pivotal work of Peter Berlin, whose vintage photography is boldly collaged onto pieces like a charcoal muscle tank, featuring his iconic self-portraits. Beyond the playful theatricality, ERL remains deeply committed to local and artisanal production, introducing new California denim sourced and processed locally, and hand-knit varsity cardigans crafted by local artisans using US-spun wool. The collection alongside the collaboration are available to purchase on their official website.
Check it out below.
PHOTO CREDIT: ERL
