NYFW: The Athletic Side Of Us (TASOU) S/S 2022

The S/S 2022 collection from The Athletic Side of Us (TASOU) features menswear and womenswear by designer Chuks Collins. Set in the Ancient Benin Kingdom where transitional fashion meets this ancient civilization from southern Nigeria.

Designed for everyday life, it’s streetwear meets athletic wear with a couture sensibility. TASOU relates the human experience with functional clothing that also focuses on sustainability by being eco-forward.

“My idea was to do something very forward and comfortable that’s easy to wear, but also very summery and upbeat at the same time. My menswear is inspired by me and what I think about when I pack a backpack for a few days trip.”

— Collins

The two philosophies of “Art Self” and “Act Self'' act as the foundation of this collection; expressions of the soul acting in congruence with expressions of the mind and body. Looks are meant to be functional, fluid and forward, that work for both men and women to fit the human experience.

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The TASOU Graffiti set for men, a shorts and top set can be worn for any activity. For women’s, looks include a mesh belting. The TASOU Graffiti print in black and white, as well as the orange can also be found in the women’s collection

“I wanted something that was functional for women that can be worn from day to night, from pants and dresses. I was also looking for colors that would transition with other items in a woman’s wardrobe.”

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Collins has also focused this collection to give back to those who desire to be athletic but have been limited due to limb deficiencies. To support the “Act Self” philosophy, the brand is facilitating a new way forward for those whose mobility has been limited and proceeds from the collection will go towards providing sustainable prosthetic limbs to children in Nigeria, through TASOU’s partnering organization The Irede Foundation.

TASOU’s debut allowed for Collins to present his fresh point of view and introduce the bridging of streetwear and active wear. The brand seeks to not only create looks that are stylish and feel good, but that are also good for the planet.