Welcome to the Friends of Gramicci project! Today, we’re excited to introduce Callum, the Menswear Buyer at Highs and Lows in Perth. With a background steeped in skate culture, music, and film, Callum’s unique journey has led him to a passion for fashion and outdoor activities. He’s here to share his insights on his career and how Gramicci’s apparel complements his active lifestyle. Let’s get into his story!
You are the Menswear buyer of Highs and Lows in Perth. Can you tell us a little about yourself, your career, and your passions?
I started buying menswear for Highs and Lows in 2022, after three years with the team. It’s something I’ve grown to love—styling, the way garments fit, and the little details in their design. I come from a graphic design background, so a lot of my creative energy is rooted in skate culture, music, and film. That’s what pulled me into fashion in the first place, figuring out how to use those influences with my skills in this space. Buying and design feels circular for me; they feed into each other constantly. I get a kick out of line sheets, diving into fabrics, colours, functionality, and the graphical elements that tie it all together. It’s all connected.
What do you love most about your sport or activity, and what keeps you passionate about it?
As I’ve gotten older, staying active has become a big part of my routine. Running and climbing are my go-to’s, but honestly, it’s the social side that keeps me hooked. I’ve got a great group of friends I do this with, and it’s something I look forward to all week. There’s something about climbing that’s especially satisfying; it feels like problem-solving in real time, always keeping me challenged and engaged. What’s cool is seeing how both of these sports have found their place in fashion. People are really making these spaces their own, and I love that.
How do you choose your gear and clothing for everyday activities whether that is work, sports/climbing, or exploring the outdoors? What factors are most important to you?
It is definitely a silhouette thing for me, no matter the occasion. I think it's an important part of someone's individual style, even when it comes to sport. I am less concerned about wearing certain brands and more concerned about the fit, quality, and durability. I feel that is why I am so drawn to Gramicci’s clothing, especially for outdoor activities in Australia.
Can you share a memorable experience from your adventures that stands out to you?
I struggle to choose a specific memorable moment, although I generally love running when visiting a new place. You end up seeing and passing so much that you wouldn't normally encounter at home, whether in a city or out in the country. These runs ground me in that moment and give me such a great level of appreciation for the location I am in.
Are there any specific Gramicci styles or products that fit your lifestyle, whether for work, climbing, or other activities?
I usually wear Gramicci shorts while climbing; the baggier, the better, since they allow for ease of movement. In winter, I switch to lightweight, baggy pants, and I love them in a larger size. The design simply blends comfort and functionality, making them ideal for both outdoor and everyday wear.
How do you think the culture and community around exploring the outdoors, camping, and climbing in Australia influence your choices in gear and clothing?
I have always felt quite connected to sports, exploring, and outdoor activities. I love reading about the technical functionality of outdoor gear, and I think that's what has drawn me so close to running, hiking, and climbing-inspired brands. There’s a solid community of like-minded people who really get to nerd out over these things, and I'm all for it!
What advice would you give to someone new to outdoor activities in Australia, especially when it comes to gear and clothing?
I think it's about enjoying the activity first before seriously committing to any specialised gear. Do some research! There are so many options out there in today's market, and it can be overwhelming to decipher what’s actually functional versus just trendy. Finding the right balance of comfort, performance, and style will make all the difference.
Keep up with Callum's latest fashion insights and daily outfit inspiration by following him on Instagram and Highs and Lows on Instagram. Discover Gramicci’s stylish and versatile collections here.
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