A throwback to the raucous ‘90s, the iconic Boy’s Own zine—a cornerstone of acid house culture—is making a bold return, this time etched onto a fresh series of tees. Born in the fervor of London’s burgeoning house music scene, Boy’s Own was originally crafted by Terry Farley, Cymon Eckel, Steve Mayes, and the legendary Andrew Weatherall. It not only chronicled the acid house explosion but also seamlessly married football terrace culture with club life through a sharp, witty lens.
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Famed for its homestyle production—complete with typos and layouts courtesy of Farley’s mum—the zine became more than a publication; it was a pivotal player in shaping some of the era’s defining parties and tunes, eventually evolving into Boy’s Own Recordings and later, the Junior Boy’s Own label. With unapologetically candid viewpoints, every page vibrated with the pulse of London’s nightlife and football scenes, further enriched by regular contributions from scene stalwarts like DJ Paul Oakenfold and photographer Dave Swindells.
Now re-envisioned as wearable art, Collection No.1 channels the original zine’s raw, DIY spirit. Each piece in the collection features the zine’s classic symbols, mixed with snapshots of underground parties, iconic playlists, and original clippings, effectively capturing the essence of acid-house lore.
As explained by Cymon Eckel, this isn’t just about reviving Boy’s Own; it’s about adapting its irreverent and critical spirit to align with today’s cultural nuances. The collection emphasizes independent thought, human connection, and respect—all central themes during the zine’s heyday.
Boy’s Own’s latest iteration will debut at Dover Street Market’s London flagship on Thursday, 16th May, aligned with Photo London festivities. This launch will also feature limited-edition prints, with additional pieces available through select boutiques like Goodhood, END., Garbstore, and more. This revival is not simply a nod to the past but a continuation of the zine’s legacy—a celebration of individuality, culture, and the undeniable impact of acid house on music and fashion.
Photography by @malone_andy
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