Billabong and Wrangler's high-energy ad recounts their interwoven history
Film for new collaboration chronicles how one brand inspired the other
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A new collaboration between clothing brands Billabong and Wrangler is a little bit country, a little bit surf and 100% historic—highlighted in a stylish new ad.
In 1947, tailor Bernard Lichtenstein, better known by nickname Rodeo Ben, designed Wrangler's 13MWZ jeans for rodeo cowboys who were tired of uncomfortable pants and sore bottoms. Almost 30 years later in Australia, Gordon Merchant was having a rodeo-level issue with his surf shorts—all of them were stiff and itchy. So, he designed Billabong’s first board shorts—inspired by his favorite Wrangler jeans.
This saga of cowboys and surfers is documented in the video spot for Billabong and Wrangler’s new line of clothing, their first-ever since Merchant’s original inspiration almost 50 years ago. The video documents the brands’ history together with high-energy graphics of scrapbook-like clippings dancing around the screen, fusing together and piling up chaotically. “Thank god for cowboys,” the video concludes.
The culture-crossing apparel line utilizes eco-conscious materials for its many men’s and women’s styles inspired by retro ‘70s fashion, including a mix of coast and cowboy vibes.
“Whether you’re passionate about riding in the rodeo arena or riding a wave, a shared love for the outdoors can connect us all,” says Holly Wheeler, vice president of global brand marketing at Wrangler, in a statement. “As we continue to offer new apparel through meaningful collaborations, it’s great to work with a brand like Billabong that aligns with our values and was inspired by our product from the very beginning. The result of our brands authentically coming together is a truly unique, sustainable collection that sits at the intersection of surf and western.”
Wrangler’s roster of past collaborations include musical artist Lil Nas X and the Adult Swim cartoon “Rick and Morty.”