29-10-2006
Last night, Nissan and Marc Ecko revealed what happens when two of the most design-forward companies in the automotive and fashion industries unite. At a VIP event held at New York’s Splashlight Studios, Nissan and Marc Ecko showcased the results of their recently announced partnership – the Nissan Pathfinder and the Nissan Armada customized by Marc Ecko, and the Nissan-inspired line of apparel and accessories from the *ecko unltd. and Marc Ecko Cut & Sew collections.
“Nissan and Marc Ecko are two brands known for bold, forward-thinking design,” said Jan Thompson, vice president of marketing for Nissan North America. “The new customized vehicles and clothing line emerging from this collaboration are the perfect extension of the quality and affinity for street culture inherent to both brands.”
The Nissan Pathfinder customized by Marc Ecko is inspired by *ecko unltd.’s street-smart swagger. It takes a vehicle that loves to get a little dirty and gives it an “old school” twist with smoothed wheel wells, a modified grille and a custom black and grey camouflage paint job. The interior includes seamless black leather, molded wood backs and a glossy, safety orange center console.
The Nissan Armada customized by Marc Ecko follows Cut & Sew’s sophisticated designs, retaining the muscularity of the vehicle’s original look while adding an edge. The exterior features a cream Landau roof, laser etched rims and safety orange side panels. The interior offers sophisticated touches like the use of premium cream and tan calfskin leathers with heavy-contrast stitching.
“My goal with this project is to not only introduce my original sense of style to Nissan, but to do so in a way that highlights the individuality of the Pathfinder and Armada brands,” said Mr. Ecko.
Mr. Ecko also designed limited edition, co-branded pullover anoraks, t-shirts, leather key chains and other items that will be given away at events and sold online through www.ecko.com. Proceeds from the sale will benefit Sweat Equity Enterprises (SEE), Mr. Ecko’s nonprofit organization, which empowers at-risk teens to learn professional design and technology skills while working behind the scenes in leading design companies.
Text and photos courtesy of Nissan
