NKD devised a bespoke look for both the kitchen brigade and front of house team at Michelin starred chef Paul Kitching's new restaurant, 21212.

Paul and his partner Katie O'Brien wanted a look that would set them apart from other high-end restaurants and sourced a traditional artist's smock as inspiration.

NKD's design manager, Jill Robertson, said: "The smock look was really inspired, but the design team initially encountered challenges with the material commonly used to make smocks as it was a heavy canvas. It was uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time and too hot, especially in a kitchen environment."

Eventually a solution was found which was not only comfortable but smart and Jill added: "Sometimes a smock can look overly casual, so we've also been able to come up with a far more tailored look. I was really delighted Paul and Katie liked it so much and that we've managed to remain true to the ‘working artist' look."

Front of house staff will wear a bespoke, artist-style apron with straps which cross over at the back and deep front pockets in a sand-coloured canvas-effect fabric. Female staff will also wear a poppy-red silk neck scarf, while male colleagues will have the restaurant logo picked out in red on their apron.

Kitchen staff will wear a longer, mid-calf apron with straps which pass around the waist to tie at the front, skull cap style kitchen hats in navy blue with either the number 1 or 2 from the restaurant logo on the front. Female kitchen staff will also wear a red cotton neck scarf.

Beneath the apron all staff will wear fitted navy blue T shirts and navy trousers teamed with contemporary black trainers.

Jill added: "The restaurant concept itself is contemporary and really unique and that allowed us to be more creative in our designs because they were open to new ideas.

"These uniforms will be extremely distinctive, stylish and high quality, while sacrificing nothing in terms of comfort. Staff wearing these outfits will feel as good as they look."

Visit www.nkdclothing.co.uk

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