KR69 x Sasu Kauppi – "Flame" Collection
The Vision Behind KR69 and Sasu Kauppi’s Unique Collaboration
Sasu Kauppi is known for his bold and fearless designs that push boundaries and break conventions. The "Flame" collection, created in collaboration with Kalle, embodies this same creative energy.
Q&A: Sasu Kauppi
What was the inspiration behind the Flame Collection design?
Sasu: The process was fairly straightforward. I primarily used the graphics of the classic flame beanie as a reference, along with Kalle’s own KR69 logo. These two elements merge in the products, with the logo itself forming from flames. Additionally, I designed the collection’s other flame elements in the same spirit.
What challenges did you face in combining fashion and motorsport aesthetics?
Sasu: I almost always draw my inspiration from outside the fashion industry, often from sports, Finnish culture, and various stereotypes. In this case, the process felt natural, and I didn’t encounter any particular challenges.
How do you see the collaboration between Finnish athletes and fashion designers evolving in the future?
Sasu: In general, I would like to see people in different fields trust each other’s expertise more when working together. This applies to fashion and sports but also to many other industries. Maybe in the future, we’ll even see designer contributions in athletes’ workwear, for example, in the form of more interesting yet still functional competition outfits.
If you could design your next collection for another Finnish athlete, who would it be and why?
Sasu: It would be interesting to collaborate with a Finnish team sport athlete playing in North America—or even with an entire team.
What Does the Collection Include?
The "Flame" collection features two carefully designed pieces by Sasu Kauppi:
KR69 x Sasu Kauppi Flame Beanie
This stylish beanie brings color and power to your outfit. Its bold flame pattern radiates warmth and charisma, making it a perfect addition for cold winter days or as a streetwear accessory all year round. The beanie is designed to be worn with one or two folds or as a slouchy fit.
KR69 x Sasu Kauppi Oversized "Flame" Crewneck
A classic crewneck sweatshirt that showcases Sasu’s signature design language. The flame graphic adds a street-ready personality, while the relaxed fit ensures all-day comfort, making it a go-to piece for both casual wear and leisure.
