The neighborhood of Psyrri in Athens is traditionally artistic, and it has often inspired creative people. So it was no surprise when a new store opened on Pallados Street in October 2014. "The Real Intellectuals” sounded a promising title and proved to be a very interesting new initiative by a team of graphic artists with a passion for vintage motorcycles, silk printing and new ideas.
At their store, you can find a wide variety of clothes and accessories for motorcycle-lovers, but not only that. Essential streetwear – such as t-shirts, sweaters, beanies and tote bags – as well as mugs, key holders, wallet ropes and other items for men and women are on offer, too.
Natural colors, simplicity and reasonable prices make the wares here especially attractive.
The Real Intellectuals' shop in Athens — Photo courtesy of The Real Intellectuals
The Real Intellectuals was first founded back in 2012 in Athens by a team of graphic designers who wanted to express their love for vintage motorcycles, design and handcrafts. Exploring new paths of creativity, they bring streetwear closer to their own mentality, which is style with a sophisticated twist.
Anything they experience reflects on their creativity: an adventurous bike ride with friends, gorgeous landscapes, living close to nature, the exceptional design of vintage and custom-made motorcycles and the sound these bikes produce.
The whole process is an ode to artisan craftsmanship. Their atelier is their playground, where first they design the illustrations, sketching, drawing and printing until they are completely satisfied.
Then, using the amazing silk printing technique, they apply the illustrations on each item separately, until the water-based colors form what they have in mind. All the t-shirts and sweaters are made of soft and airy fine cotton.
They also create accessories that supplement “TRI” looks: handkerchiefs; stickers for helmets or bikes; shopping bags; and patches for clothes like jackets, jeans and hoodies. Their signature illustrations make these accessories unique.
Recently, they've been working with leather, creating useful accessories, such as wallet ropes and key holders.
The collections come in pure style with authentic simplicity. At The Real Intellectuals, they use the finest materials, with special attention to sustainability and environment-friendly practices. The clothing is comfortable and practical, leaving the body free to move and breathe.
The Real Intellectuals' collections are presented twice a year, in fall and summer, even though they add new items frequently. Visit their website to find out more about them, the process of creation and the e-store where you can order the items you want.
