Ashish Gupta unveils sporty Topshop line for ‘ones that don't get the medals'

By Saeeda Zaib
Trends Correspondent, SAM Daily Times

For athletically challenged ladies who find it hard to relate to Olympic champions, designer Ashish Gupta has launched a fun sports-themed clothing line with Topshop incorporating slogans such as "2nd place" and "Loser."

Available at select Topshop stores and on topshop.com, the collection is Gupta's eighth capsule line for the high street retailer.

Highlights include a gray jersey sweat set embellished with world flags, jumpers and vests typical of Gupta's comic design approach, sporting phases such as "Don't play games" and a baseball jacket embossed with "Loser" on the back.

Gupta's latest collection is in stark contrast to fellow British high street retailer River Island's team-up with Adidas for its patriotic Team Great Britain line, with jersey items for ladies and gentlemen in the traditional Union Jack's red, white and blue.

"I was rubbish at sports in school, and I was always the last one chosen for the football team! So I can relate to being the 'loser'! I want to celebrate the underdog, the runner up, the ones that don't get the medals!" Gupta laughed.

Topshop first teamed up with Gupta back in 2004, with his successful collections known for their high-octane glamour, bright colors, sequins and prints.