LOS ANGELES, Oct. 8
Aces Wilder, a Los Angeles menswear brand, is putting expressive style at the center of men's well‑being and giving the Movember movement a fresh look.
Through a fully funded Kickstarter, the brand will donate 5% of proceeds to the Movember Foundation while pushing back against outdated ideas about how men should dress. Why it matters
Aces Wilder links clothing and confidence. The brand argues that when men can express themselves through bold, comfortable fashion, they're more likely to start conversations and feel seen -- which can help reduce loneliness and support mental health. Statistics the brand cites include high rates of loneliness among young men and a disproportionate share of suicides in the U.S., highlighting the need for new ways to promote connection.
Introducing Performance Festive‑wear(TM)
Aces Wilder calls its new category "Performance Festive‑wear(TM)" -- activewear comfort with statement-making style. The first product is the Ace Zipup: a soft, hooded zip jacket in vibrant prints designed for everyday life and special moments alike -- from festivals and parties to airports and gyms. The goal: create clothing that's easy and useful but also expressive enough to spark conversation.
Founders' perspective
"For too long, men have been told to play it safe in what they wear and how they show up," said Juliet Chen, co‑founder of Aces Wilder. "Expression is part of confidence, and confidence is part of mental health." Co‑founder Jenny Zhang adds that just as Movember used mustaches to open conversations about men's health, Aces Wilder is using bold casual wear to do the same.
Cultural context
The brand points to a long historical trend -- the Great Male Renunciation -- when men's dress moved toward darker, more restrained styles. Aces Wilder argues that returning color and ornament to men's wardrobes can help reconnect outward appearance with inner vitality and reduce emotional suppression.
Giveback and campaign details
- Kickstarter campaign is live and offers exclusive launch rewards; it closes at midnight on Thursday, October 16.
- Aces Wilder will donate 5% of Kickstarter proceeds to the Movember Foundation.
- Throughout November, the brand will continue the Movember initiative at AcesWilder.com, contributing a portion of purchases to men's mental‑health programs worldwide.
What's next
The Kickstarter is funding the first silhouettes and prints. Aces Wilder plans a full Performance Festive‑wear(TM) line next year.
Where to learn more
Visit the Aces Wilder Kickstarter page and AcesWilder.com for campaign details, product previews, and information about the brand's Movember giving.
- PRN
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