David Black, co-founder of The Affair, about the "threadless aesthetic":

We’re actually quite jealous, as it’s all really nicely-drawn and well-finished, and a much easier way to make money. But it’s the sort of inoffensive, pointless artwork that mobile-phone companies put on their advertising during summertime, and it drives us a bit nuts.

...

What we’re trying to do is something a bit more thoughtful than simply trying to appeal to anyone who grew up in the 80’s with a passing interest in computer games, hip-hop and bright colours.

From this Format Magazine interview with the founders of The Affair, a question arises that i think every designer should ask, once in a while: Do you want to win a smile with your graphics, or do you want to make people talk about ideas?