London Collections is the highlight of the menswear calendar. Taking place every January and June it celebrates the creative and commercial importance of the British menswear industry.
As LCM entered its seventh season we were promised that it would be bigger and better than before – and it definitely didn’t disappoint. Often lost in the limelight to its showier counterpart, London Fashion Week, the SS16 event conveyed how menswear is steadily becoming a lucrative business.
This year saw designers taking a grown up approach to dressing. Slicked back hair and tailoring were the order of the day. Here are some of our favourite backstage details.
Hardy Amies
Hardy Amies SS16 collection was all about effortless tailoring. Although sleek and slick may not be something that is typically worn on a day-to-day basis, this collection showed how it’s much easier to incorporate into your wardrobe than you probably first thought.
Whilst the majority of us may not have the cash to spend on designer names, snooping backstage was enough to provide a good dose of inspiration to achieve a pulled together contemporary look.
Creative director Mehmet Ali, portrayed sci-fi influences by exploring the capabilities of technologically advanced textiles. Walking down the catwalk to the famous 2001:A Space Odyssey soundtrack ‘Also sprach Zarathustra’ by Richard Strauss, Ali showcased a collection of lightweight, almost transparent jackets – a clever way of ensuring effective cooling properties – ideal for summer.
The range of suits could be seen as ‘dowdy’ by today’s ultra modern generation, but the collection manages to juxtapose traditional design with forward thinking technology to combine the best of both worlds.
Jermyn Street St. James
Jermyn Street in the trendy St. James area of London is fast becoming the destination for stylish young men to get their fashion fix. The street is a little brother to its famous counterpart Savile Row, but it is predicted that this is soon to become full-blown sibling rivalry.
Well-known classics such as Barbour and Aquascutum were shown alongside trendy additions including Jigsaw and Thomas Pink. More affordable than Saville Row, these designer brands offer affordable luxury that you’re certainly going to want to spend your first pay packet on.
Focusing on several different themes such as changing seasons, sportswear, and accessories, Jermyn Street managed to cover all angles. One thing to take away from this show is how fashion doesn’t always need to be super smart. By contrasting urban pieces with tailored classics you’re able to create an eclectic look that suits your own personal style.
Matthew Miller
Matthew Miller chose a different approach to menswear this season. Rather than opting for smart and sleek, Miller played with texture with a range of crumpled shirts and trousers in a palette of white and navy blue. The simple colour scheme allowed for Miller’s aesthetical prowess to shine through.
The creased look certainly means good news for guys as it means there will be no more long arduous hours stood ironing your shirts for work. However, before you decide to stop brushing your hair, this look demands a groomed finish.
Slick back your hair with a high shine putty and make sure you’re clean shaven to avoid looking like you’ve only just woken up.
What’s your favourite look from London Collections men SS16? Tell us in the comments below.
