LC:M HIGHLIGHTS – URBAN GENTLEMEN
By Jo Phillips
Our second round-up of the London Collections: Men shows features more classic designers and brands who enjoyed something a bit more paired down but with an urban elegance typical of the London man. Traditional suiting, workwear separates and functional styling make up these highlights.
Oliver Spencer
Oliver Spencer Autumn/Winter 14 Looks
Orange played a big role in this collection from bright tangerines to subdued tans and everything from suede to boiled wools. Oliver Spencer is renowned for his paired-down and contemporary work-wear style but for AW14 these bright bursts of colour were a refreshing change to the usually muted palette. Statement prints and navy separates also kept this collection right on the trends list.
Superdry
Superdry Autumn/Winter 14 Show
This premium streetwear label has come a long way in it’s 10 years and is expanding at an alarming rate. Last season they introduced their collection with renowned tailor-to-the-stars Timothy Everest and this season they contributed a show-stopping party and catwalk that even Samuel L Jackson seemed to approve of from the front row. The collection featured zip-detail jackets, panelled blazers and their bold signature orange in a variety of separates and outerwear.
YMC
YMC’s collection was all about functional style with thick knits, waterproof outerwear and practical footwear. Cable knits, panelled styles and navy on black were apparent throughout this understated collection that had vibes of a nautical and aviation fashion. Again the brightness came in hues of orange that also places this collection in the colour trends for AW14.
Kent & Curwen
Kent & Curwen Autumn/Winter 14 Looks
This collection was a little more typically British but of course with the twist of wonderfully bright colours such as cerulean blue leather gloves or that statement canary yellow jacket. The outerwear in general had a classic military inspiration with peacoats, trench coats and aviator jackets. There were also some stunning leather accessories and a lot of navy keeping the collection on trend as well as the popular roll-neck knit.
Richard James
Richard James Autumn/Winter 14
Richard James Autumn/Winter 14 Looks
Spring/Summer’s vibrant brights were hidden this season in a sea of luxe mute tones that were elevated with satin lapels and coloured leathers. However for eveningwear there was of course a bit of glamour in shimmering metallic suits in rich burgundy and statement blue – both pictured above. A vibrant blue aviator jacket was a stand-out piece here for this slick collection full of elegant separates.
Thomas Pink
Thomas Pink Autumn/Winter 14 Showcase
A dramatic setting for beautiful clothes – the Thomas Pink showcase was all about sartorial elegance for the modern gent. Keeping up with the trends we saw statement red, bright blues and large checks featured on an array of models, young and old alike – proving that style is ageless. A wonderful presentation from a true London heritage brand.
Lou Dalton
Lou Dalton Autumn/Winter 14 Looks
Further military influence was found here at Lou Dalton and her inaugural show for London Collections: Men. The collection was a little more casual this season with an emphasis on bleached denims and paired-down separates. Our favourite piece is certainly the statement corduroy trench coat for its wonderfully retro appeal but on the other hand, the all-pink acid wash ensemble has caught our contemporary eye too – simply said: there’s something for any urban gentleman here.
