London Fashion Week: Men's Day Spring 2011

While most of the focus had already shifted to Milan, London Fashion Week was still wrapping up with its Men’s Day, intended to draw more attention to the city’s menswear designers. Although the men’s collections seemed to lacking any unifying themes, there did emerge one interesting trend: the dichotomy between the emerging and established designers.

Interestingly, it was the emerging designers who seemed to steal the show. Two young designers, James Long and Christopher Shannon, are particular standouts this season. Shannon’s collection featured sportswear in crisp white colors and camouflage, and his eye for color-blocking allowed decidedly simple designs to dazzle. Meanwhile, James Long pieces were works of art in color; the collection featured an array of paint splattered pants and shorts, and more subdued but still richly hued knits.

At the other end of the spectrum was Ozwald Boateng, who has previously worked for Givenchy and had his first show in London in 19 years. Before the show, Boateng showed the first preview of the documentary filmed over 12 years of his life, “A Man’s Story.” Following the premiere of the film segment, Boateng launched a seemingly endless collection of monochrome suits interspersed with trendier pieces as a celebration of his 25 years in tailoring. While the collection was successful overall, particularly with his famous boldly colored suits, Ozwald Boateng failed to thrill in the same way that the emerging designers seemed to.

However, although there are high hopes for the young designers seen in London Fashion Week, there still is potential to be developed – particularly in translating their creativity in design into a functioning business. Regardless, it is exciting to see new designers bring new life – and public attention – to menswear.

Photo Source: Coutequecoute.blogspot.com