So So Gay
Last week saw the inaugaration of London’s very first Men’s Fashion week. It might only have been a three day event, but it was one hell of a start. The capital’s brightest stars shone in front of some of the international fashion industry’s biggest names. Events were hosted by GQ, Tom Ford and Burberry.
Fresh from the Jubilee celebrations, the week started with HRH Prince Charles hosting a dinner in celebration of British menswear at St James’ Palace. Attendees included Dame Vivienne Westwood, David Walliams and Tinie Tempah (GQ’S Best Dressed Man), who later tweeted, ‘Just met Prince Charles… He’s cool as f**k!’ We’ll take his word for it.
Friday saw the first of the shows, with Topman presenting one of their strongest collections to date – think Californian surfer boy circa 1992. Vibrant neon prints, shorts and bomber jackets, reminiscent of Zack from ‘Saved By The Bell’, for those who remember it. The front row was filled with such British luminaries as Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood and Topshop Billionaire Sir Phillip Green.
As the week progressed, the sheer level of talent in London became apparent. We were fortunate to attend a launch of Georgian-born, Russian-raised, London-based Georgy Baratashvili’s SS13 collection. Guest were treated to champagne on arrival and then a private screening of a short film entitled ‘Walk/Run/Stop’ showcasing garments from the new collection. A particular printed top caught our eye; ‘It’s made from chicken feet skin,’ Georgy took great pleasure in telling us when we caught up with him afterwards. Taking inspiration from his dance roots, the collection is definitley on trend for Summer 2013.
Winner of the BFC/Vogue Fashion Fund 2012, Jonathan Saunders, presented us with his second dabble with Menswear on Saturday and the fashion pack went crazy for his printed suits and exquisite tailoring. Colour and print played a big part in the collection, a trend seen throughout the shows. It looks like we’re in for a bright summer next year.
After inhaling an espresso and pain-au-chocolat, we were ready for Baartmans and Seigal’s very early Sunday morning presentation held at Circus in Covent Garden. 14 incredibly handsome male models and an array of journalists, bloggers and buyers filled the space and dissected B&S’s sixth collection. Known for thier luxury sportswear, the garments did not disappoint. Consisting of t-shirts, shorts, loose jersey pants and blazers, there was something for every man. The use of texture and materials which gave a high-sheen silky effect certainly maintained the brands luxury ethos. It’s easy to see why Harrods were quick to stock this relatively new label.
To close the week, GQ editor Dylan Jones, British Fashion Council Chairman Harold Tilman and Creative Director of Calvin Klein Menswear, Italo Zucchelli hosted a fabulous dinner for fashion’s elite – our invite was clearly lost in the post. However, we’re sure much was discussed about the success of the previous three days and hopefully plans started being drawn up for London Collections: Men AW13. See you in January.
