LES HOMMES | FALL / WINTER 2012

Les Hommes showcased a collection that gave new meaning to practical dressing. The designers re-worked dreary clothes normally associated with winter, to provide the modern man with a ready-to-wear collection that looked chic and fashionable, and yet suitable for surviving bleak European weather conditions.

The models took to the runway wrapped up in thick layers of wool, sheepskin and cashmere. The looks were top heavy with bulging jumpers, thick scarves and gilets that gave the opportunity to introduce geometric prints and vintage style patterns. The outfits were finished with simple tapered trousers, maintaining a tailored look and stopping the models from being drowned in material.

No detail was forgotten with gloves and hats adding a finishing touch. Shoes were also key as old favourites were re-designed; walking boots, brogues and even sheepskin boots were updated with bright colours to add another splash of colour.

The designers didn’t introduce anything too distinctive with the shapes of the garments, instead relying on the colours and materials. An extensive colour palette was seen with bright colours assembled together for an 80s style combination: canary yellow featuring in leather and cotton, shiny trousers in midnight blue and black, and turquoise shoes. Elsewhere, red velvet was used for a more suave concept of the suit, while grey was used in a range of tones from charcoal to light grey to add even more depth to the layering of the outfits.

This was truly a collection for all types of men, with a focus on menswear that is ready-to-wear and practical, yet fashionable and cool at the same time. It demonstrated that the modern man can dress well and not have to sacrifice warmth or practicality in their clothes.

- Kelsey Traynor