Milan Menswear Fashion Week for Spring 2011
Alexander McQueen
This was probably one of the most anticipated showings in Milan. Sarah Burton’s runway debut for the late Alexander McQueen’s eponymous label was strong and cohesive but lacked somewhat in personality. I felt that the line could have been fit for a Fall showing as well- but hey, these days seasons can be interchangeable.
The period inspired line brought upon images of rich school boys dressing in their father’s clothing and London itself. There was an array of different silhouettes and a play with contradicting ideas- slim pants paired with loose unfitted jackets and baggy pants paired with razor sharp blazers. It was a great mix of classic and avant garde.
The tapered pants are to die for- and check out the panelling and pockets!
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Burberry Prorsum
Christopher Bailey has done it again- outerwear, outerwear, outerwear! This line was extremely rock and roll. Of course Bailey sent out a few traditional trenches and knit pants, but the vibe quickly switched over to leather biker jackets (with and without sleeves), skin tight leather bottoms, Birkenstock gladiators and studs galore. There were perforated sweaters reminiscent of this Spring’s Prada knitwear and mesh shirts. It was all done in a very tasteful manner.
It’s all about the details- from the color choice down to the seams, buttons, the extra zippers or straps and perfectly placed studs. Some might say the stud and leather biker trends are over(done) but I say fuck it, keep them coming!
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Prada
I must say that I was slightly disappointed with this line when I first saw it, with the sunglasses reminiscent of Oakleys and all. But I gotta say, it has really grown on me. Miuccia Prada, who is known for her gender bending approach to menswear, played it safe for Spring 2011 when considering her past few collections. It felt very modern with an array of slimming suits, cool cuts and futuristic hues. She also played with denim as well. The pocket v neck t-shirts look slightly medical though…
My favorite pieces from the collection are the 3 toned button ups and of course the clunky wingtip and oxford shoes! The soles on the shoes are stacked in different materials- a few different colored rubber soles then a rope sole and finally the actually shoe. It’s an innovative twist on the classic leather lace up.
