London Collections: Mens pushes out its third edition of the showcase starting this weekend and has a colossal line up of men’s wear designers. Oh you have never heard of London Collections: Men? Well pay close attention as the best of British men’s wear which is 134 designers will participate in the shows spanning from 16-18 June.
Opening the 30 shows, 22 presentations, 36 on-site showrooms and 21 scheduled events is Domincio Dolce, Stefano Gabbana and GQ Editor Dylan Jones, chair of London Collections: Men. But what’s more impressive is the fact that after 10 years of showing just in Milan, Burberry will show their main men’s wear collection in London. Tom Ford, Rag & Bone, Jimmy Choo, Christopher Kane, Alexander McQueen and Pringle of Scotland will also contribute to the impressive schedule of events.
When I think of men’s wear and its origin it’s nearly impossible to not think London had any involvement. Great coats, wellington boots, bowler hats, classic tailored suits, street wear, urban and the likes all make the reputation of London as one of the world’s focal points for men’s fashion. Movies like the King’s Speech and James Bond gives further highlight to men’s fashion, but doesn’t serve as a voice like London Collections: Men does. Its a bit early to state London Collections: Men is the men’s wear capital of the world, but with heavy names on the international market, its hopeful London will hold such title.
The Bristish Fashion Council commissioned a V&A study to explore the history of British men’s wear from 1528 to present. ‘With London Collections: Men going from strength to strength, this fascinating insight into the history of menswear is a timely reminder of why our city is the capital for men’s clothing. Our illustrious heritage is accompanied by craftsmanship, innovation, plus a canny eye on the modern that ensures our designers remain at the forefront of fashion,’ says The Mayor of London Boris Johnson.
“London is the most multi-ethnic, multi-cultural city in the world. It moves relentlessly forward, it has no fear of the new. Fashion in London thrives on this energy,” he said. “Menswear is such a huge opportunity for British designers but we need a big shop window to allow us to compete, The shows in London are starting to get the international attention they deserve. It’s vital that this continues,” says Patrick Grant Creative Director of E Tautz.
Pushing the digital era and the need for a global audience, the British Fashion Council will highlight London Collections: Men through twitter, Men’s Health Style Director and several others will take to Instagram from the official British Fashion Council Instagram and TOPMAN will live stream shows on Sunday June 16 with Burberry streaming on June 18th at www.londoncollections.co.uk/live. The only thing remains is the impact the London Collections: Men will have on the sales of each of the participating designers.
