Practical and Appropriate
Text and Photos by J. Ecochard
We can always tell a runway show from a publicly traded company.
On the one hand, the collection will be a somewhat or completely over the top, buzz-generating performance, the front row stacked with Celebs…because the main goal is to sell high-margined perfume, make-up and accessories-at full retail price. That’s why the writers-strike, idled TV stars were paid to adorn Row A, and did. What else are they good for during the production layoffs…campaigning?
Another avenue, particularly in men where the “It” bag of the season doesn’t exist, is to put on a production packed with the garb guys will wear-with styling realistic, and few chances taken.
Much like the Patrick Robinson’s designed Gap collection, (yes he used to helm Perry Ellis women); Perry Ellis’ Men’s Fall 2008 collection was all about the casual refined gentry set…with an ‘a hunting we will go’ theme. Even the backdrop was crowned by antlered bucks (which we fear were the real deal).
The first few looks set the tone… punctuated by practical green wellies strutting down the runway, a thick charcoal gray, cashmere Donegal cable stitch long cardigan, tasteful wool herringbone blazers cut in a slightly more fitted American mode with defined but not boxy shoulders, and single breasted…and one well groomed model after another taking their turn down the catwalk.
Looks real men will wear included:
Thick Irish cable knit pullovers, vests, v-neck and long cardigan sweaters in autumnal tones (deep forest green, dark chocolate brown, sienna burnt red etc).
Slim cut gray wool or glen-plaid flat front trousers-some cuffed but not the ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS SHRUNKEN SILHOUETTE OF LAST SEASON (courtesy of menswear designer Thom Browne of over two years ago) THAT NO ONE OVER THE AGE OF TWO LOOKS GOOD IN.
Thick, sturdy long winter coats, wool Donegal hunting jackets and a plush leather bomber jacket- with military touches (epaulets, leather elbow patches, side pockets on sleeves for a pack of cigs) in charcoal gray, navy and deep chocolate brown respectively- to wear over suits or weekend clothes.
And a few evening separates in a purple ‘velvet’ color (a poly/nylon parka, “waistcoats,” ties) added a hint of glamour.
Finally, long thick wool scarves, bomber hats, and chunky knit caps to bundle up in completed the casual attire.
Think country squire not urban swagger.
