THE TRADITIONALLY TASTEFUL & A FASHION FORWARD EFFORT BY THOM BROWNE FOR BLACK FLEECE
September 10th, 2008 Madison Avenue/45th Street
Words, Images by Judith Ecochard
Brooks Bros. is as American as apple pie.
Their multi-hued polo shirts and button down dress shirts-for men- are in closets across the country.
Womenswear by this label has been refreshed up a bit, as of late…but the real deal fashion news hit when menswear designer, Thom Browne, was signed on as 'guest designer" to helm the Black Fleece line of upscale garb.
For Spring 2009, Black Fleece serves up a modern twist on the Brooks Bros. classic seersucker suit-this time its double-breasted and long tail tux versions.
Glen plaids, and lightweight grey wool fabrics are cut slightly narrower than a typical BB’s suit jacket…and are set to retail from $1800 and up.
Ladies get some appropriate separates like a double knit grey cardigan, punched up with white piping and an organza paisley skirt paired with a bowed silk blouse.
THE REST:
Brooks Bros. had several themes going on during the presentation at the main store in Manhattan’s mid-town.
A JFK/Martha’s Vineyard’s vibe featured the aforementioned 100% cotton polos in saturated colors. A natty nautical section displayed sailor navy stripped tops, white cotton skirts and pants, and appropriate accessories like ribboned, canvas espadrilles.
A Round Hill, Jamaica vignette sported a rainbow room’s worth of summery shades of blazers, slim fitted sheaths and flattering side tie, wrapped dresses.
Like many brands, Brooks Bros. is making a real effort to capture the performance wear market with separates made of moisture wicking fabrics-for active types. Country club worthy, the tops and shirts will work as well on the 19th hole as well as the front eighteen.
Rounding out the collections, was the safari line of beige multi-pocketed jackets and woven linen tunics.
