Shadow cast: Out of the shade and proudly displayed handbags 

As any fashionista is aware, handbags have long been seen as unequivocal symbols of femininity. With haute couture labels consistently delivering new designs each season, the breadth of choices afford owners the ability to select sartorial designs to suit any mood, be it embodying an unabashedly bold streak or portraying a more modest, youthful demeanour. Be it pouches, handbags or backpacks, there really is something here for everyone, as our carefully curated fashion shoot aptly demonstrates…

 

Shadow cast Out of the shade and proudly displayed handbags gafencu magazine fashion accessories

Look 1: Medusa Aeternitas bag by Versace; Sac À Malice Space cross-bag by Hermès; Lock bag by Dunhill; Fendi X Chaos metal smartphone cover by Fendi 

But, it wasn’t until the 18th century in Europe and England when embroidered purses and handbags came together at the top with the much desirable drawstring style. Having been trained in embroidery at a young age, this skill founded many personalised purses with embroidery work that served as a reflection of the owner’s own skill, social status, and taste – an idea that has endured into modern times. 

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Look 2: Supervee backpack in Nylon by Valentino Garavani; The Clip bag by Bottega Veneta; Palazzo Dia Crystal belt by Versace; Shani gold chain belt by Sandro 

The rise of the 19th-century modern woman found herself out and about, travelling cross country. This fed the desire for a companion that was both functional and fashionable, an era that witnessed the rise of Louis Vuitton luggage long before it grew its collection of iconic ‘LV’ handbags.

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Look 3: Almond pumps and The Triangle bag by Bottega Veneta; Fendi Forceful Metal sunglasses and Yellow Peekaboo ISeeU East West bag by Fendi

As modern society expanded and the boundaries of gender roles piece-by-piece came down, bags too evolved to suit the needs and lifestyle of the modern woman; styled to be feminine, masculine, functional and bulky or just petite enough to fit the essentials. Either way, a woman’s purse was always personal and private which added a certain kind of mystery that showcased an extension of her identity without revealing much else from within- a compelling beauty that allured many.  

Shadow cast Out of the shade and proudly displayed handbags gafencu magazine fashion accessories (5)

Look 4: Atelier 03 Rose Edition Bucket bag and Atelier 04 Rouches Edition Small Hobo by Valentino Garavani; Floral crystal earrings and Satin pumps with crystal embellishments by Dolce Gabbana; Black Paisley Peekaboo ISeeU Medium bag by Fendi

Handbags today still hold the precious symbolisms that women identify themselves in, yet it no longer is a purse exclusively for females. The evolution of bags have circled back to designer choices for the affluent and the fashion-forward man, and truly unisex offerings. 

Shadow cast Out of the shade and proudly displayed handbags gafencu magazine fashion accessories (4)

Look 5: Saffron backpack by Rimowa; Palazzo Dia Crystal Leather belt and Versace Greca bangle in Silver and Gold by Versace; Multicolour VLTN Times Waist Satchel by Valentino Garavani; Hermès Della Cavalleria bag by Hermès

Designs, too, are in a seemingly unlimited variety of colors, styles, motifs and a cycle of iconic signatures from luxury brands’ archives- proving its designs for timeless, ever-enduring and everlasting luxury bags. 

 

Photos: Jack Law

Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma

Videography: Kes Lei

Match Fit: Wear what you dare to pair

With the new year upon us, leaping into 2021 calls for nothing less than a bold and assertive frame of mind. Match fit for a soiree of sophistication and glamour, dare to pair what you wear to carry through a look that speaks for you. 

Match Fit Wear what you dare to pair gafencu magazine fashion feature look 1

Look 1

On Her:

Earrings and bracelet by Ryder Diamonds; Heavy crepe dress by Sharisha, courtesy of Net-A-Porter; Pants by Bottega Veneta 

On Him:

Shirt by Brunello Cucinelli; Suit jacket by Dunhill; Pants by Bottega Veneta

Match Fit Wear what you dare to pair gafencu magazine fashion feature look 2

Look 2

Coat and top by Balenciaga; Pants by Valentino Garavani; Bag by Hermès; Shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti 

Match Fit Wear what you dare to pair gafencu magazine fashion feature look 3

Look 3

On Her:

Earrings by Ryder Diamonds; Ornell top by Sandro; Chimera gold-tone pearl body chain by Rosantica, courtesy of Net-A-Porter; Black long tulle gloves with satin bows and crystals by Gucci 

On Him:

Shirt by Berluti

Match Fit Wear what you dare to pair gafencu magazine fashion feature look 4

Look 4

On Her:

Hair accessory in metal with crystals by Gucci; Earrings and bracelet by Ryder Diamonds; Jacket by Versace; 2.0 Cruel heels by Giuseppe Zanotti; Chinese chess set by Hermès

On Him:

Top by Balenciaga; Pants by Berluti; Shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti

Match Fit Wear what you dare to pair gafencu magazine fashion feature look 5

Look 5

Interlocking G necklace by Gucci; Pasto one-shoulder neon satin mini dress by GAUGE81, courtesy of Net-A-Porter; Ring by Ryder Diamonds; Mid-heel boots in white by Gucci 

Match Fit Wear what you dare to pair gafencu magazine fashion feature look 6

Look 6

On Her:

Earrings and necklace by Ryder Diamonds; Leather jacket by Salvatore Ferragamo; Bebe platform heels by Giuseppe Zanotti; Mini hobo bag by Gucci 

On Him:

Shirt, leather jacket and pants by Prada; Shoes by Versace

Look 7

On Her:

Earrings and ring by Ryder Diamonds; Pant suit by The Kooples; Roulis slim bag by Hermès; Thigh-high boots by Balenciaga 

On Him:

Shirt, suit jacket, trousers and shoes by Dolce & Gabbana

Match Fit Wear what you dare to pair gafencu magazine fashion feature look 8

Look 8

On Her:

Earrings and necklace by Ryder Diamonds; Two-tone faux fur coat by The Kooples; Sequined mini dress by Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini from The Outnet; Heels by Giuseppe Zanotti  

On Him:

Brooch by Ryder Diamonds; Suit jacket and trousers by Berluti; Shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti 

Match Fit Wear what you dare to pair gafencu magazine fashion feature look 8

Look 9

On Her:

Earrings in metal with crystals by Gucci; Knitwear dress by Salvatore Ferragamo; Rings by Ryder Diamonds; Tres Viver boots by Roger Vivier 

On Him:

Turtleneck, jacket, pants and leather boots, all by Hermès; Ring by Ryder Diamonds

 

Photos: Jack Law

Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma

Models : Filip Bledziewski @ModelOne, Candice Lui

Hair and Make-up : Vincy Lee and Hoby Wong

Venue: Andante

 

Snap Shots: Peek-a-boo styling

Peek at the snap shots of this season’s trendiest accessories to decorate the body. From captivating red, white and black geometric flats by Christian Louboutin to a chic balloon bag by Loewe to the eye catching duo Wonder Woman statement rings by Atelier Swarovski. 

Snap Shots Peek-a-boo styling gafencu magazine loewe kate spade salvatore ferragami maryam keyhani

Houndstooth cape coat by Loewe; House cat flex cuff by  Kate Spade; Balloon bag by Loewe; Denim pants by  Salvatore Ferragamo; High-top loafer by Loewe; Hat by Maryam Keyhani 

Snap Shots Peek-a-boo styling gafencu salvatore ferragamo loewe

Ralf Mocassino shoes by Salvatore Ferragamo; Denim pants by  Salvatore Ferragamo; High-top loafer by Loewe

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Bracelet by Bottega  Veneta; Wonder Woman  statement rings by  atelier Swarovski; Turtle-neck sweater by  Hermès; 1927 sailing bag by  Salvatore Ferragamo

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Bag by Roger Vivier; Watch by Hermès; Dandelion flats by Christian  Louboutin; Pants by Hermès; Arceau 78 watch by Hermès

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Leggings by Prada; Shoes by Gucci; Pants by Dunhill; Boots by Hermès; Pants and shoes by Prada; Earrings and rings by atelier Swarovski

Derby Toto black shoes by  Christian Louboutin christian louboutin givenchy

Pants by Givenchy; Derby Toto black shoes by  Christian Louboutin 

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 Satin pumps by Roger Vivier; Juliette sandal by Rene Caovilla; Veneziana lace sling by Rene  Caovilla; Fur jacket by Prada 

Earrings and rings by Atelier Swarovski

 

Photos: Jack Law

Art Direction: Jhoshwa Ledesma

Art Sartorialised: High art, high fashion

 

Fashion and art go hand-in-hand in birthing artistic creations from grand ideas. Captivating colours, shapes and textures dress November’s fashion feature of evening wears. Enthralled by a collection of highly artistic high-fashion, art is sartorialised. 

gafencu magazine fashion feature november (7)

Look 1

On Her:
Langley gown by Alex Perry, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Large folded clutch by Givenchy

On Him:
Blazer by Dunhill; Gecko brooch by Atelier Swarovski; Pants by Hermès

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Look 2

Twist torc necklace by Givenchy; Gown by Maticevski Painterly, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER

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Look 3:

On Her:
Repetto dress by Marni; Leggings and bag by Prada; Heels by Rene Caovilla

On Him: 
Suit set by Sandro; Wrap shirt by Dunhill; Ankle leather boots by Givenchy

gafencu magazine fashion feature 1 november (2)

Look 4:

On Her:
Gloves by Moncler; Dress and leggings by Moncler; Clear-beaded bag by Susan Fang, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Heels by Christian Louboutin

On Him:
Shirt, blazer, pants and shoes by Prada

gafencu magazine fashion feature 1 november (2)

Look 5:

Torque necklace by Atelier Swarovski; Long tight gloves by Givenchy; Dress by Moncler; Woven down coat and pants by Rick Owens; 
Side bag by Hermès

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Look 6:

Woven down coat and pants by Rick Owens; Side bag by Hermès

gafencu magazine fashion feature 1 november (2)

Look 7:

On Her:
Earrings and rings by Atelier Swarovski; Small clutch by Hermès; Cape midi dress by Givenchy; Heels by Rene Caovilla

On Him:
Shirt, scarf, suit and shoes by Hermès

gafencu magazine fashion feature 1 november (2)

Look 8:

On Her:
Earrings by Atelier Swarovski; Sequin maxi dress by Bottega Veneta

On Him:
From up to down by Givenchy

gafencu magazine fashion feature 1 november (2)

Look 9:

On Her: 
Dress by Gucci; Tie-around ankle wedge heels by Givenchy

On Him:
Blazer and pants by Dunhill; Ankle leather boots by Hermès

 

Photos: Jack Law
Art Direction and Styling : Jhoshwa Ledesma
Models: Mei Yu & Jonathan Wong (@Model One)
Hair and Make-up: Margaret Wong and Hoby Wong

Symbols of success: must-have men’s accessories

A fine gentleman is defined not only by his well-manicured grooming and elegant attire, but also by  essential accessories that he uses. Though often miniature in sizes, accessories are subtle statements that reflect a lot about a man’s personality, fashion sense and even wealth, making them essential elements. Here’s a short list of must-have accessories of a successful gentleman.

Wristwatch

Any successful man knows that time well spent on productivity is a vital element of success. Watches have always been synonymous with style and wealth, but beyond the aesthetics of a fashionable watch, the vital importance of a quality timepiece lies in its reliability and functionality. The latest trend to hit the market are dive watches. 

Image: Rolex Submariner / Omega Seamaster / Tudor Pelagos / Breitling Endurance Pro / Panerai Submersible GoldtechT

Bracelet

At the moment, bracelets are among the most trendy men’s accessories. An elegant bracelet accentuates a debonaire gentleman whether he is in a casual or formal attire.  

Image: Dunhill / Versace / Le Gramme

Sunglasses

During sunny days, a pair of designer shades are essential. A pair that best suits the shape of a man is ideal. A pair of sunglasses not only protects the eyes from the harsh rays of the sun, but also helps a man project a cool and sassy image. Square sunglasses are the most popular in men’s style though vintage sunglasses offer a bolder and daring statement.

Image: Cartier / Gucci / Dunhill

essential accessories every successful man must have gafencu magazine men's style fashion dunhill biometric wallet
Image: Dunhill Biometric Wallet

Bluetooth Wallet

A man’s wallet not only reflects his wealth and style, it is also one of the most essential in daily life. A sharp departure from the usual practice of a wallet stacked with credit cards, paper bills and some business cards, high-tech Bluetooth wallets are now in vogue and displays affluence. This wallet type is also far more secure and high tech, often equipped with a fingerprint sensor and an alarm system activated it is several feet away from its owner’s mobile phone. Clearly, this high-tech feature avoids unwitting loss of vitally important items.

Image: Dunhill Biometric Wallet

Cologne

A man’s smell reflects directly his style and personality. Cologne is an invisible appendage of the overall presentation of a respectable and refined gentleman. It even carries some wellness benefits that aromatherapy is known to provide. 

Image: Jo Malone / Clive Christian / Creed / Tom Ford

Leather Belt

Whether donning a formal, business or casual attire, one the must-have accessories is a leather belt. This belt type is durable, versatile, and can easily elevate the overall look of a well-dressed man. 

Image: Hermes / Gucci / Valentino Garvani / Dunhill

 

Christmas Spree: Affording you the greatest glee this festive season

           

As we draw closer to Jolly Old Saint Nick’s annual visit to our beloved city, it’s now the time to be rockin’ around the Christmas spree. Carefully selected by Gafencu’s staff are the perfect little prezzies to slip into your loved ones’ stockings, or perhaps even under the mistletoe to guarantee an extra holiday smooch.

Look 1:

From left: Confession refillable lipstick set by Hourglass; Provocateur eyeshadow palette from NARS’ Holiday 2018 Collection; Sunglasses by Alexander McQueen; Miu Cleo bag by Miu Miu; Cadogan Engine billfold wallet by Dunhill; Leather headphone case by Bottega Veneta; The Only One eau de parfum by Dolce & Gabbana; Valeria cuff by Chloé; J Box clutch with crystal stars by Jimmy Choo; Bunny Macrame charm in calfskin by Loewe; Evening slipper in patent leather by Dunhill

Look 2

From left: Cho Real Barocco mule by Roger Vivier; Varina ballerina and mini Vara Bow flap bag with crystals, both by Salvatore FerragamoHot Tryst cheek palette from NARS’ Holiday 2018 Collection; Red Edition N°5 eau de parfum by Chanel; Panthère de Cartier sunglasses by Cartier; Talia sandal with crystals and feathers by Giuseppe Zanotti

Look 3

From left: Dice game in leather and wooden dice by Berluti; Duke zipped folio in metallic calfskin leather by Dunhill; Garden of Paradise parfum by Chopard; Villeret Grande Date Jour Rétrograde watch in 18K red gold case by Blancpain; Billfold wallet in multi-coloured intrecciato leather by Bottega Veneta; Leather case by Hermès

Look 4

From left: Multipouch in nappa leather, iPhone case in nappa leather, three glass orbs, all by Bottega Veneta; Zipped tablet pouch by Hermès; Foxley tasselled slippers by Jimmy Choo; Leather box with mouse motif by Loewe; Leather cardholder by Hermès

Christmas Spree

Look 5

From left: Grand Attelage gold-plated cutleryby Hermès; Barocco box clutch with crystals and stones by Roger Vivier; The Empressa Collection X’mas box gift set with Empressa eau de toilette and body cream by Penhaligon’s; Sequined Mary Jane pumps by Miu Miu; Twenty~4 Automatic watch in 18K rose gold set with diamonds by Patek Philippe;  Goldomania nail colour and Goldomania Loubilaque lip lacquer from Christian Louboutin’s Goldomania holiday collection.

Photos: Neville Lee
Art Direction & Styling : San Wong

Liberating fragrances and uncommon scents

A selection of fragrances from Valentino, Van Cleef & Arpels, Prada, Dunhill and many more for the discerning gentleman.

Winter time for the Rolex man

 

Rolex, the world-famous luxury watch brand, is known for its design, reliability and performance. And winter is the perfect time to wear clothing from Dior Homme, Dunhill and Gieves and Hawkes, among others to help accentuate the classic design of a Rolex.

Click here to watch video highlights from the photo shoot

Pride of the Fall

Pride of the Fall

The long nights are rolling in and there’s just a hint in the air that temperatures are already starting to drop. It’s time to commit your summer look to the deeper recesses of your closet and reinvent yourself for the cooler seasons to come. Thankfully, the way has been prepared. The world’s biggest designer fashion brands have readied their closing clothing collections of 2016, outfits to augment your autumn and to help you weather the worst that winter has to offer. Whether your personal style tends to the more conservative or even if you favour the more outré stylings of the ostentatious end of the haute couture market, you will find something in the following pages that you will do with due delight. From the chic to the sheltering, from the off-the-peg to the off-the-wall, your look is just waiting to be found. For the man about town, there is nothing worse than sporting Last Year’s Thing. You are, after all, most indubitably, a Man for All Seasons.

BERLUTI  BOSS   BOTTEGA VENETA   BRIONI   BURBERRY   CANALI   CORNELIANI   DIOR HOMME   DOLCE & GABBANA   DUNHILL   ETRO   GIEVES & HAWKES   LANVIN   MICHAEL KORS   PAUL SMITH   ROBERTO CAVALLI   SALVATORE FERRAGAMO   TRUSSARDI   VALENTINO   VERSACE   ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA

Berluti

This collection is all about silhouettes; outlines that are very long and lean – elegant and elevated. Tailored pieces are worn with sweaters; double-breasted sets help to accentuate the silhouette. Fabrics are key, from the softest cashmere and needle-punched wool checks to cotton/linen velvet and heavy rubber. Clearly, Tomas Maier (Creative Director) is always mindful of materials and the way they are best combined. Accessories include a near weightless tote in the softest matte calfskin that can be sealed with a zip. Document holders are in crocodile leather, ID bracelets come in heavy silver, while round sunglasses are colour-tinted. There are no frills, nothing ostentatious. While the collection is discrete, it still exudes an aura of magnificence.

Boss

BOSS Menswear for Fall/Winter 2016 presents a juxtaposition of shiny and matte, textured and smooth. Brushed textures are paired with neoprene; wool contrasts with rubberized finishes. Clean cuts and sharp silhouettes are the signature, and balance is key to the collection. Sharp tailoring is completed with clean sneakers or a backpack. Craftsmanship is also key to the soft, tailored coats made from double cashmere. The handmade construction results in garments that are cleanly finished and super light. Full monochrome looks feature a pop of yellow, rich red or bright blue. Water-resistant jackets are crafted from bonded cotton. Each piece is made in Germany, and pays tribute to master craftsmanship. This season’s message is clear; precise, masculine and sartorial.

Bottega Veneta

This collection is all about silhouettes; outlines that are very long and lean – elegant and elevated. Tailored pieces are worn with sweaters; double-breasted sets help to accentuate the silhouette. Fabrics are key, from the softest cashmere and needle-punched wool checks to cotton/linen velvet and heavy rubber. Clearly, Tomas Maier (Creative Director) is always mindful of materials and the way they are best combined. Accessories include a near weightless tote in the softest matte calfskin that can be sealed with a zip. Document holders are in crocodile leather, ID bracelets come in heavy silver, while round sunglasses are colour-tinted. There are no frills, nothing ostentatious. While the collection is discrete, it still exudes an aura of magnificence.

BRIONI

Brioni’s first collection with Creative Director Justin O’Shea at the helm, recently debuted to much aplomb at the Paris Haute Couture fashion week. The “Paris One” collection pays tribute to the brand’s handmade prêt-à-couture heritage while also marking a new emphasis on what they call “the Brioni lifestyle”. The collection presents soft velvet, leather and patterned shirts and ties in glowing shades of navy, forest green, charcoal and black. Particularly striking were Brioni’s classic three-piece suit lines and how they appeared to be sculpted to the body while the extraordinary use of monochrome colours were another highlight on the catwalk. Brioni once again playfully presents diversity in formalism.

Burberry Prorsum

The “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue,” collection was revealed at the custom-built venue in London’s Kensington Gardens. The collection was a celebration of the unification of the brand’s different ready to wear labels and styles, while British singer-songwriter, Benjamin Clementine, performed live from the centre of the venue. The collection celebrates outerwear shapes redefined for relaxed weekends, including; topcoats, duffle coats, military coats and parkas in a combination of Burberry colours; navy, black, claret, purple, camel, mustard and honey. The collection also introduces a new bag, The Satchel, alongside new shoe designs; The Driver and The Derby. In acknowledgment of the sad news of David Bowie’s passing, several of the models wore glitter eye makeup in honour of the fallen star.

CANALI

For Fall/Winter 2016-17, Canali presents a collection that is an exercise in equilibrium, one in which contrasts take centre stage. A range of checks in varying dimensions appear in suits, pants and outerwear. Silhouettes tend to follow the body’s natural contours while sleeves, pant legs, collars and lapels slim down on traditional tailoring. Voluminous coats conceal an unexpectedly lightweight air, thanks to extremely soft wool and alpaca blends. Wool features prominently throughout the rest of the collection in heavy gabardines for suits, jackets, pants, coats and sportswear. The palette takes on a shadowy and industrial air. Belts are integrated via oversized loops directly into pants and coats. Once again Canali renews its style with a meticulous attention to detail and the use of premium fabrics.

CORNELIANI

For A/W 2016 the Corneliani man assembles his look by looking to the fashion of the 1940s. The centre of gravity for trousers and jackets are considerably higher; shoulders are wider, as are waists to a lesser degree and lapels. The retro feel comes courtesy of crocheted details on the waistcoats to micro-geometric effects. The colours reflect classic elegance in caramel, brown and tobacco coloured suits, peacock green and lead grey jackets. Mid-length cashmere coats are oversized and designed to be tied at the waist. The stiff, textured feel of post-Second-World-War fashion is hinted at subtly in the contours of the designs, which break away from the body to restore a sense of independent strength in fashion, all with a whisper of nostalgia.

DOLCE & GABBANA

Dolce & Gabbana’a Men’s Fall/Winter 2016-2017 collection is a declaration of love for Italy and its culture, inspired by the iconic “Spaghetti Western” movies directed by Sergio Leone. The scores composed for these movies provided the soundtrack for the fashion show while 79 male models, nearly all of Italian descent, walked down the catwalk in line, in impeccably tailored Dolce & Gabbana creations. It is clear that for Mr Dolce and Mr Gabbana it continues to be important to always convey a story through their collections, and to create and present clothes with a heartwarming soul. The BIG FINALE playfully took the form of pyjamas paired with jackets and embroidered knits.

DIOR HOMME

“How does an individual grow and morph into his present self without nostalgia?” This is the question, Kris Van Assche (Creative Director) posed for Dior Homme’s A/W 2016 collection. In “Ritual Show Square”, lit by stark red neon to the sound of electronic music the collection was presented in a palette of black, red and white. Silhouttes appeared in a combination of exaggerated volumes and shapes. The Oxford bags could be seen to have been transformed into voluminous ‘WORKWEAR”, with couture techniques used to almost disruptive effect, with Dior’s flora prints presenting a symbol of provocation. There is a sense of celebration and rebellion evident throughout this sublime collection.

DUNHILL

This season Dunhill presents the finest traditions of the English gentleman. Protective, hand-engineered pieces, warm and durable: leather coats lined in rich shearing; driving blousons in British racing green; a leather driving topcoat in chestnut goatskin bonded with cashmere are directly inspired by the Dunhill archive. Knitwear is in luxurious Scottish cashmere, Aran patterned and traditionally cable stitched. Sweaters have a long-tail stripe; Jeans are cut from specially-woven hardwearing Japanese selvedge denim. These robust pieces are teamed with polka-dot accessories such as fine wool silk scarves and big, blanket-heavy tartan scarves, traditionally woven in Scotland. Warm, earthy ochre colours contrast with cool blues.

ETRO

A call back to nature echoes Etro’s roots with its latest Fall-Winter’16 launch that features a selection of supremely crafted cashmeres, fuzzy mohair wools, glowing jacquards and silky wools. Without a tie in sight, classic pieces are shaken up with jacket trims appearing subtly tattered and leaf patterns gently printed over plaids. Pattern building is evident in this new look with traces of shaggy jacquard coats or cashmere wool jackets paired with dandy shades of purple, polenta or green suede pants. Mismatched materials lining up against one another complete the look and helps mirror the essence of nature “wherein lies a universe of possibilitiy and the opportunity to disconnect from the world at large and escape into the unknown”.

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

A pair of Andy Wahol paint-splattered, Ferragamo Oxfords heralded the starting point for creative director, Massimilano Giornetti and this season’s Autumn/Winter 2016 collection. The Oxford shoes’ mix of artistic splashes of paint with the classic styling transforms the whole outfit, oozing character, emotion and depth. The mismatching and clashes are offset by sharply tailored single and double-breasted suits. The winter Macintosh is presented here in pure white, a statement piece in itself. The collection was designed to be assembled, deconstructed and personalized according to each man’s individual identity, lifestyle, needs and desire celebrating nuance as a statement of freedom from the increasingly homogenous world in which we live.

GIEVES & HAWKES

Gieves & Hawkes go casual this season with their latest pieces that are ideal for country house parties or exploring the streets of a foreign city. The foliate country jacquard in bronze comes in a relaxed double-breasted jacket worn with a cashmere/silk polo neck and black wool dress pants that chracterises the signature look in this season’s Fall/Winter 2016 collection. Reflecting the adventurous spirit that lies within the brand, the oversized cable-knit scarf worn with tailored style clothing further enhances the sporty country look that defines the collection. The richly textured knits in basket weave and twist-cable are a layering staple and makes an appearance in this collection worn under tailored sports coats.

HERMÉS

It’s all about the detailing and popping of colours this season with the new collection featuring creative pieces which has got detailing to a T. The khaki glazed calfskin parka jacket thrown on top of the grey flannel cashmere V-neck pullover and paired with a raspberry coloured narrow straight trousers echoes colour vibrations on all levels.l In addition the Etrivière belt in red H Hunter cow skin helps break down the colour blocking.

LANVIN

To mark his 10 years as the men’s wear director at Lanvin, Lucas Ossendrijver has chosen to go beyond a mere retrospective and look to the very heart of his craft. With visibly heavy stitches, this collection is all about the detailing. From the delicate thread that hangs from one side of the sleeve, to the structure of a long scarf with a fringe formed by hanging ribbons he formulates the notion of surprise and highlights the central idea of craftsmanship, symbolically incorporating the tools of the trade itself with pendants and key rings. This wealth of detail also reflects a true sensuality, a kind of nonchalant and comfortable elegance, with generous volumes, wide trousers and fine constructions of merino wool.

MICHAEL KORS

This Fall Winter 2016/17 collection is all about embracing change and facing challenges head-on, clearly evident from the collection is Michael Kors’ focus on performance wear this fall. From the city to the slopes, the relaxed unstructured suiting is made for comfort above all else. This collection is perfect for people who enjoy different outfits for every occasion in their life, after all who doesn’t want to look ultra chic every minute? You will feel bundled up yet still practical with fabrics such as high performance wools in a mix of neutral greys, brown and black. Aimed to suit the individual that lives by the “straight” luxurious 24/7 lifestyle. Streamlined leather accessories include backpacks and duffels paired with the infamous city hiking boot.

PAUL SMITH

For Autumn/Winter 2016, Paul Smith embraces the past exploring some of his signature designs with stripes, prints and unique tailoring. Embracing the free spirit of the late-60s and early-70s, stripes are woven into cashmere knitwear. Getting creative with dinosaur prints appearing on blue flowing shirts peeping from underneath digitally-printed peaches on bomber jackets is a clear reference to Paul’s pioneering use of photo-printing techniques. The focus this year is on outerwear, with bold long stripes symbolising Paul’s longstanding passion with cycling where shades of green and peach are reminiscent of the vividly coloured knitted jerseys worn by his sporting heroes.

ROBERTO CAVALLI

Peter Dundas is Cavalli’s new Creative Director who channels a different direction for Roberto Cavalli this season playfully mixing casual and tailored elements, juxtaposing the precious and the practical for the twenty-first century gentleman. Infused with elements of the late sixties and early seventies, the Fall/Winter 2016 Cavalli man is presented as a rock icon and his masculinity made ever more potent by the touches of femininity in his attire. Cavalli’s big cat prints are once more in abundance, joined by trompe-l’oeil kimono embroideries and foulard silks cut into fluid lounging pyjama styles. The bitter chocolate and rust, dusty rose, sepia and tobacco colours are embedded with jewel tones: amethyst, emerald and ruby and help set a Bohemian mood.

TRUSSARDI

This season Trussardi gathers musicians and rockers and presents a collection with an all-pervasive ’70s rock mood – a carefree, snarling, rebellious mood. The collection appears pulled together from disparate, everyday items – corduroy and tweed jackets; silk shirts with matching ties; a subdued palette of blues, greys, and earthenware tones of sepia and terracotta. While fast and loose it still retains an aspirational vibe, albeit for men who aspire to look cool. Collection highlights include a scarlet leather jacket with bonded wool interior and a lush clay-red shearing with an intarsia of oversize lumberjack check in calf. Luxurious and undeniably cool this collection is ideal for anyone who wishes to make a lasting impression.

VALENTINO

Undertaking an aesthetic exploration of empirical authenticity in their A/W 2016 collection, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli’s new pieces blend an outdoor spirit with edgy, punk vibes, with Pacific Northwest traces, tribal embellishments as well as beat and bohemian exoticism. Hypnotic geometric Navaho patterns spread over jackets; checks multiply over tailored suits while studs embellish heavy winter outerwear. The recurring comparison between open nature and free elements emerges on waxed camping jackets and slim overcoats with camouflage patterns. Jackets, coats and overcoats are redefined through exquisite workmanship that combines a healthy respect for tradition and the freedom of reinterpreting it.

VERSACE

Welcome to the universe of Versace, where a wardrobe from the celestial heavens has been created for this A/W 2016. Fibre optic tracksuits are the futuristic trend that people are screaming for this season, whether its merino wool zip-ups with a zigzag at the neck or drawstring track pants enriched with embellishments. An iconic Versace astrological print is reworked and revitalized, while a star map Medusa print has been created and looks perfect on white jeans. Other highlights include tech cycling boots, which look like they might propel you into the future. Donatella Versace explains, the collection is about the “perfect representation of the ambitious man that is real, bold and totally connected with the future.”

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA

In an era where anything goes, Stefano Pilati tones things down with his latest Fall Winter 2016/17 collection by making the act of embellishment a “classic”. An exceptional wardrobe ruled by fearless style with hints of masculinity fused into the lushness of the fabrics that echoes “Haute Couture” incorporating depths of subtlety in an effortless and oh so “Zegna-way”. Each piece of clothing is heavily embellished with three dimensional hand embroideries sourced only from the finest Italian craftsfolk including the woven patchwork of jacquard patterns that stems from the super fine Lanificio Zegna wools. A truly authentic couture collection, where the clothes themselves deliver the essence of an intuitive elegance unregulated in its formality.