London is definitely the place to be in 2012, so when the British Fashion Council decided to host the London Collections: Men earlier this month we knew they meant business, and business they possessed with an unbelievably successful weekend showcasing both conceptual and traditional talent in British Menswear. With classic influences from the rich Renaissance still evident within traditional brands, innovation and creativity has been ignited within new contemporary labels. A clash of conceptual and classic explains the gradual evolution of British Menswear, leading up to this year with inventive and revolutionary designers crawling out of every corner and traditional brands thriving on the current hype. Menswear now stands at the forefront of fashion with plentiful support and a new bout of ingenious designers – the only way is up. – GWC

NOTED SPRING/SUMMER 13 TRENDS:

YELLOW

E. TAUTZ/RICHARD NICOLL

Bold colour has reached Menswear too for S/S 13 with a burst of Sunshine highlighting collections. Mr Porter’s Jeremy Langmead was seen sporting yellow trousers on the Frow during the weekend too.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FLORALS

AGI & SAM/ MEADHAM KIRCHOFF

More radical designers have turned to florals to add a unique dimension to their collections.  A usual faux pas look, socks and sandals, was incorporated into Agi & Sam’s S/S 13 collection teemed with pastel Hawaiian prints.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OVERSIZED BACKPACKS

CHRISTOPHER SHANNON/TOPMAN DESIGN

S/S 13’s Accessory Rule: Carry it on your back. Christopher Shannon collaborated with the Cambridge Satchel company to create an oversized backpack version of the classic bag, meanwhile Topman Design’s creations were full of vibrance and utility featuring neon and metallic shades on practical details such as straps and toggles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BOLD PATTERNS

JONATHAN SAUNDERS/KIT NEALE

With the increased focus on heritage this year, these designers create a unique and alternative perspective to menswear with playful patterns ranging from a colourful honeycomb at Jonathan Saunders to a multicultural mix at Kit Neale.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RELAXED TAILORING

MR START/MARGARET HOWELL

These designers are creating an eclectic mix of a traditional gentlemen with a laidback attitude, leaving you with the ultimate 21st century take on tailoring. Baggier silhouettes, cut off collars and ankle bearing trousers explain it’s all in the detail.