Raf Simons

Sorry for the lack of posts lately, I’ve been pretty busy with school orientation and moving and internet access has been scarce. Things should slow down later this week- which is very good considering fashion weeks are already underway internationally! Paris and Milan are my two favorite cities when it comes to menswear shows and so I tried to catch up on what I’ve missed as quickly as possible. I’m not done yet but already I have some strong favorites and I’m seeing some definite trends emerging.

Last month, I asked some of my blogger friends to make some predictions about future trends in fashion.

Cecil, who blogs over at Cloud Plum, predicted that Vampires were going to be huge in ’09. I laughed but according to several of the men’s fashion shows in Paris- dude was right on track.

It’s terribly fashionable to be undead:

I really loved Demeulemeester’s suit jackets – layered over vests and cardigans, the looks managed to remain neat and simple without adding bulk to the silhouette. My first reaction was to think of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman.

The second look from the left was one of my favorites from all of the collections. If I could have that sweater, I don’t think I’d take it off until summer.

I was, unfortunately, not wowed by this collection as a whole. I loved the belted leather trenches though, it was very 70s- in the good way. While there were no surprises, good or bad, I think there are some solid designs that will fit into most wardrobes and I think that’s the main concern of the label.

I’m not sure what these clothes will be tweaked to look like for retail but I was enthralled by the brooding drama of the collection.

Junya Watanabe was appointed to my list of favorite designers after his Spring 2009 women’s collection but there are a few pieces from this Fall men’s collection that I’d love to get my hands on.

Must have: Second jacket from the left and the yellow puffy vest. Yes’m.

Beautiful draping. I love the use of belts to create a more defined waist.

Where are we going and what time does the plane take off? Louis Vuitton was all about the jet set. I loved the use of electric blues and oranges.

Miharayasuhiro was a definite favorite! I’ve recently become obsessed with parkas (I think EE’s green one inspired me) and army coats. These are perfect for a winter safari through the city.

I loved everything about this collection.

Rick Owens has been one of my favorite designers for a while now and I never get tired of looking at his work. I’ve heard some people complain that all of the seasons blend together but that’s not true in my opinion. If you really enjoy this aesthetic, you have to love the security of knowing that each season he’ll produce clothes that you want to wear.

What I wouldn’t do for a Rick Owens leather [:( ] jacket. He’s the only person that can make me want to buy a leather jacket that isn’t used or vintage.

This collection didn’t really appeal to my tastes but I think the textures and fabrics would be really interesting to look at up close.

All photos courtesy of Men.syle.com