London Collections: Men - Recap

In case you hadn't noticed our attention has been diverted over the last weekend and start of this week with what is, in it's third installment, becoming a staple of the menswear calendar. I am of course referring to the London Collections: Men, which has morphed from a day long procession at the end of London Fashion Week to a fully fledged winged Phoenix spread across 3 days and taking in some stunning venues across London.

Myself and Tee had the pleasure of being invited to a number of shows this time round, and enjoyed our first experience of some front row action dissecting and discussing new collections from some of our favourite brands.

There were a number of highlights, Hardy Amies 'took it up the Gherkin' and showed us why they have been a stalwart of the Row since taking up residency in 1945, a typically classic collection with hints of military inspiration and weekend wardrobe. Richard James also impressed, another Row resident whose collaborations with Marks & Spencer in recent years have not gone un-noticed, with a show that would have been just as at home on the English Riviera as in Mayfair.

Oliver Spencer offered up some great relaxed tailoring and Hockney-esque paint splattered trouser combinations. A celebration of muted tones and fabrics were on display at Nicole Farhi which seemed a fitting reflection of the weather, though the atmosphere at the shows was anything but.

More tailoring triumphs at Gieves & Hawkes who went all 1970's on us, with browns, pinks and neutral tones. Some really stand out pieces from their collection including a fantastic safari jacket and seuded leather, belted motorcycle jacket. Of course lets not forget the unencumbered flag bearer of British style Hackett, a show of which we had the pleasure of viewing at Old Billingsgate, and have already drooled over here.

We were also particularly excited by the Mr Hare & Mr Start partnership which was the perfect amount of dashing designer dinner and swanky swinging sole all rolled into a tightly knit ball, and we'll have a closer look at those collections soon.

Last but certainly not least we were invited to take a look at Paul Costelloe's SS14 offerings and we were extremely pleased to see a (predominantly tailored) range compiled of stunning traditional fabrics such as tweed and heavier twill cottons with lots of open weaves to keep you cool. We've got photo's and more on that too coming very soon so keep your eyes peeled on the blog.

All said and done, a ridiculously enjoyable few days and a lot to look forward to hitting the racks and rails of our shops early next year. Here's to a great event, long may in continue to grow and showcase what British menswear manufacturers and designers have to offer.

So three cheers for LC:M, The British Fashion Council for putting on the events and it's ambassadors Dylan Jones, David Gandy, Dermot O'leary and Tinie Tempah!

Photo Source: Guardian via Elliott Morgan