Design Major: Paul Smith Spring 2010 RTW

-This show had a lot of looks, a lot that I didn't like or that weren't notable to me, but I've long been a fan of Paul Smith. Although I'm a big fan of what Christopher Bailey has done at Prorsum, I feel like Paul Smith is the go-to for authentic London steeze.

more

Design Major: Paul Smith FW/09

-This may have been my favorite collection from Paris. It was just an array of subtly brilliant ideas, all perfectly assembled. The shortened tweed (second photo) was my favorite item, but I loved all the pairings of mismatched vests and jackets. Not to sure about the 90s style black jeans (last photo,) but we'll let that one slide. Be sure to click on the image to check it out full-size.

-Photos by Marcio Madeira via men.style 

more

Dress Code: Double-Breasted Cardigan

-Speaking of hipsters, I was at American Apparel with messdemeanor this week and I saw this double breasted cardigan ($40.) I noted the DB cardi in my Paul Smith review last month. I think there are a lot of interesting possibilities I could create with the DB cardi, though I think the width it creates might make a tie look awkward. Anyway, I'm going to buy one.-And if you're checking out a.a., you should check out their vintage line, California Select, which a great example of a company actually employing an innovative strategy. more

Design Major: Paris Spring 09 Paul Smith

-Paul Smith was another one of the shows that ranked somewhere in the middle for me. Overall it left no major impression on me, but there are a few standout looks and a few tactics I could see myself working in this spring. The tell-tale Sir Paul stripes were omnipresent as expected, but an undertone of heroin rock kept the collection fresh.
-You know the drill, photos and analysis of our favorite looks after the jump.


-This look seems to fit with the 80s renaissance thats happening lately (for better or worse). Or maybe I'm just in that mode because I just watched American Psycho. Either way it's spring.

-This look is a little more my taste. I love the tie tuck, I think it is hands down one of the most under utilized tactics. Be mindful though, it only works with a wider tie, and one with sheen. So try it when you're not rocking the hipster ultra skinny neckwear.

-This is pretty ridiculous, but I included it just because, it's ridiculous. I would rock the pants.

-I really like the hint of casual nonchalance with the rolled up suit pant and colored socks. This is just a great three piece, I'd probably lose the jacket. This is another example of a look you might be able to achieve for a fraction of the price if you went with a brand like Ben Sherman.

-Again the rolled pants are innovative (with a suit) and I like the denim shirt and air tie breaking up the monotony of business. Also, there has been a lot of unique belt action this spring, I don't yet know how I feel about it. You'll see more what I mean when we do Etro.

-I've never seen a double-breasted cardi, that's pretty fresh.

-Of course I'm loving the boat shoes, Sperry makes them in this same color for about $60. I was just looking at my seersucker today thinking of ways to utilize it. The top and scarf here are a bit feminine for me but the ideal of a light scarf and a light seersucker is great for spring/summer.

-Word.
All photos by Marcio Madeira via men.style.com

more