MAN Spring/Summer 2019 Menswear
Man, oh MAN. Fashion East never fails to bring a smile to our faces. Not only because we’re down for anyone nurturing and showcasing young talent (have you visited the Discover page recently?), but they do a fantastic job of clocking those new designers that deserve to be on the big stage. This season Stefan Cooke, Rottingdean Bazaar and Art School once again brought their designs to the runway with their completely contrasting aesthetics.
Stefan Cooke, the most refined of the trio, continued to conjure up bag envy. Leather carrier bag style creations sporting detailed ‘bag portraits,’ for want of a better expression, emblazoned on the side, proving it’s what’s on the outside that counts. Other details of note, were his creative use of plumage adorned to the high riding waist of the pants.
Rottingdean Bazaar followed with their entertaining yet perhaps a little questionable parade of fancy dress costume, as they further push the boundaries of what constitutes a new collection. Maybe better coined as a performance, you can’t help but smile as you’re affronted with a corn not yet on the cob, a Christmas tree in June, and the whole wide world. Infer what you will.
Lastly, and yes we know we shouldn’t have favourites, but credit where credit is due – Art School presented their latest offering. The collection not only boasted a fabulous range of wearable sequin garments, as well as other marvellous tailoring and dress options you’d love to take on the town. But they also kept the audience permanently engaged with their portrayal of different LGBTQ stereotypes, performed by their beautifully diverse roster of models. The tongue in cheek humour continued as their final walk saw each of these said models taking it in turn tumbling on to the floor. Clothes and theatre. Please continue.