From abstract prints and delightful colour palettes to breezy tailoring and surprising proportions, the London Fashion Week spring / summer men’s collections were all about standing out in a crowd, all the while remaining comfortable. Below, we handpick the most stylish garments that ruled this season’s shows in the British capital. Romantic, contemporary and our absolute favourite look from the entire week. This impeccable suiting is enlivened by abstract printing, which embodies creative director Sarah Burton’s consistent juxtaposition of fluidity and severity, as well as emotional power and raw energy. Plus, those white trainer boots work like a charm. Alexander McQueen boutiques are located at The Galleria, The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. “For men who don’t take themselves too seriously” reads the Californian brand's motto on the individuals it aims to dress. This matching ensemble sparked much joy in us — and was a crowd favourite among attendees. The floral print is both familiar and refreshing. Abstraction was ubiquitous on the spring / summer runways, but this look from the eco-conscious British designer Bethany Williams was the standout of the bunch. The proportions are phenomenal, while the cargo-style trouser pocket is delightful detailing. From the muted colour palette to the unexpected layering, this outfit from Shanghai-born and Los Angeles-based designer Yixi Chen pushes boundaries in daily dressing, while still remaining wearable. And who doesn’t love a good bucket hat? This is definitely a look to channel on your next outdoor trip. Since founding his label in 1994, Turkish-Cypriot designer Hussein Chalayan has always been experimental yet precise, as these intentionally roomy sleeves matched with cropped trousers prove. This unconventional suit get-up was the most exceptional tailoring at the London shows. The contrasting checks, paired with an easy white tee, are a highlight. Aside from eight annual fashion collections, the Chalayan brand engages in numerous projects in the arts sector, including performances and sculpture installations. This is ideal linen fabric for the UAE's scorching weather. Founded in 1867 by Edward Tautz, the British fashion label catered to the sporting and military elite of its time. Current owner and creative director Patrick Grant (whose own personal style is brilliant) pays tribute to that heritage while taking the formality out of tailoring. The bright socks and pastel sandals are winners, too. E. Tautz’s garments are stocked in Maison BMore at the Mall of the Emirates. Another endearing print from the London shows comes from one of the original labels that introduced the concept of luxury sportswear in the menswear industry. Launched in Italy in 1974 by designer Giuliana Marchini Gerani and her husband Silvano, Iceberg is presently overseen by creative director James Long, who has married his own bold style with the brand’s signature rule-breaking. The neon drawstrings are a nice touch. Iceberg has a boutique at The Dubai Mall. Since launching his eponymous fashion label in 2015, designer Nicholas Daley has continually explored his dual-ethnic Jamaican and Scottish heritage, reflecting on the notion of identity within an increasingly multicultural society. The linking of varied shades of blue here is outstanding — and the handsome vest can be worn in any season. Daley says his work references nonconformity by taking inspiration from jazz culture’s form of expression, and through the creation of bespoke textiles that redefine a vision of what we might associate with British heritage. Fine fabrication meets easy, breezy style. British designer Oliver Spencer believes quality does not always mean formality, and that casual does not have to be careless. This striped pairing exudes premium tailoring while remaining modern and accessible. The fit is sensational: narrow in the right places, but loose enough so one can move freely. And the flat loafers are simply dapper. The brand’s clothes are sold at Galeries Lafayette. Designer Khalid Qasimi was born in Sharjah and moved to the United Kingdom at age nine. He studied foreign languages and architecture, but found his true calling in designing clothes, stirred by the image of an urban nomad in the Middle East. “The clothes are to be lived in,” Qasimi says. This monochromatic ensemble is relaxed, polished, and adaptable by men of any age and build. Growing up during the Gulf War, Qasimi has consistently incorporated military garments and details in his collections (that fantastic rucksack is a case in point). The piping detail on the trousers give them an extra punch. Qasimi’s creations are available at Harvey Nichols - Dubai. Inspired by London Fashion Week’s trends, here are five ready-to-wear picks from leading high-street labels:
