MENS WEAR'S: MANIFESTATION OF MAGNETISM AND MYSTIQUE

The anti-conventional approach to modern masculinity.

- SANJEEVA SURESH

This was the season of subversion. Allure, sex appeal and modernity were infused with updated codes of streetwear and sportswear. Several collections were self-referential for Autumn/Winter 2022, referring to archives to inspire the present and future. Designers Kim Jones and Anthony Vaccarello referenced their respective fashion house's namesake, while for others it was a liberation. The emancipation of gender conformity as displayed by Dries Van Noten, Maison Valentino and Saint Laurent. It was also a reflection (quite literally for Gucci) to society and a warped reality of way we live today.

ABSURDITY & AVANT GARDE ACCESSORIES

Avant Garde designs are in their truest form experimental, radical and ultimately make you think. Menswear's Autumn/Winter '22 collections saw designer's distinction between wearable and conceptual pieces, going past the line between what is accessible and extravagant. Louis Vuitton's final collection under the helm of the late Virgil Abloh was an emotion-rousing affair. The show closed with a sea of white headto-toe ensembles embodying a heavenly homage to Abloh. "Angles" in whimsically large, laced wings were a poignant final farewell. Craig Green's pieces were created right out of his own vivid imagination. Utilitarian tubular protrusions in the form of water resistant sculptures and protective gear. The sheer absurdity of his oversize proportion and scale highlight the designer's brave vision. Futuristic escapism is at the core of JW Anderson's collection. Silver playsuits and large chain-linked knitted sweaters aside, the accessories were an unorthodox standout. A pigeon in each hand, a knitted elephant and a top made entirely out of multi-coloured rubber wristbands were but a few examples. In a world of social injustice, revolution and heinously torrent weather, we could all use a bit of fantasy and escapism.

B IS FOR BOMBER