NYFW – Siki Im S/S 2013 collection

It’s hard to imagine the artistic complexity behind a clean-cut, meticulously tailored black leather jacket. Then again, when you are an architect turned fashion designer like Siki Im, it’s just a part of the creative process.  Inspired by a plethora of topics in the world around him from movies and books to spirituality and politics, there is surely more than meets the eye with a Siki Im collection and this season is no exception.  This time his imagination was stimulated by the tranquility of a desolate sanctuary, where American artist Georgia O’Keefe once lived.   

There is a deliberate simplicity to his assortment and there are also elements of cultural rebelliousness as reflected in below the knee or floor length skirts that draped over pants. Sensibly, this atypical approach to men’s clothing was balanced with meticulously tailored jackets.  The heavy use of black and shades of grey enhanced the masculinity of his collection and created a sleek and mysterious tone.  The mix of soft and hard structures married into a beautiful clash of pleasing attire and some were accented with cow skull necklaces paying homage to the late artists’ work.  Once again, Im proves that regardless of his inspiration, skilful interpretations of his surroundings are vital to his success. 

Kamilah Dunbar

Photos:  Adhat Campos