Belstaff autumn/winter 2017 collection presentation for LFWM

 

Belstaff hit London Fashion Week Men’s with an all-out presentation of their autumn/winter 2017 collection. An uber-glamorous crowd hurried out of the rain into the impressive warehouse style space of Ambika P3 to find a cavern of naval wartime classics.

The Jolly Roger collection explores Belstaff’s military heritage, specifically the clothing worn by the British Navy throughout World War II. Characterised by fabrics made to withstand the foulest of conditions at sea and practically designed cuts, such as the four-pocket waxed cotton motorcycle jacket, Belstaff reinvents and reproduces the era through its new range.

The menswear and womenswear pieces include the pea coat and duffle coat reproduced in Melton wool, waterproof hand-waxed cotton and leather treated for a vintage look and an all-weather standing parka based on their 1960 military design.

The strict formality of the military cuts give way to the rugged styles of out-of-uniform maritime workers, glimpses of naval tattoos, the Jolly Roger flag and a rebellious edge. Against a base of charcoal grey, black and navy come splashes of teal, cardinal red and burnished gold. Beanies rest on the crowns of heads, feet are tied up in leather boots and knits are layered with retro leather jackets.

Hung from attitude-filled models loitering and lounging at different levels as though taking down time at dock, the clothing can be seen for its classic-meets-cool aesthetic – quality fabrics, functionality and British heritage are imbued with a sense of adventure in this imaginative contemporary twist on WWII maritime wear.

Sarah Bradbury
Photos: Asia Werbel