Perry Ellis behind the scenes for NYFW A/W 2015

A classic brand since its creation in the mid-1970s, Perry Ellis has evolved into what the best-dressed man in the room should be wearing.

A cold Thursday afternoon, just a day into New York Fashion Week, Perry Ellis was preparing for its highly anticipated runway show. A small second floor holding space in the Metropolitan Pavillion, right across the street from the New York Intrepid Museum, full of male and female fashionistas ready to be sailed away into menswear heaven.

Brooklyn-born creative director Michael Maccari took over Perry Ellis just a year ago and is already proving that he can only make things better.

Bloggers, photographers, reporters and models instagrammed and tweeted “#veryperry” cards received upon entering the venue. The show was a full house and even included NFL player Victor Cruz of the New York Giants and superstar Joe Jonas front row at the show.

Maccari perfected a mix of sportswear and workwear using pops of bright reds, casual navy blues and a healthy amount of browns and greens. His combination of various fabrics and knits allowed for the creation of an impeccable fit for the modern man.

Maccari layered blazers and plaid coats with turtlenecks that fell perfectly around the neck. His use of leather backpacks and wide-brimmed glasses acted as perfect accessories for the collection’s various looks.

If Maccari’s goal was functionality, he achieved it. The fusion of printed, plaid and plain trousers with a non-traditional structured coat and a pop of color creates the go-to functional look Perry Ellis will continue to be known for.

Michael Maccari has worked in various fashion houses including Giorgio Armani, Calvin Klein and Polo Ralph Lauren. He plans to keep Perry Ellis’ original plan for the brand in the back of his mind but does not plan to hold back on any ideas of his own. Maccari’s definition of the modern well-dressed man is evident in this collection of style and functionality.

Cindy Ramirez
Photos: Esther Horvath