Brian Clarke Menswear – ‘Retro Sports’ Inspired for AW11

Somewhere between the world of the Edwardian Dandy and the ‘spit and sawdust’ of a1920’s boxing ring, lies the eclectic Autumn/Winter 2011 creations from eponymous menswear designer – Brian Clarke. 

There’s a theatrical nerve threaded through these clothes that’s found in the detail; unique small sleeve pleats on suit jackets and coats, asymmetric brogue shoes, buttoned trouser cuffs and aviator style shearling trousers…  This slick urban tailoring has plundered early 20^th century menswear for inspiration and reinvented it for modern 21^st century man.

Comfort and casualwear also has its place, with oversized, enveloping knitwear tipping an ironic nod to Huggy Bear, whilst Long John leggings have come straight from the boxing ring and show-stopping shearling trousers deftly reference the early pioneers of flight.

Clarke’s retro-heroes of yesteryear revel in a palette of charcoal, petrol blues, cream and black.  Shirt collars are cut wide and high and sometimes closed with propeller bowties.  But he’ll delight most in the exceptional tailoring; single breasted jackets close high on the chest, with raglan sleeves softening the slim bum-freezer shape.  Three-piece suits have waistcoats with scooped necks, echoing the bye-gone bib-fronted shirt.

 Traditional fine wools and robust Scottish tweed are expertly cut alongside contemporary suiting shot through with aluminium fibre.  

 Prices range from £250 for knitwear to £1,250 for suits and leathers.

Discover more on www.brianclarkemenswear.com.