J.Crew Autumn/Winter 2014
J.Crew’s class of 2014 looked to 1930s longshoreman for autumn/winter inspiration. The traditionally preppy label contrasted the look with ethnic prints as part of its show at New York Fashion Week. Debuting the upcoming offering at Lincoln Center, menswear designer Frank Muytjens explained his inspiration to U.S.A. Today. “We paired this ruggedness with vintage fabrics: batiks and Chinese tribal block prints,” said Muytjens. “Intricately patterned ties and scarves set against classic pieces: unconstructed topcoats, blazers and quilted bombers in a dark palette with accents of dirty pastels.” The event revealed a low-key, utilitarian line. Save for vibrant knits, the majority of minimal, darker pieces stuck with the essentials: shirts, denim, trousers and coats displayed a fitted, tailored look. Muytjens strayed from the collection’s overall vintage aesthetic, while holding strong to J.Crew’s approach to quality fabrics and design. Mixed with the versatile key pieces were bomber jackets with fur around the collar, coats with toggle buttons and sweat pants. J.Crew has developed into one of the most popular US-based fashion brands for men but, rather than remain solely on American shores, began expanding, both in variety of retail offerings and locations. Two years ago the company opened its first London store, while over the years J.Crew has also partnered with Jack Purcell, Timex and Red Wings internationally. The brand’s website claims that speciality stores are the next level of expansion. Plans include shops devoted to menswear, womenswear and children’s clothing. Already, J.Crew has started moving in this direction with denim brand Madewell, which, like the AW14 menswear collection, bases its look on 1930s Americana. Fans of the menswear staple will be able to get a hold of pieces from the line later in the year. Meanwhile, the brand’s SS14 collection is available at jcrew.com now.
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J.Crew AW14 Collection
