Fashion campaigns have nothing to do with everyday life. When we see Eddie Redmayne, horizontal, head-to-toe in Prada’s latest collection, we’re sold an image. It isn’t supposed to speak to the daily travails of overcrowded commutes and overcaloried microwave dinners. Because that would be all too realistic, and in fashion, realistic reads boring.
But such ads serve more purpose than simple window shopping. From the styling, to the individual pieces, to the finer details, there are lessons to be learnt that can inform our own dressing – and not just from a trend perspective either.
Dior – Don’t Dream It’s Over
When you’ve got as much charisma as A$AP Rocky and Rod Paradot, you can make anything look good. But Dior’s loyalty to the overcoat proves the piece’s prowess.
Whether it be shock red, vertically striped or a neutral shade, clean lines and smart tailoring make for a foolproof finish. Buy yours now, wear it until May.
Prada – Clash Of The Tartans
For aeons, we’ve been told that one bright shade or print is enough. Not true, says Prada. Print and colour clashes can and do work, providing you choose one common shade and stick to it.
On paper, Eddie Redmayne’s illustrative Cuban collar shirt would be no friend to a multicoloured knit. In practice, however, the tonal match makes the statement work.
Burberry – Well Done, Old Sport
Never thought your tracksuit would share the same bag as your three-piece? Think again. Burberry’s latest jaunt featured its signature macs layered over contrast zip-up track tops. Then there were pea coats worn with performance-friendly track kit.
Since sports luxe refuses to budge from the runway, the formalisation of gym pieces is set to continue. Consider the track top your new gym-to-desk layering all star.
Dolce & Gabbana – Back To Black
The black suit is often overlooked. Even when human contact is made, it’s usually confined to the backseat of a hearse. But such maudlin association shouldn’t temper the strengths of monochrome.
As Dolce & Gabbana proves, choice accessories (scarves, chain lapel pins, etc) can lift black tailoring from boring to bold. And you can invest in the knowledge that the colour will never go out of style.
Tod’s – A Good Dressing Down
And just as black tailoring isn’t just for funerals, your other suits aren’t just for work. Tod’s latest campaign gives a masterclass in dressing down your two-piece.
Whether you layer a roll neck under a blazer, or anchor the look with some luxury trainers, maximising your cost-per-wear has never been easier.
Bally – Sole Train
The trainer-trouser love affair gets steamier. Bally paired diamond white kicks with dark tailored trousers, proving that sportswear and tailoring are more compatible than ever.
If features are kept to a minimum and trainers veer away from Jeremy Scott territory, there’s no reason why sneakers and suits can’t make happy bedfellows. This romp just went X-rated.
Gucci – It’s Hip To Be Square
At school, square glasses and a sweater vest didn’t make you one of the cool kids. Now, they’re menswear grail pieces. And for that we have to thank
Steek cardigans and second-hand satchels are now hot properties, so you can wear your favourite ugly knits guilt-free.
Diesel – Lone Style State
Double denim conjures images of Brokeback Mountain, Justin Timberlake before he found his stylist, and… Diesel’s AW16 campaign?
As creative director Nicola Formichetti proves, all-denim looks can work – provided you mix up the colours. Light shirts and jackets should be anchored with contrasting dark denims and vice versa, lest you channel Dog the Bounty Hunter.
Tim Coppens – Cry For Help
Some fashion is a cry for help. But you should do so literally if you ever find yourself chained to a radiator. No matter how well-cut your threads.
