Dressing for the colder, greyer half of the year is all about injecting a splash of colour into otherwise drab and dreary surroundings, without going OTT. And while it can be tricky to strike a comfortable balance between subtle and standout, French Connection’s new collection provides a handy self-contained solution. The premium high-street label’s colourful autumn/winter 2018 line is inspired by Brooklyn’s Jean Michel Basquiat: a gritty, downtown graffiti artist who subsequently rose to gallery stardom, becoming one of the most important cultural figures of 1980s New York. Part of the neo-expressionist movement, Basquiat achieved acclaim in just a few short years for his anarchic, scribbled style and use of vibrant colours. It’s something that’s echoed throughout the range, offering the perfect way to cut through the dull monotony of the winter months in style. In addition to autumnal shades with the vibrancy dialled up, à la Basquiat, the collection’s palette consists of a seasonally-appropriate mixture of navies, greys and earth tones that set a subtle backdrop for louder, standout pieces. To top it off, every garment is designed at French Connection’s in-house atelier in London and then carefully crafted into a sample by highly-skilled hands. It’s this meticulous approach to ideation and creation that sets the brand apart, making its new collection just that little bit more special.
The Collection
Relaxed-Fit Denim
After years of slim-fit this and skinny that, silhouettes in the world of men’s denim have started to relax once again. It’s something that’s reflected by the legwear showcased in French Connection’s AW18 range, with jeans that hark back to the baggier styles favoured by skateboarders in the early 2000s. This is a cut that’s only going to grow in popularity, meaning now is the ideal time to get stuck in. Plus, it offers some welcome respite from tighter fits and if the mercury really plummets, you’d have ample room to fit a pair of long johns underneath. Obviously, you’re not actually going to do that – but hey, it’s nice to have options.
Bold Slogans
If you’ve been paying attention to the whims of the fashion industry, you’ll know that so-called ‘logomania’ is big news. In striking colours and fonts, slogans can lend a focal point to an otherwise basic outfit; the perfect way to make a look pop without getting carried away. The label’s new seasonal collection sees it putting the ‘French’ back into ‘French Connection’ by printing a number of French phrases onto various garments. Like a navy and burnt red crew-neck sweatshirt that negates the need to say anything when you walk into a room thanks to the word “salut” and a waving hand on the front.
Premium Outerwear
A solid rotation of coats and jackets is and absolute must during the colder months. Whether its a thick overcoat to throw on over your work clothes or a beefy quilted jacket capable of keeping the frost at bay with nothing but a T-shirt underneath, French Connection has got all bases covered. The outerwear on offer comes in a palette of earthy greens, versatile greys and even a eye-catching autumnal yellow for another nod to Basquiat and his colourful work.
Key Pieces
Shop the full autumn/winter 2018 collection now online at frenchconnection.com.
