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These images are from his latest Fall '09 lookbook, and whilst I have been somewhat on the fence, so to speak, about his past collections, these offerings have most definitely whet my apetite for more. Bal writes that his man is one whose clothing 'hold up a mirror to his inner strength', and indeed this idea is inherently felt within the latest collecion. Clearly central to his design philosophy are the concepts of well tailored fits and the juxtaposition of strength and fragility.
Focusing on the proportions of each outfit, Bal manages to add a balanced volume and contrast with his beautifully constructed outerwear. The silhouettes he provides manage to evoke the idea of the modern man and his finely considered strength against the outside world. In contrast to one's idea of wider cut outerwear, the coats and jackets are wonderfully tailored, and the careful use of softer fabrics, stop the scale of each piece from being overpowering on the outfit as a whole. I am attracted by the duality of feeling in the collection, that being, one of strength yet at the same time a certain softness. I was reminded somewhat of Miuccia Prada's latest collection, in which she explored the idea of the survival of the modern man.
What are your thoughts on the collection and lookbook?
Currently playing: Shadowplay - Joy Division
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a little bit boring i have to admit
ReplyDeleteexcellent photos. I got the same feeling from the pictures before i read the text. it looks strong but not in an intimidating or sinister way (like say rick owens or pugh...)
ReplyDeleteAlso i enjoy your inspired by pictures in the sidebar. (i tell my mom all the time that i want to adopt micheal caine as my grandfather) love that picture of depp, i think i have a picture of him in that outfit saved too.
wow, he began his line with a great foundation. these do have a dior feel to them.
ReplyDelete"The careful use of softer fabrics, stop the scale of each piece from being overpowering on the outfit as a whole."
ReplyDeleteVery well said — I had similar sentiments whilst looking through all these photos. The only thing is that the model and his poses couldn't help but make me think of Justin Timberlake. Alright, I have out-Americanized myself!
I love the minor details.
ReplyDeletethe tailoring looks amazing.
I love the coat in the last picture. Something about it just reminds me of heavy military issue winter coats.
ReplyDeleteI really like the collection! Simple but instant classic!
ReplyDeleteLove the detais. And, for some reason, the trousers tucked into the boots... Definitely a great style. Classic, but interesting
ReplyDeleteHi Dapper, gorgeous photos, I love them all together and the movement as you scroll down. Looks like a very elegant collection. Great post Carla
ReplyDeletei love this men's collections.
ReplyDeletei can't wait mr. freddy to wear this kind of outfit.
As I've said many times before: I love the pictures you're posting in your blog! :D
ReplyDeleteI think that the pictures are simple, but still very beautiful and fashionable ^_^
I love the clean line. It very modern but not severe like Calvin Klein.
ReplyDeleteI can see a bit of Dior Homme here but the shape is more generous and easier to wear.
Tailoring just rocks!
I like the tailoring looks.
ReplyDeletexoxo
Wow he has such wonderful style! Love that it is black and white too.
ReplyDeletelove it. may not be everybody's cup of tea, but certainly mine!
ReplyDeletehope you're doing good?
i love those top 2 photos. the second one is wicked! its starting to get really warm here so i shudder to think of layers right now... always next year ;)
ReplyDeletexo s
Ahhh I wished my boyfriend dressed like this. I love the big chunky scarf in the second pic :) x
ReplyDeleteThese are wondefully shot. Very simple and clean and that second shot is quite cool, the layering is quite lovely.
ReplyDeleteexquisite designs! seriously love everything.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you are explaining this to me because I'm thinking..god, would they look great here on a windy day. We've got a cold one here today.
ReplyDeleteI love the photos---the clothes seem so comfortable and an extension of the model, almost---I like that.
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting my blog, by the by---I love your blog---I'm not worthy...
I think some of these are pretty hawt, especially the jacket in the 5th picture!
ReplyDeleteI'm loving where mens fashion is headed, it's no longer taboo or too feminine for men to want to be creative in their fashion choices. xx
ReplyDeleteDouble breasted jacket... I'm on the look for the perfect one.
ReplyDeletei rather like it. A lot of his designs very much lend themselves to the kind of simple lines and crisp silhouettes being produced by Comme and Jil Sander at the minute.
ReplyDeleteI love the suit jacket in the 3rd picture, and the coat in the 9th. By thw ay, you write really well, it is you who wrote that right lol? Hopefully I'm not making a prat of myself by assuming you did
ReplyDeleteHello, darling: Yip, yip I wrote it - unless quoted tis all me :)
ReplyDeleteI think these are great. It's hard to pick a favorite one from among all of these. I love them all.
ReplyDeleteI really like all those looks. I really need a guy who dresses like that! :-)
ReplyDeletehmmm. They're all gorgeous looks but I don't know, guys fashion is great but it seems to have so much less variety than female fashion.
ReplyDeletethis makes me think of what Chuck would be seen in on Gossip Girl. I just saw Ed in Son of Rambow. He looked tinner in that movie..well, he was younger and I suppose the movie took place in the 80's..I guess..that phone he was always on..so funny. I really loved that movie..but anyway, he does make Gossip Girl..with his style.
ReplyDeleteOooh Joy Division. Just got a few CD's of theirs from the library for some listening.
ReplyDeleteI love the coats.
Very simple, but it definitely makes a statement. I love seeing guys dress like this.
ReplyDeleteSomeone has been hacking into my dreams again, blast!
ReplyDeleteI love all the coats/trenches! Amazing!
ReplyDeleteHmmm...I've been looking for some new jackets and these look amazing. Right up my alley. Thanks for posting these
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