Welcome to the second edition of Stlye Munky. This week we will be looking at the Fall Collection 2008 for John Galliano Men‘s Wear. At SM we’ll look to change things up so as to cover a diverse spectrum of designers and views.

Galliano preference for fashion theater has been prevalent since his mid 80’s onset to the fashion scene. His continued love of high art design this time out has led him down the road of presenting a collection that draws its influences from the Reign of King Henry the VIII all the way to the extreme elements of Darby Crash and Siouxsie Sioux. Imagine clothing all 3 to form the English Monarchy delegation for the Field of the Cloth of Gold meeting with King Francis the I of France. Creating images that at times seem to shock ones linear senses is a Galliano trademark. While capable of creating traditional couture dresses of beauty, it’s as safe bet to put money on the fact that he will never play a show “safe”. Fashion at its core is change. Whether it be the simple business element (hey…you can’t sell the exact same clothes every year…though some have tried) to the changes of true innovators who’s goal is create a new view through design, texture, colors, etc. Reinventing yourself 2 times a year (Spring & Fall Collections) is the name of the game. For me personally, Galliano’s designs are less about wear ability and more about assaulting and overwhelming the senses that ultimately provoke thoughts on accepting status quo. Successfully designing outside the rules is a gift. He’s funky...but he’s a keeper.

From a pragmatic view...most folks will not have his designs (real or imitations) in their closet. From a creative/cool aesthetic point of view...a SM A.

Shopping Tip Of The Week:

One of the hardest things to overcome in shopping is the impulse buy. How many times have you bought something that either didn’t fit well (it will look fine after I drop a few), shoes that seemed cool that turned into cement blocks about 10mins in them, as well as funky designs that let everyone knows that you bought this item “several” years ago. We’ve all done it (myself included). For me the key is what is the function of the piece. Is it something for work? If that’s the case, utility is the key. Can you wear it with khaki, jeans, black pants, grey, etc. Can you use a simple sports coat with it? Can you see yourself wearing it next year or the year after that? If it’s a special occasion purchase...and it’s a splurge….are you prepared for a one and done? One last point of consideration...in retail...for the most part you get what you pay for. Why is that piece so heavily discounted? Quality, tacky or just your good luck? Think before you buy. There are deals to be had….take your time…try things on and ideally the purchases you make today will seem just as cool the same time next year.

Yours in fashion,

The StyleMunky