London Collections Men | Belstaff : Autumn/Winter 2016

 photo: Nick Harvey & Jason Lloyd Evans.

Not your typical fashion presentation, Belstaff transported attendees deep in the frigid wild of some remote, uncharted location. With snow staged all around and techno music blaring from the speakers, it was clear the pieces in this collection were designed to keep you warm while channeling your inner cool.

This British brand that built its name on moto-inspired outerwear kept its heritage in tact and took the Belstaff guy to the wilderness. Many of the looks (especially the snow suit) appeared to be heavy to carry around during a freezing cold expedition however because a Japanese sourced layered technical nylon fabrication was used to create the ski-inspired looks, they were really quite easy to maneuver in. Attractive hoods with fur accents in cool tones were not just eye-catching  but seemed to have a cool factor to them that almost made you pray for mounds of snow to justify wearing them. The fingerless gloves with a folded back mitten pouch was a creative and functional touch.

Also: London Collections Men | Christopher Raeburn A/W2016

The collection was designed to meet the demands of protecting against the elements, mobility and adaptability, merging the heritage of Belstaff classics with innovative new materials, constructions and functionalities to ensure unprecedented warmth and comfort. Given the ever-changing conditions these adventurers/models faced, there is a notable emphasis on adaptability: modular hoods and linings allow the regulation of temperature while breathable and water-repellent tri-layer membranes ensure protection in all conditions.

Says Gavin Haig, CEO of Belstaff: “The concept of adaptability in our Autumn 16 (pre) collection couldn’t be more relevant given the unusually mild weather we’re experiencing. Our multiple membranes and linings mean that Belstaff outerwear easily adjusts to temperatures and layers can be peeled off. That said, meteorologists expect El Niño’s frostier sister La Niña to take over this time next year: the more directional Winter 16 collection you see here will ensure you are prepared.”