SOFT PUNK
Paris: Rei Kawakubo has often taken a punk approach to her menswear, mining the aggressive genre for references and design direction. This season, her interpretation was channeled through relaxed suiting in patterns and patchwork styled for effect with shaggy black wigs, lace-up oxfords and ankle socks. Proportions were cropped as well as voluminous — trench coats paired with mid-calf trousers and popcorn knit cardigan jackets lent a soft alternative to blazers. Genderbending details ran throughout, from floral appliqués and graphic flocking all the way to pleated skirts and tie-front blouses. As always, Comme des Garçons served up a blender of inspirations, and by merging the strident attitude of punk rock with a more feminine touch, the avant-garde label stayed on the cutting edge.—Nina Stotler
Silhouette: Boxy / Relaxed / Slim
Color: Grey / Black / White / Ice blue / Gunmetal / Navy / Forest green / Fuchsia / Bubblegum pink
Key Items: Double breasted overcoats / Cropped trousers / Tie neck blouses / Long shorts / Boxy bouclé jackets / Cotton button down tunics / Pleated skirts / Slim blazers / Patterned suiting / Swing-back coats
Materials: Wool / Satin / Silk / Tweed / Bouclé / Popcorn knits / Cotton / Brushed wool / Jersey / Brocade
Print + Pattern: Polka dots / Stripes / Plaid / Florals / Symbol graphics / Tartan
Details + Trim: Patch pockets / Cutaway hems / Floral appliqué / Contrast piping / Flocking / Ruffles / Paneling / Ribbons / Slashing
Accessories + Footwear: Lace-up loafers / Wide brimmed hats / Ankle socks / Bowler hats / Slim creepers
