THE JOURNAL
There’s a misconception that timeless clothes aren’t much to get excited over. Or that so-called investment pieces are antithetical to individuality. The New York-based label Nili Lotan is on a mission to challenge that notion by infusing its fuss-free designs with a rock’n’roll edge.
This season in particular, the brand turns its lens to the stylings of Bob Dylan, whose signature black blazers and enduring love for all-American, everyman foundations are reimagined for a modern era. And if there’s one thing that you can’t deny the songwriting legend had in spades, it’s aura.
Launched two decades ago, Nili Lotan remains rooted in its philosophy of authenticity, minimalism and functionalism. No attention-grabbing designs made to captivate an online audience – and then be quickly forgotten. Rather, expect relaxed, thoughtfully crafted pieces that you’ll find yourself deferring to again and again.
As it happens, the label began its journey outfitting discerning women on the hunt for the finest versions of those go-with-everything essentials, although menswear has had a presence since those early days, with the founder’s husband’s wardrobe providing inspiration. Now with its dedicated menswear line, it’s translating that same ethos into masculine silhouettes, all rooted in key themes of uniform dressing, 1970s Yves Saint Laurent, Americana and rock’n’roll, with influences of mid-century modernism.
“Nili Lotan has invested time into crafting a modern classic”
What unites this broad assortment of references? Denim, of course. And for this collection, the brand’s straight-leg Billie jeans are the focal point. As any style-minded man will know, not all jeans are made equal, and Nili Lotan has clearly invested time into crafting a modern classic. The faded acid wash – or Summer Wash, in this case – that famously complements everything. A just-so straight-leg fit for those who’ve graduated from slimmer styles, but aren’t quite ready to dive into a bootcut.
Denim makes an appearance up top, too, with the Travis, a faded denim shirt inspired by western styles. Consider this the ultimate hard-working layer for the summer season, tailor-made for layering over tanks and T-shirts or infusing dressier outfits with a laid-back quality. Feeling extra confident? Why not try wearing in tandem with the brand’s Billies for a fresh take on the Canadian tuxedo? Alternatively, pair with the label’s Emir trousers, which promise the practicality and endless wearability of denim but arrive in a cotton-blend twill.
Though Nili Lotan’s denim pieces perfectly encapsulate its dialled-back mood, you’d be wise not to sleep on its tailoring – namely its effortless, new-season riff on the classic black blazer. Christened the Daniel, it’s a single-breasted piece in virgin wool twill that offers structure by way of its padded shoulders, but is equally cut for a loose, unstuffy fit.
As with all great classics, its magic lies in its versatility – it’s the sort of round-the-clock style that can accompany you to the office, drinks or dinner – or all three. Or that you can team with jeans, a T-shirt or something a little smarter. However you decide to interpret it, it would only be right to channel the spirit of Bob Dylan himself and top it off with a devil-may-care attitude.