Seven Style Blockbusters

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Seven Style Blockbusters

Words by Mr Adam Welch

29 July 2015

From Burberry to Givenchy, why these standout pieces will keep you on the edge of your seat .

Each summer, our multiplexes are filled with movies designed to transport us into other worlds, and promptly blow them up, or save them from epic peril, according to the whim of the director – as well as the 17 screenwriters who have all taken a pass at whatever improbable scenario we’re looking at. In this spirit, MR PORTER feels this should also be a time when we take a step into the next season with equally explosive aplomb. As such, we’ve put together this best-bits compilation from the world’s most blockbusting brands, for your viewing pleasure. Pick one or more of these pieces, sit back and enjoy.

Mr Christopher Bailey exhibited some extravagant, Bohemian leanings in his autumn/ winter 2015 show for Burberry Prorsum, bedecked with giant ponchos, oversized shearling jackets and mirror-studded sweaters. Little did we know that it would translate to something as wearable as this quilted cotton jacket in a just-fun-enough paisley print (inspired by quilting from the north of England). As we head towards the end of the summer, this could be worn as a lightweight jacket on a cool evening, but come winter, it will also be great as an extra layer of insulation under your overcoat. In short: hop on this bandwagon now, you won’t be disappointed.

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Mr Hedi Slimane is currently one of fashion’s foremost arbiters of cool – in every new Saint Laurent collection you can rely on him to come up with a few pieces that will define the coming season. This winter, among other things, it’s Chelsea boots that are on his radar, this pair being a standout example. With their ring-and-strap detail, these are both tough enough to wear to a gig (though, given the price tag, you’ll be wise to avoid puddles of beer) and sleek enough to be invited to a gallery opening or summer party (for more on such events read our guide on How To Nail Smart-Casual). Combine with skinny black jeans and a tailored jacket for a just-got-off-stage look.

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This piece of chunky knitwear is typical of Mr Thom Browne’s ability to take the tried and tested (in this case, a Fair Isle jumper) and make it seem new again. Take it on a brisk stroll in the country (that is, if you happen to be experiencing the wonderful vagaries of the British summer), or simply bag it now so that you’re fully prepared for the fun-jumper carnival that is the holiday season.

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What’s a blockbuster without some kind of pyrotechnics? In this regard, think of Mr Christopher Kane as the Mr Michael Bay of the style world this season – his Rubble print shirt has enough frenetic energy to keep any test audience on the edge of their seats. But what saves this print from becoming too busy is the fact that it doesn’t repeat, a hallmark of Mr Kane’s ongoing investigations into digital design, inspired by intricate patterns drawn from science and nature. Wear it with a plain bomber and trousers in blue tones for an added tidal-wave effect.

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Tokyo-based brand Blackmeans typifies many of the things that MR PORTER loves about Japanese designers: the superb attention to detail; the dedication to product quality; and the mixing of traditional craft techniques with contemporary references (in this case, biker culture and crust punk). We could proselytise at length about this sort of thing, but in the case of this incredible jacket what more is there to say really apart from “look at the studs on that”. (These, by the way, have all been applied by hand, making sure each piece is unique.) Wear with sturdy boots and military-style trousers, for extra toughness. NB, avoid balloons.

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When it comes to coats, anything apart from the classic is a little difficult to pull off, as the sheer amount of fabric (if embellished with a print or similarly adventurous detail) can become overpowering. This, however, is not true of Mr Riccardo Tisci’s witty take on the camel topcoat, which innovates through coloured panels on the collar and chest. Keep it the right side of “interesting” by pairing with neat slim trousers and a pair of trusty Shannon Derbies from Church’s. This statement coat will certainly get you nominated for something.

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One of the only brands in the style world to have true blockbuster credentials, Kingsman is a collection inspired by (and featured in) Mr Matthew Vaughn’s 2015 film Kingsman: The Secret Service. In its second season it continues to serve up spy-worthy items such as this double-breasted suit, made in England from a fine wool and cashmere blend. If you want to look like a movie star at this summer’s weddings and garden parties, pair this with a pristine white dress shirt and silk knitted tie.

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