Paul Smith decided to go back to old-school sophistication for his Fall 2019 Menswear show to largely delightful results. For one thing, it was incredibly refreshing to see a lot of strong shapes that flattered and centered the body, veering slightly away from the oversizing trend that’s dominated the sporty streetwear arena. All those streamlined and straightforward silhouettes in stark hues were so refreshing for us, as they truly heralded a new moment in fashion. In many ways, this line blended the strictness of the past with the easier approach of the present. The first red coat, for instance, looked almost Victorian-like (as intended by the designer) with its razor-sharp cutting and its almost formless execution. Ironically enough, the wallpaper floral pieces were the most contemporary items of the lot: slightly round bomber jackets, skin-tight trousers, and floaty frocks for women. They were, perhaps, the most obvious representation of the hybrid ‘past-meets-present’ idea Paul Smith presented this season. They also play to the interests of a number of consumer audiences: one that’s into sportswear and another into classic decoration. It won’t be any surprise to use if these, as well as the brightly-hued tailored outerwear, will sell like hotcakes come fall!
Photo: Filippo Fior / Gorunway.com