Clean cut: Raf Simons pulls off a clever mix

Paris – Raf Simons unveiled his autumn/winter 2011 collection in Paris following an announcement that the designer had ended his relationship with his manufacturing partner in Italy.

The pieces on show were strong, with Simons’ progressive ideas channelled beautifully into a mix of wearable classic and couture silhouettes.

The items that stood out were the caretaker-style box coats with curved shoulders and cleverly cut suit jackets from which the seams were removed to create a clean effect. Simple darts were used in the pattern to pull the jacket in to the body, creating the curved shape.

This technique is a key element in the fashion sector focus of the Super Minimal design direction. Subtle fastenings in industrial bright colours also gave a nod towards the Flexthetics trend.

Look out for LS:N Global’s forthcoming trend summary of Paris Fashion Week, and a round-up of buyers’ comments from the menswear shows.