The Boys Light Up at Fashfest

Pushing boundaries with men’s fashion. That’s FASHFEST 2015, with designers inspired by children’s nightmares, a fine appreciation of luxury fabric, the comfort of handcrafted, edgy garments, and even sports-inspired wear. Who said men’s clothing is boring?

Perhaps the most ‘out there’ designer is Mitch Thompson, from Perpetually Five, who returns to FASHFEST for the third year. If you’ve been to FASHFEST before you may have seen Mitch wandering down the catwalk holding colourful balloons or roller skating in garments from his 2014 ‘Googly Eye’ collection. This year Mitch is collaborating with designer Clare Read on a spectacular collection named ‘The Haunted Mask’, inspired by children’s nightmares. These garments are for reclusive outcasts—silent, mysterious trendsetters.

At the opposite end of the spectrum is Braddon Tailors, dedicated to producing made-to-measure and ready-to-wear garments using luxury fabrics, sourced from the best mills around the world, including wools, linens, denims, cottons and silks. These heirloom pieces will last for years and include special occasion, formal, business and casual wear. The label was just on the runway at Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival.

New to the catwalk is Melbourne’s Cameron&James. This contemporary menswear is made from eco fabrics and ethical production techniques. Standing apart from mainstream menswear labels, Cameron&James is the perfect fit for young, professional men living in and around cities, who see the value in investing in handcrafted pieces.

Also new is visual artist Luke Chiswell (label same name) who is well known for his iconic image ‘Straight Face’. This is Luke’s debut appearance at a major fashion event and his ‘New Day’ collection is created with raw materials and clean, flowing fabrics, layering silk, canvas, linen and lace.

If you want to punch above your weight, check out designs by Charne Esterhuizen from MAAK, who produces garments designed around everyday living. This unisex, street and sports-inspired clothing is a great match for those who want to freely express themselves.

And last, but not least, is one of Canberra’s most well-known independent labels. This is Corr Blimey’s third year at FASHFEST, and designer Louisa de Smet will once again showcase innovation of design, rather than ‘here-today, gone-tomorrow’ trends. Corr Blimey’s sculptural streetwear is distinctive and memorable. Louisa strives for perfection, but never takes herself too seriously.

To check out which designer is on which night, head to www.fashfest.com.au Buy your tickets while there.