Kris Van Assche Spring / Summer 2014
A bold, sporty feel colours the latest Kris Van Assche collection both literally and metaphorically this season. The clichéd game of the ‘masculine wardrobe’ is not to be played in the expected way. Classic connotations of ‘sport’ and ‘chic’ are combined, transposed and playfully transgressed.
“There is always an element of contrast in what we do here,” explains Kris Van Assche of his latest collection. “And the idea of sport – an element I have had since my first collection, where all of the shoes were white Stan Smiths with a green logo – versus the grown-up, chic connotations of cognac as both a drink and a classic colour of men’s leather goods, was a combination I wanted to explore. The men who have grown up with sportswear, wearing it since they were boys, are often some of the most sophisticated fashion customers. Because they have always had an eye for detail – whether they are looking at a trainer or a handmade shoe. The collection is about that personal interpretation of the rules and the codes of menswear, not adhering to the prescribed, clichéd view of a choice of either ‘sport’ or ‘chic’ – it’s both. The attitude of the collection is anti-precious, avoiding ‘the dandy’, playful, yet still enjoying the refined.”
The notion of serious masculine identities in menswear, which must abide by either dandified gentlemanly codes or those of the street and sportswear, are challenged this season. The wearer can choose all at once – and have freedom and fun while doing so.
The opening of the first Kris Van Assche boutique in Paris, located at 16, rue Saint Roch, which took place last June. This opening coincided with the launch of the Kris Van Assche online store – now available to customers worldwide.
NoéMie Schwaller
