For this season, Bottega Veneta presented a collection characterized by assertive elegance and rebel flair. "The goal is always to expand the vocabulary of menswear, to add individuality and expression. So there is sophistication, but also playfulness, bravado, eccentricity, rebelliousness -it all depends on how it’s put together", dixit creative director Tomas Maier. Confidence counts, and the Bottega Veneta man has it with a rebellious rockabilly wardrobe that was packed with attitude. Rumbling into new style turf, Tomas Maier tattooed 'hope' and 'sin' on to models’ knuckles, greased their hair into pompadours and dressed them up in clothes that were both assertive and urbane. He opened with sporty technical jackets decked with zippers and paired with knitted pants that were tapered at the ankle. There were quieter sartorial looks too, in shadow stripes and subtle windowpane checks, and fabrics ranging from sumptuous corduroys to water-resistant silks and ultra-soft suede. But Mr M’s double-breasted jackets, some in electrifying tones, exemplified his bold approach. The show climaxed with polished-yet-punk dinner jackets over jeans with turn-up cuffs. The looks were accessorized with bolo ties and white socks tucked into glossy leather creeper shoes, proving this Teddy Boy is no teddy bear but Hell Raiser ! There were definitely more than just clothes to consider in all that 50s-ness. A scarf, a snap-brim fedora, a ring of antique sterling silver -each element added shade and detail to a narrative of personal style. A soft ultra-lightweight calfskin bag served as a luxurious and functional signature. And in a season in which accessories are important, shoes were defining. Boasting a chunky profile and substantial swagger, this season shoes included motorcycle-inspired boots and polished-punk creepers of glossy leather and crocodile, many sporting a thick sole of sturdy cuoio.
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