The James Long show at London Collections: Men AW14 was an array of textures, bold prints and vibrant block colours. With a sublime mixture of tailored trousers and bomber sportswear jackets at the crux of the collection, it was an incredible sight to behold. Long’s ability to combine colours that are normally taboo makes him an artist as well as a designer.

The show opened with contrast navy blue and black colours which were incorporated into leather and modern tailored trousers. The style of which, was impeccable.

LOOK 7LOOK 16LOOK 2

 

This trend continued until Long injected red and white into the collection and added bold layered prints into the garments, much like other shows such as Kay Kwok and J.W. Anderson.

LOOK 14James long 4James long 3

What was particularly unique about Long’s AW14 collection was his use of textures and finishes amongst his garments. They created a dimension that was otherwise unseen in this season’s LCM calendar. The rarity of being able to incorporate such audacious and brave finishes into an otherwise simple (yet, still incredibly effective) collection will catapult James Long into the fashion greats.

James long 1James long 2

Long also opted for a more contemporary and edgy vibe this season. Many of the other catwalks saw beautifully cut tailored suits walk down the runway and what was wonderfully distinctive about Long’s collection was the steer away from classic menswear and into a new wave of attire – one with a rocky edge, not only that of design and colour, but that of shape and attitude too.