MENSWEAR SPRING ’09 RUNDOWN.

The ‘excursionist’ uprooted for the fashion shows, events, and happenings I took part in weeks back. The physical temple was on a pronounced E after about Day 6. Tired or not, we pulled ourselves by the [Dolce & Gabbana] bootstraps and stormed the menswear shows and presentations for Spring/Summer ’09. We previewed many but adored very few. Here are the brands we felt had something to say for Spring/Summer ‘09.

Band of Outsiders

Men's tailoring done in chic formations and finishes bombarded Band of Outsiders collection. Designer Scott Sternberg offered preppy with mixes of relax vibes. And creative design incorporations to boot. The collection transports new creative energy back into preppy menswear. With the “Prepster” look making an echoing reemergence, B.O.O. stimulates forth a timely collection. During the mildly-crowded presentation we received ample face time with the Spring collection.

Our favorites: High-quality navy cotton trench coat finished off with gold shimmer buttons; Double-breasted patchwork madras jackets and above-the-knee shorts; colorful blended braces; splendid Sperry Top-Sider shoes (I was tempted to boost them from the shelf! Lol.) offering laser screen-print eyelets and lace displays and a neat camel cotton tuxedo pant. I recommend including the designer into your designer must-haves for next season.

Hyden Yoo

Does the above name ring familiar chimes? If you are a Fear Factor seasoned loyalist, you might recall the name Hyden Yoo. Hyden, won the show crown several years back. Hyden currently is the fearless fashion-forward whipping up fantastic menswear constructs. Front row at Gen Art Fresh Faces, we were gripped by Mr. Yoo’s well-thought and executed men’s collection.

For Spring, throngs of refreshing and cheery options are birthing out of the Hyden house. Gems in particular: Gray-colored ruche jackets, majestic coral sweaters (unbelievably creative), zippered pewter motorcycle jackets, and scores of cotton ventilated suits. If you’re thinking preppy-edgy flair for Spring, Hyden Yoo is your go-to designer!