Aimé Leon Dore SS24 drop #2
The gift that keeps on giving.
A blog about menswear and personal style...a take on the importance of clothes in one's projected and perceived image. Contact me: Miguel Amaral Vieira info@beyondfabric.eu
Love to see a revamped @dunhill under the helm of Simon Holloway. An ode to classic menswear that exudes luxury and sophistication while feeling fresh and contemporary.
Looking forward to see more.
(Source: beyondfabric)
Beams Plus SS24 Lookbook
Almost as an antagonistic approach to the previous post, today we delve into the brilliance of Beams Plus and its uncanny ability to merge nuances from different historical fashion movements with other more varied influences.
As usual, the Japanese label gifts us with their unique view of contemporary menswear, which often includes oddities and unexpected combos. The beauty of it though, relies on the fact that what initially seemed distracting or even strange to the eye, soon becomes harmonious and serene.
Bending classic menswear and styling rules, but maintaining their quintessential principles, Beams can coordinate a range of beautifully styled ensembles that inspire us to experiment and risk outside our preconceived notions.
The collection is now available at Beams’ official website and select retailers worldwide.
(Source: beyondfabric)
Brunello Cucinelli SS24 Lookbook
Cucinelli is always a great palate cleanser of sorts when it comes to menswear. Hailed as the epitome of luxury and embodying the quintessential hallmarks of the “quiet luxury” rage that has been swiping the fashion scene, the Italian brand still remains the go-to choice of the tasteful ultra-wealthy.
And truth be told, it’s easy to understand why. The formula needs no introduction nor alteration, as it materializes the very essence of luxury menswear. The trademark palette of cream and nude shades bring a soothening, sophisticated touch to the tailored looks, often toned down through combinations with worn out denim.
Monochrome remains the word of order as tonal garments are seamlessly layered to deliver high-end Summer looks that are both comfortable and impeccable.
(Source: beyondfabric)
Introducing: Mr. Archive
What better way to kickstart 2024 than with one the most beautifully curated, styled and fair-priced vintage stores out there?
Mr. Archive has been one of my go-to places the last few months, be it for visual inspiration on their instagram profile or the browse some of the most interesting pieces around. To be fair, after 15 years of working in this industry is getting more and more difficult for me to find garments and brands that are truly exciting and fresh. If on top of that we take into account the price point of some of these labels, many of which produce in Portugal with accessible costs, my enthusiasm dims even further.
I’ve always been passionate about the universe of vintage and pre worn garments, but this love has been fueled in recent years by the appearance of highly specialized shops that seem to be perfectly in tune with my personal style. I’ve had the chance to chat with Matteo, the mastermind behind Mr. Archive to learn more about this outstanding project.
BF: I came across Mr. Archive fairly recently and I must say that it definitely hit a soft spot within the range of vintage providers currently on my radar. How long have you been in business? What drove you to create it?
Matteo: I’m passionate about my job, believe I have a somewhat general knowledge of the fashion world, but about 4 years ago, I got fascinated by this industry, even though I already knew it. I come from a family that has always worked in the clothing industry.
BF: For me, your selection is perfectly curated, bringing a mix of military and navy-inspired garments, with a twist of Americana. Is this an extension of your own style and taste, or is it more business-oriented?
Matteo: What I propose is all based on my personal taste; I create outfits on the spot, drawing inspiration from magazines, newspapers, etc., and then I elaborate and create. My mom is an artist, and I think I took inspiration from her.
BF: Vintage has always inspired me ever since I got into fashion roughly 15 years ago. There’s just something distinctive about the fabrics and the history behind each garment that you can not replicate with new items. How/where do you source your amazing selection?
Matteo: My pieces come from warehouses worldwide; I’m constantly looking for new things, and that’s the wonderful thing about my job! I have strong trust in my suppliers!
BF: With sustainability being the word of order when it comes to fashion, have you noticed an increase in demand for pre-owned garments? Do you think part of the solution can be provided by vintage?
Matteo: Recently, there has been an increase in the purchase of vintage and second-hand clothing items. To be honest, I believe that a few years ago, not many people knew about this world, but now it’s expanding and captivating even those who knew little about it.
BF: I noticed you have a small capsule of garments carrying your own label, namely selvedge denim and accessories. What’s the story behind those? Can we expect more designs in the future?
Matteo: I won’t deny that creating my own clothing line would be a great personal satisfaction, a significant growth. I recently created a small line, “MRARCHIVE,” currently composed of jackets, pants, and hats. One day, I’d like to expand, but I still have much to learn and study.
BF: Any tips or advice you wish to leave for those more reluctant to explore the world of previously owned items? It’s still somewhat taboo for some people.
For many people, this world is still a taboo; they’re still stuck in the thought of “they’re used clothes.” What I think is that one should see the story and originality behind each piece to appreciate its value, both from a historical and an aesthetic perspective. Sometimes, I compare some clothing items to paintings—they should be framed.
You can find Mr. Archive here.
Todd Snyder SS24 Lookbook
Wishing for warmer days with @toddsnyderny SS24 Lookbook. As they so eloquently put it, the collection is an ode to an endless summer brimming with warm breezes, cold beer and the perfect soundtrack.
An exercise in comfort sophistication that brings together tailored elements with looser silhouettes and breezier, Summer-ready essentials.
Beyond Fabric x Norwegian Rain #2
The third look of the Norwegian Rain series features a contemporary take on the traditional three piece suit.
Well, let’s face it, any suit by T-Michael despite being rooted in tailoring techniques is far from traditional per se, so I took the opportunity to play with length and proportions. A timeless navy suit paired with a long tunic and loafers that matched beautifully the tan of the raincoat.
Photo: Elisabeth Teixeira
Styling & model: Miguel Amaral Vieira
Items: Norwegian Rain coat, navy suit by T-Michael, long tunic by Beyond Fabric, braided loafers by Buttero
(Source: beyondfabric)
Drake’s FW23 Lookbook
There’s a reason menswear enthusiasts crave the cold season: layering. The ability to delve into the fundamentals of styling to create complex attires that appear seamlessly non chalant.
An art in itself that once mastered, as any other, allows it user to strive for greatness and elevation amidst his peers. Something quite evident in all of the pictures above.
A masterclass in dressing for the season, bearing in mind not only aesthetic but functionality as well. The collection is now available online at Drake’s official website, here.
(Source: beyondfabric)
Beyond Fabric x Norwegian Rain
A while back I was challenged by T-Michael and Alex over at Norwegian Rain to rethink modern officewear using some of their most classic raincoats. A sort of a social experiment aimed at registering a moment in time and context, that portrays my interpretation of professional attires in 2023.
Inspired by 3 of Norwegian Rain’s weatherproof styles, I put together 3 different looks I could wear to work in a not overly formal environment. Breaking down the traditional suit and tie paradigm, all 3 proposals are polished and sophisticated, with their own unique twists.
The first, depicted here, is a vintage-inspired combination that feels fresh by incorporating the raincoat’s technical fabric and a raw hemmed flannel sports jacket. On the more classic end, we have a stripped club collar shirt and wool tie, paired with off white corduroy trousers.
Ph: Elisabeth Teixeira
(Source: beyondfabric)
Beams + FW23 Lookbook
As usual, Beams + latest FW23 Lookbook cannot be overlooked. A continuous, coherent perusal of menswear staples drawing influences from everything from Ivy League to streetwear, that always feels fresh and contemporary.
(Source: beyondfabric)
Louis Vuitton Saint-Tropez Café
Fashion brands are having a blast this Summer, boasting pop-ups in highly sought havens and venturing into lifestyle ventures through restaurants and cafes.
Louis Vuitton has recently joined the movement with its Saint-Tropez café headed by Michelin-Star awarded Chef Arnauld Donckele. Serving French-Riviera inspired dishes, this is the go-to place if you’re around.
(Source: beyondfabric)
A selection of looks from @stoffa collection 04. A prime example of how cut, fit, design and curated simplicity can deliver some of the most sophisticated garments around.
Special emphasis on the subdued colour palette that just screams perfection.
(Source: beyondfabric)
Adrien Brody x Kith SS23 Lookbook
Not really much you can say when you’ve got someone as charismatic as Mr. Adrien Brody wearing your garments, but Kith managed to keep them on par with the talented actor.
(Source: beyondfabric)