The Rakes Stylish Latest Progress

Finally a fashion moment in London's first-ever menswear fashion season, as designer Clive Darby wowed rather wonderfully with his latest collection for the house of Rake.

Rake as a name, rake as attitude, in this stylish show presented Saturday, June 16, with great nonchalance in Little House Mayfair, an intimate dining club and the latest outpost in the extended Soho House empire.

The rake - a dissolute tradition of gentleman behaving badly that dates back to the 16th century and King Charles II "Merry Gang" band of revelers - is an institution of which British men remain immensely proud. Though it was ironic that in a month that celebrated the Diamond Jubilee and the Queen's dedication to her nation and people, the defining show in London turn out to be inspired by hard-living dandies.

Around the finely worn timber paneled club, the hirsute models cruised by in global travellers, whisper light pea-coats in faded blancmange, truncated double breasted silk jackets forgivingly cut, micro naval blazers and mega baggy fine cotton trousers, all very artfully rumpled. They looked like ideal gear for a sunset drink on distant seaside terrace, like the tamarind and vodka cocktail served by a small army of staff at this tightly edited show. Barely 100 guests made it London's most sought after event.

Darby said his inspiration wandered from the "sun-soaked desert to the narrow alleyway of the shadowy souk," which together led to a refined haute bohemian mood. A feeling that continued right through to the finale where the evening dress all came without cravat or bow ties; the cotton pique shirts with starchily erect collars and the cool styling that featured temporary Moroccan henna tattoos and Levantine worry beads worn as wristbands and watch chains.

"Evening gear for the big occasion and the disreputable drinking den," insisted Darby of this gutsily bold collection. Just make sure our name is on the guest list.
Via: The Rakes Stylish Latest Progress

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