H&M for Brick Lane Brick Men's Capsule Collection

This spring, H&M will release a men’s capsule collection with East London-based custom bike shop called Brick Lane Bike. This collection is unlike any of H&M recent high profile collaboration with fashion brand like Maison Martin Margiela and Versace because this concept comes from the streets. Brick Lane Bike is an independent shop that specializes in selling fixed-gear bikes with no apparel sold in their shop. The collection was inspired by the modern urban cyclist with each piece having technical details suitable for better cycling and everyday activity. Designed by H&M designer Petter Klusell and tested by the Brick Lane Bike team, together they combine their expertise and release a collection that combines both fashion and functionality. 

Feya Buchwald, the founder of Brick Lane Bikes said “This collection captures the energy and excitement of Brick Lane Bikes, along with our respect for the traditions of cycling. I love how the technical details become part of the look of each piece, while the colours bring cycling’s heritage to life. I can’t wait to see guys wearing these clothes as they ride the streets of the world”
  
This collection ranges from 11-pieces and is highlighted by a water-repellent rider jacket that can be worn as a backpack if it gets to hot, articulated blazers with smart stretch technology that allows movement and vintage-inspired bike jerseys made from merino wool. The entire collection is made from sustainable materials such as organic cottons and it’s part of H&M’s Conscious Vision. For full look of the collection click here to see. It will be available in H&M worldwide on March 7^th in selection stores. 

_Cyprian Chan

SPRING-SUMMER 2012| Trends that need to DISAPPEAR

Now I have to admit, I am absolutely ‘IN LOVE’ with the Spring/Summer 2012 collection that is currently in stores. I cant help going into stores like Zara, Mendocino, Aritzia, H&M, and French Connection without leaving with yet another piece to add to my quickly expanding wardrobe. Not to mention the amazing assortment I have found at Town Shoes, Capezio, and Browns for Spring/Summer shoes. It seems to me there are just too many things to buy, and not nearly enough money in the bank to pay for my mile-long wish list. Now while I am clearly on a high from the warm weather and new collections, it is not enough for me to tolerate 2 particular fashion trends that I feel should be banned from all stores.

Lets start with the sheer layer skirt . This style has got to go, not only is it unattractive but it looks like the sewers kept running out of fabric. They had to use a green print for the slip underneath that only ended up going mid-thigh and used three types of sheer lace and tulle to get the dress to reach the floor. Talk about mixed messages. I honestly have no suggestions on how to wear this skirt. When I asked a fellow fashion trend-setter about her thoughts on the piece, she replied with, "You should buy these, then throw them in a mud puddle, dance on them, and light them with gasoline and a match." Talk about strong opinions.

ZARA; Long Tulle Swiss Dot Skirt

To make matters even worse, Zara came out with pants in this same style that are equally appalling. While there are some less horrible versions of this trend, seeing these pieces have ruined the whole look for me. There are just too many things going on in this outfit, and its only the pants! Im not even including the bright shoes that add to the overwhelming effect of this outfit. When I asked my same fellow fashion trend-setter what she thought of these pants, this was her reply, "i'm going to take scissors and cut this up into 1 million pieces, throw it in a box, wrap it with a whole roll of duct tape, mail it to australia with a note that says 'burn before opening," and i couldn't have said it better myself.

ZARA; Sheer Flower Print Trousers

The second trend that needs to disappear, has been around for several years. Ever since the initial arrival of this skirt, I have despised it. Not only is it absolutely unattractive, its incredibly cheap-looking. Especially now, with the bohemian look off of our radar this season, this skirt as well as the previous 2 pieces, need to be locked away far from the world so they dont see or remember it. You can only wear peasant blouses and panelled skirts for so long before you just start to look like a bag lady.

ZARA; Panelled Skirt

That is all.

Jamie Duncan

@JamieLDuncan