The Tommy Hilfiger spring/summer 2014 Tailored collection, Westcoasting, combines traditional sartorial styles with laid-back Californian charm. In actual fact, Tommy Hilfiger reinforces the tailored all-American ethos but has treaded carefully into modern euro styling, proving whey they still own the top spot in American suiting and casual wear. The west-coast lifestyle is the primary influence of the Tailored collection and celebrates its draw cards; palm trees, orange groves, sparkling oceans and rugged canyon. The outcome delivers a sleek selection of accessories and suiting that includes textured fabrics, casual chambray and versatile heritage prints.
Heritage Prep , the collections first drop, embraces classic maritime style with the use of estate blue, scarlet sage, and snow white to create an all-American colour combination, seen in sleek stripes on shirts, ties, trousers and linings. Accents of cashmere blue, tawny olive and primrose pink add an unexpected pop, as do unique details like buttons, peter pan collars and contrasting linings. If you’re a fan of the nautical twist, then this part of the collection will certainly please.
The second fashion group, Retro Prep, looks to Palm Springs for inspiration in its refined but relaxed style. Under the hot desert sun summery knits of linen, cotton and lightweight wool mix chic style with easy-going comfort are the order of the day. Shoulders are soft and rounded, interior linings are colour-blocked. Within Retro Prep, a ceremonial capsule collection in tones of brown makes a modern statement with a vintage nod.
Palm trees, olive groves and cactus-covered landscapes inspire Refined Prep, the third fashion group defined by tailored, elegant, sophisticated pieces. With a tonal and washed out look in suits, pants, bowties and jackets, featuring natural greens and beige tones with accents in soft pale rose. Styles range from cosmopolitan bowties and seersucker suits to monochromatic pieces with contrasting piping. Completing the looks is the must-have silhouette: a modern one-button suit.
Tommy Hilfiger’s Tailored collection is available at Sandton City, Johannesburg and the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town.