- Fashion rules to live by - 27 September, 2018
- Spice Girls: Girl Power and Fashion - 25 January, 2016
- Inside the lines: Hallmark’s Millionmaker Challenge - 11 December, 2015
For many years AllSaints has been the most desirable and often trend setting hotspot for men’s and women’s fashion. As a previous employer I saw the business grow over the course of four years, bringing with it refreshed aesthetics and key looks. One of the great things about them is that they don’t as a rule follow trends and tend to fall into a very niche category. As a result of this, it offers customers the exclusivity on pieces, knowing that 20 other people won’t be wearing the same outfit.
From the beginning it harboured a greatly grunge led feel and has since waved in and out of this, while still retaining its brand identity. Something which used to make AllSaints identifiable, as with most stores, is the signature branding and for many years, this was the ram skull emblem, which gave it the edge. This branding however has become a lot more sophisticated over the last year or so and has paved the way for the brand to be promoted, through its ingenuity in the unusual cut of their clothes and colour palettes.
In terms of its standing in the high street hierarchy, I believe it falls into the higher tier, due the entry price point for its pieces. As with most investment pieces, you as a rule get what you pay for and AllAaints are renowned for their superior quality and use of supremely graded fabrics. With summer fast approaching, now is the time to cherry pick pieces to fill out your wardrobe. There are some great items in the new collection.
Iapetus Short Sleeved Crew (£78)
Made from brush back cotton fleece this tee is a great staple to build an outfit around. The silhouette is not traditional, in the sense that the shoulder has a relaxed finish, with a slouchy and generous sleeve. The ribbed bodice edge gives the top some shape, slightly nipping in the oversized piece. Pair with some stonewash drainpipes, an aviator jacket and Chelsea boots for a laid-back, but well-built outfit.
Drayton Leather Biker (£458)
AllAaints have been pioneers in pushing the conventional men’s leather categories, by paying extra care in their detailing and choice of materials. Grade A leathers are the material of choice for all of their leathers, which pay dividend the more you wear them. Easily transitional due to the clever cut, allows the jackets to be the focal point of any outfit. The Drayton Leather Biker is no exception, with key details such as the asymmetric fastening and contrast khaki zip tape. A granddad collar shirt, relaxed crotch tailored trousers and brogues, with the leather, will be an alternative way of working a formal look
Oaha Swim Shorts (£50)
The short shorts are still a very bold choice and one still favoured by consumers. AllSaints are known for their muted colour ways, however these shorts offer a pop of colour and welcomed print, so often forgotten about in commercial men’s collections. Team with lightweight jerseys and build layers, with staple tees and hoodies. A little tip, make sure you have the legs to wear them, as this cut isn’t for everyone.
Shaw Sandal (£68)
The only shoe other than my military boots which I wanted more than anything were my gladiators. A sandal that I have introduced into many looks, are still very much subjective to personal opinion. Not every guy is willing to walk around in a pair, but I just love them. The Shaw sandal are a great move on from the ones that I have, from previous years. These can be worn with many bottom options such as cords, shorts, skinny jeans teamed with oversized tees, or something punchier such as a printed shirt.
For further information and to shop the full range then visit: allsaints.com
