By: Patrick Nelson

British-born, New York-based menswear designer Simon Spurr has a daunting legacy to live up to:  apprentice to Hedi Slimane at YSL; former head Menswear Designer for CK Calvin Klein; Design Director for Ralph Lauren Purple Label and Ralph Lauren Black Label; described by GQ and the CDFA as one of the “Best New Menswear Designers in America” in 2008; 2009 nominee for the CDFA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award and 2010 nominee for the CDFA Swarovski Award for Menswear.

If that weren’t enough, Jim Moore, the Creative Director of GQ, half the important menswear buyers in the industry and the legendary Anna Wintour are seated in the front row at the unveiling of only his second runway collection.  No pressure.

Fortunately, Mr. Spurr was up to the challenge: the garments are spectacular.  Befitting his design experience, Mr. Spurr presented what can simply be described as classic American sportswear meets Savile Row.  Along with the impeccably tailored two and three-piece suits (some in bold plaids) are modern interpretations of lightweight, military inspired bomber jackets and leather-free biker jackets. The more sporty pieces were teamed with jeans ranging in shades from white to a versatile dark wash.

My favorite pieces were a mustard-colored, double-breasted, car coat length belted trenchcoat and a tan-colored, single-breasted suit with peak lapels and cocoa-colored piping on both the jacket and trousers (tuxedo style).  But if you were seeking less extravagance and more neutral hues, those were also on display.

Mr. Spurr’s show proved that the Simon Spurr brand ably meets the needs of its confident, well-heeled customers who demand impeccable tailoring along with their decidedly masculine and un-stuffy take on dressing.

Photos:

[Show as slideshow]

12►

Photo credits: Yannis Vlamos/GoRunway.com