“Expect something more streamlined, less archive-oriented”
Despite a rich heritage in British and fashion history, design director
Alistair Carr (like many of his predecessors) re-appropriated, adapted and
developed Pringle of Scotland’s signature style to bring argyle prints and
cashmere twinsets into the 21st century.
As a predominantly tattooed cast of male models sauntered down a teal
runway to the soulful sounds of Terence Trent D’Arby, it was clear that Carr
had cleverly combined the ease
and comfort of modern sportswear with the brand’s traditional British heritage
and association with leisurely country pursuits - in hope of appealing to a
younger, trendier (blatant East London) male community who have seemingly come
to define what fashion is.
Initially, colour palettes remained mostly monotonous with faded whites infused with nautical indigo stripes on
jackets and jumpers. Navies soon dominated on clean-cut blazers or in the form
of irregular panels on steal grey tailored trousers.
However, despite a boring start, a burst of colour soon
exploded onto the runway with burnt oranges, citrus yellows, clay reds and sky
blues consuming looks from head to toe. Tailoring became unrestricting and more
casual as utilitarian outerwear featured numerous pockets and buttons that
transformed garments into functioning backpacks; here the union of sportswear
with traditional country aesthetics was fully expressed.
Yet, despite a dramatic move into the present, there was a
subtle nod to the past as the brand’s identifiable argyle print made a cheeky
appearance on socks and jumpers, whilst the traditional oxford brogue was given
a sporty makeover with white canvas and black platforms. Luxury
materials, typical of Pringle, also resounded through the entire collection in
the form of cashmere knits and a leather/denim combo on various lapel-less
blazers and bombers.
The mix of sports/heritage worked in many cases, and
adapted to the needs of the modern gentleman. However, some adaptations (such
as the shoes) were too radical…innovation in moderation, please.