Christian Louboutin’s men’s pre-collection was presented at Milano Moda Uomo spring/summer 2017. Revealed at private gentlemen’s club and garage Officine Riunite Milanesi, the artful and edgy collection made its debut among an eclectic mix of stylish vintage motorbikes and cars, all lovingly restored by Milanese enthusiasts.
Elegant silhouettes in colours classic and bold, interesting technical fabrics and sly material mixes dominate spring/summer 2017, with many pieces finished with understated details such as fine micro- chains and buckles, often in unexpected places. The collection is rounded out by rugged lug-sole styles and bohemian fringed sneakers, ensuring a selection to suit any man.
Bench-made and blake-stitched at a small, family-owned factory outside of Naples, Christian Louboutin’s men’s classics, including Mortimer and Top Daviole, are refreshed for the season in tried-and-true leathers in both classic colours and unexpectedly bold hues such as navy encre and teal amazonia. A brogue story also emerges, with the collection’s first full wing tip, Platterissimo, and half-brogue finishing seen on sharp Charlie Clou.
City styles include Zewar Strap in neutral costa suede, hand-finished to give the appearance of wear, and brogued oxford A Mon Homme Flat. Loafers Montezumo and Explomoc appear on yet another new last, exaggerated to evoke Carnaby Street and the inimitable style of London punks.
Hybrid styles Hubertus Orl Spikes and Rossini are standouts in the collection, each crafted in colourful and contrasting mixes of suede, patent and technical materials most often seen on trainers. An unexpected lug sole likewise grounds these styles, each of which boast a sharp shape and an unabashed attitude.
Chic and relaxed summer silhouettes include Stecken, the return of a classic boat shoe to Christian Louboutin’s collection, appearing in high-gloss patent finished with a discreet line of spikes lining the outsole. Meanwhile, new espadrilles Neocadeques and Nomiga are upgraded to a softer construction, with a full rubber outsole in Christian Louboutin’s iconic red. Summer sneakers include a trio of fringe-embellished styles – Cada Poca, Coachelito and Coachelito Spikes – in lush suedes, inspired by the spirit of America’s pioneers.
Christian Louboutin’s spring/summer 2017 collection for men will debut from October at Christian Louboutin boutiques, including the men’s boutique at Via Vincenzo Capelli 3 in Milan, and at www.christianLouboutin.com.
