Introduction

Whilst a lot can be said for classic British menswear, let’s face it ? it’s not for everyone. Some of us don’t want to wear a three-piece suit unless we have to, and a large majority just feel much more comfortable and confident in casual gear.

London is providing the greatest inspiration within this field, with many innovative young designers coming through and challenging the status quo. For several seasons the likes of Astrid Andersen and Shaun Samson have made casual wear their calling-card, with streetwear inspiration becoming a huge part of London’s collective fashion voice.

Nineties grunge and skateboarder style is set to make yet another comeback this spring/summer, but this time there are interesting twists that help bring the look firmly into 2013. Aertex fabrics, oversized silhouettes and creative layering are key components, and this look can take you from autumn/winter right into high summer with the correct wardrobe evolution.

On The Runways

Topman Design

The guys at Topman Design veered very sharply away from the current AW12 range with their latest SS13 offering. Instead of dark monochromes and heavy textures, the brand showcased an acid-bright skate inspired collection, which looked like it had come straight out of nineties California.

Neon pink, orange and yellow were complemented by grey short suiting in aertex fabrics, whilst sportswear jerseys came in differing lengths to allow for layering, along with matching shorts.

Prints were also prevalent, whether on graphic tees or blazer/short combinations in florals and abstracts. Slouchy neon knitwear completed the typical grunge look, and accessories such as beanies and skateboards filled in the blanks.

Overall, it was a fun and bright take on the skater trend:

Shaun Samson

Shaun Samson’s SS13 collection was also inspired by skate culture and streetwear, but was much more subdued in comparison to Topman Design.