DSQUARED2 twins Dean and Dan Caten may be from Toronto, Canada, however for AW18 the brothers channel America’s historic wild west. Influences of the 19th century are suggested through a herd of cow-skin prints, leathers, buckled belts and cowboy hats. Titled Rhinestone Rebel, the narrative of the show focuses on “Dsquared2’s guys and gals are leaving the rodeo to light up the city”.
Updated with embroidery, sequins and PVC detailing to regenerate crazes of saloon styles into the present day, the garments debuted at Milan Men’s fashion week are undeniably infused with cowboy-chic. Playful in their approach, Dsquared2 take the concept so far by using imagery of lassos and stallions to adorn next season’s pieces.
Waistcoat and neckerchief combinations may be recognisable, however the Caten brothers keep the catwalk up-to-date with decade-defining reds and denims, stylising the old-world with the new, a seeming trend for the new season. The round-up of cowboy references are joined by a bohemian spirit in forms of ruffles, florals, loose-fits and layers.
Synthesising these styles sparks a retreat back to being inspired by nature, turning to the rural word and a less-polluted past for future fashions. Non-apologetic Mongolian long-hair fur coats upon silk and stretch-garbadine shirts create dramatic looks worn by the likes of Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner. The hybridising of notions seen within this collection is reflective of Dean and Dan’s winning formula, refreshing yet familiar fashion.
by Joseph Furness