Chester Barrie AW14 Collection - LCM

The best thing about having friends in the fashion industry is the benefit of being able to share invitations for events and getting some fab opportunities from it.

LCM (London Collections Mens) is now over and this post is long overdue but as usual I have been busy and so this post is only just going up today. I really need to work on timing better! I was originally at LCM to shoot for a magazine however plans changed and I ended up chilling in the press lounge with industry friends and taking in the sights of beautifully put together men. It was quite literally a dream for a single lady.

I went along to the Chester Barbie launch party which showcased their AW14 collection. Chester Barbie have a reputation for creating elegant formalwear for men. However, for their new collection they have really turned the tables around and have designer a more extent range. The AW collection for later this year consists of more laid back designs including the introduction of knitwear and casual outwear; keeping the expectations of pure luxury.

Sharp dressed men are the main influences for the new collection including Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. As I was walking around looking at the collection, I could really tell luxury and commitment to ongoing quality is an important factor to the brand.

A lot of cotton, cashmere, silk, velvet, wool and mohair materials are used for the new range which scream out pure luxury. Cleaner shapes are now an introduction to the brand's AW14 collection including a new range of 5 pocket jeans, bold collars and neatly turned back shirt cuffs. Key colours for the collection really replicate the colder months; teal, berry, charcoal, camel and a deep, rich navy.  It's an exciting collection and it'll be interesting to see the more smarter man wear such a beautiful example of elegance.

Below are some photographs I shot of some guests at the launch party. Nothing too spectacular as it was SO busy but I thought I would share them anyway. At least I got a lovely photo of Louis Smith; the amazing British gymnast (third picture down). Doesn't he look pucker ladies?

Ashleigh x