Carlos Campos’ clean, ultra-modern designs are all about breaking down the barriers between Latin American traditions and classic American sportswear. For Spring 2018, he found additional inspiration in the minimal designs of Mexican architect, Luis Barragán’. In a season of ubiquitous 90’s nostalgia, Campos’ collection is focused on the future. His pieces are vastly monochromatic and minimal with heady geometric designs. Most are pared down to an almost monastic “less is more” philosophy with strong architectural cuts enhanced by energy-driven geometric motifs. The vibrant color palette in electrifying hues of vibrant reds, and cobalt blue are a subtle homage to the 1920’s Bauhaus movement rendered in playful color blocked patterns, yet the designer manages to integrate a hint of sporty cool into an otherwise futuristic collection.
The proportion play is key- crisply tailored, yet oversized, and just roomy enough to complement any body type. Wearability is crucial; “It’s a reflection of how people’s lives really are,” says Campos. Perhaps the strongest component behind the collection is that Campos doesn’t necessarily have to alter any of the garments specifically for women, yet women like Danielle Cooper are discovering the brand in droves. From jumpsuits to power suits, to anoraks and rain jackets, anyone can easily wear any of the pieces.
Behind The Scenes at Carlos Campos Spring 2018 Men’s Show
Carlos Campos’ Modern Design Philosophy
They say the best designers design for themselves and this is certainly true of Carlos Campos. His father was a tailor back in Honduras who made uniforms. This seems to have impacted Campos’ own design aesthetic as well as his philosophy. “I wear the same thing all the time, but add some pop of color now and then… It’s a philosophy I’ve always stuck to for both my personal style and my designs. But sometimes my girlfriend says, ‘Can you please just stop wearing that shirt,'” explains Carlos of his daily uniform. He’s on to something though; in an era of jam packed schedules, the most vital pieces in our closets are also the most versatile—hence the popularity of the jumpsuit. Campos re-engineered the classic jumpsuit into a loose fitting, relaxed silhouette in a striking color blocked pattern. The result is an easy to wear uniform that can carry you through any day of the week.
If you like this post, see more Carlos Campos: Carlos Campos Fall 2017: Seasonless Menswear