Piet Mondrian ruled with brush and canvas, and Pyer Moss’s Kerby Jean-Raymond rules with needle and cloth.
For spring, Jean-Raymond drew inspiration from futuristic nineties blockbuster films “Terminator 2” and “Total Recall” fused with the hallmarks of motocross gear.
The idea of retro-futurism was an ever present theme in the silhouettes, full of geometric design details, layered breathable fabrics, and technical fabrics such as a neoprene, microfiber and perforated leather.
Kerby Jean-Raymond unveiled his 2015 spring/summer collection at Milk Studios during New York Fashion Week. Previewing his collection in advance, we were able to get a closer look at the cutting-edge, luxe urban line that combines luxurious fabrics in a sleek minimal way.
Color blocked outer layers and bomber jackets were paired with synthetic shorts, whilst fitted crewnecks and vests were layered in a non-traditional way to create an innovative visual aesthetic. An underlying athletic theme was prevalent throughout the collection, as inconspicuously placed pockets were applied to mesh tops worn under varsity jackets trimmed with leather and styled over elongated shirts with rounded hems.
Perhaps one of the most talked about garments was Jean-Raymond’s own fitted white T-shirt with the words “They Have Names.” The names of Eric Garner, Treyvon Martin, Michael Brown, Amadou Diallo and others were among those listed. The designer’s motive behind this bold move was to call attention to recent events involving the tragic deaths of African American men, who were victims of racial inequality and police brutality. The shirt was an immediate hit as the hashtag #TheyHaveNames turned into a social media campaign, that is currently trending on Instagram. Fashion is supposed to push the boundaries of creativity and conversation and Pyer Moss’s SS15 collection achieved both in a beautiful, modern way.
