Lacroix Schweetie

So I was checking my blog email address a couple of weeks back, and the good people of Christian Lacroix had invited me to the presentation of their menswear. In Paris! Alas, I had to go on a press trip when the presentation was on, and not knowing much about Lacroix (except for the obvious Ab Fab references, and some dodgy Xmas accessories i'd seen half a decade ago), so I wasn't too gutted about not making it. Then, they sent me the lookbook (kudos to their PR department for confidence in a good product, there). And isn't it lovely. I've not posted the whole thing - surely you'd get bored? - but the relaxed feel, clever detailing and what seem like quality fabrics certainly piqued my interest more than I was expecting. The nautical, loose cut of the trousers & shorts, and smart jackets contrast nicely, and recall some of the earlier Lanvin menswear collections. The looks are chilled-out and accessorised with espadrilles and louchely-tied scarves, which give the whole collection a summery but smart vibe which I'm definitely loving - and now trying to emulate. Is it a change of direction for what was once seen as a tacky de trop brand? Time will tell, but this is definitely an encouraging start. Now, let's see if I can get some time off for the next Paris Fashion Week...