WHAT MAKES A MAN?

Its always an interesting debate. What makes a man?

Men should be strong, chivalrous, protectors, some say muscular, some say it doesn't matter, they prefer lean. Some say emotional, sensitive, some say not. I think men get a harder time over this then women. And mostly, it comes down to what they wear. God forbid anyone might think your gay by what you wear. But even if, your still a man.

I find the fashion debate on this topic very interesting. When people say to me "thats so gay", I think "what do gay clothes look like?" Apparently pink shorts and florals are gay - but I see more straight guys wearing them then gay guys. Abercrombe and Fitch to me is gay, its like the gay uniform, they even have go go dancers in the shops! But people dont say - "thats gay" when they look at Abercrombe and Fitch cargo shorts.

So how do "real men" dress? I cant answer that. All I can do is make what I make and see who wears it.

When I design, I always look at fashion history. I love looking at the fashions of yesteryear that in the time were essential for the modern man. Pocket squares, tie pins, bow ties, top hats, bowler hats, trilbies, monocles, cigarette holders, snuff boxes, cuff links, gloves, spats, sock garters the list goes on. I find this all so fascinating and inspirational.

This season for EDEN i've touched on the motif of the carnation, in its day an essential accessory for a well to do mans evening suit. I hope my carnation jumper is an essential in todays mans wardrobe.

...next season who knows...again the list is endless.