New York Fashion Week came and went as it usually does, dazzling us with runway show after high power, runway show leaving us yearning, open-mouthed for clothes we can’t have until March of next year. While most of the shows that make up fashion week primarily focus on the stuff we wear on the outside, we were captivated by the Parke & Ronen runway show, rife with the brand’s usual lineup of preppy, ultra tailored swimwear in body flattering silhouettes–Parke & Ronen has a knack for always getting sexy right. Regardless of the style, their swimwear always looks like it was made for the body that wears it. Even board shorts: instead of being their usual baggy selves theirs trace the body in sleek, flattering lines. The stylist of this show brought the brand’s iconic swimwear to a whole new level by styling it with their line of equally amazing ready to wear clothing. From preppy knit varsity sweaters to fitted jackets to lightweight cashmere cardigans and beachy mesh shirts, Parke & Ronen emerged as more than just purveyors of amazing swimwear. This is the stuff well-dressed dreams are made of.
Check out the slideshow to see our faves.
The opening look of the show, this satiny maroon jacket set the stage for the rest of this impeccably designed collection. It stands out for its tailored fit, rich, buttery texture and the fact that it's not black, so it will naturally make a style splash no matter how you wear it. Opt for this instead of the usual seersucker for a sleeker look that's perfect for summer dinner parties.
Photo credit: GQ
This ribbed cardigan is cleverly layered over a striped shirt and diagonally striped tie that gives it a retro, Mad Men-esque vibe. While this particular sweater wouldn't be so great for poolside wear, it makes a great match for the vintage print swim shorts.
Photo credit: GQ
The sheer knit fabric and bright contrast stripes give this varsity sweater a modern, summery edge. Sheer fabrics rarely work well for guys, but the translucency of this fine knit gives a glimpse of the buttons and salmony color of the shirt worn beneath, and creates a flattering overall color.
Photo credit: GQ
This sheer knit cardigan is another perfect example of how see-through can look great on guys. The wide lapels and side pockets add a rugged accent, maintaining the balance between sexy and masculine. We see this worn poolside with the same swimsuit as pictured here, topped off with a pair of retro wayfarer sunglasses.
Photo credit: GQ
The relaxed fit of this jacket has comfort written all over it, but the bold red is reminiscent of James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause. The retro styling of this whole outfit is relevant even today.
Photo credit: GQ
The right tie can really tie up an otherwise boring outfit by infusing it with a dash of color and a preppy, eye-catching pattern. The neutral brown shirt could easily have accommodated a variety of colors, but the red, white and blue color scheme gives this whole outfit a classic, all-American feel.
Photo credit: GQ
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