SUNNEI
With no formal training in fashion design, Italian duo Loris Messina and Simone Rizzo have managed to quickly transform Sunnei (pronounced “sunny”) into an insider favourite. First launched in spring/summer 2015, the brand made its official Milan Men’s Fashion Week debut two years later with a front row flash mob. And just like the unexpected start to the show, Sunnei doesn’t take its Italian roots too seriously. The clothes are exclusively made in factories located in Italy’s Veneto region that employ traditional techniques to its designs, resulting in modern streetwear with an Italian tailoring slant. The brand’s “Everyday I Wear Sunnei” T-shirt is easily its best-selling item.
BLINDNESS
Based in Seoul, Blindness offers international appeal without being a copy of an established brand, nor too entrenched in the K-pop scene. There are nuances of Alessandro Michele’s Gucci and more noticeably Burberry’s previous September collection in Blindness’ autumn/ winter 2016 offering, but still distinct in its execution and styling. Its latest collection sees the brand reworking tailoring by shifting proportions and trims. Ruffle-collared shirts that are not overtly feminine and exaggerated shirt cuffs are key features.
PALMIERS DU MAL
“It takes a self-confident man to pull off a tailored double-breasted blazer with a kaftan, but it looks unconsciously exquisite and dangerously marvellous,” says Shane Fonner, the creative director for Palmiers du Mal. It’s a curious pairing but makes sense for a brand that champions a relaxed resort vibe.
Based in New York, Palmiers du Mal embodies that cosmopolitan spirit the city is known for. Its French name translates cheekily to “Palms of Evil” in English. Its clothes are made in Italy, and its inspirations as well as