Written by Lewis Cameron

Mon. 24. June.

 

Beyond Man took time out of our hectic schedule to chat to local stylist and recurring collaborator Jamie Russell, one of the first male fashion stylists to emerge in Northern Ireland and one of the founding members and editors of FashionCREEP!; one of Northern Ireland’s first fashion blogs. Having recently designed costumes for the hit film Good Vibrations celebrating all things punk inspired from Belfast’s vibrant rebel music history, Jamie’s full thirteen outfits crafted for NI’s only menswear catwalk show Man Time, were naturally of particular interest. And when something is of particular interest we have to chat about it.
 
BM: Describe your catwalk looks in four words?
JAMIE: Dynamic, urban, fresh, statement-making..I could go on.

 

BM: What were the major trends you incorporated into your looks and what were your main influences overall?
JAMIE: In terms of trends, I always look to what's happening with youthful, street style and see how it is been adapted from designer looks. For my Man Time collection I've incorporated grunge elements with 90's shapes and styles. I draw influence from designer brands like Givenchy, Thom Browne and Christopher Kane, but everything around me can be used as inspiration, from fashion to architecture. As a stylist I always think "would I wear this?" With all my looks originating in my own wardrobe, my stylings are ultimately MY style projected onto others.

 

BM: Who is your favourite current menswear designer and why?
JAMIE: My favourite menswear designer is Riccardo Tisci of Givenchy. His style is so fresh and unique. He conveys masculinity in such a revolutionary way. He really has transformed modern menswear.

 

BM: What is your favourite current menswear trend for SS13 and why and how would you advise to wear it best?
JAMIE: The bomber jacket is the thing to be seen in this season. There's a whole range out there, in all manner of prints, shapes and fabrics. I've fallen in love with Taxonomy for Topman's futuristic printed silk numbers. If you are feeling a little more flush then opt for a leather sleeved Dolce & Gabbana treat. There's only one rule for the bomber...keep it big. Oversized is key.

 

BM: How would you describe the change in the menswear scene in NI over the last 12 months?
JAMIE: Fashion in general in Northern Ireland is coming on by leaps and bounds with a select few really pushing the boundaries. Menswear especially is vastly improving. There is a definite shift in the public perception of how guys should dress and people are really opening their eyes to this side of the industry. Obviously there is a great way to go, but with events like Man Time and a new influx of men in the business, we're really making our mark.

 

BM: What was your favourite look you put together for man time and why?
JAMIE: It's hard to pick as it's all my own clothing. But it would have to be the black sheer shirt with an exotic floral print tee underneath. Complete with battered up white converse, black skinny fit jeans and a ram-skull pendant. The look was simple yet striking. I loved it.

 

BM: Why do you think menswear has started to become a stronger influence in fashion?
JAMIE: Womenswear has for decades been influenced by men’s clothing. It's now so interesting to watch as skirts, kilts, tights and bags are all forming modern menswear silhouettes and styles. The stale old perceptions of masculinity and femininity are changing and with that comes an evolving attitude and interest in fashion. The future is unisexual. I can't say why it has become stronger, but it was bound to happen at some stage. I'm glad it's happening now as I can be a part of it. Why should women have all the fun?

 

Jamie Russell Fashion Stylist’s Man Time section was all about the subtle detailing, the lucrative studding and the simple accessorising of strong statement pieces. The tying of garments both textured and layered at the waist with a modern approach to the youthful punk movement with patterns, prints, dyed garments and the biggest trend of all, bomber jackets.  Check out all the catwalk images above and Jamie Russell Fashion Stylist on Facebook now for more info.