Bastian Reigned Supreme at Fashion Week

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As the 2011 NYC Mercedes-Benz fashion week drew to a close on Thursday, Kanye West had yet to unveil his new line, but it is reported we will get our first look during Paris Fashion week. It is a women’s line so not really that interesting. I just like to see what the creative mind of Mr. West will come up with next.  With so very many brands showing off their spring 2012 products this week it is difficult for me to boil down my favorite collections, but the one that really caught my eye was that of Michael Bastian. Bastian started his brand in 2006 and has done relatively well, but last year chose to recreate his image and find a way to sell his products at more reasonable prices. He cut ties with his partner, Brunello Cucinelli, last December and is committed to lowering his prices by 20% without sacrificing quality. Unfortunately even with the price reduction his line will be out of my price range, with hoodies retailing for upwards of $1000. After not releasing a fall lineup this year we finally got our first look at what Bastian has been working on for almost a year. What I find most intriguing about his spring 2012 lineup is the classic American pieces to which he added his own unique design. While some brands such as Versace, Calvin Klein and Y-3 have started to trend towards a baggier look, Bastian for the most part kept his collection slim and refined, the way clothing should be worn. I will have to come to grips with the fact that some top brands are going with looser fits, but I don’t think that is ever a style I can really get behind. Tailored suits and slim trousers will never go out of style regardless of what the new trends may be. Some of my other favorite collections featured on the runway include Band of Outsiders, Gant Rugger, and J Crew.
Props to QG for photos