What do Mick Jagger ,Lennox Lewis and Will Smith all have in common , apart from being iconic men within there field ? Not guessed it yet ? Well they all have an appreciation for a good hand made suit. Not any suit though but one crafted by Oswald Boateng , the north london born designer has dressed the best of the best even the likes of Sir Anthony Hopkins. However it is not his a- list cliental that is most impressive but more his approach to bespoke tailoring . His style is “crisp and structured with an attention on flow and finish”. His look is somewhat a take on the modern day dandy, with his use of bright colours such as fluorescent purple and turquoise . Boateng has managed to capture the man of the twenty first century.
Since moving to Vigo street in 1993 after the success of his first fashion show in paris, his mission was simple to “save Saville row”.Compared by some to his idol the late Tommy Nutter, Boateng saw his role on the row as “rewriting established perceptions of Saville row with a more contemporary twist on the classical form”. With the increasing rent rises and aging talent, the Row was distined to be demolished but with the bravado of Boateng who's self publicising brought spotlight back to the heart of mayfair.The Row no longer struggled for business it thrived under the new blood, who were essential in the survival of one of Londons most iconic streets. Although scrutinized for his outlandish mannerisms his passion earned him an O.B.E in 2006 for his services to bespoke tailoring. Not bad for a self taught tailor. |
| Boateng's showing at LFW |
After all his accomplishments it seemed only fitting that Boateng make a return to london this year after 2 years as the closing show at london fashion week . The show consisted of over 100 models and looks which encapsulated the spirit of the man. Even combining two seasons, both autumn/ winter 10 and spring/ summer 11. It was a truly outlandish affair. Displays like this as well as his long list of achievements have Made Oswald Boateng a house hold name within mens fashion. His Next project is a film titled “ A mans story” a documentary on the man himself and if its anything like his other efforts its sure to be one to watch.
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