In a sea of checks, Petrou Man launched his S/S11 collection at New York’s Soho House. In its library, the designer sat all his models down – some reading books, others busy with puzzles or playing games – while the crowd buzzed around them. And ‘buzz’ they did. Styled by Dazed’s Robbie Spencer, Petrou had mixed his checks with tribal and ethnic prints. Mainly using beige and navy in the collection, the Central Saint Martins graduate also surprised with very elaborate headpieces made up form collected bird and butterfly (to mention but a few) tin toys. In a way Petrou took everyday-looking pieces such as jackets, shirts and trousers and made them look odd – which is a brilliant feat! The clash of different prints made the collection come alive, and there was a healthy mix of OTT show pieces and perfectly wearable – yet exciting – looks. One to watch, for sure.

Dazed Digital: What inspired you for the Spring Summer collection?

Petrou: It’s the same preoccupation that I always have in my mind and that is how to make something new look heritage and vintage. I want to change the proportions of something old to make it relevant for today.

DD: Tell us about the ethnic prints…

Petrou: We combine ethnic and tribal prints from Africa with twill fabrics, so it’s about mixing Western style with pacific and African influences.

DD: The headpieces look quite fantastic!

Petrou: They’re inspired by my favourite artist, Chicago-based Nick Cave and they represent the world of the person wearing them…

DD: Favourite piece from the collection?

Petrou: The denim shirt mixed with tribal prints!