Kenzo Menswear S/S12

'A Place in the Sun' is what Antonio Marras called his Spring Summer collection, and what a bright and light event it was. Referencing the French Riviera, Hawaii and Palm Springs, we were taken on a holiday trip to to the 60s using just about every colour available in the rainbow. Marras played his Beach Boys played potpourri and showed floral shirts, raspberry coloured suits and cargo shorts. Heavy on prints, as well as the loud colours, made it clear that just because it's a casual summer collection you can still look smart; scarves, pea coats, double breasted jackets all proved the point. But when they came out on the catwalk in a strong fuchsia, or as a yellow and blue colour combo - together with a grande finale of raining soap bubbles - then you couldn't but leaving with a smile, and next summer's shopping sorted...

Dazed Digital: What was your starting point for this collection?
Antonio Marras: The photos of Slim Aarons - I found his images in a book and loved the bright colours; the fuschia, electric blue and acid green. I also found an old Hawaii shirt and I used that to create a new Kenzo summer print.

DD: There were a few oversized pieces...
Antonio Marras: Yes, there were a few loose pea coats and shirts, it's for a warm summer after all so comfort is important. 

DD: It was a quite loud collection in many ways...
Antonio Marras: Yeah, I love mixing different prints like checks and florals, and having a printed shirt underneath a fuchsia coloured suit.

DD: Is there a piece in the collection that stands out to you?
Antonio Marras: All the pieces with macro flower prints!