Astrid Andersen examines the parallels between the gym and religion for Spring/Summer 13, ahead of her showcase on the MAN catwalk tomorrow. The designer, who splits her time between London and Copenhagen shares an exclusive image preview with Dazed Digital...

Taking the experience of loss and the religious intimacy of grief, Andersen examines their effects on the soul and the seeking of a road to solace, applying this to her muse - the athletic male. These men battle with mind, body and soul to achieve the unachievable, pursuing an almost enlightened level of being in that moment as they push themselves ever further toward the extremes of what it means to be human. They find ecstasy, brotherhood and direction in the gym, replacing those qualities traditionally associated with the church and religion in the ultimate expression of Your Body is a Temple.

Visit Dazed Digital through the weekend for coverage of the best shows at London Collections: Men, including Astrid Andersen.