I think that people often misuse the term contemporary. They believe it to mean the current zeitgeist; what’s happening in the present, right here, right now. Of this very moment.
Sadly what they’re misunderstanding is the fact that contemporary design, be it fashion or art, sits on the shoulders of the past. One interminably interlinked with the other. And it’s this sense of continuum that is perfectly exemplified in JINUMO’s SS17 collection…
JINUMO SS17
Founded in Thailand in 2009, JINUMO is looking to break the world of Western menswear to pieces, introducing the traditional elements of Eastern design. This couldn’t be more evident than in founder Jin Thammachote’s SS17 collection, which derives structure from the outfits and armours of the samurai. Creating a sense of drama through flowing fabric and tight fits, it’s a passionate juxtaposition of identity that the designer felt he simply had to explore.
A rummaging through the sewing box his mother filled as a child, SS17 is Jin’s shameless expression of his own style and personality. Combining striking materials, the collection focuses on ‘body conscious’ cutting, ensuring that the wearer doesn’t get lost in swathes of fabric.
Playing with silhouettes and shapes, this is a transfusion between the old and the new. A bloodline pumping through generations; two infinitely connected parts of the same whole.
Featuring both pleat and layered trousers, there is a theme of modification throughout JINUMO SS17, with practically all garments complementing one another through fitted design.
Designed for comfort and practicality, the Semi Pleat and Baggy Trousers are refined by the perfectly cut Contrast Tape Shirt. A soft and light Contrast Linen Coat isn’t overly fitted, but brings the outfit back to complement the figure.
The shirts’ tapes are an interesting addition, again working to restrict the flow of material and highlight the body. JINUMO’s Round Neck Tank Top clearly inspired by samurai under armour throws out a Euro rave vibe.
The Leather Lapel Blazer is on the rather more formal side of this collection, though here it’s turned up to 100 with the cropped leather tank top. It’s good to have options.
The Sleeveless White Shirt finds the perfect outer layer with the Samurai Coat’s soft and lightly textured design.
The Oversize Biker and Sleeveless Long Vest Coat complete the set. Offering starkly different outerwear options, they pair well with both shorts and trousers.
We finish below with a serious outfit. Letting the spirit of the samurai flow through each garment, this combination epitomises the JINUMO SS17 collection. Refined, genteel, flowing, trimmed. It’s a contrasting style that we seriously hope to see on the streets of London next year.
