PARIS, Jan 25, 2004/ FW/ --- The Beach Boys, surf videos and freezing Parisian winter weather, now what on earth could they have in common? The answer at least among fashionista is Dirk Schönberger.

Under the beautiful arches of Ecole des Beaux Arts the crowd wrapped themselves in silver thermal foils and wished for a warmer place, not really caring much for the artistic surroundings and thinking that the Dutchman’s sense of humour in taking summer and turning it into winter was all a bit too much (note, I am currently coughing and spluttering and the women’s collections have not even started yet, aaarrgggghhhh).

The collection, despite the cold was neat and interesting, with Schönberger taking classical surf elements such as the leg strap and making it into a hit accessory.

Trousers are either fitted, enhancing the male silhouette like a wetsuit that hugs the body of a surf god, or are often flat fronted, loose and comfortable with vertical pockets for elegant street wear.

Pants have cowboy hints as fabrics are matched together creating contouring designs down the leg and evidencing the perfect male buttocks.

Jackets are varied and come in mini and maxi sizes.

The little double breasted reworked bomber, the long zip overcoat and the chic tuxedo style jacket with lapels in leather or satin and a single button.

Shirts are floral, old Hawaii style with delicate palms and flowers in variations of khaki.

Schönberger has the ability to created interesting detail from simple elements such as optical and graphical printing; panelling and open cut away slats that overlay as he demonstrates often on shirts and knitwear.

Evenings are reserved for shine and cool glamour, gold pinstriped suits, important lapels and the interesting concept of putting lapels on the waistcoat instead of the jacket.

Dirk Schönberger creates a wearable, yet varied wardrobe for the modern man of today who knows how to mix the positive psychology of sport with the craziness of the urban city surfer.

Dirk Schönberger

Dirk Schönberger

Dirk Schönberger

Dirk Schönberger