Neil Barrett: Poetic & Metropolitan
By Michelle Taylor
Photo by Giovanni Pucci

MILAN, Jan 13, 2004/ FW/ --- On ice and rocks they walk, poetically redefined for modern day hazards.

Neil Barrett takes the boy out of the man in his rites of passage artic expedition for autumn winter 2004 shown yesterday here in Milan.

A cold and sombre place; ice tends to have that effect.

Yet how fitting it was that on a cold day in Milan, the metropolis of fashion with all its precarious going ons, his collection took to the catwalk.

His man is not colourful, nor sunny within, but is rather an off the tourist route traveller ready to experience anything that his thrown his way, it is about struggle, harshness and extremes.

Navy double-breasted overcoats with streamline pants often slightly baggy in the crutch for the comfort aspect marched down the runway, perhaps in a hurry to reach the port.

Felt knit, sheepskin coats and padding are all part of the winter wardrobe.

The well-styled show used overlaying and maxi to enhance the male silhouette of Barrett’s adventure in shades of navy, black, grey and various whites.

A reminder that soccer is one of the world's greatest games and an Italian favourite, came into play with previews of the Puma 96 Hours collection incorporated in the form of the printed Puma logo on T’s and footwear.

A reminder that his collaboration with Puma, signed as the Creative Director for a new series of Puma Collections in September of 2003, continues strongly.

Barrett’s tailoring history through experiences with Gucci and Prada is still strong and pleasingly visible in this male winter journey full of inspiration and respect for the explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.

Neil Barrett	Neil Barrett	Neil Barrett
Neil Barrett	Neil Barrett	Neil Barrett

Neil Barrett

Neil Barrett

Neil Barrett

Neil Barrett

Neil Barrett