DALLAS, Dec 29, 2005/ FW/ --- No, Dries Van Noten did not decide to dress Antonio Banderas in the current reincarnation of Zorro. The Belgian designer just wanted to show that intricate detailing in men’s clothes is possible.

So, for this coming spring / summer 2006, expect stores and boutiques that sell Dries Van Noten to have intricately detailed clothing for men that can rival the haute couture pieces that are usually reserved for women.

As already have been mentioned during the Paris Menswear Spring 2006 season last July, Dries Van Notel was inspired by Spain and Salvador Dali.

Mixing art and function, Van Noted created embroidered short-cropped jackets similar to those worn by the matadors. The result – a romantic modern piece that is actually wearable!

The embroidery was also used in trousers and shorts, which redefines the word ‘details’ in men’s pants. Usually meant for double stitching or slanted pockets, the embroidery actually is a pleasant surprise.

Sticking to that matador theme, Van Noten also created knitted cardigans that look like capes done in color blocks. Paired with a white shirt and thin necktie, it actually looks formal enough for an English gentleman.

That said, it could now be noted that you don’t have to be fashion forward to wear these clothes. Though it is a little bit on the avant-garde side, the tailoring is so classic that even the ‘fashion shy’ guy will find the courage to at least try them on.

And with the color palette staying within the neutral zone, such as black, white and beige with splashes of blue, it will be good for the young stockbrokers and executives who does not mind standing out from the crowd.

Dries Van Noten

Dries Van Noten

Dries Van Noten

Dries Van Noten