Maurice Malone: Luxury & Opulence On The Rise
By Mari Davis
Photos by Javier Mateo

NEW YORK, Feb 11, 2004/ FW/ --- We know him as one of the pioneers of hip-hop. We remember his street wear jeans that were the favorite of Lenny Kravitz and Britney Spears.

For several seasons, we did not see him under the tents, until last season when he launched his revamped “Maurice Malone” line, where it has undergone a dramatic change from urban wear to a sophisticated and upscale look.

And for Fall 2004, Maurice Malone continues his bright new direction of luxury and opulence.

"I skipped a couple of seasons off the scene to put together my diabolical plan; to create a monster women's line with a tailored men's influence while smashing together the atoms of men's sportswear and tailored looks to come up with a creature that would almost make you forget I do jeans," commented the designer about the new silhouettes of his eponymous label.

And when asked why he changed directions, his immediate response was, “I grew up. As an artist, I can only design what I feel. It was time to move on.”

And what a move he did! His womenswear line that used to be inspired by rock & roll with a generous sprinkling of rap has become sophisticated and sultry.

Sexy and with just a hint of risqué, his tuxedo & button down shirts, dresses & sweaters with deep V necklines, and pencil-cut or A-line skirts will fast become the favorite of contemporary women.

The most dramatic change is in his menswear line. Approaching bespoke clothing, the ¾ and full-length coats, jacquard shirts, two-button single-breasted suits and pinstripe suits are perfect additions to a rising young executive’s wardrobe.

For Maurice fans that are scared that their favorite designer has become boring, that is farthest from the truth.

The Detroit-native has not lost his touch at all. He has actually refined his techniques. On menswear, he still makes his signature “antique wash denim” and “raw remix denim”. He has also added “crystal tattoos” embroidery on the seams and front of the pants.

Using the same color thread as the color of the pants, the “crystal tattoos” are subdued, yet a much welcome embellishments on otherwise monotonous menswear.

Maurice Malone even found time to literally incorporate menswear into his womenswear line, creating skirts made of tiny men’s shirts and sleeves. Great wear for the club scene, or if you just want to be different.

Maurice Malone

Maurice Malone

Maurice Malone

Maurice Malone

Maurice Malone