PARIS, Jul 2, 2001/ --- The Sonia Rykiel Renaissance doesn't appear to be faltering anytime soon.

With a new generation of young women madly enthusiastic about classic Sonia designs and hip stores in fashion capitals placing huge orders for Rykiel's casual chic, the brand is clearly on a roll.

And it's one that's extended to the men's collection, Rykiel Homme, which is having a record year commercially.

Sonia's roots in Saint Germain were evident in the show, which was all about joie de vivre, clever humor, color and the sheer pleasure of dressing.

Staged in the Moulin Rouge, the show opened with a pair of well-buffed twins in matching broadband swimsuits who turned to reveal "Rykiel" proudly written on their butts.

The collection was chock full of posh French plaids, bold stripes, snazzy pinstripe suits and the most devilishly cut double breasted cricket blazers this ville has seen in years.

It had a big sporty element, but one that harked back to gentlemanly Olympians, "Chariots of Fire"-style, not the modern day endorsement junkies.

If you want clothes that compliment the frame and ensure you will stand out but never offend, then this is the collection for you.

Rykiel Homme

Rykiel Homme

Rykiel Homme