MILAN, Jan 19, 2006/ FW/ --- With a live band playing jazzy tunes, Masataka Matsumura set the tone of the collection – modern, easy-to-wear with a touch of formality that sometimes border on street wear.

With sneakers worn by models for every exit, including the more formal suits and jackets with boxy shoulders, the origin of jazz, a music ‘born from the vital clash of deep rhythmic beats and solo ensembles of improvisation,’ was interpreted through clothing.

Leather carpenter pants, denim tuxedo tails, bow ties worn with patchwork jeans – it was an amalgamation and convergence of opposites, resulting to a striking collection that is different from the ordinary.

Hooded bomber jackets lined with fur, wide lapels and collars on short cropped winter jackets, oversized shirts worn under tuxedo jackets, Masataka Matsumura walked the thin border of sartorial and sporty, evening and day wear, to create a collection harmonically full of contrasts.

Tailored pieces in luxurious fabrics mix up with superbly cut and immaculately finished jeans. Chaotic jazz themes cohabit with bold graphics on shirts and jerseys.

Skins and furs add texture. Borsalino hats are mandatory, while black diamonds and tarnished silver jewels provide dark luster for a subtle neo-decorative vibe.

Inspired by the jazzmen’s peculiar way of creating an image mirroring their lifestyle – a style clash of disparate pieces with the intent of being something higher and classier, the Fall 2006 Giuliano Fujiwara collection brought a jazzy beat to the otherwise British-inspired collections shown here in Milan.

Giuliano Fujiwara

Giuliano Fujiwara

Giuliano Fujiwara

Giuliano Fujiwara