PARIS, Jan 30, 2005/ FW/ – The Louis Vuitton menswear collection for next winter by Marc Jacobs is charmingly regal and lavishly luxurious.

Mr. Jacobs makes no qualms about putting the X in exclusive for the men he dresses. Fur scarves have the giant LV logo clearly evidenced, just in case someone is mistaken to as who is responsible for the meticulous tailoring and fine fabric selection.

Thin cashmere V-neck sweaters hug manly yet romantic torsos as Jacobs finds inspiration for a collection that spans decades, from the tender gentlemanly times of Mr. Darcy in poetic capes and ostrich riding boots to the fever of Saturday night seventies in bow ties and formal tuxedo jackets with important lapels.

Velvet becomes the new denim, fitting silhouettes comfortably, though never baggy as jeans become obsolete and silkiness takes over upgrading the casual to new levels of metropolitan chic, where even common overalls and jumpsuits are stylish and precious.

He uses fur liberally for jackets to coats to accessories designed for the man who desires expression via the finer things in life, and thank goodness he finally has the occasion as more and more menswear designers are turning trends once thought far too feminine by the masses into tolerant articulation.

Military, and in particular, naval influences run throughout the Vuitton wardrobe. Double-breasted overcoats, bone buttons on duffle coats and admiral caps recall the rolling of the high seas and portside explorer, perhaps it is also the fact he is carrying a carpetbag. Jacobs also pays particular attention to shoulders by continuing to define the male shape square and upright.

The Vuitton man is also unafraid of accessories, carrying bags large and small, even on a gold chain around his neck to hold the most precious of his belongings. His gloves are mittens made of fur and scarves maxi and of wool.

Dust off those lapels and grab grandma’s vintage handbags, Vuitton for winter 2005/06 is all about showing the glamour within.

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton