Photos by Abdellah Ihadian.
Realness in design. What does this even mean? Where to find it?
At first, Copenhagen seemed to be the last place to look after a long menswear season. Yet, it was here, something truly real happened. On an abandoned strip of downtown warehouses, a palpable bass loop was humming in the corner, leading us into a small covered courtyard. Inside, a relaxed crowd was calmly sipping beers, sullenly bobbing their heads to the beat, all in suspense for what would go down. On this summer night, we gathered for Nicklas Kunz his underground SS16 presentation; his way, on his terms. Nothing Scandinavian about this, just good ole’ straight up street grit.
As the music picked up, a group of supreme individuals crept around the corner. Their kind, yet fearless attitude, resonated around the block. These are indeed Nicklas’ his guys. Rich in character, sincere and definitely not groomed by our industry. Real men, strolling around the room, with a slight whiff of carelessness. We immediately forget where we are. Transported to a KUNZ-iverse, drawn to his crafty take on masculinity.
What about the collection? Through his garments, NICKLAS KUNZ explores the dimensions of the classic masculine silhouette. Straight lines, graphic tag bonds, sharp cuts and clean surfaces dominate the underplayed styles. Deep blacks, dark heather grays and crisp whites, make for a sober backdrop, occasionally lit up by mesh details or subtle logo trims. Basic but extremely well executed.
Nicklas his strength definitely lies in tailoring. With well-worked leather jackets styled over tailored sweats, tanks paired with elongated tees and fitted tops that sway over lush baggy shorts. The sleek coats are adorned with multifunctional zip closures. Some hoodlums even arise, equipped with leather gun-wallets, oozing smooth confidence.
Bang bang, as quick as the show started, it ended, its bullet-proof message well delivered: You already know.
For a stroll around Nicklas’ block: www.nicklaskunz.com
