The one we've all been waiting for, 2012 is nearly here. A year full of sporting events and anniversaries; Euro 2012, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and of course the Olympics, 2012 will shine like a beacon of optimism through the doom-and-gloom of 2011. Despite the state of the economy, there is so much to look forward to. Style never sleeps!
Films
The Great Gatsby - Baz Luhrmann's remake of F.Scott Fitzgerald's novel is eagerly anticipated for two reasons; firstly the visual deco-fest which no doubt will be camped up to the nines by Luhrmann and also how it compares the Robert Redford/Ralph Lauren wardrobe of the 1974 movie. Starring Leonardo Di Caprio as Jay and Carey Mulligan as Daisy we're expecting a lot of tears over those shirts.
December 25th
Skyfall - The 23rd Bond doesn't open till November but the clever marketing will no doubt be dropping images throughout the year. A Tom-Ford-wearing Daniel Craig and all the other various sponsors or brands involved will seep into our subconscious no doubt. While Bond may not break the menswear mould he has a massive influence in this 2 hour advert.
November 9th
Collaborations
Marni/H&M - This doesn't have the same visual signature as the Versace collaboration, which H&M are continuing with in 2012, and won't appeal to the masses, who may not even know what Marni is. But Marni, founded and designed by Consuelo Castiglioni, has a cult following, usually the arty crowd who like her way with print and colour, this is will bring Marni's to a wider audience.
March 8th
M&S/Richard James - You know you've made it as a tailor when you get the call from M&S. Richard James, the master of the coloured sock, is teaming up with Marks & Spencer with a new collaboration. M&S are so serious about this new Savile Row focus that they are opening an office on The Row. Combining James' eye for colour and shape with M&S quality mass manufacture has resulted in an exciting new addition to the high-street.
Spring 2012
Labels to Watch
Berluti - Touted as the 'new Hermés', Italian shoemaker Berluti is launching ready-to-wear. Having poached designer Alessandro Sartori from Zegna, LVMH owned Berluti unveiled a few taster pieces this winter but the true test will the presentation of a full collection in Milan in January. The prices are certainly Hermés level but let's hope they add excitement to the luxury. LVMH may not need to chase Hermés in 2012 if they can create their own.
Carven - French couturier Madame Carmen de Tommaso established Carven in 1945 with an atelier on the Champs-Elysees, and her clientele quickly grew to include screen stars and royals alike. Carven has grown a strong women's following in recent seasons with former Givenchy designer Guillaume Henry at the creative helm. Now they are turning their hand to menswear with a skinny boy collection of clean and chic pieces. Sold at Matches, Harrods and Mr Porter,
Jigsaw Menswear - (Left) It's back. After a decade long hiatus, Jigsaw Menswear returns. It's not quite as fashion forward as the Jigsaw Menswear of the 90s but it's contemporary, smart and handsome at prices which offer good value. Pieces made in England, socks from Wales, it's first showing in over a decade is a very promising start.
Burberry - Burberry is focusing on London during this Olympic year. Showing the world its British roots in its own back yard, Burberry are keeping most of the details close to its chest. The new megastore on Regent Street, in the old Victorian cinema, will be full of the latest innovations and concepts from this fashion and digitally leading company.