Silk Route

Go Lightly This Summer

Follow the Silk route this Summer. Not since the 80s have we seen silk used in menswear with such bravado. Silk had long been relegated to accessories like ties and scarves and been seen as predominantly a feminine material and used sparingly. The change started last winter with the silk shirt and has grown this season, which is suits better, to include trousers, T-shirts and jackets. Silk has a fluidity, a lightness that is totally modern.

Topman Design showed a collection strong on silk; bomber jackets, short sleeved shirts, the silk was perfect drapery for Summer style. Other designers such as Burberry mixed silk in suits and Paul Smith added silk lapels to his jackets. Omar Kashoura has done some beautiful pieces and Bally did traditional work shirts but in silk. Dries Van Noten also used silk in trousers and shirts which added to the richness of colour and pattern.

Silk is also cool against the skin and the sheen looks great in the sunlight. Be careful to watch with regards to sweating as the silk isn't very forgiving in that respect. To make it look modern, keep the same traditional menswear shapes and styles, just change the material to silk. It maybe expensive, but it also looks expensive. Silk is the material for Summer 2010.

Topman Design Beige Silk Bomber Jacket - £110

www.topman.com

Omar Kashoura Bluto Shirt - £309