Last week Justin Cassin showcased their most recent menswear collection as part of London Fashion Week SS23. Many celebrities and high profile models walked on the runway to add to the excitement of the designer’s first time on the London fashion scene, and we were lucky enough to be given backstage access where we were able to talk with Justin Cassin himself about his inspiration, theme and the future of his brand. We also got to speak with Ishod Wair - an American skateboard superstar who recently launched a collaboration with Nike’s SB to create skateboarding shoes. Everything about this show screamed youthful energy and excitement, from the upbeat music, the sunset making its way through the ceiling windows, to the location itself - Seymour Hal, an art deco grade II listed building from the 1930s.
Backstage photos by Puja Bhatia @p.b_photography22
This season it was all about personality at the Justin Cassin show as the clothes complimented the wearer and vice versa. Jonah Marais from Why Don’t We, opened the show wearing an all black outfit - relaxed double breasted blazer, oversized trousers and leather shoes, accessorised with a pendant necklace and a ring.
Ishod Wair - the American skateboard star from New Jersey, wore asymmetrical cropped, flowy black trousers matched with a white jumper with a V-neck and a black trim., brown leather sandals and a gold necklace helped finish off the look.
Justin Cassin’s designs blur the lines between traditional and contemporary fashion and act as a commentary on the current trends magnified by fast fashion where everyone wears the same and ends up a clone of one another hence losing individuality and personality in the process. His message with this collection is that everyone is welcome to be on his runway, he wants to inspire people to be themselves and to be proud of their individuality. The show also featured Christian Arno and Jonathan Steinig.
Christian Arno wore high waisted houndstooth patterned trousers styled with a tucked in hot orange jumper; and Jonathan Steinig wore a silky purple shirt with an oversized pussybow tie paired with wide cropped white trousers.
The finale look also worn by Jonah Marais featured an oversized winter coat in white with black splatters of paint worn bare chested matched with flowy black trousers.
The collection brought a refreshing twist to classic menswear, featuring innovative designs that captivated the audience. One standout piece was an asymmetrical white shirt with shirring on one side and flowing fabric on the other, paired with light white trousers, reimagining the traditional white shirt into a relaxed, comfortable outfit. This creative departure from formal wear highlighted Cassin's ability to infuse variety and interest into staple pieces.
Another highlight was a black shirt with three horizontal rows of white buttons, creating a striking polka dot-like pattern and paired with black trousers. This design turned a simple look into a visually captivating ensemble. The collection also showcased unique fabrics that shimmered under the lights of Seymour Hall. A sheer shirt with starlight-like patterns and a belted jacket with metallic-looking material added a subtle sheen, demonstrating Cassin’s dedication to transforming ordinary menswear into extraordinary garments.
Justin Cassin’s runway show was a delightful display of creativity and innovation, leaving the audience excited for the brand’s future collections. The SS23 collection proved that Cassin continues to push the boundaries of menswear with unconventional and captivating designs.
