For spring 2016 Carlos Campos fuses tradition with modernity—combining South American heritage with the utility of the contemporary uniform. Drawing on the ethnic vibrancy of the Aztec, Mayan, and Incan cultures, Carlos Campos reconstructs the style of the modern man by reflecting the lifestyles of today but inspired by the past. The traditional blue collar uniform now imbibed with a palette that uses color as the direct element of surprise.
Through the vibrancy of South American prints, Campos explores coral red, golden yellow, royal blue, and cognac to give a fresh take on utilitarian work wear. Cotton fabrics are recombined with fine silk to create a collection that exudes a relaxed and cool aesthetic. Blazers and trousers are interchangeable allowing for solid and color blocked suit options. The versatility of these pieces is meant to compliment the character so that color is used as an approachable and fun means of celebrating individuality.
Outerwear is reconstructed with meticulous detailing and shifting silhouettes to embody the flowing theme of vitality and utility. Pockets are manipulated throughout the collection to include flap pockets on double-breasted jackets and patch pockets on single-breasted suit jackets. Double breasted trench coats boast elongated pockets and waistband pull strings thus marking the beginning of the modern lab coat. Shirt-inspired jackets with four signature pockets create a union between outerwear and shirts.
Color blocking has a large presence in this collection and is seen across all categories. Both polos and bomber jackets are reconstructed with asymmetrical color blocking details in light yellows and sky blues. The theme extends into shorts with color blocked waist band details in corals and royal blues.
The shirting options come in solids, stripes, and South American inspired prints embodying the fusion of classic and contemporary. Woven shirts with mandarin and regular collars fuse stripes and solid patterns at once.
See the collection.
Photos & text Copyright Carlos Campos.