THE DARK WOLF

In an industry already saturated with designers new and old, nothing is more important than a distinctive aesthetic. Nobody, perhaps, understands this better than London design duo Ada + Nik, whose Autumn/Winter 2014 collection ‘The Dark Wolf’ premiered just two weeks ago at London Collections: Men. After both establishing themselves as prominent figures in the fashion industry (Ada has her own womenswear and couture collections, Nik has modelled for Jean Paul Gaultier as well as writing for a host of publications), the pair decided to combine their individual talents to create their own line of menswear. Combining Ada’s design background with Nik’s strong aesthetic has resulted in runaway success for the new duo, so I was understandably excited to be granted access to their Paris showroom today to delve deeper into the collection and its inspirations.

LONDON COLLECTIONS: MEN

It used to be the case that, when I heard the word 'menswear', my mind would jump straight to outdated clichés of a well-groomed thirty-something, sporting nothing but a James Dean haircut and a well-tailored suit. Luckily, menswear has changed recently and, although there will always be space for a well-tailored suit, young designers are using their imagination and skills to push the boundaries and redefine the wardrobe of the modern male. This experimentality and will to play with the fashion formula is never more evident than in London, the capital of eccentricity and individuality. More specifically, it was evident in the recent LCM shows which collectively unearthed a feast of sartorial delights for men worldwide who are becoming bored by tradition. In this post, I have picked my five personal favourites from the host of talent on show - some of them are on the list due to a cohesive aesthetic and stand-out pieces, whereas others are on the list for subverting tradition and creating enough controversy to fuel debate and keep the ball moving forward.

INTERVIEW - NIK THAKKAR

Between shooting Jean Paul Gaultier's A/W 2013 online menswear campaign, managing his own blog (www.karlismyunkle.com), working for Nephew London as well as being one half of menswear design duo Ada + Nik, it is a wonder that Nik Thakkar continues both to work on his own film script and, thankfully, take part in this interview. Offering up his thoughts and opinions on working with Jean Paul Gaultier, the branding for Ada + Nik and the place of male models in the industry, Thakkar's ambition and business sense is clear for all to see.

Hi Nik! OK, first question - you were recently chosen as the face of Jean Paul Gaultier's A/W 2013 campaign (see the video here). How did you find the experience?

I don’t think the word ‘incredible’ quite sums it up! I was first approached about taking part in the campaign in April and was completely honoured. I had been to see the show in Paris in January and the collection was one of my favourites - lots of heritage pieces, lots of leather; it was signature Gaultier, so when I was asked it really was a no-brainer. The shoot itself was a brilliant concept too – the film was shot in two halves, the first of which was recorded at Gaultier’s HQ in Paris (you can even see the Karlie Kloss campaign on the walls!) and the second was recorded completely in front of a green screen.