Raf Simons Catwalk Fashion Show Paris FW2011

Before the show of Raf Simons even had started, rumors about the designer leaving his commercial partner were already spreading around. And the rumors seemed true, but did not affect the show and the collection at all. Simons sent out a calm, yet inventive collection with a mix futurism (pants in black PVC, mohair aprons) and preppy college style (sweaters, checks, Fair Isle knits). Duffel coats, in camel and  brights, were the main statement. One voluminous version came in purple neoprene – worn with a sharp shirt and tie and a  scarf – while another cocoon-shaped design in tomato red fastened with a single closure at the neck.

Backstage the designer said he wanted to explore a mix of maturity and youth, and also pay homage to craftsmen.