By Christy Anyanwu
When it comes to fashion, men are easy creatures who prefer simple monotone colours such as white and black.
However, Greys and Colors Collection from RaphDesign was recently released to challenge that notion and show every fashion-loving man that colours are equally suitable, especially when mixed in the right proportion and with the right design.
Greys and Colors Collection, designed by Iniodu Raphael Williams, explores the potential of colourful fabrics in men’s fashion, while also incorporating classic monotone options. Raphael’s skills as an illustrator and garment constructor, who is equally good at working with specifications and measurements, are evident in the collection.
Ankara is the fabric used for the collection and its softness, which appears stiff to touch, makes it a suitable choice for the clothes in the collection. Some may argue that the collection’s reliance on Ankara fabric, while culturally significant, limits its appeal to a broader audience. Nonetheless, the fabric choice adds a unique touch to the designs.
The shirts and trousers in the collection are unique in that they appear to be a mix of mismatched shirts and trousers, whereas they are part of different sets that can be worn together. Building on the success of mixing mismatched pieces, the collection also features cohesive sets for those seeking a more traditional approach.
The shirts and trousers are designed to be simple, with a relaxed fit that doesn’t feel uncomfortable or limiting.
While the collection’s colourful mixes are refreshing, some may find the bold patterns overwhelming.
The shirts are made to be unlined, allowing them to be worn as plain T-shirts or jackets. However, this design choice may not be suitable for colder climates. The zip on the front of the shirt, which is neatly hidden, emphasizes Raphael’s attention to detail, as this design element is uniform in the shirts.
Furthermore, the use of cargo-style pockets on some trousers adds a functional element to the designs. The stitches on the shirts are neatly done, with no loose threads. The pockets on the shirts are noticeably absent, but this is somewhat remedied by the cargo-style pockets on some of the trousers in the collection.
In terms of practicality, the lack of pockets on some shirts may be a concern for some wearers. But then, the attention to detail in the hidden zips and neat stitches is impressive. The buttons on one of the shirtdresses are both functional and decorative, further enhancing the black and white colour of the fabric used.