Michael Bastian on Real American Style, Norman Rockwell, and His New Dark Side
The paintings of Norman Rockwell inspired Michael Bastian’s Fall 2013 Gant collection which is a fitting source, considering one might argue that Bastian, like Rockwell, has turned elements of the American everyman into something iconic. Named after the New England town the artist called home, the “Stockbridge” collection feels like a back to basics move for the Gant by Michael Bastian brand, stocked with classic American pieces, updated in fit and fabric and refined via Bastian’s keen eye, that can (and will) populate any number of guys’ closets. Bastian even went as far as recreating key garments found in some Rockwell pieces, turning illustrations into three-dimensional items up for sale.
We caught up with the designer at the brand’s latest preview, held at the The Art Students League of New York where Rockwell used to be a student and roam the halls, to talk about why the artist represented American style, how the Gant by MB line keeps expanding, and what we can expect of his main line show come NYFW (hint: it’s gonna be dark).
GQ Selects: Gant Rugger Tartan Plaid Blazer
A sport coat is essential to every guy’s wardrobe, young or old.
Meet the Suit Jacket of the Season
Windowpane and every checked plaid out there have come roaring back in a way that feels right again. Young brands like Gant Rugger and AMI are offer options in really modern proportions, while powerhouses like Ralph Lauren and Ermenegildo Zegna have updated their offerings by slimming down the cuts and doing away any extraneous bulk, even linings when necessary. It’s the first time an entire generation of younger guys have been exposed to such classic patterns, and the coming together of the old and the new is what makes these feel so fresh.
GANT by Michael Bastian goes Galapagos.
GANT Rugger Opens on “The Coolest Block in America”
Beach bound in Venice? You can now snag a pair of GANT Rugger’s signature washed down staples on your way.
Corduroy Shorts for Summer
Equally rugged and retro, corduroy shorts are the best way to beat the summer heat in style.
In the News: Christopher Bastin Named Creative Director of GANT
As announced earlier today from Sweden, Christopher Bastin has been named creative director across all GANT collections effective August 1st. Bastin, who has been manning the helm at GANT Rugger since 2009, has been with the company since 2005.
First Look: Bastian Talks Gant by Michael Bastian
Those menswear runway shows everyone likes to look at each season sure are pretty, but sometimes represent only a fraction of the goods that end up on store shelves. The rest is comprised of pre-collections that are meant to keep racks stocked with new product and fill in any design holes, so to speak, the flashier stuff doesn’t cover. We’re happy to report that Gant by Michael Bastian is joining this cycle, issuing the line’s first pre-fall collection.
Michael Bastian: The College Years
We sat down with the designer prior to the Fall 2012 Gant by Michael Bastian presentation to find out why he’s going back to school this season, and what he simply can’t live without. Also, we managed to snag his college ID card. Blackmail. Read the full interview here.
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