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This season Sophie Mechaly was inspired by the photographer Peter Beard and his documentation of African culture and nature. The Paul & Joe men, let’s call them ‘Paul’ and ‘Joe’, at the presentation were dressed in matching printed shirts and trousers, calling to mind traditional African cultural dress, the kind of thing you see on those legendary older African men who always stand out in London for their amazing style. The theme followed to khaki and beige, lightweight shirts and trousers, suggested for safari, bluesy trilbies with thick bands, and even a marijuana leaf print on shirts, belts and scarves. Print continued, going passed the African inspiration, and into graphics, florals, brocade and that blue pattern you get on Wedgwood teacups and wallpaper, with the little boats. Elsewhere, carry-ons and suitcases extended the travel theme, with cute kittens printed on the outside and puppy lining on the inside. On the other side of the room, the P.J collection picked up on all the themes, but in a brighter, younger palette with garish red gingham suits, fuller bloomed florals and neon pink brocade. There was something for every optimist. Making their fashion fun, cultural, and not what you were when expecting you walked in, Paul & Joe hit gold.
Text: Sarah Raphael
Photography: Mitchell Sams
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