It's a family affair for Ovadia & Sons, with twin brothers Ariel and Shimon designing the downtown cool guy™ extension of the parent brand their father started in NYC in the '80s. For Spring/Summer 2016, it's clear the designers have drawn from the city they were raised in.
In a press release, the brand explained:
"The Ovadia & Sons Spring/Summer 2016 collection reflects and captures the energy, style and vibe of New York City; incorporating influences from different areas, the five boroughs, with a common thread of style and attitude. The textures, fabrics and silhouettes are all a reflection of this moment. Having grown up here and now showing during the inaugural NYFW: Men's, designers Ariel and Shimon Ovadia said it seemed only right to celebrate New York City with this collection."
And a celebration of New York, it was. At a first glance, the brothers Ovadia orchestrated a collection that was an honest sampling of NYC's various menswear scene(s). Going deeper, you can notice the types of men that the brothers were inspired by. Simply put, whether you shop at Barney's on the regular, or turn up full "athleisure" in SoHo, you'll be pleased with Ovadia & Sons Spring/Summer collection.
It's likely this wide appeal that brought in a variety of famous faces—from Dwyane Wade to R. Kelly (no, we're not kidding). Even Breaking Bad's RJ Mitte (aka Walt Jr.) was spotted on the runway, wearing something best described as an upscale re-imagining of the iconic adidas tracksuit
But the true star power has to be found in the incredible outerwear that Ovadia & Sons crafted for the season. Nylon windbreakers provide the "downtown cool" contrast to the calfskin bombers and plaid duster jackets' inherent luxury feel. It's an interplay that's equal parts contemporary menswear—and NYC living.
If it can inspire a collection like this, there's nothing wrong in remembering where you come from.
See the full collection below.
