An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.

Christopher Lowman named his SS18 collection for New York Fashion Week Mens (NYFWM) “Harvard Punk’d”, bringing to light a college prep style. However, it was amplified by the undercurrent of the modern college student battling emotions and issues along the lines of finance, mental health, failure and the likelihood of becoming a college dropout. Unlike his previous season at New York Mens Day (NYMD), these were contemporary and classic colleges styles adapted to any youthful mindset.

With an Australian fabric collection, the location in the HGU Hotel with casual couches, mirrors and printed carpets fit with the denim, cotton, suede and lambskin fabrics chosen for layers. I quite liked a denim jacket with ‘financial debt’ printed on one sleeve and ‘knowledge’ printed on another. The darker undertone was prevalent amongst the otherwise cheery styles of jackets, sweaters, cropped trousers and Raglan sleeves.

Other worthy outfits included a denim pullover with graffiti and college scribble style phrases, reading “Overwhelmed And Feeling Hopeless” and “Will This Get Me A Job Paying $50000 A Year”, as well as an all over camo print shirt, a silver jacket, and some classic monochrome v-neck sweaters accessorized with punk style gold necklaces. The turtleneck in all black with preppy shoes and nerd glasses epitomized the juxtaposition of the entire statement with the word ‘Punk’d’ on it in contrasting red.

Overall, a moving and poignant presentation that told a well deserving story through the medium of fashion.