Ernest Alexander: A Collection Tailored for the Traveling Man

The American-made menswear brand, Ernest Alexander, was part of my official 1st day of shows to start off New York Fashion Week. And I think it started with a bang! This collection was full of variety. There were so many separates to mix and match, really something for every man. The collection contained a lot of tailored pieces, ranging from double-breasted blazers to suiting to outerwear. I thought all of the guys looked modern, but still with a nod to nostalgia. It was a fresh take. Floral prints can be a literal spring trend, but when its done in a more muted tone, as seen here, it allows for other great spring trends to shine through such as the warmth and richness in the tones used. This collection demonstrated pieces that can be mixed and matched to also aide a young man in the transition to day/work attire to nightwear. So what exactly is Ernest Alexander’s collection saying for the Spring of 2014?

Olive twill trench; white oxford collared-shirt; grey linen vest & shorts; olive liberty print tie

1st look-Blue liberty print floral blazer; white oxford shirt; anchor print tie; olive twill shorts; leather zip folio;

light blue twill suit; green liberty print floral shirt; green liberty print floral tie

The collection calls for men to take muted tones, such as olive or navy blue and combine with bright pops of color, such as pink or orange, or even a party floral. Floral prints for men, hey, why not. If you can make it work then I say go ahead! I certainly was not distracted by any of the male models who were rocking the floral prints! There were other prints, however, if floral prints are not for every man, which included anchors and stripes. As the brand specifically says, “It’s all about mixing up tailored pieces to create a light and effortless style for spring.” So spring 2014 plays with colors, prints and fabrics, all said to be reminiscent of a party setting.

Mustard twill blazer; red liberty floral print shorts & shirt

The party setting is just a part of the back story to the inspiration which drives this collection. The inspiration or theme is “an American gone abroad.” Ernest Sabine is a founder and designer for Ernest Alexander. As a youth he grew up in Venice where he experienced joy and fun during the midsummer nights in the beautiful gardens. This collection evokes the essence of those nights, the flickering lanterns, close friends and all the charm and beauty for which Venice sets upon its inhabitants. The collection doesn’t just highlight menswear, but also accessories.

Gray & Blue striped bomber; light blue oxford; olive chinos; spice wax canvas overnight bag

Spring 2014 calls for new bag silhouettes including the Alex Briel, the modern men’s briefcase and the Ludlow Carryall. Ernest knows when men travel they too need a bag that can carry just about anything.

Anchor print popover shirt; mustard twill short; charcoal wax varick carryall;

The history of Ernest Alexander is that the brand launched in 2009. It is known for their accessories and men’s tailored clothing. The brand is NYC-based and is sold through their NYC flagship in SoHo and online.

1st look-Navy Cotton suit; green liberty floral print shirt; camouflage watson briefcase; 2nd look-Navy nylon bomber; navy liberty print short sleeve shirt; navy twill chino; charcoal wax canvas weekender bag

Overall, this was a great collection and a great start to my NYFW experience. Everything was reminiscent of those garden parties, even to the scattered green leaflets scattered around the models. Great nostalgic moments and really, an amazing job!

Blue nylon windbreaker; pink oxford shirt; anchor print shorts

Special Credits

Styling & Casting: Micah Johnson
Stylist Assistant: Christian Salazar
Hair: Prive
Make-up Team: Hair Room Service
Make-up: EVOLUTIONMAN
Shoes: Florsheim Limited
Watches: Daniel Wellington
Glasses/Sunglasses: DOM VETRO
Jewelry: Giles & Brother

There was also some amazing drinks being served with Ketel One vodka. Service was by bartenders who were also wearing Ernest Alexander white collared shirts.