David Koma’s Debut Menswear Runway Show: A Surprising Departure from Expectations

When attendees arrived at David Koma’s first menswear runway show, they were likely anticipating a self-indulgent, autobiographical exploration of his life in fashion. However, the collection, titled I Love David, took a different turn, drawing inspiration from Michelangelo’s David and showcasing a juxtaposition of styles that surprised many.

As Koma greeted friends and journalists backstage, he described the collection as his most personal to date. He took on multiple roles – muse, designer, and customer – to create a unique and unexpected lineup of menswear.

A Departure from the Expected

Those familiar with Koma’s womenswear may have expected a similar aesthetic in his menswear line – black, cool, body-conscious, and undeniably sexy. Instead, Koma presented a collection featuring preppy and sporty elements, oversized houndstooth patterns, and light resort shirts paired with gray suit pants. Even the tuxedo, typically a staple in menswear collections, was reimagined in a dark beige hue.

It was clear that Koma wanted to play with contrasts that diverged from his usual design language, creating a collection that was both unexpected and refreshing.

Exploring New Territories

For Koma, the decision to delve into menswear was not solely a business move, but a personal challenge to expand his design repertoire. “The desire to now also do men’s fashion wasn’t just based on the desire to expand our brand. I also wanted to learn new things and train my design muscles,” Koma shared with a grin, sporting an “I Love David” shirt under his jacket.

Throughout the collection, Koma experimented with unconventional pairings, combining voluminous fur coats with ripped jeans and sandals to create a distinct and edgy aesthetic. Each look was meticulously curated for its visual impact, with an emphasis on style over practicality.

A New Chapter for David Koma

As the show came to a close, it was clear that David Koma’s foray into menswear had marked a new chapter in his career. The unexpected juxtaposition of styles, the personal touch infused into each look, and the bold experimentation with contrasting elements all set this collection apart from his previous work.

With I Love David, Koma not only showcased his design prowess but also demonstrated his willingness to push boundaries and explore new territories in the world of fashion. As he continues to evolve and grow as a designer, it’s clear that his menswear line will be one to watch in the seasons to come.