The Umit Benan Fall 2014 collection hails the modern day "sports hero."
The collection was based off of Jackie Robinson, the first African-American baseball player to play in the Major Leagues. Benan was truly inspired by Robinson's story, and wanted his collection to be an homage to the athletic star who broke color barriers. This being a fashion line, the social and political commentary is subtle, but it's nonetheless there.
In terms of the fashion, Benan focused on expertly tailored pieces that mirrored Robinson's own style. Think three-piece houndstooth suits, high-waisted, cuffed pants and yes, even a high-fashion take on the baseball jersey. Each of the pieces combines elements of sports savvy, masculinity and identity to create an elegant menswear collection.
Sports Homage Menswear
Umit Benan's Fall Collection is a Nod to Jackie Robinson
Trend Themes
1. Sports-inspired Menswear - Designing high-end fashion collections inspired by sports heroes offers a unique opportunity to blend elements of sports savvy, masculinity, and bespoke tailoring
2. Athlete-inspired Design - Creating product designs based on stories of athletes can be a subtle yet powerful way to make social and political commentary in the fashion industry
3. Subtle Social Commentary in Fashion - Designers can use their collections to subtly communicate social and political concepts through fashion-driven promotional events and marketing campaigns
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry has an opportunity to incorporate themes and designs inspired by athletes and sports heroes into their high-end menswear lines
2. Marketing and Advertising - Marketers and advertisers can use sports-inspired fashion collections to tap into the sense of nostalgia associated with sports icons, especially those who broke social and racial barriers in their respective sports
3. Sports Apparel - Sportswear and sports apparel makers can partner with high-end fashion designers to create sports-inspired couture, further bridging the gap between fashion and sports