James Reid is leading the Filipino stylish pack today in the men’s fashion scene. Just recently, he joined the brightest international stars and the biggest industry personalities worldwide to witness the latest menswear runway shows in Milan and Paris. It was his first time to be present at these fashion capitals during Men’s Fashion Week. He noted that the experience was beyond what he had in mind.
“It is my first time to be fully immersed in Men’s Fashion Week, and it exceeded my expectations. It was way more ‘larger than life’ than I had imagined personally. You know, being in these famous locations and star-studded events, I was starstruck a lot, some of the celebrities I even got to meet,” James told Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “I liked being at the shows, up close and personal with these brands and designers, and getting the first look at their latest work... It was definitely eye-opening, it was inspiring.”
Among the shows the Filipino actor and singer attended were Tod’s, Fendi's, and Emporio Armani's presentations. But what stood out to him the most was Pharrell Williams’ latest menswear show for Louis Vuitton. Presented at the Jardin d'Acclimatation in Paris, the fall-winter 2024 collection was imbued with cowboy-inspired silhouettes and American Western motifs.
“Those warmer oranges and reds mixed with turquoise were just fresh and stood out to me,” he said. “I also think more than just certain looks, there were certain things that stood out to me in a lot of shows that I went to—like a lot of cow print (which I found very interesting), larger bags, and a lot of more tailored looks that I liked.”
Apart from the pieces that graced the runways of men's fashion week, what also caught our eyes were the chic ensembles James wore with his girlfriend Issa Pressman. Although his looks complemented Issa's 'fits, making them coordinated wasn't part of their plan.
“If you wanna have coordinated looks with your partner, it's about being on the same page when it comes to fashion—and we really are. We have similar tastes when it comes to colors and clothes,” James said. “It even goes beyond fashion really, 'cause we’re very alike in everything. So I think it’s being with someone who is on the same wavelength and frequency as you are. The fashion will follow, and you’ll end up dressing in the same vibe without even trying.”
For the gents out there looking to elevate their style, James' advice is to explore new colors, play with prints, and invest in new accessories to complete their everyday look.
“Being one of those men that should add new things to their closet this year, I’m looking for a brand new shoulder bag, everyday use type of thing. Also looking for more animal-printed stuff, I think that’s something you should have in terms of accessories. Maybe some cowboy boots, colored pants,” he said. “I think we should expand in terms of pants and get away from just the blacks and beiges, get yourself some burnt orange, turquoise, and some other fresh colors.”
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