Autumn/Winter 2010 Men's European Vs. Middle America

(Click on Photos to Enlarge)

What started as a tongue in cheek look at Walmart vs. the the runway - became an interesting study of similarities. My take of the Middle America Men's runway (Walmart), is currently right on "Target" with what is being shown on the European runway. Starting with the top row -clearly the Nomad influence is strong, all very Cavalli and Galliano. Leather and fur are definitely the hot trend for the cooler months. The Walmart model in the middle of the top row is a wearing very PC grey fake fur; nice to see that an option for the vegan crowd. I find it interesting that European designers aren't using any of the realistic looking faux furs as an option on the runway this season.

Continuing with men's collection -The second/middle row, again more influence of fur, as you can see- the fox fur hat draping down the back in the first photo. Clearly the Americans prefers the fur trapper-look. Think Davy Crocket and Daniel Boone . The E.U. collection from left to right, on the bottom row exhibits a generous fur dauntlessly thrown over one shoulder of the tux look, more refined than the U.S. Walmart look. The vintage-look Christmas sweater made a strong showing in the D&G collection in Europe. Since the Walmart men from U.S. are wearing a look with a androgynous edge, I used the Dolce & Gabbana Women's runway collection for a comparison as well (See my blog D&G Fall 2010 women). Here our male Walmart model was by far more daring than the European version, by wearing just heels with his snowflake sweater. Red for Winter! Again another trend that was hot for women at D&G for this Fall, but men are wearing the color in the U.S. For men, both E.U. and U.S. have black skirts and heels -as I mentioned in earlier blogs the Europeans are wearing hemlines longer. The American men are more optimistic (economically) showing shorter skirts for the winter. Like Europe, black leather will be important for cooler months . One stand-out outfit for Middle America Walmart, last photo middle row, was brown chaps with distinctive patches, pared with a two-toned pullover. This is the all adventure man: biker, carpenter, and cowboy. It evokes the "Jack of all Trades" look. I feel this is a unique American style and very Ralph Lauren . I think over the coming seasons we will be seeing more of these unique looks that are deeply rooted in our history and culture.