

One of these is Duchamp, which has an outlet in a local store. First impressions are of blues and neutrals, highlighted by vibrant stabs of colour in shirts, linings, ties, pocket squares and accessories. Such display suggested clothes only for the young dandy. However, having looked more closely, this isn't the case, because Duchamp offers a subtle twist on classic designs, made with beautiful fabrics and cuts.
I'm going to regret not buying a wool hopsack blazer (the fabric made in England) in the last of the sales in my local outlet (one has to stop somewhere!). I tried it on a couple of times; it hugs the shoulders with a softness that flatters the wearer and makes it so comfortable to wear. The details in the jacket add to an impression of carefully-considered quality.
That may all sound a bit over-the-top (this isn't a sponsored post either), but Duchamp seem to have nailed it in the way that BMWs used to be known as 'drivers' cars' because they delivered, and often exceeded, what owners expected of them. That's down to outstanding and detailed design. This impression was confirmed when I briefly met Duchamp's designer, Gianni Colarossi, in January. He also told me how the brightest Duchamp colours are being reined back to refine the classic, elegant nature of the tailoring. I suggest a visit and to a shop, or look online at Duchamp's website. Let me know what you think.
Here is a selection from the Spring/Summer 13 collection, available now.