When football legend and world icon David Beckham gets together with world fashion giant H&M, you know the results are bound to be, well, pretty spectacular. And this is exactly the feeling we get when we see the precise, sharp, urban-chic looks selected by David for Autumn 2016, who worked closely with H&M’s Men’s head of design, Andreas Löwenstam and his team of designers. Here, Andreas speaks to Outlook Business about David’s third Modern Essentials collection for H&M, and his own design advice.
Can you please tell us about your early years, and where did you study design?
As a kid I moved around a lot in Sweden, but I was always certain and would end up in Stockholm. I did not study design, I am self taught but had the opportunity to work with different brands who believed in me and my abilities.
How did you work with David to put together this capsule?
Our design team creates a collection and wardrobe based on the current seasonal fashion. From initially around 50 pieces, David makes a selection of around 25 favourites out of those. It was great to see that he also chose the wool coat, Bomber jacket, polo neck, and heavy knits – items we have also identified as key items for the season.
You’ve mentioned “urban uniform” as the new menswear trend now – what does this mean?
The urban uniform is of real importance right now. It is about dressing in a monochrome way using one colour from head to toe or mix the same fabric and quality throughout. Adding to this uniform are pieces and details, and this is the modern-day urban uniform.
Why is David Beckham’s new flight jacket the new must-have?
The Bomber jacket has been key for several seasons, so the flight jacket feels like a new take, and with a sherling collar it feels fresh. We also wanted to update the Bomber jacket, so this season it felt natural to update it in wool qualities.
What is the best way to pair the nylon bomber, and the knee-length coat?
To be sharp, combine it with tailored slacks; to be casual combine it with skinny five-pocket pants.
Can you tell us about the new David Beckham Bodywear?
Bodywear is innovation and comfort in one product. Sweat pants and sweat shirts are made for a busy life with long flights – the perfect travel partner for someone who is on the road a lot. If you’re not travelling, it’s perfect for an evening in, binge watching television series!
And what about the hilarious David Beckham ad with Kevin Hart, in the bus to Vegas?
The campaign film was shot in California in April this year, with Fredrik Bond as the director.
What is your style advice to Indian men for Fall Winter 2016?
I was lucky to spend a couple of days in Mumbai and saw a lot of modern men wearing current fashion.Nowadays, dressing smart is not only about dressing in a suit, but being sharp is also about dressing current. Wear narrow trousers with boxy T-shirts and a shirt, combined with a Bomber or biker jacket.
What do you like to wear out on the town for dinner?
If there’s a dress code, you should always follow that, but if it’s an informal dinner I wear something I feel comfortable and smart in: a blazer and slim pants, for example.
What is next for you?
I’ve always got new energy for newer, exciting projects.
