If you've been keeping up with the world of fashion, you know that John Elliott has quite literally been taking over. Debuting his inaugural collection in 2013, he's come a long way with just this past week announcing a collaboration with sportswear powerhouse Nike in addition to announcing the creation of his first flagship store in Los Angeles on Melrose Avenue. What once was a boy with a dream mailing letters to Nike, is now a man fulfilling his deepest desires in creating an apparel company that is reaching new heights.
Walking into John Elliott's runway venue in Brooklyn's Navy Yard this past Saturday, the industrial concept was evident. From flickering lights to wet cement floors to unfinished houses (which would later become the premise of the runway), John pulled out all the stops in making his runway a fully immersive experience. Pulling venue inspiration from partner Caterpillar - an iconic industrial equipment company - in addition to his nostalgic past, every aspect played its part in creating one of the most engaging runways of New York Fashion Week.
Turning to the collection for Fall/Winter 2019, the inspiration came from John's place of upbringing; North California. Captured in each of his pieces through colour, fabric and fit, John actively depicts the "region’s ruggedness and semi-nostalgic vibrancy". Using muted tones that remind us of cloudy or foggy skies, and industrial elements that mimic the more urban areas of the region - it heavily resonates with both the interiors and exteriors of North California. Collaborating with Caterpillar John tied the entire concept together with an unfinished model of a house that would be the start and ending of the runway.
Here we outline the biggest trends we saw on the John Elliott FW19 Runway.
Long Line Trench's
Layering played a key role on the John Elliott runway with loose and relaxed fitting trench's stealing the show. Whimsical, they flowed behind the models as they walked in and out of the heavily industrial runway - giving way to the more scenic North Californian ambiance amongst a more urban San Francisco-like setting.
Dreamy Pastels
Following this theme of nostalgia and the inspiration of North California, John incorporated soft muted tones with more of the pastel colours catching our eye. In some pieces, the colourways replicated a foggy morning or a fading sunrise - iconic moments of his past.
Industrial Elements
Highlighting the more urban areas of John's up bringing in addition to the collaboration with Caterpillar an Industrial Equipment Company, industrial inspired pieces were ever present. Whether through the use of overloading pockets, to thicker more robust jackets, to the addition of neon colors, it provided a very necessary resilience to the collection.
Tattered Denim
Appearing in John's collection as both full outfits and as small elements in certain looks, distressed denim played a pivotal role in his FW19 collection. It's presence added to the ruggedness of his nostalgic past while also playing a role in conveying the industrial theme.
Beige on Beige
Again, fitting on this theme of more muted tones, beiges made an appearance multiple times on the runway. Usually layered with comparable tones, the looks reminded us of a Californian beach.
Practical Baggage
The accessories of the show - aside from the iconic Nike sneaker - were the highly evident side satchel and clip bag. Commonly showcased with a stark animal print, they added flare and versatility.
The Iconic Nike
An article on John Elliott wouldn't be complete without highlighting the iconic John Elliott x Nike LeBron sneaker that debuted on the runway. Dropping this (picture below) new colourway, it is still unknown when the sneaker will be available for purchase. What we do know however, is that it won't be available for long with the extensive list of followers and clientele that are itching for its release.
For more on John Elliott and his label you can visit his website here or visit his Instagram here.