Located in the Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, New York Men’s Day held a morning and afternoon showcase featuring emerging brands specializing in contemporary men’s apparel. I had the pleasure of attending the morning showcase, which featured four brands- Archie, Clara Son, Peak Lapel, and Oxblood Zebra. Guests arriving at the venue entered through the Maybach Lounge and were then guided to the long hallway against large windows that displayed each of the four brands’ spring and summer collections. Exemplifying menswear that not only stands out but tells a story, these NYC-based designers are sure to catch your eye.
The brand’s memo states, ‘’Oxblood: rich, powerful, and unapologetically commanding. Zebra: individual, untamed, thriving in community. The duality of identity’’, and this could not be clearer in their upcoming collection. Stylist, curator, storyteller, and founder, Rueben Shaw, is the creative behind Oxblood Zebra. Drawing from influences as diverse as film, anime, international
cultures, and personal experience, his approach is multi‐dimensional. Even within the name, Oxblood Zebra emphasizes bold color and design with playful patterns and eye-catching form. Each garment is a vehicle for individualism. Shaw’s brand speaks of “style as identity”—inviting wearers to project who they are (or wish to become) via what they wear. “Fashion is Fiction …
What’s your story?” is one of their mottos.
Models were sectioned off in groups of five, each with their own circular zebra print rug to pose on. The outfits were accompanied by classic work and on-the-go accessories like handbags and ball caps in dark muted colors, maintaining an effortless New Yorker edge. At its heart, The Oxblood Zebra is about rejecting monotony and refusing the standard work uniform and instead
choosing garments that carry emotion. Oxblood Zebra sees tailoring as a form of communication, meaning every choice—from color to cut—is an opportunity to express something deeper within the individual who wears it.
The events’ presenting sponsors were PROJECT and COTERIE. PROJECT represents what’s new, now, and next in men’s contemporary apparel, footwear, and accessories. PROJECT is where domestic and international buyers go to get inspired by higher-end brands, find products from relevant mid-market labels, and connect with like-minded industry thought leaders and fashion insiders. COTERIE is the premier women’s contemporary to advanced apparel, footwear, and accessories platform.
This season, NYMD welcomed its new partner, Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan. Rooted in a legacy that began in 1888—making Mercedes-Benz the longest-standing luxury car brand in the U.S.—Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan employs over 230 team members dedicated to delivering world-class hospitality and craftsmanship to generations of loyal customers.
Returning sponsors of NYMD include luxury hair care brand, Oribe Hair Care; Augment, who will provide make-up teams and products; and Grimoire skincare.
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
