It was a shirtfest at Gant’s spring 2016 presentation. The house, which encompasses three different subbrands, Gant Originals, Gant Rugger and its newest venture Gant Diamond G, is embarking on a major U.S. push and re-branding under creative director Christopher Bastin. “The shirt is a big part of our heritage” said Bastin. Models lined up wearing the classic staple with jeans; but that was just a side note. Spring Studios’ enormous space housed three well-executed staging areas, each dedicated to one of the subbrands.
Gant Originals was all about casual classic Americana. For spring, nautical and athletic vibes dominated for both men and women. Gant Rugger showcased a new approach: “We felt that this should be our design laboratory where we could push the envelope,” Bastin explained. The result: bomber jackets in nylon, hooded parkas, oxford shirting in stripes and solids and “no plaids, we cleaned it up,” he added.
Lastly, the new Diamond G collection — which intends to attract a sophisticated, cosmopolitan customer via more luxurious fabrics and a European sensibility — debuted within an airport environment setting. The shirt again took center stage and for women was paired up with everything from great tailored coats and slim cropped jeans to flared knee-length skirts. For men it was styled with slim khaki suits and layered under sweaters and zip-up jackets. “This is our desk-to-dinner, if you will,” Bastin said. We’re sold.