G-Star, Spring/Summer 2012 - Men's

For its men's Spring/Summer 2012 collection, G-Star merges rugged utilitarianism with classic sartorial details. While sophisticated and considered, denim looks still retain G-Star's classic tough masculine feel.

The reverse dye denim for G-Star's CL Courier Combat shorts and Arc jeans is by far my favorite of the season thus far. The surface treatment looks like an indigo print on a white ground (revealed by turned up hems), complete with traditional denim fade effects, probably via some crocking-like abrasion or washing.

Another key denim treatment features uneven coatings creating whisker effects from where the finish "missed" the fabric (last photo). For clean denims, indigo topstitching looks modern against dark charcoal. And for short-sleeve denim shirts, neppy, white-flecked textures create grainy, crosshatch appearances. This new raw and rigid shirting offers a midpoint between chambray and denim.

G-Star includes heritage workwear and Western references for denim shirts and jackets, however end-results remain rooted to the brand with signature G-Star styling and details. New chest pocket sizes and placements, angled yoke and pocket constructions, and colored bar tack stitching come together in raw, clean denim materials and unfussy color ways. I've been looking through G-Star's new lookbook, and can't wait to share!