DenimHunt's favorites from Kai-aakmann Spring/Summer 2012

Enforcing what we first saw from my visit to the Kai-aakmann press preview last month, designer Soonjin Park is merging retro activewear influences and design details with elegantly draped lines, soft neutrals and pastels, and contemporary silhouettes. Her “rehaul” of the classic trench coat takes on an exaggerated funnel neck, while retaining a fitted silhouette, complete with traditional self-belt. The woman’s coat in a different shade of khaki (I love multiple shades of tan in one collection, or even better, one silhouette) has a minimalist aesthetic with a less pronounced neck treatment.

The designer continues this funnel neck idea for the men’s black leather motorcycle jacket and pea coat. For women, loose silk tank tops and gathered-drape sleeveless tees merge with denim skinnies (in the same pastel color) or lightweight carrot-leg cargos. Carrying on the tonal neutral color scheme, greys range from slate to purpled. Classic heather jersey merges with acid-washed grey skinnies. This season, Park has experimented with various pant silhouettes, including 70s wide-leg trousers, carrot cargos, harem pants (for him) and 80s tight styles; however, the youthful, romantic collection remains cohesive.