Raven Denim press preview, Spring/Summer 2012

Last Thursday morning, I stopped by New York's Ace Hotel to preview Raven Denim's latest collection. Under the creative direction of designer Ya-el Torbati, the label, which pioneered the modern denim trouser a few years back, continues to focus on fit and fabric for Spring/Summer 2012. 

This season, vintage sartorial details, classic horn or plastic buttons, suiting-inspired fabrics, and contrast pattern linings work into the collection with ease. Paprika and nutmeg tones are feminine evolutions to the industry's workwear-inspired rust and khaki trends. Trouser details like extended waist tabs, double button waistbands, welt pockets and button loop closures have tailored appeal, while exposed pocket bags on cutoffs, wear and tear abrasion, and triple-needle stitchwork are classically denim-derived. For the growing men's collection, it's the little things that count. Double, triple and converging needle stitchwork in tonal threads add dimension while showing the attention to detail taking place at Raven's L.A.-based cut and sew facilities.