FAULT Reviews – Belstaff SS16

On a misty London day, we were transported to the searing heat of the Sahara for Belstaff’s spring/summer 16 presentation. As we arrived at the camp (parked outside an event space next to the murky Thames) to find a tent, sandbags and jeeps and followed the Moroccan rugs inside to find a hazy yellow light pouring down on the models kicking up the sand.

The biker brand’s tough leathers were still there but this time in soft hues of camel, cream and camo blue. Canvas water bottle carriers and amo belts, camouflage neckerchiefs and military desert sunglasses prepared us for an adventure with the label whose history includes supplying the British forces. Deep breast pockets, ridged knee padding and gun metal popper closures gave utilitarian finishes but a few softer silhouettes also caught our eye including a leather cape, wide-knit cream sweaters and knee-length parkers left open.

For the spring/summer 16 collection Belstaff have referenced former wearers of the brand including Lawrence of Arabia as well as new ones such as explorer Levison Wood whose most notorious expedition travelled the length of the Nile. Belstaff have developed an explorer jacket with Levison for this season too.

As the sun moved across the sky on the backdrop behind the models, we were ready to head back to camp for a mint tea and to plan the pieces we’ll be shooting for spring/summer 16.

Words: Olivia Pinnock