Ben Minkoff SS 15'

Above photo via: @benminkoff

I had the opportunity to preview Ben Minkoff's Spring 15' collection and I have to say, I'm obsessed. Harry's Corner Shop hosted (you know I'm already hooked on Harry's) and Ben Minkoff's Creative Director, Uri Minkoff, was kind enough to walk me through the collection. He took over as designer in 2013 and shared some insight into Spring's inspiration and the new streamlined design elements. 

For Spring, Minkoff took the Americana idea one step further. There are naval and maritime themes throughout the collection but each piece is clean and polished, setting it apart from the ruggedness of the brand's origin. His nylon backpacks, brief cases and duffle bags draw inspiration from the sails on a ship, while the crackled white leather briefcases resemble a weathered captain's chair.

Minkoff believes men shouldn't have to compromise the structure of their suit jackets with heavy backpacks. His Samson Backpack hangs only a few inches away from the body, making it an extension of the suit itself rather than an encumbrance. Minkoff spends a lot of time in Japan, where use of color is bright and intentional but often subtle in application. Each bag in the collection has a contrasting zipper. It's about remaining polished and sophisticated while still standing out among the crowd. An orange zipper can make all the difference.

I love the entire nautical stripe collection (obviously). Stripes are the easiest pattern for men to explore. You can go big and bold and it still pairs beautifully with any outfit. Minkoff has such a refreshing take on men's accessories. For those of us in urban locales, they're an absolute necessity and it's nice to see such a range of silhouettes with function and style at the forefront of the design. Sign me up for a fold-over tote, a carryall and a briefcase! I want them all!!

Shop their current collection at: BenMinkoff.com and see more of their Spring line using the hashtag #bmspring.

P.S. Minkoff totally designed a father's diaper bag. Fully equipped with bottle pockets and labels for everything a dad might need. It's a manly backpack and it's perfect for all you young fathers! Check it out here!