The tailored pieces in the upcoming Rhett by Rhett Eala collection were triggered by Rhett’s interest in artists Joseph Beuys and Yves Klein. The men’s collection, in particular, had a dandy artist in mind.
The use of cotton canvass in many pieces, literally, was a blank canvass for Rhett. Rhett also used extraordinary processes not usually found in menswear: metal embroidery, hand painting and beadwork. However, the menswear was constructed, with big lapels and classic silhouettes — keeping the masculinity in shape and color. The use of neutral colors such as browns and olives was in keeping with the Beuys spirit and was deftly combined in the collection with the Klein blue. The addition of the particular blue in the color palette was inevitable. As Rhett himself said, he couldn’t help but put them together.
Delivered as a “specialized” view of men’s clothes, they were designed to work as either an ensemble or as specific pieces to add a certain flavor to a man’s wardrobe, for men who are looking for options.
The particular collection launches the anticipated Rhett by Rhett Eala, the eponymous line being the designer’s first in a very long time, making it all the more special for Rhett. The menswear will be available as ready-to-wear while the women’s will be made-to-order.
(Visit Rhett by Rhett Eala starting end of July. For more information, e-mail info@rhettbyrhetteala.com or log on to www.rhettbyrhetteala.com.)
Photography by Joanne Zapanta-Andrada • Shot on location at Nest Furniture and Design Store (40 Jupiter Street corner Paseo de Roxas, Bel-Air, Makati City)