


No Spain, No Gain: This time last week, Jean-Luc introduced us to the fall 2009 collection from Barcelona-born menswear designer Georgina Vendrell. As was pointed out, Vendrell is one of the rare species of women designing for men. The collection was intriguingly styled, incorporated a thoughtful mix of fabrics and had more than a handful of stellar pieces. The three sweaters featured above in particular strike the right balance between high-end and ready-to-wear. But we were made aware of more than just one designer. 080 Barcelona Fashion is a relatively new fashion event that gives both Catalan and international independent designers the opportunity to showcase their creations in front of an international jury. Of those who sent menswear down the runway earlier this year, check out the fall 2009 collections from Dutch designer Maikel Bongaerts and German label Postweiler Hauber.

When you have a winning look that is getting notice, it only makes sense to develop a diffusion line. New favorite Robert Geller is doing just that. Hitting stores between January and February of next year will be a Geller cut and sew line called Seconds. The line of made in Japan shirting basics will retail from $80 to $140 and even include styles specifically designed for women. At such a reasonable price, this is one Geller collection that will fly off the racks.