When I think of a well tailored, unique, and fashionably intelligent men’s wear line, I think of Kendall Yellowhorn Homme. It’s a fabulous blend of ready-to-wear pieces that are cutting edge and made for the fashion sensible.
Kendall Yellowhorn moved to Montreal to study fashion in 1999. After his studies he decided to move back and pursue his career as a fashion designer in Calgary. Initially wanting to become a writer, he changed his mind when people told him that he had a great sense of fashion. He was always into making his own clothes and re-vamping key pieces, and he would always get complimented, so he decided fashion was the way to go. Launching his label in 2004, he says that he “now communicates stories through his clothes instead of writing”. And the stories that he’s telling are of magnificently dressed men in perfectly cut and tailored pieces; key pieces but with a Yellowhorn flare!
When asked why he chose to strictly do a men’s line, his answer was that he was “sick of the impersonality of men’s clothing” (I couldn’t agree more!) and that it provides a challenge for him. There is a definite need for some personality in men’s wear and I think Kendall has provided it. Being taught in the fundamentals of women’s wear he uses these and infuses them into his men’s line, which is what makes it so unique and cutting edge.
He doesn’t like to be known for the term “Fashion Forward” because he feels the term is edgy and describes something that can easily go out of style. He likes to create pieces that can stand out from the rest, but that also don’t make you look like a black sheep. It boils down to creating a sense of elitism in his clothing, making his customer feel part of the norm and also fashion savvy. This is why his clothing works so well - his goal is not just to create clothing for the masses but “for people who get fashion”.
Kendall’s essential look for fall is layering and choosing clothes in a darker palette: Black, Navy, and Plum with accents in white. V-necks create a sense of elongation, and should be a staple in any man’s wardrobe. Try layering two v-necks in contrasting colors for a casual look, or throw a blazer on top to make it a bit more formal. Another great find in his collection this year is the denim jacket with terry cloth collar… how divine!
One of the main driving forces behind his collections is sex appeal - and why not? Men need to feel sexy just as much as women! His clothes will definitely make you feel like a star. He was also just named the winner of the Vs Fashion Event held at Mynt Ultralounge, in which he competed against several other fashion designers who also showcased their collections. It was a proud moment for him.
So keep your eye out for Kendall Yellowhorn as I am sure this won’t be the last time we will be hearing his name!
For more information on his collections please contact Kendall at kendall_yellowhorn@hotmail.com Photos by Wilkosz and Way
