GQ’s 2015 class of Best New Menswear Designers in America is a coast-vs.-coast sampling of some of the most forward-thinking talent in the market. Designers include Stampd and NSF — both from Los Angeles — and Brooklyn-based designers David Hart and The Hill-Side.
The project, established in 2007, recognizes the best up-and-coming menswear designers selected by GQ editor-in-chief Jim Nelson and creative director Jim Moore. The four designers will be profiled in the April issue of GQ and will collaborate with Gap on an exclusive collection slated for Gap stores in the fall. Pieces from the collection will be featured in the October GQ.
Nelson said the designers bring unique perspectives to the world of men’s fashion. The Hill-Side founders, brothers Emil and Sandy Carsillo, share an affinity for vintage denim and Japanese textiles. As a result, the duo, which cut their fashion teeth first with accessories, now offers head-to-toe looks for men that focus on top-notch materials.
Designer David Hart left his mark on the Brooklyn fashion scene with wool and silk ties, vibrant Donegal tweed suiting and polo shirts inspired by the 1950s and ’60s. Hart reconfigures classic styles with a 21st Century cut.
On the more casual end, Stampd designer Chris Stamp blends West Coast street and surf cultures with an edgy black and white color palette that smacks of East Coast cool. Key items include nylon flight jackets, graphic T-shirts and snapback caps.
NSF designers Nick Friedberg and Jamie Haller add a grunge element to its East Coast collection by hand-shredding and repeatedly dying their garments. The line is known for sun-faded and paint-spattered pieces inspired by musicians, skateboarders and artists.
Gap vice president of men’s design Tony Kretten said, “We are thrilled with this year’s selection of designers, and the Gap team can’t wait to bring their vision to life. Jim Moore and Jim Nelson have made another amazing selection of menswear designers to add to the alumnae of this program. Each designer has their own unique and signature style from LA surf/street, NYC retro chic, Japanese inspired American craft and west coast personal DIY style. I love this group — can’t wait until October.”
Previous designers to make it onto GQ’s list include Aviation Nation, Baldwin, Bespoken, M.Nii and John Elliott & Co.
