Men’s wear designer Christopher Bates presented his Spring/Summer 2020 collection in an intimate event at Nordstrom Pacific Center early this March. The event was held on the third-floor men’s wear section with a photo wall, refreshments, friends, and fans like Vancouver Whitecaps star Tosaint Ricketts.
“There is a certain kinetic energy that courses through Europe in the summertime that always inspires me as a designer. It’s everything from old world cityscapes to lush Ocean hues and winding coastal highways. I’m inspired by the stylish people, the decadent cuisine, the electrifying nightlife,” Bates said. “There is nothing more beautiful than summers spent abroad and I wanted to harness beachside effortlessness and European flare in this collection.”
Vibrant ocean blues, cool greys and cloud whites are juxtaposed with punches of magma red, magenta and metallic silver, making this collection elegant, understated, and modern. Camouflage bombers, colour-blocked cotton knits, technical trench coats, and Riviera-ready relaxed suiting are collection highlights that are perfect to wear on European escapades, as well as on everyday adventures right here at home.
For Spring/Summer 2020, Bates’ namesake label continues to evolve stylistically – pushing boundaries with a uniquely modern aesthetic with nods to athletic influences. Dedicated to the Made in Italy archetype, he tastefully pairs contemporary tailoring with cutting-edge fabrics, bespoke details, and artisanal sophistication. Enhanced natural fabrics such as melange cotton jersey, washed linen, and merino wool jersey have been specially selected to create elevated wardrobe staples for the modern man.
Here is a recent shoot with another of our favourite Canadians, Paul Mason (aka Fashion Santa) in the latest collection available at Nordstrom.
Latest Collaboration – AMARE Collaboration
The AMARE Collection is a capsule collaboration between DeMarre Carroll and Christopher Bates that launched mid-February in Chicago. The interesting collaboration began when the pair became acquainted while Carroll was playing for the NBA Toronto Raptors. Connecting through fashion, they quickly realized they had a shared passion for style and the finer things in life. “This collection has been a long time coming. Christopher knew my style from day one and how I wanted the world to see my clothes. Fashion has been a passion of mine and clothes are a way we can express our true selves. I am thrilled for this collaboration with Christopher, and we are just getting started,” says Carroll.
When it comes to production and materials the two style mavericks were unanimous in their dedication to creating a true Made in Italy product. Working with artisanal level craftsmanship and innovative materials the AMARE brand plans to become a leader in the luxury-athleisure sector.
“Developing this line with DeMarre has been a terrific experience. He is a bold and fearless dresser, a true fashion icon. His zest for life, confidence, and panache has influenced every piece in the collection. I hope that AMARE will inspire people to inject some serious flair into their wardrobe,” says Bates.
Consistent with Carroll’s continued efforts to give back to the community, partial proceeds of sales from the collection will go toward the Carroll Family Foundation. Proceeds from the February launch event went to the Mamba on Three Foundation created by Vanessa Bryant for the victims of the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of nine people, including her husband Kobe and daughter Gianna Bryant.
Strength of the Christopher Bates Name
Collaborations have been a strong vehicle for connecting with a wide-audience and building awareness for the Christopher Bates brand. Brand partners have included Air Canada, Lexus, MTV, and future collaborations with PFAFF Automotive Partners and Top Gun licensed apparel with Paramount Pictures—the long-awaited Top Gun sequel which is set to premiere this July with Tom Cruise reprising his lead role.
“It’s great to collaborate with other brands that are a good fit,” Bates says. “It’s an opportunity to pool resources and create something special for customers and fans.”
When asked about the future of the brand, Bates is optimistic. He is looking ahead to continuing to build the brand with his key retailers, Nordstrom and Harry Rosen. A newly leased space in Toronto’s Eaton Centre is set to be the new headquarters of the brand, and it is from this space that Bates will plan new collections and collaborations.
Author Profile
- Coleman Pete is a contributor for EcoLuxLuv Communications. Coleman writes about menswear, design, and culture, and can be found combing through vintage clothing racks or reading in one of his favourite cafés in Vancouver's Mount Pleasant neighbourhood. Read more by Coleman at OverdressedNW.com.
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