Sixh. x Mens Spider Fashion Live2: IBI Collection

IBI's gorgeous collection was the first to be revealed at Sixh x Mens Spider Fashion Live 2.

Designer IBI has a flair for creating drama out of simplicity. One would think that the aesthetic options of black on black would be limited, but shades of black has a whole new meaning in this collection. The use of various materials throughout each item varies texture, drop and sway creating pure art. Every fold and crease gives you something new to look at, yet preventing an overwhelming of the senses, the simple dark scale accented tastefully with streaks of gray keeps the designs in balance.

When chains, buckles and fur-themed patterns start sneaking into the mix, the use of material is tempered, allowing the flashier aspects to take precedence. However, style and cut range from dramatic lines to subtle curves from one piece of apparel to the next. These are the masculine highlights of the collection, stylish and sexy.

So what happens when color enters the picture? Well, there are two trends. First are the subtle pinks and purples that appear beneath dark lace or sprinkle black garments with butterflies. This is a theme common among the more feminine pieces complete with ruffles and long, simple lines varying from doll-like cuteness to gothic beauty.

In stark contrast, electric blues and metallic pinks demand attention in complicated swirling patterns or bright star-burst motifs. These you can’t help but stare at, trying to follow each of the vibrant streaks to completion even as you’re distracted by the next. Accenting the chest or the long line of the leg, these colors have the potential to draw attention to the wearer’s best aspects. They also bring out the snazzy punk in even the sweetest little girl figure.

Created with the turn of the seasons between summer and autumn–a drastically confusing affair in Japan as hot sunny days are followed up by cold rainy weather–the collection features a range of coats, pants, skirts and dresses of varying lengths as well as scarves and caps. A little mix and match will have you set for any kind of weather and well protected from rain, wind, snow, or that nasty enemy: the sun.

Speaking of caps and scarves, let’s not forget the accessories: Stocky black cuffs, long sleeves independent from the remainder of the outfit, tiny garters suspended under bouncy, ruffled skirts, and subtle belts that are swanky enough to acknowledge but not so flashy as to have you staring at a stranger’s crotch. Finally, of course, what collection is complete without its share of bags for the new season?

All around, an unmistakably visual line. Each theme is varied in style and stunningly eye catching yet tasteful. Versatile enough to cover all four seasons and sampling a range of materials from smooth velvet to rockin’ leather there’s enough variety to satisfy even the subtlest fetish. Furthermore, from slim designs for the lanky figure to flaring a-lines for the hourglass gal and baggy shirts for the skinny fella to tight fitting tank tops that accent those under-appreciated muscles, this is a collection for everyone.

There are 71 photos in this visual kei exclusive.

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