Thomas Bálint walks the line between nostalgia and innovation. Each collection- a personal interpretation of patterns drafted by his tailoress grandmother in the 1940s before her fleeing of Soviet-ruled Hungary- poignantly revolves around the idea of family, stability and tradition. Channelled through the prism of Bálint’s experience, the pieces materialise in decidedly contemporary form; fluid and sculptural, the Canadian designer’s university years studying sculpture are as palpable as the history that constantly inspires him.
For Fall/Winter 2015, oversized silhouettes, loose tailoring and bold contrasts of black, white and vermillion take centre stage. Unexpected schemes, such as the pairing of a tailored jacket and pyjama-esque striped bell-bottoms or exclusively orange-hued ensembles, radiate light-hearted playfulness.
It is arguably the most subtle of details, however, that make this collection. Look closer and the dominating graphic stripes are diffused with texture; buttons are minimalised; collars transition from classic to upright 19th century or grandfather style. Thomas Bálint Fall/Winter 2015 is calculated, crafted cool.