Book Review: Menswear Illustration by Richard Kilroy pub. Thames & Hudson

I'm grateful to Thames & Hudson for sending me another menswear book to review. They are the go-to publishers for outstanding books on fashion and Menswear Illustration by illustrator Richard Kilroy, is no exception, featuring up-and-coming menswear fashion illustrators. 

As the book points out, the explosion in sales of menswear means that there has been a rise in men's fashion illustration. This book documents this, recording the new and exciting artistic talent that is emerging.

Clym Evernden, Thom Browne A/W 2014-15, created for A Magazine Curated By (Belgium), 2014. Courtesy Clym Evernden

A look through the book shows a wide variety of styles of illustration, from the photographic and graphic, through the rather derivative to some showing outstanding drawing skills. Many are truly artistic and some, like this image below (and my favourite) even shows the personality of the models.

Jean-Philippe Delhomme, Louis Vuitton and Prada S/S 2014, created for Série Limitée (Les Echos), 2012. Courtesy Jean-Philippe Delhomme

Shohei, Carhartt S/S 2012 advertising campaign, created for Carhartt, 2012. Courtesy Shohei

Many images display an exciting exuberance which reflects the rapid expansion of menswear and the opening up of the availability of a wider selection of styles for men. Menswear is now moving more rapidly (as high fashion, if not at high street level) and the creative energies this has unleashed are evident in the book.

Helen Bullock, Alexander McQueen A/W 2013-14, created for SHOWstudio.com, 2013. Courtesy Helen Bullock

Works in the book will be previewed during London Collections: Men from today to Monday (9th to 12th January 2015) at The Hospital Club, Covent Garden, London. These images will then be exhibited at Paul Smith in Albemarle Street during London Fashion Week later in February. 

The book will be released on the 23rd of February 2015. I recommend it to all with an interest in menswear, fashion, art and illustration.

Julie Verhoeven, Jil Sander S/S 2009, Created for Ponystep (UK), 2008. Courtesy Julie Verhoeven