Dubbed Chasing The Sun, Oliver Spencer’s summer 2024 collection is a sartorial homage to the sun-drenched landscapes of southeast Europe, drawing inspiration from the notion of a modern-day Grand Tour.
The Grand Tour was a traditional trip through Europe that young European aristocrats undertook between the 17th and 19th centuries. These journeys were not merely leisurely excursions, they acted as an educational rite of passage for the traveller and were transformative experiences that shaped the cultural landscape of Europe during that period.
‘They would often travel with huge entourages of clothing,’ explains Oliver Spencer. ‘It got me thinking about how that would translate to a 21st-century journey, and what that wardrobe would look like.’
Despite the start of the French Revolution marking the end of the Grand Tour tradition, its legacy is still keenly felt, our desire to explore and learn about different cultures still prevalent. With the Grand Tour reimagined through the lens of the contemporary gentleman, Oliver Spencer’s summer 2024 collection exudes effortless sophistication that complements summer escapades.
Linen fabric is a key feature of the collection, appearing in trousers, jackets and shirts, while terry cloth and cotton jersey take the form of polo shirts, T-shirts and shorts. Cuban collar shirts make an appearance, along with drawstring trousers and unstructured blazers, contributing to the overall air of laid-back luxury.
The palette is also a study in understated elegance, core neutral tones like beige, stone and dusty ochre mingling with sky blue, navy and sage green. Subtle geometric patterns, from tonal pinstripes to dusty pink checks, add depth and visual interest to the collection.
‘I wanted to create an elevated summer aesthetic that referenced the colours of the southern European landscape, with the versatility to have all bases covered, from relaxed beachwear to sophisticated tailoring,’ says Spencer.
Visit oliverspencer.co.uk to view the new collection
Imogen Almond writes for Brummell magazine
