Auralee’s ‘Super Basics’ Are Unapologetically Authentic
Review of Auralee Fall 2025 Men’s Fashion Show
By Angela Baidoo
THE COLLECTION
THE VIBE
Super Basics, Schoolboy Charm, Dressing for Self
There has much querying over legacy-planning for houses whose creative directors can boast of being in the enviable position of sitting atop a brand for the last four to five decades, but a more interesting question is how different categories plan to shore-up their legacies – and more to the point their relevance. In a time when we can choose to wear what we want whatever the occasion we should be asking what is the future of occasionwear, formalwear, outerwear and even the smart-casual category which seems to have lost its way following a half-in, half-out attitude due to working from our homes. But, if you’re seeking an outside-the-algorithm take on the over-saturated preppy-casual market then Tokyo-based designer Ryota Iwai’s Auralee is proposing his line of ‘Super Basics’ for fall.
From Iwai’s collection last season that reframed the concept of the future commuter in an effervescent palette of pastels and hyper-technical fabrics the transition to todays souped-up simplicity will inspire any casual connoisseur to switch allegiance from some of the more well-known outdoor and Classic American brands.
Seeking to capture the charm of personal style in this collection, knitwear was worn slightly skewed, fur was restyled in unexpected silhouettes – here it was again a shearling vest, could this be the key shape of the season? – and a 90s high-school meets Tech Bro aesthetic was also woven throughout the collection, think fleece cagoules in office grey and multi-stripe T-shirts. Taking the idea of ‘cherished’ heirlooms and mixing them back with elevated everyday styles Auralee is slowly becoming a safe space for those looking for the best in – according to todays notes – “thoughtfully casual; luxurious finesse; slow-paced ease [and an] immediate energy”.
THE DIRECTION
THE QUOTE
This collection seeks to capture this kind of personal charm, style, and understanding of self— the expression of individuality
that transcends clothing and time.Ryota Iwai, Creative Director, Auralee
THE WRAP UP
The modern wardrobe gets personal as Auralee present a way to nurture the pieces we have loved with “unapologetic authenticity”, taking inspiration from friends around him Ryota Iwai has created a collection with a sense of connection as each piece has a slightly worn-in feel that gives it its individual feel, and through custom-designed fabrics Iwai is crafting a new breed of Super Basics for a clued-up customer.
