By Candy Washington

NEW YORK, NY (JULY 2011) – ENKNYC’s fashion trade shows was all about the boys this past July 17 ^th, 18 ^th, and 19 ^th, at the coveted The Tunnel and La Venue locales. Garnering the usual fashion folk, this year’s shows also produced some fresh fashion meat. Strategically featuring four unique sections, each offering its own take on what’s currently hot in the fashion market for the male persuasion. See below for a quick of recap of the best of ENKNYC.

BLUE: A diverse cross section of denim, accessories and advanced sportswear collections. This is the largest section at the show and is dedicated to bringing you an array of fashion finds to bring to your boutiques, stores, online shops, and more. Priding itself in being progressive yet wearable with a contemporary fit, the break out stars in the BLUE category where William Rast and Ivy Prepster.

THE DESIGNERS’ COLLECTIVE: A designers’ Collective of directional and classic sportswear collections, accessories, and footwear. As the pioneer of ENK’s international fashion trade shows, this section surely did not disappoint. In its own enclave surrounding registration was the hub of designer’s such as Cutter & Buck, Division-E, and Avant-Toi.

Ben Minkoff is also a notable line from the Designers’ Collective section. Being the men’s division of the famous Rebecca Minkoff’s fashion line, the accessories collection is named in honor of her grandfather and coincidentally, the designer behind the label is bears the Ben moniker. The designer is renowned for marrying functionality and fashion. Many bags are comprised of thick saddle leather, comparable to that of an Hermes or Birkin.

Carried in Saks, Bloomingdale’s, and Holt Renfrew, Ben Minkoff boasts a desirable collection of leather bags with a vintage aesthetic, mixing waxwear and leather combinations. My editor’s pick is the Waxwear Weekender. It’s spacious yet manly and features a shoe compartment, ideal for business and personal travel. The Bru Weekender in chocolate brown is also a must-have.

Another standout was the brown stamped crocodile tie holder. This is an ideal update to the classic gift for your guy – great for Father’s day, your brother’s birthday, or a groomsmen’s gift. This innovative line also features a carry-all traveler’s kit. Don’t forget about their highly functional and convenient computer bag that is equipped with a removable laptop compartment for ease of use at airports for the man-on-the-go.


TMRW: A handpicked representation of emerging and progressive talent from around the world. One of my favorite fashion initiatives, TMRW’s promise to foster emerging and young talent is admirable. Prince Peter, already a staple in a celebrity stylist’s repertoire, this young, fresh, and new collection boasts rocker chic graphic tees and tanks. Celebrity clientele includes: Rihanna, Chanel Iman, Taylor Momsen, Lil Wayne, Katy Perry, Susan Surandon, Dylan McDermott, Russell Brand, Kelly Osbourne, Jared Leto, and Rupert Grint.

In ENKNYC’s own words on the latest installment of CLEAN: 

Why CLEAN?: With the men’s market changing in age, style and purchase power, men want to shop, buy more, save time. Both young and formidable companies in the Personal Grooming and Hygiene space are creating options for a new spectrum of customers. Finally, retailers and exhibitors will have the chance to sample and learn what’s out there to help keep them looking and smelling like 2010.