Since launching his eponymous label in late 2017, Rory William Docherty has always leaned into a more gender fluid, unisex aesthetic in his designs. Yet, despite this inclination, his collections have always predominantly been tailored for and showcased on women — until now.
This week marked a new chapter for Docherty who unveiled his debut menswear collection for AW24 ‘This is Not a Love Story’. According to Docherty, the new collection is for “individuals who identify as male, women who like menswear, and anyone else for whom it resonates” — a sentiment which the designer illustrates perfectly through the collection’s campaign, featuring both a male and female model wearing the same designs.
What to expect: Rory William Docherty's AW'24 collection:
Like all of the designer’s previous collections, there is an array of signature silk prints peppered throughout, which draw inspiration from the romantic colour palette of Francis Bacon’s works. Combining tactile textures with striking silhouettes, Docherty also features several dramatic sheepskin coats, a selection of crisp tailoring and billowy trousers among the collection.
After releasing a first glimpse at the range on his Instagram several days ago, Docherty revealed that the collection is now in Paris to be showcased in a showroom during men’s fashion week, remaining in the city until the end of women’s fashion week in Paris on the 5th of March. “When asked to create a ‘menswear’ collection, I initially thought, ‘I create clothes for individuals’,” says Docherty. “To be honest, I’ve always seen my work as something that can be worn by anyone who appreciates it, regardless of their gender, age, race or religion etc. The pieces appeal to creative souls and allow them to express themselves in a unique way.”
‘This is Not a Love Story’ will be available to shop from June on rorywilliamdocherty.com
Words: Amberley Colby
Imagery: Mara Sommer, Supplied
