Sam Nieves-Velez, designer and co-owner of the women’s contemporary brand Nieves Lavi, is pleased to announce his first-ever menswear line, Mr Nieves. Simple modern silhouettes provide the foundation for the designer’s juxtaposition of playful, vibrant patterns and fabrics inspired by his Puerto Rican heritage and the cosmopolitan sophistication of New York City.
In tune with the current demand for quality, craftsmanship, comfort and menswear with personality, Mr Nieves offers knits, woven shirts, polos, tees, tank tops and swim wear, each designed to stand on their own but also enhance a man’s wardrobe with bright, energetic prints and sharp tailoring.
Says Nieves-Velez, “I wanted to create products that are unique finds for my customer but also to bring wearable, exciting and fun clothes to the market. I like to consider myself my own customer, someone who enjoys discovering new labels, who is looking for unique items in the market, and is not afraid to stand out and be noticed by wearing a bright print or an interesting embroidered shirt. My guy is adventurous, curious and carefree.”
Highlights of the debut collection include contrasting paneled shirts in summerweight cotton; the traditional “Guayabera” shirt updated with a trimmer fit, mixed media and unexpected pocket treatments; eye-catching printed swim shorts ideal for wearing beyond the beach; and slim fit printed trousers perfect for cuffing and sporting with a simple tee and soft blazer.
Elsewhere, superior quality fabrics, slim fits and unexpected details, such as a concealed zip front on a knit blazer to innovative pocket placements on cargo trousers to embroidered animal motifs on short-sleeve shirts and tanks, elevate the collection to the level of designer menswear.
Retail price points range from $175-250 for wovens, $88-230 for tailored shorts and pants, $169 for swim wear, and $45-98 for tees, tanks and polos, with distribution aimed at fine menswear and specialty retailers across the globe.