On Tuesday, Calvin Klein Collection’s Creative Director Italo Zucchelli re-capped his SS16, first shown at Milan this season, during a special presentation at the company’s New York City headquarters earlier today as part of New York Fashion Week: Menswear.

The back to basics approach has always worked for Calvin Klein, and Italo Zucchelli’s SS16 menswear line, showcased at the inaugural New York Fashion Week: Men’s, was blissfully pertinent for the brand, the season, and the city.

There was something inexplicably Biba-esque about the collection, and also apt, considering the ‘70s was the decade that ultimately epitomised the label’s look, particularly moving into an era where denim reigned, and ‘CK’ became an iconic trademark. It was nice to see a nod to this custom in the revival of stonewashed denim pieces, such as a sportswear style sweater, paired with cuffed skinny leg trousers with a bold, cobalt hem. If it weren’t for the simple, monochrome graphic tee printed with the image of a palm tree, you’d be forgiven for momentarily feeling quite autumnal. However, strapped, Velcro, smooth calf sandals (worn with socks) reinforced the holiday ideal.

The collection was coined from formality, brimmed with a utilitarian undercurrent, and a surged with unbridled design. Art nouveau patterns in sheen of burgundy, blue, and grey tones swathed the front of crew neck sweaters to interject what was a predominantly neutral palette across the board. Trousers hugged hips in straps that crossed and fell in an almost peplum-like manner, and chic, cropped lines that would see Don Draper move into modern times with ease.  

Calvin Klein Collection SS16 was like a deep and meaningful conversation with a playful edge – CK, you’re still the one.