Beware of a Man's Shadow

Inspired by the Burmese proverb "beware of a man's shadow and of a bee's sting,” Canadian-born, London-based illustrator Tara Dougans juxtaposes the graphic beauty of the honey-making insect with a selection of striking menswear designs from the F/W12 season. In anticipation of the first ever London Men’s Fashion Week, which kicks off June 15, Dougans illustrated some of her favorite designs, including Alber Elbaz and Lucas Ossendrijver's striped three-piece suit for Lanvin, Riccardo Tisci's star-emblazoned sweater for Givenchy, Walter Van Beirendonck's trompe l'oeil prints, and Kim Jones's travel blanket-inspired bomber jackets for Louis Vuitton. “Menswear somehow feels more open to interpretation,” explains Dougans. “Visually its delivery tends to be more subtle than womenswear, so a little twist of playfulness goes a long way.” Executed in her trademark hand-drawn style, Dougans’ works are brought to life with subtle movements and a haunting soundtrack by London-based composer Johnston Sheard. “I wanted to explore something multisensory while retaining my original craftsmanship of hand,” the artist says of working with moving image. “I love the idea of subtle, unexpected movement—a playful wink.” 

Credits, in order of appearance: Dries Van Noten, Juun.J, Lanvin, Thom Browne, Givenchy, Walter Van Beirendonck, Louis Vuitton