And now for something completely different… This was General Idea’s spring/summer collection for 2010: a strange mash-up of outer-worldly shapes, tribal prints and military-inspired menswear mixed with a bit of camp, a small (but potent) burst of color and enough strappy sandals and dark jumpsuits to channel a more fashion-forward Russell Crowe in Gladiator.

Korean designer Bumsuk Choi has already gained a loyal following for his line, which launched in 2004, and this year’s front row included editors from all the major men’s magazines (we sat just behind GQ), as well as Rag and Bone designers Marcus Wainwright and David Neville. They all sat transfixed as the terse and experimental looks trotted down the runway, from black wool jumpsuits and harem pants, to extra-long cotton graphic tees and a pink polyester trench. Dark knit leggings and black leather sandals completed the look, which was powerful, edgy and so unlike anything else we’ve seen this week.

Not everyone can pull off tapered leather pants and jumpsuits, let alone make the pieces look modern and masculine, but Choi somehow made it all work. Though you’d be hard pressed to find someone wearing one of the label’s looks straight off the runway, the pieces, when taken individually, appeared loose and comfortable and easy to layer with something more basic. The fit was trim and tailored, though never skinny nor constricting, and they felt like a more stylish and fashion-forward alternative to the classic tees and tanks-look. As for those men looking to take a risk, there were plenty of garments for them as well…as long as they’ll be prepare d for an extra glance or two from people passing by.

- TC