For their latest Spring ’22 pre-collection, the brand sought to reconnect with the values underpinning its original philosophy. “For this season, I envisioned our own hypothetical Athletic Club, embracing various sporting activities to capture the idea of team spirit, creating clothes and accessories suitable for a contemporary masculine lifestyle,” says Lee Wood, who has served as creative director of the Bikkembergs label since 2016.

Wood had previously spent nearly 16 years honing his skills at a designer in the Versace studio, notably working on the Versus line. His arrival at Bikkembergs had followed a 2-year creative direction hiatus for the Belgian brand, following the departure of its founder. Over the past five years, Wood has combined inspiration streaming from his British roots and couture expertise to refashion the label into a savvily groomed understanding of contemporary masculinity.

Bikkembergs’ latest collection also sartorially translates the congenial, fraternal and functional ritualistic dimension of team sports — from everyday training gear to the decidedly more ceremonial uniform. The latter can be found in the collection’s array of formalwear adorned with Navy pin-stripe cool wool and compact stretch viscose jersey for elegant suiting.