Buyers Select:

Sam Kershaw

Mr Porter
Editorial
Edition 98
22.09.2020
An online retail destination for men's style, MR PORTER features premium international menswear brands and inspirational content. 

This month sees the launch of MR PORTER's Italian Masters, a curated selection of exclusive capsule collections celebrating the timeless design, craftsmanship and style of Italy.
Showcasing 25 defining voices of traditional and contemporary Italian style, the capsule includes brands such as Altea, Francesco Maglia, Massimo Alba, Caruso, Valstar, Lardini and Missoni. The collective also introduces new brands to the site, such as Milan-based men’s accessories, brand Villa, family-owned Missoni Home, and the Abruzzo-based brand Giuliva Heritage. 

As the Buying Director at MR PORTER, Sam Kershaw leads the buying and merchandising teams, alongside managing the award-winning brand’s own label Mr P. 

Before joining the brand, Sam spent over 5 years at luxury department store Harvey Nichols, with a position as an International Designer and Contemporary Buyer.
With an extensive knowledge of luxury fashion, Sam talks us through his 10 favourite brands.

Pitti Connect Picks:

Brunello Cucinelli
Brunello Cucinelli is undoubtedly the pinnacle of Italian luxury. Through its recent collections, the brand has focused less on tailoring and have made interesting developments in its outerwear and sportswear offering.
FPM Fabbrica Pelletterie Milano
I am obsessed with FPM Milano’s suitcase offering, so I’m thrilled that we are launching an exclusive range as part of MR PORTER’s Italian Masters collection. I felt it was essential to have FPM Milano included as the brand is a fantastic example of innovative design ideas combined with Italian craftmanship. This portable kitchen set within a suitcase is a prime example, imagine the reaction you would get in pulling this out on a camping trip!
Altea
I really respect how Altea has evolved over the past few seasons, firmly establishing itself as a menswear brand to be reckoned with. This collegiate polo is the perfect summer staple, I like the soft collar, stripe detailing and the light-blue tone. This is the perfect piece for spring temperatures and will look great worn over a t-shirt, under a blazer or just on its own.
Valstar
It’s a true testament to Matteo Bozzalla and his ability to develop Valstar’s offering without losing the core principles of the brand. I love this moss green suede overshirt, the relaxed shape will ensure it drapes beautifully. 
Caruso
This look embodies Caruso’s modern take on luxury and effortlessly encapsulates the idea of dressed-down tailoring – an aesthetic we’re seeing resonate strongly with our customers right now. 
Nanushka
I am a big fan of Nanushka and the brand’s bohemian yet minimalist aesthetic. With a huge focus on sustainability, I really admire Sandra Sandor’s consistent effort to use upcycled fabrics and sustainable production methods within her collections. These printed floaty trousers are a great statement for summer.
Lardini
Every man needs a good blazer and you can guarantee that Lardini will deliver quality tailoring. This lightweight, unstructured jacket is ideal for these unprecedented times. It’s relaxed fit and neutral brown tone gives it the versatility to be worn with several looks. It’s a piece which wouldn’t look out of place worn for a Zoom call, meeting at the office or casually at the weekend.
Baracuta
A new brand to MR PORTER, Baracuta launched for the Fall/Winter 20 season alongside an exclusive capsule collection, championing the brand’s G9 Harrington jackets. I really like that the brand is researching heavily into materials and introducing their hero pieces in new fabrications. This green colourway is the perfect weekend thrown on.
Veilance
Specialising in functionality and performance, Veilance offers high-quality garments with a minimalist aesthetic – a look I tend to wear a lot of myself. The bucket will remain a key hat style for the Spring/Summer season and this piece embodies the brand’s practical yet simplistic ideals.
Edward Green
A loafer is a footwear staple for the summer season, and you can’t get much better than a pair from Edward Green. The expert level of craftsmanship ensures a luxurious feel and guarantees exclusivity.