By Uzoma Chijioke
Hakeem Balogun, the mind behind Kimono Kollection, has long been synonymous with technical excellence in menswear. With an impressive command over every aspect of fashion design – from garment construction to pattern making – his pieces consistently reflect an understanding of both structure and style.
On December 16, 2024, he unveiled The Christmas Collection, a lineup of suits and tuxedos that aims to merge classic tailoring with contemporary sensibilities.
Announcing the release through a well-curated campaign, Balogun positioned this collection as a refined holiday wardrobe solution for the modern man.
The suits adhere to balanced proportion standards including shoulder-to-waist ratio, and the tuxedos exhibit a structured yet fluid drape, reflecting precise pattern engineering. The construction employs cleanly executed stitches, with well-reinforced seams that suggest durability. The jackets are structured with just the right amount of padding to maintain form without appearing rigid.
While classicism is a brand strength, one might expect more experimental lapel structures or nuanced panelling techniques to distinguish this holiday offering from previous collections. A slight deviation from the standard notch and peak lapels – perhaps an asymmetrical closure or a more avant-garde pocket design – could have added an element of surprise.
Where The Christmas Collection excels is in its ability to straddle both the timeless and the contemporary. The colour palette remains within the safe, classic territory —black, brown, navy, and cream – but the subtle play with textures and matte-versus-sheen contrasts keeps it from feeling stagnant.
The collection aligns well with the ongoing trend of relaxed tailoring, offering slightly softened structures. A more pronounced integration of modern elements could have pushed the boundaries further. With younger demographics embracing versatile tailoring, introducing interchangeable elements would have broadened the collection’s appeal without alienating traditional clientele.
Corporate professionals, grooms-to-be, and style-conscious gentlemen seeking a festive wardrobe upgrade will find reliable options here. The market reception will likely be strong among loyalists, but capturing a wider audience may require a more daring output in future releases.
The Christmas Collection stands as a testament to Hakeem Balogun’s mastery of menswear craftsmanship. The fit is accurate, the construction is meticulous, and the finishing details reinforce the brand’s reputation for quality.