Designer turns mengoni tour inspiration into high-octane menswear
Exactly one year ago, Toronto designer Warren Steven Scott was immersed in the world of Marco Mengoni, meticulously documenting the Italian pop star’s summer tour across Italy – from Bologna to Florence. Now, that obsession is fueling his debut menswear collection, a bold statement in opulent design.
A singular spark: mengoni’s style ignites a new line
Scott, an Indigenous designer from the Nlaka’pamux Nation of British Columbia, initially fell for Mengoni’s distinctive vocal style and theatrical stage presence. He was captivated by the artist’s penchant for monochromatic looks punctuated with lavish embellishments – a visual vocabulary that directly influenced Scott’s creative direction. “I noticed he wears a lot of monochromatic looks, but a lot of embellishments and decorative applications as well,” Scott explained.
The resulting “The Place Where We Went Together, Remember?” collection launches today, marking a significant shift for the designer, who’s previously built a loyal following with his expertly crafted earrings. But this foray into menswear feels instinctively right – a return to the flamboyant drama that first inspired him.
The line showcases a vibrant array of pieces, ranging from $200 to $2,500 USD, each designed to command attention. Silky wrap-tied blouses, embroidered sequin coats, and intricately detailed trousers are just a few examples of the collection’s opulent aesthetic. Scott emphasizes that while the designs were conceived for a stage performance, they’re intended for special occasions – a chance to indulge in a little sartorial extravagance.
“Even though this collection is imagined for a stage performance, it’s also designed for special occasions,” Scott stated. “I wanted to design what I would wear out for dinner. The garments are meant to be fun, enjoyed, and to be seen in.”
Scott’s meticulous attention to detail extends beyond the garments themselves. He’s incorporated elements inspired by his jewelry-making practice – elongated shapes reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest’s natural forms – and created pieces with multiple styling possibilities, mirroring the adaptable nature of a musician’s tour wardrobe. “If you’re on tour, you want to give each city a different look and a different vibe,” he notes. “I was thinking of ways a piece can change and create a whole new outfit.”
Scott's vision extends beyond mere aesthetics; he aims to empower individuals to embrace bold self-expression. “A lot of people have these events in their lives, where you can allow yourself to have fun with Fashion,” he says. “I wanted to celebrate dressing up.” He envisions Erykah Badu sporting the white sequin coat with a dramatic hat, and Pedro Pascal embodying the collection’s flamboyant blouses. The collection is undeniably a statement—a luxurious invitation to unapologetically own your style.