Paris menswear: shows to keep an eye on

Workshops and design studios around the world are currently host to a frenzy of activity as brands, their designers and all their helping hands get ready to present their spring/summer 2016 men's collections in Paris, starting June 24. Now is the perfect time to have a look at the newest additions to the calendar and which shows are not to be missed.

Balmain, the must-see

Since the arrival of Olivier Rousteing as artistic director in 2011, the French brand has been the center of attention on all fronts, be it for its world famous muses (Rihanna, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West) or its artistic collaborations (H&M this fall).

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The luxury brand is adding its name to the list of men's fashion shows this year and will present its first one in Paris on June 27. Suffice to say that all eyes will be on this show, which should take place in a private mansion in Paris's 8th arrondissement.

This men's collection was created under the artistic direction of Olivier Rousteing.

Strateas Carlucci and Hood by Air, two brands to follow

The Australian brand, founded by Peter Strateas and Mario-Luca Carlucci, has won numerous awards around the world these last few years. Somewhat unknown in France, Strateas Carlucci could very quickly become the 'it' label of the moment after its first men's fashion show in Paris on June 24.

Hood by Air will also have its Parisian debut with a show scheduled for June 28. Though it already has a presence in France, the American brand doesn't yet enjoy the same reputation it does back home where its urban wear is popular with celebrities, especially in the world of hip-hop, and where it has a strong presence on social networks. A runway to keep a close eye on.

The daring Rick Owens

There are many eagerly awaited creators for this men's fashion week (Valentino, Saint Laurent, Maison Margiela and Lanvin), but American designer Rick Owens made such an impact at his last Parisian outing that he will likely be the center of everyone's attention this time around.

At that last show, in January, his fall/winter 2015 "SPHINX" collection made headlines by presenting outfits that exposed the models' most intimate parts as they paraded down the runway. Though it's highly doubtful the designer would go the same route twice, he could definitely still generate surprise with another daring collection.