Page 50 - BFM F/W 2024

Keeping Step
With a dual-density sole and removable contoured sockliner, Timberland’s new sneaker walks the walk
Chain Reaction
The new fragrance from Rabanne links two of the brand’s most recognizable motifs
THROUGHOUT HIS LIFE, THE LATE PACO RABANNE FOUND ENDLESS
inspiration in the French region of Brittany — particularly in its coastline, where vast chains bound boats to the shore. He wove these huge, hulking links into his work, creating fashion from industrial materials and introducing chainmail styles and heavy-duty jewellery to a post-war world. The latest fragrance from the brand — Million Gold Eau de Parfum Intense — honours this maritime motif, and bears Rabanne’s “XL Link” on its gold ingot bottle.
Across the Rabanne range, there have been a staggering 184 iterations of the XL Link since its debut, but this outing positions it anew, as a symbol of larger- than-life masculine confidence and energy. And, while there have only been five iterations of the Million fragrance (which initially launched in 2008), it’s a scent that stands for much the same. This new expression maintains the textured, woody style of the Million collection and sees original perfumers, Christophe Raynaud and Quentin Bisch, return to punch up the stalwart mandarin, cedar, and sandalwood notes of the line.
This time, expect a slightly spicier, more seductive spritz, with cardamom oil, pink peppercorn, and cinnamon bark layered across aromas of deep vetiver and leather. Centre stage, however, is AkigalawoodTM, a unique, upcycled ingredient derived from patchouli oil that provides a vibrant addiction and intoxicating sensuality into the Million mix. Sharing that stage is artist and musician Moses Sumney, who joins Rabanne as the face of Million Gold. A paragon of style and originality himself, Sumney is also renowned for his ability to link together seemingly disparate elements into one cohesive, creative whole. Who better, then, to wear this refreshing new fragrance — and to represent the legacy of the great Paco Rabanne?
THERE’S SOMETHING UNDENIABLY RELIABLE ABOUT TIMBERLAND
— and we’re not just talking about the brand’s boots. Though the American manufacturer’s archetypal “Yellow Boot” may have strong leather uppers and burly treads, the Timberland brand itself is built on a foundation sturdier than any sole. As, for almost 50 years, the brand as we know it today has remained firmly at the forefront of outdoor apparel innovation.
The new Motion Access Low sneaker is just the latest lace-up example of this enduring reliability. Designed with the brand’s responsive TimberCushTM comfort system, it features a dual-density sole that reacts and adapts to different gaits and surfaces. It’s also fitted with TimberGripTM lug outsoles to guarantee stability and traction, and a REBOTLTM lining — crafted from at least 50 percent recycled plastic — that ensures breathability. There’s even a waterproof option.
It’s a sneaker that’ll take any terrain or season in its stride. And, with several colour options also available — our personal pick would be the grey knit design with hot orange highlights — it’ll pair well with any wardrobe, too.
50 BFM / FW24 PORTFOLIO
KEEPING STEP: TEXT BY JONATHAN WELLS. CHAIN REACTION: TEXT BY JONATHAN WELLS. PHOTOGRAPHY BY FLORIAN JOYE.