CANBERRA men are looking sharp, according to local fashion designer Harry Morrissey.

“I think there’s definitely a change in the air,” Harry says. Adding that it’s the perfect place for his new label Mo.Clothes to grow.
Handmade under fair trade conditions in Hoi An, Vietnam, Mo offers “twists on classic shapes, with think-outside-the-box colours and fabrics”.

The debut collection includes pants, jackets, cardigans, shirts, ties and shoes with a vintage twist and was inspired by Harry’s most recent stay in London.

The former Radford College student began designing items that he wanted to wear, and when people kept asking him where they could get them, he decided to branch out.

“I noticed that there was a real gap in the market in Canberra, especially for men’s clothes that are a bit different from the norm, but at a price that young people can afford, this is how Mo started,” he says.

His personal style is inspired greatly by vintage as well as young boutiques and designers.

“I enjoy mixing vintage finds with contemporary styles. My style has been heavily influenced by my time in New York and London, predominantly Williamsburg and East London. At the end of the day I just love to throw on great pieces and look different yet contemporary.”

Harry says there will still be a 1950s vibe for menswear in the upcoming spring/summer season.

“Mo’s upcoming collection ‘Playground’ takes inspiration from John Waters and 1950s Baltimore. It includes tailored Bermuda shorts called ‘Dads’, rolled sleeve shirts called ‘Woodies’, leather Kung Fu shoes called ‘Mr Norris’ and of course our famous Mo jeans in some rad new colours and fits.”

Harry and business partner, Mo creative director Robin Hall, want to continue creating original clothing handmade in Vietnam under fair-trade conditions and build the online business.

“We’re also releasing our women’s line in early 2012 which is super-exciting,” he says.

More information at www.moclothes.com