Though he made his reputation with maximalist womenswear, more recently Christian Lacroix has turned his attentions to designing men's clothes. But until this spring, the line hadn't been available in the United States. (We know: good timing.) Happily, his menswear is a little more restrained—particularly the suits, which sport a slim cut, peak lapels, and clean detailing. Less restrained? The jackets' lining, which comes adorned with sixties-style psychedelic patterns and/or Victorian drawings, pictured. (Those patterns are repeated a bit less subtly elsewhere in the collection.) I really get a kick out of this touch, which adds a little secret color and cheer to the suits—especially nice in these dour times. Another reason to be cheerful? Despite the well-known name and the quality, they start at a reasonable $1,000.
Christian Lacroix two-button suit, $1,000, available at Christian Lacroix, 36 E. 57th St., NYC, (212)753-2569; 3500 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, (702) 731-0990.