By Cillian O’Connor

As always in the melee that is fashion, it seems mere moments have passed since the last menswear showings. Milan Menswear S/S 09 Fashion Week kicked off on June 21st, presenting us with a plethora of new looks - and not a moment too since menswear tends to quickly become stagnant and monotonous.

At Costume National, Ennio Capasa attempted to perpetuate the concept of green/eco-fashion, an idea that hasn't been embraced as fervently in men’s wear as it has with women’s wear.

A host of wearable and decidedly fashion-forward items were intermingled with some rather undesirable and tired glam-rock offerings, such as trashy sheer shirts and far too much shine.

Christopher Bailey conveyed a surprisingly somber aesthetic at Burberry Prorsum.

Bailey's collection is always heavily inspired by the much-admired artist Derek Jarman, and seems to be a continuation of his vision for FW/08-09 with rustic tones.

Although many found this disappointing, it was representative of Bailey's coherence in design and sound execution.

Nightwear as daywear, a theme apparent in menswear in recent seasons, received an interpretation at Dolce & Gabbana.

This meant relaxed pinstripe suits akin to pajamas, and the frequent pairing of drawstring pants with exquisite evening pieces on top.

The Orient-inspired pieces appearing at the latter end of the show left a lot to be desired, however.

The menswear shows wrap up on June 25th.

Photos courtesy of the Fashion Spot Forums.

Cillian's blog is at male-mode.blogspot.com.