Lighten Up!
By Louisa Smith
The menswear collections from Milan and Paris clearly indicated that for Spring/Summer 2011 the market is taking on a lighter mood. After the stress and turmoil of the global crisis and a decline in sales, designers are definitely delivering a new message: “Take it easy.”
Softer silhouettes featured as a toned-down attitude emerged in casualwear highlighting the softer side of men. The traditional tailoring sector was also influenced as subtle single-breasted suits delivered a smart yet easy look.
Sharp colors enhanced the softness of silhouettes ranging from intense aqua to acidic tones and denim was the source of may designer’s inspiration used either in true denim structures or indigo-toned non-denim fabrics and knits.
Fabrics took on a natural and soft presence with linen and cotton key, accentuated but the inherent luster of silk. Inside Fashion highlights four key directions that are set to get menswear back on track.
Diggin’ Denim
- Traditional denim jeanswear in clean finishes or heavily distressed
- Non-denim fabrics pick up the indigo hue
- Soft tailored suits take on an indigo tone
- The comfort and feel good factor of denim influences all aspects of menswear
Shock Tactic
- Shocking tones
- Intense aqua tones look set to be a winner
- Solids or prints
- All sectors of menswear lap up the hot color tones from casual to smart/casual applications
- Intense tones are worked down through innovative washes
Softly Does It
- Single-breasted jackets
- Softer silhouettes, especially on jackets
- Flat and pleated front trousers, but legs are predominantly streamlined
- Natural fibers feature – summer weight wools, cotton and linen
- Safari styling for single=-breasted jackets but in strong color tones
Retro Sport
- Retro sporty styling
- Loose fit shorts for smart/casual applications
- Bermuda shorts
- Focus on shorts pockets from bellow to patch for added detail
- Classic polo shirts
- Knitted sports blazers
For a complete report on the top menswear trends – complete with flat drawings, fabric swatches and bestsellers – see Menswear Catwalk Flash in Inside Fashion, July 1-31, 2010 issue and Menswear: From Runway to Retail in Inside Fashion, August 1-31, 2010 issue.