Trends: Fall 2009
Like everything in life, fashion trends come and go. Men’s trends have traditionally been on a longer cycle than women’s, giving us the ability to more easily keep our closets in style. And, while men’s trends are moving faster and faster the changes tend to be more subtle from year to year.
Here are the top 10 trends we’ve identified at Urban Body Men’s Clothing:
The bold glam rock look is over. Time to ditch the Ed Hardy shirts and Laguna Beach jeans. This year’s fashion story speaks to simplicity with an emphasis on fit and fabric that translates well to a variety of social settings. Look for Robert Graham to unveil a new series of shirts that are more athletic fit and denim friendly (at half the cost of their traditional label).
Short sleeve button up shirts and polos will be making a huge come-back. They will be more fitted in the body and sleeves, accentuating the new lean muscle trend. This trend coincides with the re-emergence of plaids. Some favorites in this category are Eye of Falcon and Krush.
Red. Red. Red. It used to be the kiss of death in menswear, but has been showing up from the catwalk to Baywalk. Red is a natural paired with any shade of denim.
Head gear continues to grow as a favorite way to accessorize. Hats and caps are a great way to punch up this year’s cleaner look (see trend #1). Your best bet is a Fedora or driving cap. Pair your cap with a lightweight scarf for a truly fashion forward look.
The military look is popping up on shoulders everywhere. Jackets and shirts will feature epaulets and patches that will bring everyone to attention.
V-necks will continue to dominate the tee shirt scene. There are three V styles: the High V, the Deep V and the Wide V. Smaller frame guys should steer clear of the wide V. Guys with slabs for pecs wear the deep V best. The V-neck is a sexy alternative to the traditional crew neck. It displays a sense of confidence on the part of the wearer. As a side note, don’t be deterred by chest hair. The natural look is in and you don’t have to shave your chest to rock this style.
Footwear will be making a move away from casual sneakers and into classic boots and leather slip-ons. This is a natural off shoot of the cleaner look up top.
The denim trend shows no signs of abating. Slim fit and straight leg denim will rule the street this fall. Even boot cut denim has a narrower opening in most of the major denim labels. Look for the crazy pockets and bedazzlement to disappear in favor of fits and finishes.
For those into wearing nice wovens that go from board room to barstool, contrast cuffs and banker’s collars will be making a comeback. Want to update your wardrobe on the cheap and still be in style? Take two complementary shirts to your tailor and have the cuffs and collars removed and reversed!
Finally, combine your tees and denim with a vest for a nice layered look. Vests without a shirt are really sexy when combined with a long necklace (or two), but are not appropriate in all settings.
I can’t finish without providing a bonus trend! Look for black watches to be the accessory of choice this fall. Every jeweler is producing their own take on this trend. My favorite comes from Android‘s Decoy collection.
Go forth in style and remember, if it suits your personality, wear it boldly with no apologies.