Men’s trends
What do men want? Menswear expert Mike Lawrence weighs in on the latest trends in shape and silhouette, and his spring style predictions.
In line with the ‘more is more’ movement, layering is receiving a lot of love, says Mike Lawrence, marketing manager at New Zealand menswear fashion house Barkers. The practicality of layering affords such popularity – offering the wearer an opportunity to experiment. He notes a button-down shirt worn over a tee with a lightweight jacket or spring knit layered atop and pants or shorts below is a trending look.
Stripes, linen, shirts and tees tucked in, and vintage-inspired colours also swirl within the menswear zeitgeist. “Think vintage seaside – washed greens, reds and blues,” Mike says. “Along with all your staples of white, black, tan and denim makes it easy to pull together a great looking outfit.”
Silhouettes across the board have relaxed. More than ever there’s an art to styling for your shape. Mike shares his styling tips: “You want to try and go for what feels comfortable for you and makes you feel the most confident rather than jumping on to the latest trends. Think about how the silhouettes work together, not too big on the top and too skinny on the bottom and vice versa. Try stuff on, you might be surprised what a different fit or size might do.”
To accessorise, keep a stable of the following: a simple necklace or bracelet, a good cap, a pant-appropriate belt (not the same one for everything), good socks, and sunglasses in a classic silhouette.
The spring style forecast? Mike predicts more and more linen. “It’s easy to wear and relaxed but still sharp when you need it to be.” Sounds like a welcome new season wardrobe.
A MAN’S WARDROBE NEEDS:
A good Oxford shirt, a good pair of jeans, chinos, a suit, and a coat or jacket.
