Menswear Collections

Who is there to lead by example?

From the world of TV or film; are you a Madison Avenue Ad Agency kind of guy from the hit BBC Four Series Mad Men? Or the smooth, suave yet adventure driven Daniel Craig as James Bond? From the world of celebrity are you the clean cut, suited Jude Law? Or the slightly cheeky, stubble wearing but bang on trend David Beckham?

Mens’ styling always used to be about seeking status, nowadays it is more about emulating your own personality and presenting yourself and your ambition. Especially in a time of economic downturn, men on the job circuit are increasingly wanting their clothes to speak volumes as well as their CV.

Spring/Summer 2010

This spring and summer the look to portray is one described by Dries Van Noten as “garments are decorative as they are functional” (QCStyle Issue 10, 2010). For many men it is all about personal style but also having a desire for what is “current/on trend”. The high street stores are becoming more adventurous with menswear and hitting the modern trends. There is a distinct emulation of menswear designs occurring, to make the fashion shows collections come alive on the streets.

What are the key trends for Spring/Summer 2010?

With such a range of menswear labels now available, what does each collection offer?  Here is a rundown of some very popular designers and their approach to this season.

Ralph Lauren Purple Label

For the dapper polo enthusiast, city gent – pinstriped suits, sensible shirts, a hint of colour where needed.

Paul Smith

Classic uncomplicated menswear with clean lines. dominated by navy, black, grey marl and bright colours injected to bring a boost to the collection.

City Slicker. Charcoals + clean lines = smart

Dior Men

Slightly rougher around the edges. Taking the pastels trend with a masculine twist. Loose tailoring and soft fabrics.

Pastels for Spring/Summer 2010

Prada

Ever the elegant Italian, Smart blacks, sharp charcoals, clean lines and clever tailoring.

Gucci

The lighter side of summer. An Italian stallion on holiday. Deck shoes, cream suits, a pin striped suit and an all round elegant look with a hint of bold colour to brighten up the season.

Casual Suit look - cream with strong colours

Zegna

Casual European. Creams, beiges, pale terracotta leading to soft tailoring, linens and loafers. Chilled out classics.

Tommy Hilfiger

A playful take on the current nautical trend. Cropped white shorts, striped details belts finished off with sleeves rolled up on a casual blazer.

Dunhill

Taking expensive materials to produce exquisite pieces. Perfect for the quiff wearing man. Favouring versatility and light weight pieces to make the ultimate travel wardrobe for the stylish businessman.

The High Street

H&M emulates the key trends of the spring/summer catwalks, strong pieces with a good price tag. The store encompasses everything you could want for the summer. An easy way to update your look and channel current trends.  French Connection focuses on comfort and casual style.  Relaxed teeshirts, faded denim and pale colours for the summer. Reiss hit the nail on the head with fabulous soft tailored suits, lightweight materials and a hint of pastel colour in each outfit.

Conclusion

Be a little adventurous in your summer wardrobe. Team a lightweight pale pink shirt with a grey linen jacket. Embrace bold coloured shorts worn with deck shoes and go retro with jeans and some 80′s style trainers. Tailored shorts have been seen on the catwalks of Louis Vuitton, Calvin Klein and Dunhill, match with a classic teeshirt or casual shirt and a bright coloured belt. Be comfortable, be happy in your style.

Still seeking inspiration? Head to the Modern Gentleman Masterclasses around the UK in June. An evening of export advice on stylish dressing, masculine grooming and classic cocktails. Hosted by Smirnoff Black and Ted Baker.