Men’s Suit Update
Men’s fashion trends may move at a slower pace than women’s, but this doesn’t mean the classic suit is any less important. In fact, it’s having a renaissance. The latest suit trends are youthful and adaptable, offering a fresh approach to traditional attire. This winter, the tight black and grey suits are making waves, with sleek, fitted trousers standing out as modern and refreshing. Layering is also a key trend, reminiscent of the strong, timeless looks worn by icons like Charlie Chaplin. For labels like Iceberg, the imagery of this classic is as strong as ever, continuing to inspire today’s collections.
Double-Breasted Jackets: A Vintage Twist
The double-breasted jacket is enjoying a revival, and it looks better than ever. This style, with its vintage appeal, deviates from the current trend of more masculine, sharp cuts. A relaxed waistline is key to achieving this look, but it should always be tailored to avoid a boxy appearance. This jacket style offers a sophisticated, yet approachable silhouette that’s perfect for anyone wanting to channel a refined, yet casual look.
Single-Breasted Jackets
For men over 5’10”, a single-breasted jacket with a single button is often the best option. Be mindful of the button placement, as a low set button can shorten the torso. A slim, fitted cut is still the dominant trend for winter, offering a streamlined and polished finish. Ensure that the fit flatters your body shape and adds a modern, tailored silhouette that never feels overly restrictive.
Shoulders: Create Structure
The shoulder cut is one of the most important elements in suit design, and British designers have mastered it. The trick is to select a jacket with shoulder padding that rolls past the shoulder and into the arm, creating broader shoulders that add a masculine, powerful look. This style helps create the iconic V-shape, enhancing the appearance of height and strength. In contrast, padding that finishes precisely at the shoulder bone—common in Italian and American designs—can feel restrictive unless you’re very broad or prefer a sharper cut. Aim for a slightly broader shoulder, as it flatters most body types and adds the right amount of structure.
Accessories: Add the Finishing Touch
The right accessories can complete any suit. A well-chosen hat or scarf elevates the look and gives it personality. The barre hat is an excellent addition to a fitted suit, offering a vintage flair with a modern twist. Two-tone bow ties, in particular, are making a strong comeback and pair beautifully with slim-fit suits. For an extra touch of flair, consider a polka dot shirt, which adds a trendy vibe while still maintaining the formality of the suit. As for footwear, pointy, patent leather shoes are the perfect match for this winter’s trends, and they’ll be all the rage for both business and social occasions.
Fabric Choices: Returning to the Classics
As classic suit designs make a comeback, fabric choices are also leaning towards tradition. The fabrics selected for the winter collection must complement the tailored cuts and modern designs. The following materials stand out:
- Wool – Wool remains the clear favourite for suits. Look for super wool fabrics with thread counts between 120 and 150, perfect for most occasions. For extreme weather, choose suits in the 100 to 200 thread count range for all-season wear.
- Cotton – Cotton suits are an excellent choice for a more relaxed, informal look. They are perfect for warmer months and summer weddings, offering lightness and comfort. Available in shades like white, cream, tan, or navy, cotton suits remain a stylish, seasonal option.
Colour: Timeless Appeal
When selecting a suit, classic colours like navy and grey are always safe and versatile choices for business attire. Navy blue and charcoal grey are the most popular shades within this spectrum, and for good reason. These colours suit almost every complexion and provide a sharp, professional look. For those with lighter skin tones, navy blue is an excellent choice, while darker or Mediterranean skin tones often look stunning in tan suits.
Light grey is a particularly chic option and works well for a smart yet understated appearance. Paired with a light grey tie, it evokes the stylish, refined look of the 30s and 60s, making it perfect for both formal and semi-formal occasions.
Creative Statement: Add Some Bold Colours
If you’re working in a relaxed environment or want to make a creative statement, don’t hesitate to embrace bold colours. Bright pinks, purples, and even patterns can make a suit stand out. However, make sure you’re aware of your workplace’s dress code and level of formality. Hopefully, casual Fridays give you the freedom to experiment with these fun additions. If you’re in high fashion or creative industries, these daring hues are the perfect way to express your individuality.
Suit Inspirations for Winter 2013
