We may only be a month into 2018, but this year is already shaping up to be a seriously fashionable one for men. From the streets of the A/W ’18 men’s fashion weeks, we’ve seen gents kick off the year in bold style. Taking strong cues from the past and blending them with of-the-moment elements, these gents have set the sartorial tone for the upcoming seasons. Attitude-heavy but surprisingly wearable, the major looks we see now will undoubtedly stick around for the rest of the year. So, if you’re wondering what pieces you should invest in, we have you covered with this roundup of the ten best men’s fashion trends for 2018.
1. Vintage Checks
During the closing of 2017, vintage checks were trending heavily for women. Coming into 2018, they have also been adopted by the gents and are now appearing on everything from men’s trousers to jackets and even caps. To rock this look, try starting out with one statement checked garment, such as a coat or blazer. Then, if you’re feeling confident, consider adding a matching piece, like pants or a hat or bag.
2. Turtleneck Suits
Suiting never goes out of style, but there are ways to keep your tailored look appearing on-trend each season. This year, it’s all about what you pair your suit with. So, when the weather gets cold, swap your usual shirt for a turtleneck sweater. By combining a turtleneck with a smart suit, you’ll be able to achieve an incredibly stylish and sleek look. Try it for the office, dinners and other semi-formal events.
3. Statement Camels
When it comes to the colour you’ll be wearing the most this year, think of rich and warm shades of brown. These camel hues create quite the statement and appear surprisingly stylish when worn head-to-toe. If you do choose to rock camel all-over, just make sure that there is some variance in tone to break up the look. Alternatively, if you want to wear only one statement camel piece, make it a tailored coat and pair it with neutral colours and simple designs, such as a white shirt, blue jeans, and sneakers.
4. Soft Textures
One thing that all gents can look forward to this year is a rise in comfort dressing. As well as loose garment shapes, soft textures will also play a vital role in men’s fashion for 2018. From soft fur, fleece, and shearling to velvet, suede, and even corduroy, tactile fabrics are set to be big. Ideal for the autumn and winter months, this trend looks best when partnered with warm tones of brown as well as neutral white and black hues.
5. Oversized Silhouettes
Last year garments became looser and larger than they were the previous years. In 2018, that trend is set to continue with oversized silhouettes dominating casualwear. To rock this look the right way, remember that it’s all about striking the correct balance. As you don’t want to appear sloppy or as if you don’t know your size, it’s essential to ensure your oversized look is suitably smart. To do so, opt for high-quality fabrics and sophisticated styles that have merely had their proportions blown up.
6. Military Men
It may not be new, but military wear is back for another round in the world of men’s fashion, and it’s easy to see why. The trend, which includes practical pieces and utilitarian designs, blends both function and style into one. To wear it in 2018, stick to pieces in shades of beige, brown, army green and khaki. When it comes to designs, look for army-style garments with simple fastenings and large pockets. Then, complete your look with a shearling-lined aviator jacket.
7. Athletic Accents
There’s no denying that athleisure has been trending in menswear for some time now and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. What makes this trend feel fresh for this year, however, is the way that gents are blending it with smarter pieces. Using sportswear items and details to lend athletic accents to sophisticated looks, these stylish men have achieved a chic yet laid-back appearance that’s perfect for a range of events and occasions.
8. 70s Style
Late last year saw the return of ’70s fashion for men, but this year will take it to the next level. So, you can expect to spot plenty of brown and yellow as well as flared pants, rollneck sweaters, denim, and suede fabrics on the streets in the upcoming seasons. While it may not seem stylish in theory, in reality, this retro trend is uniquely fashionable. As such, it’s ideal for those who like a bold appearance. However, you can wear this trend more subtly by adding just one ’70s piece to an otherwise modern outfit.
9. Vertical Stripes
Hit the ground racing in 2018 with the incorporation of vertical stripes into your wardrobe. A refreshing departure from the stock standard horizontal stripes that are always around, vertical stripes can lend even the most basic outfit an eye-catching element. Another great thing about this trend is that it can be as bold or as subtle as you like. For a bold look, just choose thick stripes in strong, contrasting colours. For a more subdued style, select thinner lines of similar soft or neutral tones.
10. Cross Body Bags
Designers have finally clued on to the practicality of handbags for all genders, and the result is a new selection of stylish and masculine “man bags” for men. In particular, cross body bags promise to be a favourite during upcoming seasons. Easily thrown on over your outfit, a cross body bag provides hands-free practicality without adding annoying bulk to your pockets. Just choose a leather design for a smart appearance or opt for a nylon style for a more sporty and casual look. If you need something bigger to hold all your possessions, you can also consider investing in a roomy and on-trend tote bag.
Taylah Brewer holds a bachelor's degree in fashion and business and is a skilled writer with several years of experience in the world of online content creation and copywriting. She is passionate about fashion, beauty, and all things lifestyle-related and has been writing for The Trend Spotter since 2016. She currently works as the Head of Digital & Ecommerce at White & Co.
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