Layered looks and practical items come together for S/S 18 menswear trends.
In particular, according to WGSN’s Buyers’ Briefing S/S 18: Menswear Key Items trend forecast, a modular wardrobe will be the focus for menswear trends next year, as consumers continue to snap up key interchangeable garments.
Tailoring, performance and street will make up new layering stories, easy-fit silhouettes will take center stage and a youthful vibe will dominate menswear, culling inspiration from subcultural influences and past skate styles. Although experiences are still expected to take top priority when it comes to spending, consumers will continue to buy key versatile garments that support their on-the-go lifestyles.
[Read more about what WGSN expects to see in womenswear: Womenswear Trends Channel Versatility for Spring/Summer 2018]
Bomber 2.0
The mass-market bomber jacket is venturing away from its vintage MA-1 fighter pilot shape for a simpler silhouette next season. This closet staple will channel resort sensibility and upgrade last year’s styles with a simpler look. Lightweight materials, including stripped-back detailing, soft suede panels, silky satins and summer-ready jacquards remain crucial updates for S/S 18 bomber jackets. Details, including matte opaque finishes, provide a more practical feel to the garment, while earthy neutrals and indigo blues make this piece a multi-seasonal must-have.
Resort shirts
Seasonal color and print stories come into play in S/S 18 resort shirts. Although fifties-inspired revere-collar styles remain prominent, new silhouettes and patterns will update this classic closet item. Boxy fits in clean cottons will give way to smarter styling, as this resort-friendly garment becomes available for more deliveries. Athleisure will continue to lead resort shirts as well, with functional details, including half-zip plackets. Vacation florals are swapped out for more refined patterns, while layered placements hail to the urban skate styles taking hold on menswear today.
Trackpants
Street and sportswear influences remain strong in the coming spring/summer season, including the prominence of trackpants. This clothing item’s simple design will remain, as industry players continue to bring the item into other commercial markets and incorporate it with other performance items, like commuter coats. Collaborations with designers, including Vetements, will continue to elevate among retro sports brands, while bold sport stripes and color-blocked panels remain key elements for this garment.
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Single-breasted suits
Unstructured styles, including single-breasted suits, will also be a key part of menswear in S/S 18. While consumers continue to seek multi-functional wardrobes, relaxed blazers will be paired with wide-leg trousers and other mixed proportional pieces. Casual styling will dominate the suit with boxier jacket shapes, and workwear-inspired garments. Rustic dry linens and summer cotton blends will enable consumers to wear suits in the warmer months, while papery lightweights and technical inclusions provide a functional feel to this essential wardrobe item.