New year, new you. Or at least, newish you. The roll into January means it’s time for a wardrobe clear out, if only to make space for those fire finds from the high street fire sales. But unless grandma tucked an especially generous cheque into this year’s Christmas card, you also need to roll this season’s trends forward. Which is why we peered into the wardrobes of the folks who decide what trends, to find out what stays, and what goes.
Chuck: The MA-1 Jacket
It’s had a good run but, since your dad probably owns the OG bomber jacket by now, it’s time to hang yours up. “It’s seen its heyday,” says stylist and producer Susan Bender. Instead of the military, Balmain and Louis Vuitton looked East, reaching for silks and satin-rich materials rather than ripstop nylon.
Keep: Satin Souvenir Jackets
The baseball jacket was particularly prominent, with both brands decorating theirs in intricate chinoiserie. “Go for an embroidered, satin souvenir jacket instead,” says Bender. Just be aware that your ubiquitous layer is suddenly a statement-maker, so keep everything around it plain and simple.
Chuck: Longline Tees
After a co-sign from the A$AP Mob, longline tees transitioned straight from from Rick Owens’ runways to the high street big dogs. Which meant a once transgressive silhouette become the uniform for every guy who used to only wear a buttoned-up polo and snapback. “It was a frequent companion of the skinny biker jean in 2015,” says menswear stylist Anna Palmieri. It’s time to eject both from your wardrobe.
Keep: 1950s Shirts
Swap thigh-skimming hems for the boxy, 1950s-style shirts showcased by Raf Simons: think Cuban collars and relaxed fits, with abstract and geometric patterns. “You can balance the heavy prints with a tailored trouser and dark wayfarers,” says Palmieri. “It can work in dark or light tones, but contrast between the two gives an ultra-sleek look.”
Chuck: Stan Smiths
No disrespect to the Stan Smith, but it’s time for something new. Raf Simons may have put his stamp on the silhouette, but those luxe versions have had such an impact that even your local supermarket has its own spin, says Bender. “They’re totally oversaturated. We need a Stan Smith cleanse, at least for a while.”
Keep: Classic Runners
Look instead to reissues that aren’t on every fashion week foot, but that still come with a serving of history. “A classic, like a