Introduction
In this fickle world of fashion, nothing is ever constant for long. It is still freezing outside, yet retailers and brands are gearing up for spring/summer 2013, with high summer products already dropping in stores and their current campaigns/lookbooks firmly fixed on the coming season. Whilst this forward planning may seem strange to some people, designers and press look even further ahead, with fashion weeks across the globe showcasing collections for autumn/winter 2013 – a full two seasons ahead of the present. Last month saw the second ever London Collections: MEN (LC:M), London’s very own dedicated menswear show schedule, and the event brought with it some exciting trends and key pieces to look out for next autumn/winter. What’s great about looking to the future is that it can help shape your purchases NOW. There is nothing better than picking something up at a huge discount in the current winter sales and knowing you will get great wear out of it for the next twelve months. With this in mind, if you like to stay ahead of the fashion curve, here are some of the trends we can expect to be wearing later on this year and how you can start to adopt them immediately.
Key Trend 1: Tonal Outfitting
A wide range of designers showcased tonal looks at LC:M – multiple garments in similar shades of the same colour being worn at the same time. Nicole Farhi, Richard James, James Long, Topman Design, Meadham Kirchoff and Richard Nicoll all championed this technique, with some opting for subtle and minimal styling whilst others dialled up the drama. This trend may not seem like a particularly new approach – especially when we have already championed the all-black outfit ? but this time outfits came in tones of cream, grey, orange or navy. Wearing head-to-toe tonal pieces requires careful consideration, as you want to ensure that onlookers know you have done this on purpose. Make sure that each piece is a slightly different shade in order to provide essential contrast between items. Utilising multiple layers of differing tones/textures also helps to create visual interest and distinct segments. In terms of shoes and accessories, coordinating them with the rest of your outfit really helps emphasise the look you are going for, whilst clashing these with your tonal pieces can provide a nice point of difference.
On The LC:M Runways
Modern Lookbook Inspiration
This is a technique you can utilise all year round, so why not begin experimenting with your SS13 outfits:
Tonal Outfit Examples
- Vivienne Westwood – Man Dl0207-40855 Blue Shirt
- Reiss Cooper Multi Stripe V-neck Jumper Citrus Yellow
- Nn.07 Miho Textured-cotton Sweater
- Soft Touch Heritage Scarf
- American Apparel Unisex Cuffed Acrylic Lined Beanie
- Topman Peoples Market Cejoy Blue Chinos
- Marc Jacobs Marc Jacobs Mens Slim Trouser
- Polo Ralph Lauren Green Custom Fit Preppy Chinos
- Asos Slim Chino
Final Word
There you have it, three key menswear trends to keep an eye on come AW13. So, will you be adopting these trends either now or in the future? How likely are they to catch on? Personally, I love a bit of statement outerwear, and a tonal outfit can make an expert statement if you get it right. As always, we welcome your thoughts and opinions in the comments section.
