Menswear Directions
Creativity & resilience
In the coming years, we will witness a significant shift in how identity is perceived and expressed, moving away from rigid, traditional norms towards more fluid definitions. This redefinition of identity will be accompanied by a rise in creative expression, as individuals seek to authentically represent themselves through unexpected combinations.
This embrace of creativity and personal authenticity will be a tool for building resilience. By fostering a strong sense of self and encouraging adaptive, imaginative thinking, people will grow in reflection and self-knowledge and be better equipped to navigate and thrive in an unpredictable world. The focus is on redefining and expanding traditional concepts of fashion, clothes and masculinity, making room for a more diverse and less serious style. In an uncertain world, the human spirit embraces expressive individuality and challenges traditional norms circling back to personal, humble ways of doing things.
The general menswear direction emphasizes the use of known archetypes while encouraging individuality and creativity through interesting cuts, textured materials, expressive colours and unique combinations. The fabric becomes more important. The tactile textures, a dense woven cotton, a super lightweight transparent ribstop, a 3D denim all are expressive and give depth to the garments. It is like sketching and sculpting with colour and material, experimenting to find what feels right to express ourselves to the world, connecting with others and communicating who we are.
Image, Benoît van Innis Studio, Brussels
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Refined Radiance
Refined radiance encapsulates the elegance and sophistication found in thoughtfully curated wardrobes that embrace both tradition and a softer expression. This blend allows people to shine, adapting their style to reflect a strong, authentic sense of self. Fabric is used to soften the silhouette, with transparent layers and draped volumes floating around the body. Classic shapes are combined with influences from dance and sports in soft pink and yellow tones.
Left to right, Dries van Noten, fabric by Italian Converters, Kenzo, Undercover, Wales Bonner, Bianca Saunders, Gucci, Masu, 10 Denier Ribstop Nylon by Newman Global, A-Cold-wall
Creative Comforts
Creative Comforts seamlessly merges the relaxed fit and functionality of sportswear with the elegance of woven, lightweight textiles. The bold graphics and energetic use of colour add a layer of expressive freedom. Materials are coated, overprinted and treated like a canvas. Elements such as colour blocks, materials, and shapes are intentionally distributed around the body in unconventional ways to create dynamic visual tension.
Left to right, Kiko Kostadinov, polyamide with resin coating by Majocchi (Groupe Alma), Hed Mayner, Pronounce, Homme Plissé Issey Miyake, MSGM, JW Anderson, technical cotton by Yesung textile, Homme Plissé Issey Miyake, MSGM
Vintage Varsity
A timeless approach that mixes traditional athletic elements and the nostalgic charm of collegiate looks, it honours the legacy of sports layered with vintage finds. Varisity Vintage embodies the spirit of knowledge, studying, and lifelong learning, growing intellectual pursuits and self growth as well as playing with elements of history, culture, class and sportswear history. The textiles express the history and tradition but are combined in fresh ways, playing with conventions.
Left to right, jacquard stripe by Dutel Creation, Kolor, Masu, Masu, Y-3, Masu, European flax stripe by Springtex Group, Gucci, Bianca Saunders
Light Life
The Light Life direction emphasizes the elegance and lightness that comes with owning fewer possessions. This approach encourages mindful consumption and focuses on quality over quantity, allowing people to live more intentionally and free from the burden of excess. The idea of light uniforms creates mental and emotional space, fostering a lighter, more fulfilling state of being. This quiet wardrobe is built around pieces that are versatile and functional, comfortable like a pyjama yet delicately dressed.
Left to right, Homme Plissé Issey Miyake, Feng Chen Wang, polyamide by Heyone, Biance Saunders, Magliano, Lemaire, coated polyamide by DK&D (Doorim), Ranra, Feng Chen Wang, Dior Men
Tailored Transformations
Tailored Transformations reimagines classic tailoring elements through an avant-garde approach and unexpected cuts. This intelligent approach to dressing honours the timelessness and history of traditional styles without being limited by conventions to create something new. The weight of the quality materials is important; it creates a paper-like feeling that gives the clothes their crisp volume.
Left to right, Setchu, Dior Men, circular material by Positive Materials, John Richmond, Walter Van Beirendonck, Egonlab, Fendi, Loewe, cotton woven with a slub by Borghi 1819, Yohji Yamamoto
Natural Navigation
The pursuit of a natural state of being is expressed through the use of natural materials and layered, relaxed styles that reference outdoor clothing. This approach to creating a wardrobe encourages a connection with nature. Pursuing a natural state involves connecting to natural cycles, being active every day regardless of the weather, and being conscious of one’s impact and surroundings. The materials are waxed or coated, and the styles cover the body to protect from rain, wind, and sun.
Left to right, Ranra, Graig Green, Hed Mayner, Neo check by Taipyung Textile, KidSuper, Hed Mayner, waxed cotton by Visionworld, Bianca Saunders, 032c, Bed j.w. Ford
Artisan Approach
Tactile and natural materials and crafted techniques celebrate the artistry of traditional dye methods, macramé, and embroidery, emphasizing texture and that humans that make the clothes. By valuing slow fashion and time-honoured techniques, the Artisan Approach honours the heritage of craft while creating a deeper connection between the maker and the wearer. Each piece tells a story both of its journey to being a garment and the cultural growth and understanding of the wearer.
Left to right, Nicholas Daley, Feng Chen Wang, Loewe, Études Studio, cotton/linen blend by Almodo Tekstil, Dolce & Gabanna, Dior Men, open knit by Botas Nehir, Wooyoungmi, Wales Bonner
3D Denim Distinction
This direction transforms a classic staple into a canvas for creativity, turning a familiar uniform into a symbol of personal resilience and inventive spirit. Denim fabric is used in new, more tailored ways, evolving from standard blue cotton to interesting blends and 3D weaving techniques.
Left to right, Junya Watanabe, tri-dimensional denim by Isko, Kenzo, Études Studio, Bianca Saunders, Sacai, Junya Watanabe, Études Studio, cotton/wool blend denim by Gommatex, Études Studio
Obsidian Order
The use of deep, dark hues embodies a form of power, where layered dressing becomes a textile armor that elevates and distinguishes the individual. This approach allows for bold, creative expression that exudes confidence and resilience, enabling one to navigate society with an air of commanding presence and subtle authority. The fabrics play with the concept of armor expressed through darkness. They are coated, padded, or double-layered, all within a dark range of colours from dark army green to burgundy.
Left to right, Lemaire, Kolor, LGN Louis Gabriel Nouchi, cracked finish fabric by Duksung, A-Cold-Wall, Kiko Kostadinov, wool blend by Flashine, Kolor, Louis Vuitton, Homme Plissé Issey Miyake
You can download the PDF here