Value is the new fashion trend for 2009, with a move back to traditional wardrobe classics, updated with new styling details and designer right colors.
Sweaters
One current trend in men’s summer fashion is the deep V-neck sweater. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like silk, cotton knits, and linen gives a trendy look for dressing up or down. Top designers like Ferragamo and Barrett presented this runway look with models clad in deep V-neck sweaters paired with shorts, suits, and even jeans. Great worn alone or layered for an urban fashion look, must-have colors are; black, white, or bold colors like pink, blue and green. J. Crews’ cashmere cardigan in summer-bright white is showcases this new fashion look.
www.jcrews.com
Footwear
The best piece of footwear advice for men this summer is called “no shows” or loafer socks. These clever foot covers protect shoes from sweat, and make going sock-less more comfortable. For the guy who likes fashion a little edgy, it allows him to show off well-tanned ankles. Menswear designer Thom Browne was quoted in the Orange County Register on this subject: “It’s the new male cleavage,” said Thom Browne, menswear designer and professed ankle exhibitionist. “You can’t believe the snickers and comments I get because I’m not wearing socks. It sends people into a tailspin.” Buy this summer look at Banana Republic for a cool $14.50. www.bananarepublic.com
Shorts
Men’s summer shorts have a trimmer look. No baggy shorts or pleats for fashionable urban males. Choose shorts with flat fronts and a longer, slimmer leg line. Top picks for summer fabrics are linen, poplin and cotton in solid colors or mini plaids. Banana Republic has a nice assortment in their online store at competitive price points.
Ties
If you must wear a tie this summer, fashion gurus recommend skinny ties in traditional solid colors and mini prints for the best value. Splurge on an iridescent tie for color punch and fashion flair. Shop online at Absoluteties.com for a wide selection of fashionable skinny ties at a budget-friendly price.
www.absoluteties.com
Polos
Summer barbeques and parties plus polo shirts and shorts are made for each other. Look for pique or pima cotton polos in the latest fashion colors. Keep in mind that the fashion mantra for the season is “basic, traditional” and invest in polo shirts from designer labels like Ralph Lauren or Lacoste. Neutrals like putty or gray, basic black or white, and accent colors like green, red or yellow keep you in the fashion trend groove.
www.ralphlauren.com, www.lacoste.com
Jeans
Slim, tight jeans are a fashion must-have! Straight leg or boot cut pants are both popular, but pairing them with the new sock-less look will take outfits up a notch. Top them off with a traditional polo and show everyone your fashion sense. Buy the latest fashion trend jeans at Topman.com.
www.topman.com
Shirts
Shirts for summer are following the trend back to basics with an twist of unique fabrics and textures. Best buys in shirting fabric are non-iron cottons or linens. Ask for interesting weaves like twill, pin point cotton, oxford or end on end. Mini plaids or bolder window panes are a smart fashion choice. Brook Brothers online offers three ready-made shirts for $199, or you can custom design a shirt for $110 – 450.
www.brooksbrothers.com
Whatever your summer fashion choices, remember to look for value and quality. Well chosen traditional classics that will transition into fall and winter will be your best budget choices
Source:
www.ocregister.com/ocr/sections/lf_style/article_611062.php
