Autumn 2013 Fashion – What are the Trends to Know About?

Autumn (or fall depending where you’re from) is the season I look forward to most – especially when it comes to fashion. Sure, it’s great to be able to spend the summer hanging out in the sunshine in just shorts and a t-shirt but there’s something comforting about being able to unpack your winter woolies from storage and rediscover all those things with sleeves.

The leaves where I live are usually damper and smellier than this

But it’s not just about digging out all the old favourites, it’s the opportunity to add something new to your wardrobe too. Checking out the fall trends is something to look forward to every year – after all it pays to stay one step ahead of the game. It’s always good to be aware of coming seasonal trends before they hit the high street or mall too as that way you can narrow down which ones you want to embrace – and which ones you want to avoid.

Of course what us mere mortals will be wearing next season has already been decided by those fashion savvy individuals who attended the A/W 2013 men’s fashion shows and fashion editors and street wear style snappers with an eye for a trend who were long ago out on the sidewalks spotting recurring themes so they can tell us, runways aside, which themes are most likely to be hitting our streets this coming season.

Don’t throw away that plaid shirt just yet

So I decided to do a little research and have been checking out what those in the know have predicted will be what any self-respecting guy will want to be wearing. Of course, not every trend is right for everyone but by knowing what we can expect we can cherry pick our nods to the up and coming men’s trends. And with this being the chilly time of year, naturally accessories play an important part, which is great as this is a budget friendly (depending on how expensive your tastes are!) way to update your existing urban wear.

It looks like plaid is going to be surviving the summer and seeing us though the year. So far it’s mostly been about plaid shirts, but next season sees plaid patterns on anything and everything, from jackets and vests (body warmers) to scarves, bags and beanies. And don’t worry if you’re a self-confessed plaid shirt fan – you don’t need to stop wearing yours as they are still very much in evidence too.

Hmmm

I have to admit I’m still not quite sold on this next trend: cuffed pants and shorter length trousers. I know, I know – I’m hopelessly out of touch but I just feel more comfortable in a pair of trousers that doesn’t show my ankles. But it seems that menswear is fully onboard with cropped trousers so I guess I’ll just have to get over myself as it really does seem like this is a streetwear style that’s not going away any time soon.

Here’s an easier one; backpacks. There were hoards of guys carrying backpacks outside the autumn winter shows – which is great because backpacks are useful! They hold all your stuff and they look way better than carrying a plastic bag or that free holdall you got when you signed up for gym membership. I’m happy I can now carry my shabby backpack with pride – at least for a couple of months. Army style and smart leather were the main looks on the streets.

Ditch that sad free gym bag for good!

Another useful trend is scarves. Yes, I know what you’re thinking – who doesn’t wear a scarf in winter?! – but scarves are having a definite moment. This winter they’re coming in all shapes and sizes from small knotted cotton bandanas to chunky knitted scarves and from infinity style cowls to full on blankets. I’ll pick something stripy, knitted and colourful that will add a bright pop to my urbanwear outfits.

Last but not least: the ultimate in street wear – camo. I don’t think you can go wrong with camo and I must admit that I have mixed feelings when it pops up in the menswear shows every few years. I sort of don’t want it to be ‘a thing’ but I do relish the chance to wear the urban fashion that I already own and feel slightly on top of my game!

Too much??

Getting dressed over the coming months should be relatively easy and I’m looking forward to trying out some of the above combinations. As urban wear evolves, men’s apparel gets more interesting and it’s great that guys can let their personality shine through just as much as the women. As for me, I’m going to start getting in the mood for autumn and start rocking my favourite tee shirts, with my beaten up old army pants, some grungy DM boots and a chunky, stripy scarf. I’m not sure if it will work – but’s that half the fun, isn’t it?!

What trends will you be embracing next season? Are you a camo fan? I love scarves but are you one of those people that can’t stand having something around your neck? And how about my nemesis the cuffed pants – I’d love to hear your thoughts on those!

The London Men’s Fashion Shows: 8 Key Trends for Men in S/S14

New York, Paris, London, Milan: stylish gents everywhere have been eagerly scouring the web for the latest photos and the trends to be emerging from the men’s fashion weeks that will dictate what you’ll be wearing come spring summer 2014. Yes it might seem a long way off, after all, at the time of writing, we’re barely in July 2013, but it never hurts to be one step ahead of the fashion pack and to find out what’s going to big in a few season’s time.

Hitting the Runways

So let’s take a look through the fashion crystal ball and pull out a number of key themes that the London shows had to offer.

The New Trouser Cuff

The rolled up trouser cuffs of the past few seasons have disappeared and pants hemlines have risen even higher with distinctly shorter length trousers taking over. Many male models on the catwalks were spotted showing their bare ankles with too much flesh on show to even consider wearing a pair of socks. The slim fitting, tailored look was still in evidence although spring summer ’14 does look on course to see a big variation in men’s silhouettes too.

Sportswear is Back

Show Us Some Leg!

Never one to stray far from seasonal trends, particularly in menswear, sportswear was also back in a big way. And when I say big way, I mean it. The London shows saw models strutting their stuff in big and baggy oversized t-shirts as well as a take on basketball style shorts. Mesh sweaters, windcheater jackets and anoraks were also in evidence although the key with the new season’s sportier vibe is to keep it luxe. Fabrics were less day-glo and synthetic than previous seasons and were definitely showing a little more sporting flair.

Prints, Please

Take a Bow for Helping Kick Start a Trend

Guys who like their shirts and trousers to stand out from the crowd will be pleased as prints were very much in evidence at the London shows. A relative newcomer to menswear, designers seem to have taken the printed theme and run with it, with this season’s bird and floral prints being taken to new levels. We’re talking printed world maps to on safari style and bold stripes and western style checks. Even brightly coloured floral trousers were spotted at one show.

On Safari

Sticking with the above mentioned safari style prints, there was a distinct all-encompassing jungle feel to some of the collections shown in London. From the animal print fabrics used to the edgy ethnic style, loose fitting garments cut from lightweight fabrics walked out in earthy muted tones of brown and dark green. This is one for all you hunters out there – just don’t forget your pith helmet!

Too Much??

Classic meets Contemporary

Classic also met contemporary with some Saville Row tailors throwing caution to the wind and giving their traditional bespoke gentlemanly style a slightly more casual edge. Naturally suits were still the main look and they though were still tailored there was a definite modern touch to the cuts and colours, particularly in the suits which eschewed long trousers for knee length shorts.

Colour’s Sticking Around a Little Longer

Colour isn’t going anywhere and next spring and summer look set to be just as bright as this one with a rainbow of blues, greens, yellows, reds and turquoises all trying to grab our attention. We saw colour blocked pockets, brightly coloured tailoring, kitsch pop art designs and detailing in clashing colours such contrasting stitching or a green shirt with blue sleeves, collar and breast pocket. We say hold on to those lemon yellow, fire engine red or purple jeans you’ve been rocking this summer!

The Future’s So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades (Dated Reference Alert!)

Looks Like Teen Spirit

Whether you love it or you’re not a fan Seattle style made a return to the fashion arena in the form of updated grunge. The usual suspects were given a fresh and decidedly stylish new make-over by some of the London designers who showed us plaid shirts, granddad cardigans, trench coats, and urban men’s t-shirts with graphic prints. The difference between ‘new’ grunge and ‘old’ grunge? The threads might have been casual but there were definitely no holes in these cardigans!

Baggy Trousers

And finally, those different trouser shapes I mentioned earlier on. Yes, slim fit trousers are still around but ultra-skinny trousers pants have disappeared with many men’s London fashion week designers making the transition from skinny to slim and others going in a different direction completely and presenting the antidote in loose fitting, slouchy trousers and shorts. Good news for all you men who are hating on the skinny jean look!

New Season, New Shape

In London at least the menswear designers seemed to be determined to stir things up a little – fitting for a city that likes a healthy dollop of fun with its fashion. Whichever direction you find yourself going in in spring 2014 (or even earlier if you’re really fashion forward!) in the London collections alone you’re sure to find something to suit your style.

It’ll be Interesting to See the High Street Version…

What did you think about the collections shown at the respective men’s fashion weeks? Will you be rocking any of the above looks or did you see something you preferred in NYC, Milan or Paris? Let us know in the comments and if you’re looking for printed men’s t-shirts to stay one step ahead and embrace New Grunge already take a look at our website where our urban t-shirts are now ready to pre-order.

6 Great Alternatives to Denim

We all have that tried and trusted favourite pair of jeans we swear by but sometimes we need to switch it up a bit and get out of that denim rut. The problem is, it can be hard to know exactly how and what to wear instead – especially if you harbour the fear that you’re going to end up looking like your dad and/or an aging golfer, so read on for some suggestions for alternative bottoms to wear with your men’s t-shirts and shirts.

1)      Grey trousers: every self-respecting guy should own a smart pair of grey trousers. We’re not talking thin cotton slacks like your old school trousers or something you’d wear to the office, but a slim cut, tailored style in a good quality heavier fabric. Team with a short sleeved button down shirt and leather loafers to complete the dapper look.

2)      Linen trousers: linen doesn’t have to make you look like you’re on your way to the yacht club. Just keep the cut straight and – it goes without saying – don’t wear with a pastel lemon yellow sweater draped over your shoulders. Unless of course that’s the look you’re aiming for! Yes, linen creases, but by embracing the wrinkles you’ll achieve a slightly disheveled air of nonchalance.

Looking Suave

3)      Khakis, combats and cargo pants: call them what you will, these are an enduring staple of any man’s wardrobe and while they do go in and out of the fashion limelight, cargos make an easy-to-wear alternative to jeans and always look great when worn with a crisp, clean white men’s t-shirt.

4)      Shorts: you’ve got the climate, you’ve got the legs, why not forget your denims for a day and roll with shorts instead. Preppy, longer length men’s shorts were all over the designer catwalks for Spring Summer 2013 in a wide range of colours ranging from classic navy to bright orange. Play it safe with a white tee or go for a colour-clash in one of the brightly hued men’s tshirts that are also making their statement next season.

5)      Patterned trousers: another big stand out in men’s designer fashion for the up and coming season was pattern. Whether you want to go wild in bright prints and colours or play it down with an understated check, you should have plenty of options to choose from. Word to the wise: keep checked trousers to a slim cut to avoid looking like an extra from a Chevy Chase movie.

Hey – There’s NOTHING Wrong with Dressing Like This!

6)      Biker pants: possibly a trickier one to pull off, but since Balmain introduced their biker-style men’s trousers, other designers have been taking notice and following suit with their own more affordable versions. Cut slim and with rugged knee patches these are a directional look for the type of guy that wouldn’t be caught dead in board shorts. Wear with biker boots or a pair of slip-on Vans trainers.

So, to summarize, while it might be tempting to roll out of bed and pull on those crumpled denims that are lying on the floor, sometimes it can make a refreshing change to go for something a little different. If you like to make a statement you can be as daring as you like with this season’s men’s trousers but it’s equally possible to still create a unique look that’s a little more subtle.

Let us know what you wear when you’re trying to drag yourself out of a denim rut in the comments box and don’t forget to check out Ethereal Clothing’s great range of urban men’s t-shirts for inspiration for your top half!

Which T-shirt should I Wear with Which Jeans?

Men: such brave and daring creatures, yet if there’s one thing most guys are scared of it’s colour. If you find yourself reaching into your wardrobe (or let’s be honest, picking up yesterday’s clothes from the bedroom floor) to pull out your usual plain men’s t-shirt and jeans combo, then it’s time to start showing a little more sartorial courage when it comes to getting dressed.

But what colours work in men’s fashion and make a great outfit and which combinations will have people gasping with horror at your ‘wacky’ attempt at teaming yellow trousers with a pink t-shirt and red sneakers?

Proof that Ethereal Clothing t-shirts make you look tougher!

Of course classic, crisp (i.e. clean!) white men’s tees go with everything but we’re talking about colours and prints here, so whilst we acknowledge the universal appeal of a plain white t-shirt, read on for a few pointers as to what else will work.

Light or medium blue jeans: most colours go with lighter denim so here you can afford to experiment a little. One thing to keep in mind is your complexion. The colour of your t-shirt can make or break an outfit regardless of your jean colour. If you’re particularly pale, men’s t-shirts in pastels and whites will make you look washed out so try dark brown, dark green or jewel tones like burgundy which will compliment your fair complexion. If you’re tanned or have dark skin baby blue and bright yellow will look great on you.

Dark blue jeans: dark denim looks good with patterned t-shirts as it is strong enough to balance out a distinctive look on your top half. Ditch your usual sports team top or beer logo shirt and become instantly more stylish with a men’s tee that has a great print. Red also looks smart with navy or dark blue denim – or why not really push the boat and try pink?

Black or white jeans: I have to admit here I’m not the hugest fan of either black or white denim but if you are, my advice would be to stick with a white tee and black jeans and brightly coloured stripes with white denim.

Chinos and cotton trousers: for a summery look try blue chinos with nautical stripes in red, white and blue, whilst a yellow or brown tee will look good with green trousers.

Get ready for Ethereal Clothing!

Khakis and army trousers: avoid the Sylvester Stallone in Rambo look and quit wearing black, olive green or – heaven forbid – camouflage t-shirts and wife beaters with your combats. Chances are you’re not an urban soldier and you don’t (I hope) carry an AK-47 as your accessory of choice. Printed men’s tshirts look much more stylish with plain cargo pants, or go for brown or yellow tees in various shades, again depending on your skin tone.

Finally, the fact that you’re reading this indicates that clearly you’re a stylish guy who takes men’s fashion seriously, so forgive me if I’m preaching to the converted, but if you have any ‘comedy’ slogan or logo t-shirts lounging around on your bedroom floor do yourself, and everyone that has to look at you on a daily basis, a favour and throw them out. Give them to charity. Cut them up and use them for rags to wash the car with. Let the dog wear them. Just get rid of them. Honestly, they don’t make anyone laugh and think ‘what a witty guy’ when they look at you, they just feel pity and shame on your behalf. Harsh words maybe, but sometimes tough-love is the only way and when it comes to the sort of men’s t-shirts that are advertised with the heading ‘College Humour’ in the back of magazines, frankly my dear fellows, I don’t give a damn!

What do you think? Let us know in the comments – and don’t forget to check out our range of men’s urban t-shirts on our Ethereal clothing website!