AW18 Menswear Trend Report

The Autumn/Winter 18 man defies convention, isn’t afraid of a bold print and loves getting all nostalgic. Men’s fashion has definitely become more experimental over the past few seasons with the gender divide appearing increasingly smaller. Trends that were deemed ‘ugly’ have returned to prove beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder. Our Menswear Buying team’s rundown of the top five fashion trends are here to break the rules and inspire.

Double dare or triple dare? Layered denim has been reinvented for AW18 to destroy the existing memory we have of this fashion taboo. Now the uniform of the modern day cowboy, head-to-toe denim gives us the nostalgia of 1950’s workwear and not the 2001 AMA’s. Rock the vintage Louisiana State Penitentiary uniform in Liam Hodges, go bold in blue with Maison Margiela and stay true to the skinny fit in Vyner Articles.

The ‘Dad Sneaker’ as it is seldom known has taken over our trainer collections in recent times, fusing what was once ‘ugly’ shapes with high-performance technology. Gone are the super chunky soles in exchange for runner silhouettes and walking boots. Support athleisure at its finest with a pair of Balenciaga Track Sneakers, pare it back with a hybrid Nappa Lace Up from Calvin Klein 205W39NYC and go bold or go home in Gucci Flashtreks.

“Now this is a story all about how…” you remember the rest. The ‘90s bring back memories of puffer jackets, shell suits and plenty of logo branded merch. AW18 has revisited the decade that brought us A.C. Slater and Push Pops, embracing everything from the neon accessories to the multi logo prints. Rave all night in Day-Glo Balenciaga, layer up that nylon in Fendi and show your allegiance in Martine Rose.

A dandy display of kaleidoscopic prints makes for an exciting visual experience. A brave and bold statement, these portrayals of modern art are breaking the menswear boundaries of style. Be an optical illusion in Comme des Garçons, combine heritage checks with Dries Van Noten and re-live those flame shirts (you had one, admit it) with Prada. #jeffgoldblumworeitbetter

The grandad knits are taking a new form this season, incorporating slogans, bold prints and oversized shapes. The ‘70s winter warmers have returned to give the trusty sweatshirt a run for its money with their intricate detailing and hardy reputation. Maintain your oversized aesthetic in A-COLD-WALL*, play with prints in Calvin Klein 205W39NYC and take inspiration from Scott of the Antarctic in Jil Sander.

Words by Alexandra Oliver