What To Wear: SS19 Key Pieces

Spring has finally sprung and with it comes new season in the form of an expertly curated selection of the top menswear trends that graced the runways. 

Following on from our SS19 Menswear Trend Report, our men’s buyers have picked their top 10 key styles to invest in this season. With a strong emphasis on utility and high-performance, SS19’s menswear is moving streetwear style forward and bringing in a contemporary workwear aesthetic that can be incorporated into any look whilst maintaining a level of practicality. 

The Swiss Army knife of jackets, the utility vest is the protective layer you need for SS19 and beyond. With high-performance becoming a big feature in this season’s styling, luxury fashion is taking cues from classic outdoor workwear and creating pieces that deliver on functionality as well as style. Synonymous with SWAT teams, construction workers and fisherman, the classic utility vest has been reworked by the likes of Heron Preston and 1017 ALYX 9SM to assist survival in this modern, urban jungle.

Logos and slogans have been dominating our T-shirt collection for some time but this summer we are really throwing it back with graphic prints. The resurgence of this youthful style has us feeling all nostalgic, with a mix of cartoon prints from Off-White and Balenciaga and band-style graphics from Raf Simons. Easy to wear, the graphic T-Shirt can be paired with jeans and a bomber jacket for a distinct ‘90s vibe. 

A continuation of the ‘dad’ sneaker that has been dominating street style for the past few seasons, performance footwear is bringing a new, practical element to your sneaker game. A slightly more aggressive-looking aesthetic, these high-tech trainers include a range of design elements that help support your walk, from trek soles to easy-pull cross lace systems. Often presented in bold, bright colourways from brands such as Mizuno and Salomon S/Lab, the performance sneaker is the must-have shoe for the summer.

D.I.Y style at its finest, tie-dye is back with an effortless California-style edge. Whether it is a T-shirt, jacket or jeans, tie-dye styles are here to give you the option of adding a spot of colour into your mostly tonal wardrobe. If you prefer the head-to-toe colour wave then Stain Shade will provide the goods. Representing more of a ‘70s vibe, Amiri and Vyner Articles are a bit bolder and braver but undeniably cool. 

With a practicality theme running throughout SS19 menswear, it seems only fitting that the accessories continue this trend. The Velcro wallet on a chain that used to tuck into our jean pockets has had an upgrade, taking up residence around your neck. Never lose your wallet again with this handy innovation, that has inspired Jacquemus, Balmain and Prada for SS19. Ideal for keeping on your person during beach and city breaks, it is a fashion statement with a useful purpose. (Win, win!)

Previously forbidden territory, the floral shirt has had a bad reputation this last decade, but that is about to change with SS19’s retro versions of this playful style. Following on from Prada’s nod to the flame shirt from AW19, this bold choice is surprisingly easy to pull off when paired with some slim-fit trousers. Whether you prefer the smarter long sleeve from Jacquemus and Martine Rose or Hawaii vibes from Prada, a subtle dose of feminine styling is key this season. 

From ‘ugly’ shoes to ‘ugly’ trousers, the cargo pants beloved by ‘90s dads on holiday have made a comeback. With the utilitarian trend pushing the boundaries of luxury fashion, the cargo pant has been regenerated, combining comfort and style. With elements of grunge, high-performance and traditional workwear the cargo trouser comes in a variation of forms, from Liam Hodges’ baggy, casual sweatpants to the tailored styles by Song for the Mute and Nemen. 

Take a quick glance around during London Fashion Week Men’s and you will bear witness to many bag-wearing men that have reworked the humble ‘bum bag’ and styled it cross-body. This key casual bag of past seasons has now graduated to the smarter cross-body 2.0, waving goodbye to nylon and saying hello to leather and suede. Taking inspiration from women’s city bag styles, the new man-bag has a more elevated appeal than its ‘fanny pack’ predecessor. Go hands free with the belt bag from Burberry, or stay true to your cross-body look with Prada and Valentino. 

Words by Alexandra Oliver