Boys Will Be Boys: Spring/Summer 2013

Looks from (left to right): Gucci, Paul Smith, Givenchy and Phillip Lim

For all you stylish men out there, we are pleased to launch our new men’s column penned by our style expert, Ayub Mohamed. Check back regularly for the latest trends and coolest brands in men’s wear. First up this week – a review of the hottest trends coming up next season. Read on to find out more…

The spring/summer 2013 collections in Paris and Milan represent a man who is way more comfortable expressing his individuality. Finally sexuality has become less of an issue, so anything goes.

It was all about clean tailoring and an interesting play on proportions, while sports wear and leisure dressing were strong influences. Colour and prints are still a big story although designers have a fresh new take on them.

Below are my key trends for the season.

Looks from (left to right): Dolce & Gabbana, Dries Van Noten, Acne and Jil Sander

Colour Play

I have always loved colour, and 2013 is brilliant – no pun intended.  Monochromatic dressing appeared on sharp, slim suits at Gucci, while colour blocking came on fitted separates at Paul Smith or as accents on accessories at Ferragamo  (especially sports shoes which are all super luxe).

Get Shorty

For instant fashion cred, try out the short suit which is made with light, airy fabrics that play with texture and sheen. For a more casual look, try the new short with a more voluminous silhouette cut at the knee or just below. The look was very avant garde at Kenzo and Jil Sander. I am happy we are moving away from the tried and tested and very uncomfortable nut huggers.

Looks from (left to right): Paul Smith, Louis Vuitton, Kenzo and Lanvin

The Icons

Four classics – the bomber, trench, raincoat and parka – are given a luxe update. Designers didn’t mess around with classic details and instead used technical fabrics, fine cottons, luxurious satin and yes, colour again. I’m loving the metallic finishes – everyone needs a bit of bling. Mugler , Givenchy, Lanvin, Dries Van Noten and Burberry  flew the flag for sheen.

White Hot

There is something amazingly confident about being able to carry off an all white look. This season it is made easier by playing on silhouettes, textures, propositions and layering possibilities as seen at  Phillip Lim, Viktor & Rolf and Givenchy.

Looks from (left to right): Dior Homme, Burberry, Lanvin and Mugler

The New Trouser

It’s all about the carrot fit with cropped pants as seen at Paul Smith or Kris Van Assche. At Lanvin and Maison Martin Margiela there were high-waisted straight legs. These are not easy to wear  shapes if height is not one of your assets.

Casual Elegance

The knitted polo inspired by the 1950s is an essential for next summer – it’s casual while still looking chic.  Choose bright solids or open knit styles.  They are mostly fitted to the body so get into shape boys!

Looks from (left to right): Canali, Kris Van Assche, Trussardi and  Givenchy

Print Evolution

The print trend continues but with a strong emphasis on engineered prints using retro graphics, florals and ethnic inspirations.  Bold Stripes also add a sporty vibe while camouflage prints are less military and more urban futuristic. My favorite prints were at Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry and Dries Van Noten.

The Square Top

As celebrated by Prada, the oversized square silhouette creates a quirky yet modern look. Have fun by playing with your trousers, although your skinnies from previous seasons will match too.

Utilitarian Accessories

Leather accessories are injected with a sportswear or utility vibe. Trussadi and Kenzo managed to make the fanny pack covetable thanks to details and gorgeous leather. Sandals are the must-have footwear along with sports shoes (which are continuing on from last season). Sandals are worn with everything from suits to casual wear separates. Keep them fun through colour, materials and embellishments.

The former Global Men’s Director at Levi Strauss & Company, Ayub has been involved in conceptualising brands, developing product lines  and managing the business of fashion at a various levels over the last 14 years.