The Fair Media Council’s resident style expert, Janine Giorgenti, takes on men’s fashion for 2016 and tells you what you should be wearing in the office and at networking events. Plus, not only will you find out how Millennials are impacting workplace fashion, you’ll discover why you suddenly can’t live without a sweater vest. Read on…
Simply put, ‘Dressing up is in. Dressing down is not.’
There is an overwhelming awareness by men – from all generations – that image matters. The Millennials, with their thirst for power and success in business, society, and social media; are leading the charge. They are the modern-day baby boomers, having survived the crash of 2008. Millennials went from having everything to a state of struggle when Mommy and Daddy’s savings and retirement funds diminished overnight.
Inherently, fashion has a way of reflecting societal conditions. When times are good, dress becomes relaxed. Conversely, when times are bad; people take their image seriously!
Also ushering in a new wave surge in fashion and style are the first generation of immigrants. Pushed by ‘tiger moms’ and cultural standards of success; this generation is well educated and does not hold back with their panache for luxury branded accessories and smart stylish clothes.
Popular Suit Styles
Businessmen – today – are embracing contemporary slim cut suits; shorter in length, sculptured in fit, with medium width lapels and trim cut, with non-pleated pants.
As far as colors go, indigo blue and steel grey make the mantle for ‘must have’ suit colors. Both colors symbolize style, professionalism, and versatility. You simply cannot go wrong with either color.
Additionally, many are adding custom design elements to accentuate their outfit’s appeal and overall fashion sense. Chief among today’s stand out custom suit features are decorative linings and accent colors, contrast color buttonhole lapels, and sleeve buttonholes.
Popular Dress Shirts
As simple as it sounds, a pure white shirt with a medium to spread collar reigns as the ultimate fashion look for 2016. White collars and cuffs have gained popularity and stripes are making a strong come back.
Patterned and printed dress shirts are popular for a dressy casual look.
Check shirts are worn – open collared – with blazers and sport coats.
The Sport Coat
The sport coat is the hottest trend for 2016.
Sport coats have been gaining popularity over the past few years and are now in full bloom. The sport coat adds power to a shirt and dress slack ensemble. It also profiles as a ‘hot’ look worn with jeans, a check shirt, brown belt, brown monk shoes, and patterned socks.
Jeans
Torn and strategically tattered on weekends with Jordan’s, however; pressed and pristine in the boardroom with a cool-looking sport jacket, well-fitted shirt and polished stylish leather shoes.
Sweater Vests
Sweater vests worn over an open collared dress shirt topped with a blazer is not only a finished look, but also trending for 2016. The dapper look adds personality to the ensemble.
Dress slacks
For a business casual look; a well-fitting dress slack is a must have!
Frankly guys, ‘it’s all about da base.’ Women check this out too and, let’s just say, no one likes to see a saggy…base.
Shoes
Shoes are so important, yet so neglected. Cheap looking, worn, dull, and scuffed shoes just don’t cut it and KILL an outfit! Spend money on a stylish, good quality pair of leather shoes. Comfort is not an excuse. There are comfortable shoes on the market that combine good quality and design.
Socks
As pants become slimmer and shorter, there is a need to balance the look with decorative coordinating socks.
No longer just for Millennials on Instagram, decorative socks are a very popular trend and shows your fashion savvy.
Topcoat
There is nothing worse than seeing a man in a suit, wearing a bomber jacket or some ridiculous looking coat. Men, listen up! When you wear a suit or sport coat ensemble, you need an appropriate topcoat.
Smart clothing technology
Of everything I wrote about, the most exciting change in men’s fashion is in the advancement of Smart Clothing Technology (also referred to as ‘Nano’ Technology).
Jeans that stretch, knit tops that wick away the sweat and have great recovery. Suits with stretch panels under the armpit for movement and comfort. A touch of Lycra in fabrics for comfort, ease, and mobility.
Performance enhanced clothing is like ‘clothes on steroids.’ They are softer, more durable, wrinkle resistant, and water resistant.
Put it all together now
The New Year presents an opportunity for a fresh start. Now that you know what to wear and how to put it together, step out with style, confidence, and an image that brands you.
Have a style question? Contact Janine Giorgenti, Giorgenti New York, at janine