ALPHA MALE: Style Trends for 2012

Wednesday, January 04, 2012

Marc Streisand, GoLocalProv Men's Style Expert

Denim remains hotter than ever in 2012--look for unstructured blazers + more.

Fashion trends dictate that the next year is going to be a continuation of what’s been in style this year. However, there are many new facets that these trend setters have introduced in men’s fashion.

1. Trousers – styling and tailoring

Most designers have been showcasing rolled up trousers on the runways this year. It seems the next big thing in trouser styling will be to roll up the bottom edge about an inch and a half above the shoes. The look can be accompanied with or without socks. Another look that is trending is in the cut and tailoring of the trousers. Designers are focusing more on silhouettes that flatter a more physical body shape. So, if you haven’t

been in the gym for a while, this would probably be a good time.

2. Contrasting styles

Until now, men’s fashion focused on either geometric prints or plain minimalist designs. Of late, designers have taken to pairing the two very distinct styles, creating a unique look. A trend typically seen on the runways is to pair minimalist uppers with animal and geometric print lowers. So, for all you men who love to layer, it's here to stay.

3. Classic and traditional

Spring 2012 will see a return to classic cuts and styles as well as colors. White, orange, powder gray, all will continue to be a strong color next year but with occasional pops of intense colors. For example, regular tan shoes could have vibrant shoelaces, or the newly reinvented desert boot could be in intense colors like electric blue or yellow, for an extra flair. Stovepipe trousers, or what I call, butt-huggers, will be big next year as will be classic suits and fabrics like tweed, silk and linen. And, welcome back to the 80's with Gordon Gecko slicked back hair and sharp styles parted on the side.

4. Denim blazers

Although we've seen denim become a staple in men's wardrobes, next year will see this trend into blazers. Bright colored jeans will also be a big trend next year. A continues trend will be the unlined blazers, which not only look and feel great but are also very travel-friendly, and no longer in just cottons, but wrinkle resistant wools as well. Denim shirts with chunky knit blazers will also be a big trend in 2012.

5. Color

The strongest color I see trending right now is a relative to one of my favorites, rust. I've seen it everywhere. Every show, every designer is using it, and it's even trending to cars. Trousers, cargos, boots, and accessories will all have some amount of this color in spring 2012. A twist to this interesting color will be rust shoes in suede fabric.

Some of the biggest fashion trends in will be detailing, pops of color in shoes, garments and accessories. The traditional, classic looks as well as retro styles will continue to dominate men’s fashion next year. Enjoy the ride.

Marc Streisand is president and owner of Marc Allen Fine Clothiers, and takes the custom clothing business very personally. Having enjoyed a successful career in the clothing industry since 1985, Marc brings his clients extensive specialized experience in menswear. Prior to taking over the Marc Allen store in March 2005, he cultivated his knowledge of luxury male attire in New York and his home state of New Jersey, where he began his vocation at Wallach's Specialty Stores. Nothing gives him greater pleasure, he says, than seeing raw cloth transformed into a custom outfit that can directly impact his customer's lifestyle.

Don't miss Marc Streisand's style tips for men on GoLocalTV, fresh every day at 4pm and on demand 24/7, here.

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