Glam-rock fashions rule the runway this year, but denim friendly designs still rule the street.Denim, paired with a casual woven or t-shirt, remains the basis of a successful fashion-forward wardrobe and shows no sign of a slow down.
The casual long sleeve woven is still the choice most men prefer when hitting the upscale bars and restaurants of Tampa’s SoHo district. It’s a great way to kick up a comfortable pair of jeans. Gone is the myriad of stripes that reigned supreme in 2006. (Come on guys, how many striped shirts can you have in your closet before your woman gets bored to tears?) They have been replaced with more creative fabric patterns, print over print designs, asymmetrical stencils, and bold stitching. The more creative, the better. Labels like Roar, English Laundry, Fender Guitar and 7Diamonds lead the pack in 2007.
Hard 8 Sinner Tee shirt
The fashion t-shirt remains a crucial element in today’s wardrobe, and designers continue to reinvent them with creative new ideas. Consider these trends that you’ll see among designer t-shirts:
- The return of the V-neck. The physically fit guy drives this trend – and it’s a great way to show off a nice chest without looking like you’re trying too hard. If you are uncomfortable with showing more skin try adding a chain or leather cord around your neck to fill in the V.
- T-shirts with stones and metal studs have been showing up everywhere and show no signs of letting up. This is an L.A. and Miami driven trend that has really taken off in Tampa Bay. It is an über-cool look that gives a hint of rebel rocker to your personality. Top of the label list in this category is LA-based Hard 8. This label is showing up on celebrities coast-to-coast.
- Rich and detailed enzyme-washed tees that combine lots of color, intricate designs, laser cuts, patchwork and foil are big news. Look for fashion details to start showing up on the sleeves. Labels that define this look are Monarchy, Affliction and Drifter.
- In the “been there, done that” category are skulls. Swords, crosses, iconic Byzantine and Celtic images and other old-world references have replaced them.
He realized that every mark, every stain, tear and mend was a small souvenir reminding him of the places he’d been, the things he’d done and the people he’d known. He returned to California and began to create a brand that reflected the “nomadic lifestyle.” And, it made sense- and earned raves from those who enjoy his designs. Let’s look at some of the trends in the seriously resilient look of denim.
Denim is definitely trending cleaner. While worn, torn and well traveled is still the look; obvious rips and tears have been replaced by more subtle abrasions and whiskering.Wider boot legs and baggy jeans have given way to either straight leg or narrower boot cuts that flair no more than an inch at the opening. My favorite is the new cowboy cut by 1921 Jeans that features a slight bowed leg. It is masculine and provides ample room for larger quads without giving up a clean silhouette.
While denim has trended darker over the last year in other parts of the country, Floridians have largely resisted this trend. Look for medium and light washes to continue their strength here in the Bay area.
Pocket flaps have made a big dent in the denim market thanks to labels like True Religion. While the trend is strong I recommend staying away from the huge, oversized pocket flaps, as these will likely not stand the test of time. Check out the more subtle flap pocket jeans by MEK denim and 1921.
Embroidered designs and pick stitches have made the jump from women’s to men’s designs in the last year. Remember that subdued designs are better when wearing a fashion shirt. If you choose a design that is more in your face, wear it with an understated shirt and let your jeans tell your fashion story.
On the bright side, look for denim prices to moderate. An influx of denim labels and push back from consumers who saw premium denim prices go through the roof has finally awakened denim labels who have taken advantage of the market over the last few years.
Hybrid fashion/athletic shoes by Puma are making a strong showing for everyday wear. If you like attention, however, leather boots, complete with crosses, buckles, rings and fashion stitching, by Mark Nason are going to be huge winners this year.
Finally, while fashion has definite trends, don’t take them or yourself too seriously. Remember, it’s fashion. It is supposed to be fun and speak to your individuality. Create your own look by wearing what makes you feel good or from getting the reaction you want from people you meet. Experiment and, by all means, have some fun!
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