2017 was another great year in fashion and specifically, men's fashion. We saw the re-emergence of the fanny pack and some great brand and designer collaborations that blended accessibility and style, all while adding another dimension to men's style. As with any fashion introduction, some things will catch on and become wildly popular and others will only be adopted by a select few but its all meant to drive interest and ultimately sales. Regardless of where you fall on the continuum, 2017 brought some bold ideas to the forefront and once again challenged our beliefs about style, fashion and trends. Let's time travel through 2017 and recap some of the key moments in men's fashion.
Jumpsuits/Rompers
The spring and summer seasons saw the rise of the male romper. Long thought to be impractical for men, designers challenged that notion by creating pieces that were stylish, clever and sometimes whimsical. All in an effort broaden the men's clothing landscape and bring a little levity and fun to men's fashion.
Fanny Packs
Once maligned as "geekwear" or reserved for "unhip day-trippers", the fanny pack saw renewed interest as high-end designers made their mark on the this accessory. By redefining the shape, using high-quality materials and sending them down the runways of New York, Milan and Paris, fanny packs are more sophisticated, elegant and modern than ever before.
Raf Simons x Calvin Klein
After recently being named Chief Creative Officer at Calvin Klein, Belgium-born designer Raf Simons brought his creative vision to the understated brand. Simons debuted his highly anticipated first collection in the Fall of 2017. While Simons still maintains his namesake clothing label, Raf Simons, he'll be the main creative force behind Calvin Klein. Simons design aesthetic has minimalist leanings with a deep connection to youth culture and clearly aligns with the Calvin Klein brand. This role will give Simons broader commercial accessibility. Simons appointment is another fashion big bet where Calvin Klein is looking to strengthen its position among other premium brands and grow retail sales to $10 billion.
Levi's Trucker Jacket 50th Anniversary
A timeless classic, the Levi's trucker jacket is a quintessential piece of American culture. This year it celebrated its 50th year. While the original denim jacket dates back to the late 1800s, the current version as we know it today, was introduced in the 1960s. The jacket isn't only available in denim but in a variety of fabrics from leather to corduroy. It's a year round essential that every guy should own.
Ugly sneakers
Or as some might say, pretty in an unconventional way. Designers have moved towards fashion sneakers that are bulkier, less streamlined and definitely eye-catching. In fact, some wearers have said the shoes are so ugly that they look good. Go figure. Whatever your personal feelings are, the shoes are here to stay at least for this upcoming year and maybe beyond.
Pajama game
A few years ago, the thought of wearing pajamas outside of the house, let alone on the red carpet, would've been considered odd behavior. Or it would've been thought that you'd fallen and bumped your head. Fast forward to this year and pajama-wear not only showed up but looked pretty damn good. Dress slippers have already gained popularity but pajamas were popping up in the unlikeliest of places and gaining attention. The pajamas referenced here aren't the oversized cotton ones you get from your significant other or your kids. These are more high-end and tailored using luxurious-to-the-touch fabrics. Sometimes the entire matching ensemble is worn other times it's worn as separates and paired with other pieces to create a modern and sophisticated outfit. In any event, pajamas as day or evening wear was something that become more possible in 2017.
What were some of your favorite menswear items from this year? What menswear items are you looking forward to seeing in 2018? Let me know.
Stay stylish friends...