Menswear Fall Winter 22' Fashion Weeks Report

The FW 22 season showcases a revolution in men’s fashion, emphasizing a multi-faceted and fluid identity. Key themes include the "New Age Explorer," "Youthful Irreverence," and "Dapper Dandy," revealing a shift towards delicate silhouettes, playful expression, and luxurious elegance. Designers embrace innovation in materials and styles, blending comfort with sophistication, reflecting contemporary masculinity and inclusivity.

Report extract

This fashion weeks report includes trend forecasts for Fall/Winter 2022 compared to this year, along with qualitative insights to summarise all of the highlights from the men’s FW22 collections.

Key Takeaways

New Age Explorer

The New Age Explorer theme signifies a merging of outdoor aesthetics with contemporary fashion, drawing from adventure-oriented inspirations such as aviation and climbing. Designers like Lemaire showcased collections against natural backdrops, representing urban explorers with technical, functional garments. Elements like camouflage, fleece, and cargo pants encapsulate this spirit, redefined through modern styling. This trend reflects a yearning for adventure while adapting to urban life, enriching the men's wardrobe with flexibility and comfort.

Youthful Irreverence

Amidst a digital shifting landscape, the Youthful Irreverence theme emerged, incorporating bold colors, whimsical graphic texts, and eclectic combinations. Designers like Dries Van Noten exemplified a move toward absurd styling, fostering a space where convention is challenged. The merging of playful elements such as sequined pants with traditional attire defies norms, resonating deeply with the digitally savvy youth. This trend encourages men to embrace individuality and innovative styling, driving a cultural shift toward expressive fashion choices.

Dapper Dandy

The Dapper Dandy reflects a return to sophisticated, elegant dressing with a playful twist. Spotted in collections from Fendi to Casablanca, furs, tailored suits, and various layers illustrate the contemporary dandy’s character. These garments embody a narrative of soft masculinity, with influences from feminine styles blended within traditional menswear. This blend speaks to a changing perspective on masculinity, allowing men to express a refined yet flexible wardrobe, blending classic elegance with modern flair.

Material Innovations

FW 22 is essential for material selection, focusing on luxurious fabrics such as velvet and leather alongside reclaimed furs. This season's leather expands beyond typical accessories to full outfits, signifying a versatile staple embraced across styles. Seasonal staples like turtlenecks and layering techniques dominate runways, underscoring the season's emphasis on texture and ensemble variety. Designers are pushing boundaries, creating garments that marry comfort, aesthetics, and sustainability.

Defying Gender Norms

This season sees a continued dissolution of traditional gender boundaries in fashion. Accessories like Mary Jane shoes, thin scarves, and chokers have transcended gender exclusivity, inviting diverse expressions. This openness fosters inclusivity within menswear, allowing broader audience engagement and encouraging designers to explore new design possibilities that challenge conventions, ultimately leading to a more dynamic future in fashion.

For comprehensive insights on these evolving trends shaping the future of men’s fashion, download the full report.

Other useful resources on 2022 fashion trends:
- Althleisure trends forecast: Spring 2022
- 3 keys personas of sustainable fashion
- Corsets: trend forecast