Trend Report: Menswear 2012

The Monsieur’s Brief: Expect collections to either make you look like a wrangler, lumberjack or 70s retro chic sans bell bottoms.

Mick Jagger Swagger: Gucci Navy Blue Suit – $1650

While Mad Men slim lapels are still classic, the flavor of the season bring us to the rocking 70s. As a follower of strategic sartorialism (key pieces that are stylish forever) I have to give my endorsement for this suit from Gucci. It’s cut slim giving it a contemporary look with distinct 1970s flavour- while the larger-than-life lapels might be a turn off to some, I feel that it otherwise lends a distinctive look for a very classic navy blazer. Worn on it’s own with jeans or turtle neck, you still wouldn’t look out of place present day. It’s an easy choice for the clueless, this five-button cuffs suit with double back vents, horse bit lining and top welt and front flap pockets features only one button for that devil may care look (incidentally also great for those confused which button to button types). [Shop here]

Bond on a Budget: J.Crew Tuxedo – $525

Continuing our review of Menswear 2012 trends, I present the Ludlow one-button shawl-collar tuxedo jacket with double-vented back. Don’t knock the J. Crew Tuxedo, they’ve clearly put a lot of thought into this piece. Made with the finest Italian wool (150 year old Lanificio Di Tollegno mill no less) and impeccably tailored to James Bond’s specifications, this shawl-collar dinner jacket from a sartorial basics store is a fashion coup no less. Equipped with bespoke details like interior pick stitching and full Bemberg lining, the Ludlow is a tuxedo that even Frank Sinatra HAS TO endorse. [Shop here]

Basic: Zara Herringbone White Shirt – $59.90

Style has always revolved around one keyword- fit. Slim fit has been around for at least the last 2 years now (thankfully the trend continues) and for the working man, it’s a Godsend for those disinclined to spend extra lucre on a tailored shirt; Spanish fashion retailer Zara comes through for us once more with this form fitting narrow collar herringbone shirt, the texture of the fabric is simply sublime. If herringbone isn’t your cup of tea, there’s a twill version in the image gallery of this article. The great thing about a basic white shirt is that whether it’s on you or worn by the woman of your dreams the next morning, it’s every bit as versatile. [Shop here]

Accessorise this 2012

Gingham Skinny Tie [Shop here] Warby Parker Luna Fade Glasses [Shop here] Calibre de Cartier [Shop here]