The Top Menswear Trends From Toronto’s Fall/Winter 2017 Fashion Shows
Canadian men will be spoiled for choice when FW17 rolls around, thanks to not one, not two, but three different platforms that were available to menswear designers to showcase their upcoming collections in Toronto. Between the new-to-the-scene RE\SET, the second FashionCAN at Yorkdale, and the veteran TOM now in its sixth season, there were plenty of noteworthy men’s looks that came down the runway. These are the trends you need to know about for next fall.
City Slicker
If you’ve yet to find the perfect leather motorcycle jacket for your wardrobe, you’re in luck this fall. There were plenty of traditional black options, but designers also played with the style for those willing to take a risk. Andrew Coimbra offered up a cropped version that lends itself to layering, Hendrixroe’s eye-catching collection featured metallic motos, and Rudsak reimagined the classic silhouette in a rich plum tone.
Cuff ‘Em
Denimheads have been cuffing their jeans for years, but we’re seeing the return of the cuff to every pant in a man’s wardrobe. Whether trousers, slacks, or joggers, the rolled hem is a perfect finishing touch. Along with the comeback of cuffs, we’re also seeing a rise in popularity of fuller pants with pleats. “I think they just help freshen up the wardrobe,” designer Christopher Bates explained. “It feels right. They’re not the same as the traditional pleated pant, where the whole pant was voluminous — they’re actually still tapered from the knee down.”
Relax, Just Do It
Returning as the official grooming sponsor of TOM, American Crew made sure the models were on trend and looking their best for their turn on the catwalk. Trim hairstyles and facial hair are still going strong, but with a slightly more relaxed feel than in past seasons. “We’re seeing more length to the hair, and so we’re getting into more of an natural, broken up, lived-in look instead of super constructed,” explains hairstylist Mary Cassola. “We’re incorporating some texture in the hair cut itself, and having that great foundation it makes it really effortless to style. Using American Crew’s Heavy Hold Pomade brings out that texture and adds some shine without getting too sculpted.” When it comes to beards, stylist Domenic Commisso believes men need to be more conscious about caring for them: “A dry beard looks unruly. Something that looks a little more moist or wet looks a little bit cooler. American Crew’s Beard Serum adds shine with an instant moisturizer and softens the hair so you don’t get that coarse wiry feel to the beard.”
Seeing Red
Red is a power colour for the man that means business and isn’t afraid to stand out. The best way to wear this fiery hue this season is head to toe. Yep, you heard us: more is more is more when it comes to crimson. Make a big impact by layering it on thick — think a suit with a sweater underneath and a big overcoat on top. If you really need to break it up, mix in some black, or take things a step further by adding some eye-catching gold accessories.
Hoods Up
You probably have plenty of hoodies in your wardrobe, but the versions that came down the FW17 runway made a strong case for adding another to your collection. Xian’s was crossed with an anorak and made from suede, Kollar added in a sculptural hood and a barely-there front pocket, while Hip and Bone topped off a traditional sweatshirt with a luxe, shearling-lined hood.
Uniform Dressing
Military influences are par for the course when it comes to menswear, and as to be expected, there are plenty of bombers and camo pieces to choose from this season. If you’re looking to change it up, the officer’s jacket feels fresh and adds a more tailored touch to army-inspired style. These ones aren’t as ornate as the original, ditching the decorative braiding for a more minimalist take on the jacket, instead playing with cut and fabrication. Christopher Bates took inspiration from the Mounties for his version, celebrating Canada’s 150th anniversary with a bright red jacket with black accents and brass buttons.
Photography: Che Rosales / George Pimentel
