Guys: Three Trends To Follow

This morning at the gym, some guy was talking to his faghag about going to a wedding in Maine this summer but didn’t know what was appropriate to wear to an outdoor ceremony in the woods and an afternoon reception at an inn. First, let me address the ceremony issue in the woods. What kind of wedding is this? In the woods? Who’s getting married? Mama Bear and Papa Bear? Where do you tell guests to go or which landmark to look for? The big oak tree by the waterfall? Ridiculous. Second. What is appropriate to wear to an outdoor ceremony? Well, in this case mosquito repellent, big pair of rubber boots, overalls, a hat and a big smile to pretend you’re having a good time. Can you imagine the disgusting experience? In the summer in Maine and in the woods? Ouch! I can’t even begin to imagine the drama—as party favors everyone gets mosquito bites and a rotten time.

A nice suit never goes out of fashion. Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2011.
Yannis Vlamos/GoRunway.com

For a reception at an inn a nice linen suit would be very appropriate. Both trends are IN this season for men: the suit and linen. Suits never go out of fashion but they tend to transform as time and trends evolve. A great suit that is properly fitted is a must have in every men’s wardrobe; it can be casual or it can be serious and sophisticated. It can be double breasted or single, trimmed at the waist or not, it can sleek cut or casual as in a sports coat. Whatever style or cut, a suit needs to have two important characteristics: classicism and masculinity. Now, for the guy at the gym I recommend him to get a nice single breasted seersucker suit paired with loafers or wingtip. A lightweight (but high quality) and fitted beige linen suit could be great too. Linen is the best fabric for sizzling summer days. This guy didn’t sound like he was excited about going to this wedding and he looked like he could afford a nice summer suit. So splurge, you won’t regret it.

The black leather jacket is a classic that gets an update this season.
Marlon Brandon/Courtesy of Phil Stern Archives

Men’s fashion trends are slow to evolve and they are usually less dramatic (and traumatic) than women’s fashion trends. For spring/summer 2011 I recommend guys to get a nice black leather motorcycle jacket; any other color and you will look outdated and ridiculous. Make sure is leather and not pleather nor suede nor any other material that does not feel or look like leather. Think of yourself as modern Marlon Brandon in The Wild One and trust me the chicks will follow you. This trend was best achieved in the 80’s and has now reappeared as one of the best to follow this spring.



Burberry Prorsum gives the leather jacket a modern twist.
Marcio Madeira/FirstView.com
  

The next spring trend I’m going to mention is going to make some males think twice, find it appalling and some might run the opposite way. Yes fellows, “floral prints” are IN this season. Based on what some designers showcased for spring/summer, floral prints have emerged as the one trend that will hopefully catch on with the confident male or the metrosexual. Floral prints need to be minimal and tasteful—in no way, I’m suggesting getting a huge garden print—it needs to be fun and stylish. Not bold and flamboyant. Avoid large floral prints; be daring and smart. Be yourself without looking too severe.

Florals are not just for women or gay men. D&G Spring/Summer 2011.
Marcio Madeira/FirstView.com

Ladies, if you have a man in your life (or a good gay friend) encourage them to splurge on a nice suit, a crisp linen shirt or a pair of modern shorts. His college clothes must go; he needs to grow up. Remember, “If he doesn’t look good, you don’t look good.” Spending some cash in a couple of trendy items can get expensive, but the investment is great and long lasting. Do not allow your boyfriend or husband to walk out of the door looking like a caveman or a creature who doesn’t want to be taken serious. Or he simply doesn’t love you or cares about you—if he loved you he wouldn’t make himself look unattractive or ghastly unappealing.  
 

A confident man wears florals.
D&G Spring '11. Marcio Madeira/FirstView.com