Lifestyle & Smart living

Seven universal menswear trends that will stand the test of time

Seven universal menswear trends that will stand the test of time

Though fashions come and go, some will never change – especially when it comes to simple, adaptable classics. So, without further ado, here are seven universal timeless menswear trends that will surely stand the test of time.

Biker chic

Biker chic has been trendy for generations. The 1970s saw this style rocked by Marlon Brando, pairing skinny jeans with a leather jacket, just like in Grease. By the 1990s, the style was more popular with the punk, Brit Pop and grunge movements, and, in the 2000s, leather is still utilised by metal lovers and indie souls alike.

Simply pairing favourite skinny jeans (or even leather trousers) with a plain tee and a vintage leather jacket will give an effortless and timeless everyday look. This can be worn with either trainers or Dr Marten’s, depending on the vibe. 

T-shirt and blazer combo

Jeans and a t-shirt have been a wardrobe staple for decades. Adding a blazer over the top of the t-shirt is a surefire way to make the outfit that little bit more smart, perfectly straddling the smart-casual aesthetics.

Coupling with a pair of smarter trainers or relaxed loafers, a handheld bag or satchel and a pair of sunglasses (when the great British weather allows) will do the trick.

Shirt and chinos

Having a functional and stylish wardrobe does not have to mean packing it to the brim. Instead, some high-quality mix-and-match pieces are a much more efficient use of space and money.

This can be seen in the timeless classic pairing of a dress shirt and chinos. Some high-quality chinos and shirts for men in a range of different neutral colours will provide endless combinations to play with every day.

Riviera style

The French navy uniform in the mid-1800s consisted of a white tee with horizontal navy stripes, known now as a Breton top. Since then, the Breton top has become a wardrobe staple, and the core element of a smart yet casual Riviera style.

A Breton top can be worn with navy jeans or tan chinos for a more casual look, or dressed up with a smart double-breasted navy blazer for more formal occasions.

Lightweight tailoring

Tailored clothes can feel heavy – but, for decades, men have been utilising linen suits as a way to stay cool and professional. Many opt for pale neutrals or pastels, depending on how zazzy they want the outfit to be.

Professional with an edge

Working attire is another element of men’s fashion that has stood the test of time. However, being professional does not have to mean bypassing being stylish. A great way to work the trend is to pop on a favourite shirt and suit trousers, but instead layer over a leather jacket for an edgy professional look.

Turtleneck and blazer combo

From Steve Jobs to Michael Caine, the black turtleneck and slim trouser pairing is a classic. A turtleneck can be dressed up with a black blazer for extra formality – a black double-breasted blazer works particularly well.

As is clear, despite fashion trends changing constantly, some menswear trends are timeless classics, guaranteed to stand the test of time for many years to come.

The editorial unit

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