Floral prints abound on S19 menswear runways. There are packed blossoms, flat flower-power daisies, lush roses and little ditsies, all used for woven shirts, jackets, smooth knits or screened onto tees. A single bloom can be painted onto a suit jacket or heat-transfered onto a trench coat. For the true flower-lover, there are even posey-printed pants and jeans.
The one-shoulder silhouette replaces the off-the-shoulder “Bardot” as the shoulder-show neckline of choice. The one-shoulder look is a bit more sophisticated with its asymmetric cut, and offers myriad options for layering. Designers show the look on its own or worn over tees or tanks, in sleeveless or single-sleeved styles. The diagonal neckline can be slanted toward the opposite underarm, toga-style — or can drape over the top of the shoulder for a modified effect. The detail works for both knits and wovens, whether easy or body-con, and looks particularly fresh for activewear silhouettes.
The fine-gauge jersey turtleneck, a key item for layering, moves forward with prints. Geometrics, pen-and-ink scribbles, abstract leopard spots or florals are printed on smooth or ribbed knits or stretch velvets. The tops work on their own or are styled under other tees, polos or dresses, adding a fall-appropriate layer while providing visual interest.
Hoods are happening for next fall, and not just for hoodies or outerwear. Cut-and-sew pullovers — in ribbed jerseys or stretchy stocking-weight nylons — have snug-fitting head-coverings that extend from turtlenecks. While many hoods are built-in, there are also free-standing balaclava versions with hand-knitted appeal.
Mock or turtleneck pullovers are becoming the new ‘it’ accessory. Layering thin knits under dresses, sweatshirts and light jackets creates a Mod-retro yet contemporary look for next Fall. This versatile base-layer can provide a bright contrast pop, or can be in a similar hue as other pieces for a subtle tonal effect. Details like cropped or slit hemlines, flared sleeves and dimensional ribs freshen up the basic item.
