From international to Pakistani fashion weeks, we notice a plethora of designers but only a few that stand out. When it comes to men’s fashion, that already small number becomes almost miniscule. There are two distinct categories when it comes to menswear in Pakistan: the effeminate that always borders on queer costume and the classic masculine, which we love whether it comes in traditional or western avatar.

Discarding the impractical costumes, Instep looks at various trends seen in menswear, as viewed at various and recently held fashion weeks…

A Casual Summer

When it comes to classic precision, Omar Farooq of Republic is the designer to refer to; it’s no wonder that man of the moment, Fawad Khan is the face of his brand. But stars and showstoppers apart, it was the collection that had its own star power. The trends that we took away: a spotlight on white and camel, high trousers, cool and casual shapes. The designer also allowed some florals into the well structured jackets to allow men to connect with their sensitive side. Much needed, we think!

The Bejeweled Armoire

The Amir Adnan collection showcased at the Telenor Pakistan Fashion Week was the perfect mix of royal tones and deep colours. From the gold and bronze to the deep ruby red and emerald green, the collection spoke of a rich heritage. The piece de résistance was definitely the bejeweled tie, which was encrusted with various gemstones. The whole concept, whether seen on a sash, an armband or a belt, was bedazzling!

Connect the dots

Some pieces from the HSY menswear collection for TPFW spoke volumes for summer trends. One guaranteed-to-always-work trend was the combination of polka dots and stripes. Classic and well cut with an undertone of fun, the bright stripes, plaids and polka dots paired with solid colours came across as a definite mood lifter for menswear in Pakistan, which often borders on safe and conventional.

Stripes Do a Solid

The Fall/Winter Fendi collection showcased at the Milan Men’s Fashion Week displayed a use of stripes contrasting with solid monochromatic colors. It seems that if nothing works, stripes do. However, the use of greys and blacks seemed quite overused and made one wish that brighter complimenting colours could have been used. The stripes, however, picked up the collection.

The British Invasion

Leave it to Vivienne Westwood to introduce sleek and smart British style to the runways of Milan. From her ethnically British style long coats to the plaid trousers, it all screamed ‘I am Britain and I am proud of it.’ Using some of the same trends that have been seen globally, plaids, stripes and deep colors seemed to compliment Westwood’s collection more than anyone else.  The bold looking British Jack stylized cardigan stood out and confirmed why Vivienne Westwood is Vivienne Westwood!

Pictures from TFPW and PSFW by Tapu Javeri and Faisal Farooqui