As an online retailer, staying ahead of the latest menswear trends is crucial for driving sales and customer satisfaction. To help you curate a winning Spring/Summer 2024 collection, we’ve analyzed the latest runway shows, market data, and consumer trends to identify the 10 key men’s apparel items that should be on your radar. From updated classics to fresh statement pieces, these styles strike a balance between familiarity and novelty that will resonate with a broad range of male consumers. Read on to discover how to incorporate these essential items into your Spring/Summer ’24 assortment.
Table of Contents
1. The knitted polo remix
2. Striped tees beyond basics
3. Non-tropical resort shirts
4. ’70s-inspired printed shirts
5. Sleeveless knits to invest in
6. Chunky cardigans still rising
7. Baggy shorts for every occasion
8. Relaxed chinos reinvented
9. Sporty cargos with a twist
10. Pleated trousers smartly tailored
11. Raw denim revival
12. Lightweight suits for summer
13. Black suits make a comeback
14. Tech shells combine form and function
The knitted polo remix
The knitted polo continues to be a strong seller, acting as a refined yet casual building block for men’s summer wardrobes. To keep this staple feeling fresh for Spring/Summer ’24, focus on fit, fabric and details to cater to different audiences.
For a sophisticated customer, opt for slimmer fits in luxe materials like sustainable cashmere or silk blends. Pair with tailored shorts or chinos for a polished warm-weather look. To capture a more youthful streetwear vibe, choose relaxed fits in easy-care cottons with retro design elements like zip necks and contrast tipping.
Color is also key from timeless neutrals to vintage-inspired pastels and brights. Consider styling with the season’s trending baggy pants and statement slides for an of-the-moment feel. By offering a considered mix of silhouettes, fabrics and shades, you can make this perennial piece feel right for Spring/Summer ’24.
Striped tees beyond basics
The classic Breton striped tee gets a modern update this season, moving beyond its nautical roots to become an essential layering piece for summer in the city too. Traditional boat neck styles in a navy and white palette remain important for prep-inspired collections. But the trend is evolving with new pattern proportions, unexpected colorways and interesting textures.
Young fashion-forward customers will be drawn to bolder, graphic iterations think uneven stripes, bright neon pops and larger scale patterns. Styling back with cargo pants or baggy denim shorts taps into a cool skater aesthetic. For a more understated take, look for fine gauge knits and linen jersey blends that elevate this humble staple into smarter territory.
Merchandised alongside solid basics, cardigans and overshirts, the striped tee adds visual interest and versatility to your Spring/Summer tops assortment. With its timeless appeal and fresh new look, it’s set to be a trans-seasonal sales driver.
Non-tropical resort shirts
The resort shirt has become a commercial mainstay for several seasons, and Spring/Summer ’24 sees it evolving with a focus on solid colors and textural fabrics over bold tropical prints. Relaxed, boxy fits continue to dominate, offering comfort and easy summer style.
To appeal to a trend-led customer, look for shirts that rework classic vacation staples like linen, seersucker and jacquard in unexpected colors drawn from the season’s key palettes. Olive green, clay pink and sky blue all update core neutrals. Details like contrast stitching, covered plackets and square hems add a contemporary edge.
For a smarter, more minimal aesthetic, solid fluid viscose and lyocell styles tuck smoothly into tailored pants or look effortlessly elegant left loose over swimwear. The subtle shimmer of silk blends is also perfect for summer evenings. By balancing fashion and function, the non-tropical resort shirt is a versatile item with broad appeal.
’70s-inspired printed shirts
As menswear embraces a wider spectrum of gender expression, ’70s-style printed shirts emerge as a key item embodying a more sensual and expressive aesthetic. Fluid silky fabrics, oversized point collars and bold patterns channel an era of louche decadence.
For the confident dresser, glossy burnt orange swirls, psychedelic paisleys and deco geometrics make a striking statement. Worn with kick flare pants or sleek tailored shorts, just a few buttons fastened, it’s a head-turning after-dark look. More understated floral and abstract prints have a retro appeal that skews vintage boho, especially on breezy voile and viscose bases.
While not for everyone, ’70s shirts are an important trend-driven piece for Spring/Summer ’24, working across retro-inspired, party and festival collections. To build a balanced assortment, merchandise alongside more pared-back plain linen and chambray styles so customers can experiment with pattern and go all-out ’70s if they dare.
Sleeveless knits to invest in
Even as knitwear sales slow, the sleeveless vest remains a key item to invest in for Spring/Summer ’24. With a variety of silhouettes from traditional tanks to ’90s-look elongated shapes, it suits multiple aesthetics and occasions.
Solid, bright colors like coral pink, acid green and royal blue make a bold summer statement, especially in mohairs and other fuzzy textures. Cooler open-gauge knits in mélange yarns have a sporty feel, layered over tees or shirts for unpredictable weather. For a smarter take, consider button-front merino, silk or linen blends in tonal neutrals great for teaming with tailoring.
Pattern is also important, with vintage-look argyles and fairisles giving a nod to the season’s preppy influence. For festival collections, ’70s-inspired space dye and surf stripes are key. Styled under loose shirts, baggy denim jackets or light coats, the knit vest is a transeasonal layering essential with endless outfit combinations.
Chunky cardigans still rising
Despite challenging knitwear sales overall, the cardigan continues to be a high-potential category for Spring/Summer ’24. The chunky, oversized silhouette remains most important offering a cozy, reassuring feel in uncertain times.
Texture and pattern updates make these familiar shapes feel fresh and exciting. Exaggerated cables create a homespun look, perfect for styling with multi-pocketed utility pants and clogs for an elevated take on gorpcore. Thick marls and jersey-inspired stripes suit retro sportswear styling with cuffed sweatpants and a hoodie.
Traditional checks, argyles and cricket stripes nod to the season’s preppy mood especially combined with a crisp poplin shirt and chinos for a quirky twist on Ivy League style. Solid chunky linens and hemp blends are great trans-seasonal pieces; lighter colors like ecru and sage green are perfect for summer nights. With so many styling options this key item is sure to attract a broad customer base.
Baggy shorts for every occasion
In line with relaxed, oversized looks across menswear, baggy shorts make a statement for Spring/Summer ’24. Rising from the mid-thigh to the knee and cut generously through the leg, they are the antithesis of the slim chino short that has dominated for the past few summers.
For a fashion-forward audience, leather or leather-alternative shorts with cargo pockets are an edgy option especially styled with a bold printed resort shirt. Denim is also set for a shorts revival; light rigid twills and black washes look fresh with graphic tees and skate shoes. More classic chino and linen styles in earth tones are a smart choice for summer in the city – just add a knit polo and loafers.
Whether tailored or utility-inspired, the looser fit creates an air of nonchalant cool that suits the season’s laidback mood. Consider offering shorts as part of a casual suit with a matching boxy camp-collar shirt for a coordinated but contemporary aesthetic.
Relaxed chinos reinvented
After several seasons of sweatpants and jersey joggers, the humble chino is mounting a comeback. Loose anti-fit silhouettes with pleats and high-waists nod to classic Ivy League style but feel thoroughly modern for Spring/Summer ’24.
Core neutral shades like stone, camel, light olive and ecru are essential – easy to mix and match with bold print shirts and knit polos. For a contemporary spin, look for garment-dyed finishes, subtle pinstripes and herringbone weaves that add visual interest.
Smart details elevate the chino beyond basic workwear. Adjustable tab waists, cargo-inspired patch pockets and cuffed hems all give a relaxed yet refined feel. Paired with a printed camp collar shirt and woven loafers, they are perfect for summer Fridays and smart casual occasions.
For a more youthful take on the trend, experiment with volume – a carrot fit, wider leg or cropped length offers plenty of styling options. Team with a boxy tee and chunky skate shoes for an efortless off-duty look. The versatility of this reworked staple means it appeals across age ranges – an essential for any balanced trouser assortment.
Sporty cargos with a twist
Cargo pants have been a menswear mainstay for several seasons, and for Spring/Summer ’24 a new sporty iteration feels particularly fresh and relevant. The key is in the fabric and fit – look for lightweight nylons and cottons that offer functionality as well as fashion.
Skate and streetwear-inspired styles feature a slightly cropped length, articulated knees and adjustable hems for an authentic active look and feel. Pockets are also important – from classic utility patch pockets to zipped compartments and webbing loops, adding a technical touch.
For a more directional take on the trend, consider cargos in unexpected fabrics like fluid cupro twill or paper-touch nylon, elevating them beyond casual territory. Styled with a printed resort shirt, these make a fashionable summer in the city look.
Color is also key – alongside versatile khaki, stone and black, consider investing in saturated brights like royal blue, saffron and kelly green. These make a bold statement when mixed into a tonal outfit and will appeal to a young, fashion-forward customer.
Pleated trousers smartly tailored
Pleated trousers are a key item for Spring/Summer ’24, offering a smart, tailored option that feels fresh and modern. Look for lightweight wool blends, crisp cottons and fluid lyocell that drape beautifully and keep the wearer cool in warm weather.
Single pleats are most commercial, with a subtle nod to classic tailoring that will appeal to a wide range of customers. For a more fashion-forward take, consider double pleats in an oversized fit – styled with a boxy camp collar shirt and slip-on sneakers, they make a contemporary summer statement.
Muted neutrals like tobacco, oatmeal and pale grey are timeless and versatile, easy to dress up or down. For a bolder look, opt for jewel tones like emerald green, cobalt blue and ruby red that pop against a simple white tee or knit polo.
Raw denim revival
After several seasons of stretch and comfort-first fits, raw rigid denim makes a welcome return for Spring/Summer ’24. The appeal lies in the authentic, vintage-inspired look and potential for personalisation over time as the denim moulds to the wearer’s body.
Straight leg silhouettes are most commercial and suit all body types. Introduce a range of washes from classic dark indigo to faded light blue and grey. For a more trend-led customer, consider wider leg crops and ’90s-inspired baggy fits in a light ecru or stone wash.
Details are pared-back and functional with a focus on quality hardware, premium leather patches and subtle contrast stitching. Styling is equally unfussy – team with a simple white tee, navy overshirt and low-top sneakers for a timeless off-duty uniform that will never go out of style.
Lightweight suits for summer
The summer suit is an essential item for Spring/Summer ’24, offering a polished look for warm weather occasions. The focus is on lightweight, breathable fabrics and relaxed fits that allow for easy movement and all-day comfort.
Linen and linen blends are a summer stalwart, with a slightly rumpled, lived-in look that gets better with each wear. Neutral shades of tan, light grey and pale blue have timeless appeal and are easy to mix and match with pastel shirts and knit polos.
For a more contemporary take on summer tailoring, consider suits in technical nylon-cotton blends or paper-touch polyester. These have a crisp, modern feel with the added benefit of crease-resistance and moisture-wicking properties – ideal for summer weddings and garden parties.
Styling is relaxed and pared-back. Team the suit with a simple cotton poplin shirt, woven leather loafers and tortoiseshell sunglasses for an effortlessly chic summer in the city look.
Black suits make a comeback
After several seasons of light, bright tailoring, the black suit makes a comeback for Spring/Summer ’24 as a timeless wardrobe essential. The look is sharp and sophisticated with a focus on precision cuts and luxe fabrics.
Wool-mohair blends add a subtle sheen, while lightweight twills and mesh-effect weaves offer breathability for warmer weather. Peak and shawl lapels give a subtle nod to formalwear, perfect for summer weddings and special occasions.
Styling is sleek and minimal. Opt for a crisp white poplin shirt, tonal silk tie and polished black Derby shoes to keep the look modern and refined. Alternatively, dress the suit down with a black knit polo or fine gauge roll neck for a more casual take on after-dark attire.
By offering a focused edit of black suits in a variety of fits and sizes, you can cater to a broad range of customers looking for a timeless investment piece that will serve them for many summers to come.
Tech shells combine form and function
The technical shell is a key item for Spring/Summer ’24, offering a stylish and practical outerwear option for unpredictable summer weather. Look for lightweight, water-resistant fabrics like nylon ripstop and polyester blends that offer protection from the elements without adding bulk.
Utility details are important, with a focus on functional pockets, adjustable hoods and hems, and zip closures. For a smarter take on the trend, opt for tech shells in neutral shades of navy, black and khaki green – easy to layer over suits for summer commutes.
For a more casual, outdoors-inspired look, consider bold primary colors and color-blocking designs that make a fashion statement. Style with cargo pants, a logo tee and chunky sneakers for a cool, urban feel that’s perfect for summer festivals and city breaks.
Bonded seams, laser-cut ventilation holes and heat-sealed zippers add to the technical aesthetic and provide extra performance benefits. By mixing fashion and function, the tech shell has broad appeal across outdoor enthusiasts, urban explorers and style-conscious customers alike.
Conclusion
The key to creating a successful Spring/Summer ’24 menswear assortment lies in carefully considering these 10 essential items and adapting them to your unique customer profile. By offering a curated mix of timeless classics and trend-led pieces, you can engage customers on both a functional and emotional level. Invest in premium sustainable fabrics, inclusive sizing and thoughtful details to create a compelling offer that drives sales and builds long-term brand loyalty. Stay attuned to the latest consumer insights and market intelligence to navigate the evolving menswear landscape with confidence and agility. Here’s to a bright and profitable summer season ahead!
