As the boundaries of menswear continue to blur, young men are seeking occasionwear that embodies a modern, refined elegance. This season, we’re seeing a shift towards gender-fluid silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and unexpected details that elevate traditional formal attire. From high-peak lapel blazers to fluid oversized shirts and nostalgic bootcut trousers, these key trends are reshaping the occasionwear landscape for A/W 24/25. Discover how to curate a collection that resonates with fashion-forward young men, blending timeless sophistication with a youthful, confident edge.
Table of Contents
1. The new mood in men’s occasionwear
2. Elevating the classics: High-peak lapel blazers and oversized shirts
3. Retro revisited: The return of the bootcut trouser
4. Skin is in: Tight tops and sheer blouses make a statement
5. Putting it all together: Creating a cohesive occasionwear range
The new mood in men’s occasionwear
The world of men’s occasionwear is undergoing a transformation, as young men seek out styles that blend understated luxury with a modern, gender-fluid aesthetic. This new mood is all about elevating traditional formal attire with soft, light shades and unexpected details that add a youthful, contemporary twist.
To capture this confident, refined spirit, designers are subtly altering classic sartorial silhouettes, such as tailored blazers and trousers. By playing with proportions, incorporating innovative fabrics, and introducing fresh colors, they’re creating occasionwear that feels both timeless and of-the-moment.
Elevating the classics: High-peak lapel blazers and oversized shirts
The tailored blazer, a staple of men’s occasionwear, is getting a modern makeover for A/W 24/25. High-peak lapels are taking center stage, adding a touch of drama and sophistication to this classic piece. To balance the formality of the lapel, designers are opting for structured, boxy silhouettes that offer both comfort and style. Cropped hemlines are also making an appearance, injecting a youthful, trendy vibe into the traditional blazer.
Oversized shirts are another key player in the new occasionwear landscape. These fluid, relaxed styles effortlessly transition from day to night, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe. Fabrics like satin, lyocell, and Tencel are popular choices, thanks to their luxurious drape and gentle sheen. These materials not only look great but also offer a more sustainable alternative to traditional shirt fabrics.
To further elevate the oversized shirt, designers are playing with proportions, such as elongating sleeves and enlarging cuffs and collars. These exaggerated details create a retro-inspired look that’s perfect for young men seeking to make a fashion statement. Upcycled vintage buttons are another thoughtful touch, adding a unique, eco-friendly element to these modern classics.
Retro revisited: The return of the bootcut trouser
Nostalgia is a powerful force in fashion, and for A/W 24/25, it’s bringing back the bootcut trouser. This retro-inspired style, with its flared bottom and nod to the 70s and 90s, is set to make a big impact in young men’s occasionwear. The bootcut silhouette offers a refreshing alternative to slim-fit trousers, providing a more relaxed and comfortable fit that still maintains a polished appearance.
To keep the look modern and suitable for dressy occasions, designers are favoring clean, minimalist fabrics over cosy, textured materials. Sustainable options like responsible wool blends and GRS-certified polyester are popular choices, as they align with the values of eco-conscious young men. These fabrics not only contribute to the sleek, streamlined aesthetic of the bootcut trouser but also ensure its longevity and adaptability within a wardrobe.
An interesting detail that’s emerging in bootcut trousers is the addition of side slits at the hem. This subtle design element adds a trendy, contemporary touch to the retro-inspired style, making it feel fresh and relevant for today’s fashion-forward young men.
Skin is in: Tight tops and sheer blouses make a statement
In a bold departure from traditional menswear, skin-revealing tops are making their way into young men’s occasionwear. Tight-fitting tees and sheer blouses are emerging as unexpected yet intriguing options for fashion-forward individuals looking to push boundaries and make a statement. These gender-inclusive styles add an edgy, daring element to glamorous looks, challenging conventions and sparking conversations.
For those just dipping their toes into this trend, starting with solid, opaque fabrics in form-fitting silhouettes can be a comfortable introduction. As confidence grows, experimenting with cutouts or semi-sheer materials can take the look to the next level, embracing a more daring aesthetic. The key is to find the right balance between revealing and concealing, ensuring the overall outfit remains tasteful and appropriate for the occasion.
Sheer blouses, in particular, are emerging as a romantic and ethereal alternative to traditional shirting. Loose, gathered styles in flowing fabrics like chiffon or organza offer a dreamy, almost poetic quality to occasionwear. Luxurious dark shades, such as midnight plum or deep coffee, add depth and sophistication to these pieces, making them suitable for a range of dressy events.
Putting it all together: Creating a cohesive occasionwear range
Creating a cohesive occasionwear range for young men requires a delicate balance of timeless elegance and modern, gender-fluid elements. The key is to focus on versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion and the wearer’s personal style. By incorporating a mix of classic silhouettes and contemporary details, designers can create a collection that appeals to a wide range of fashion-conscious young men.
When selecting fabrics, prioritizing high-quality, sustainable materials is essential. Not only do these fabrics contribute to the overall luxury feel of the garments, but they also reflect the growing demand for eco-friendly fashion. By choosing durable, timeless materials, designers can create pieces that will stand the test of time, encouraging multiple wears and even potential resale.
Attention to detail is another crucial aspect of creating a successful occasionwear range. Subtle design elements, such as unique buttons, contrast stitching, or innovative fastening systems, can elevate a garment from simple to extraordinary. These details not only add visual interest but also showcase the level of craftsmanship and thought that goes into each piece.
Conclusion
As the world of men’s occasionwear continues to evolve, it’s clear that the future lies in embracing diversity, sustainability, and self-expression. By blending classic elegance with modern, gender-fluid elements, designers can create collections that resonate with today’s fashion-forward young men. Through innovative silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and thoughtful details, these occasionwear pieces make a statement and contribute to a more inclusive and eco-conscious fashion landscape. As we look ahead to A/W 24/25 and beyond, one thing is certain: the boundaries of men’s occasionwear will continue to be pushed, redefined, and celebrated, paving the way for a more exciting and authentic era of fashion.
