Holts takes a look at some breaking stories in the world of men's fashion
Neckwear
This season, scarves are going neck and neck with ties. Whether silk, cashmere, extra long or extra lean, these are accessories that matter this season, especially because neckwear presents a real opportunity for self-expression.
Scarves with a twist - from tube shapes to reinterpreted kaffiyehs - have a place in this season's neckwear repertoire. Holt Renfrew's private brand is exploring the world of scented scarves; the aromas of tobacco, licorice, chocolate and coffee will diffuse as the fabric - appropriately adhering to a rich colour scheme - heats up.
For ties, exceptional quality and classic design trumps quirkiness. Thanks to Dior Homme, narrow ties are still in but now, many designers are focusing on texture. Paul Smith, Zegna and Etro, for example, have done wonders in wool. Striped rep ties from Band of Outsiders suit those who have graduated from the school of cool. And please don't dismiss the bow tie. Brioni's has more volume, while rag & bone gives a formerly reserved accessory a fresh attitude.
Trousers
You know you're witnessing a new moment in menswear when sartorial and slouchy can coexist. The formal subtext of the trouser is changing thanks to an informal context.
The latest styles span the contemporary canon: there is as much emphasis on a full leg as a narrow leg. What's new is the notion that fine sartorial elements have permeated into less formal attire.
Jeans and chinos have been upgraded to wearable fancies - windowpane, houndstooth, herringbone or Prince of Wales patterns - meaning that pants can be a statement sans suit. Paired with a sport jacket or cardigan, the look is leisure luxe.
Look no further than Italian brand Mason's, which has reinterpreted the tried-and-true khaki as a darker wash with windowpane and pinstripe patterns. Filippa K has tackled tweed such that the tailored trousers make for handsome weekend wear. A navy pinstripe pant from Junk de Luxe would be conventional were it not for the edgy zipper pockets. Indeed, this is a fun moment in menswear; dressing down has finally sharpened up.
World Design Lab
The future is now: When it comes to men having a centralized place to go for avant-garde fashion, necessity is the mother of incubation. And Holts is happy to report its time has indeed arrived. Introducing the men's World Design Lab at the Toronto - Bloor Street and Vancouver stores. To the uninitiated, it's a launch pad for emerging labels or designers who have already amassed a cult-like following amongst the sartorially savvy insider set.
Consider it the nexus of timeless tailoring and urban attitude where the charm of Canadian up-and-comer Philip Sparks complements the indie prep aesthetic of Band of Outsiders. The estimable Neil Barrett is back, his button-downed-meets-biker look making as modern a statement as ever. And be sure to check out Mr. Hollywood, a collection from Japan that deserves to be called art thanks to hidden graphics and deliberately exposed construction.
The men's World Design Lab promises to be global in scope and forceful in influence. What gets showcased here today may very well generate the buzz of tomorrow.
By Amy Verner
