Denim shopping for men can be a little overwhelming at times: you’re either lumped with options that are so safe and traditional they feel dated, or so over the top you wouldn’t be game to leave the house in them. When it comes to finding something both wearable and fashionable, it’s the in-between space that’s often the best.
Whether you’re hunting for a new pair of classic blue jeans, want to inject a little colour into your casual wardrobe for winter, or want to know how to layer up your denim in interesting ways, read on: here’s a guide to some of the key denim trends for men this season that will stay in fashion in 2014.
Denim trends for men.
Men and their jeans are rather inseparable, and a classic pair can go a long way in any male wardrobe. It’s not too surprising that men’s denim trends move slowly – much slower than women’s – with the majority of guys sticking to a few key styles.
Slim-cut but not skin tight.
The key cut for men’s jeans is still a skinny, slim or straight leg cut – opting for whichever best suits your shape. Generally speaking, it isn’t necessary for the fit to be skinny above the knee, but it should at least be slim. Below the knee, cuts are negotiable anywhere between a slight bootcut to slim around the ankle. In short, the main focus is that the cut flatters the upper leg: with slim-but-relaxed cuts taking preference over crushingly skinny ones.
Classic slim cut men’s jeans: street style.
You’re not likely to see ultra-slouchy or oversized jeans for men dominating the shelves again just yet. That said, each season brings a few key variations to men’s denim that allow you to move a little outside the realms of classic blue jeans.
Printed jeans for men: camo rules.
As camo print for men transcends from spring to winter, it makes all things its canvas – denim included. While womens jeans have become full of prints and patterns, there simply aren’t too many that work for men. It’s safe to say that camouflage is the exception, so don’t be afraid to make denim a statement with army prints.
A note on colour: unless you really want to take a big risk, stick to traditional khaki and army green tones and avoid the season’s more flamboyant camo variations. You’re also best off making the camo jeans your only camo part of any look, rather than going all out on camo jackets, shoes and accessories as well.
Men’s camo print jeans by Paige denim
Coloured denim for men.
One way to mix it up for men – without losing the comfort and versatility that comes with a good pair of jeans – is to pick up some different coloured pairs of denim. In spring / summer the menswear shelves can be filled with bright hues that challenge even the most daring of guys (let’s face it, not everyone can pull off bright yellow), but fall / winter brings subtler options. In winter 2013, look for hues that have a vintage mood – like mustard, maroon, grey or army green.
Men’s coloured jeans at G-Star RAW, d Brand, and G-Star.
Waxed jeans for men.
Waxed cotton has a hard-wearing, tough effect that’s perfect as an alternative to traditional denim. Waxed jeans give off a motorcycle vibe without actually being leather, and their waterproof quality makes them ideal for the autumn / winter season.
For fall 2013, waxed jeans can be black or coloured; go for edgy with boots and a biker or bomber jacket.
Waxed jeans for men at Diesel Black Gold.
Layering denim: key ideas.
To make the autumn / winter season more interesting in so far as casual dressing is concerned, a man can take the opportunity to layer different denim pieces. Double denim can actually work quite well in this sense. Try:
Choosing denims of varying colours so as to not be over-coordinated
Layering a denim shirt under a contrasting patterned shirt (such as plaid)
Layering a denim shirt over a t-shirt then under a varsity jacket or men’s bomber
Layering a waistcoat and suit jacket over a henley tee, paired with a pair of jeans
Or layering a denim jacket over a shirt or knit and then under a blazer or parker, making for a winter-ready yet cooly nonchalant look.
Double denim layering for men: G-Star
Credit: Fashionising.com
As camo print for men transcends from spring to winter, it makes all things its canvas – denim included. While womens jeans have become full of prints and patterns, there simply aren’t too many that work for men. It’s safe to say that camouflage is the exception, so don’t be afraid to make denim a statement with army prints.