While men’s formal attire undergoes more subtle changes than women’s, 2024 has brought in a lot of new trends. It was the era of balancing traditional designs with modern innovation, from new interpretations of evening wear to the resurgence of classic wedding suits. So, in this article, let’s have a look at which of these trends we can expect to stay or evolve in the coming year. ]
The return of relaxed elegance
Gone are the days with hard rules on how men’s formal wear should look. Today’s gentleman is embracing a more relaxed approach. Even the modern wedding suits are now embracing greater freedom in colours, designs, texture, and tailoring. They prioritise comfort and allow your personality to shine through, while still maintaining a sharp appearance and classical elements.
Colour renaissance
The monochromatic realm of formal wear has expanded dramatically. Whilst classic black remains a steadfast choice, particularly for the classic black tie Tuxedo, modern formal wear embraces a much broader palette. In 2025, we will likely see unexpected hues, such as red wine burgundy, light green, tropical blue, or pastel purple, introducing new alternatives to formal wear. You may notice that a lot of these colours share a similar, earthy vibe, which is certainly a trend to keep an eye on.
Fabrics and textures
Contemporary wool suits will never go away, but formal attire brands have certainly been innovative with their fabric choices. Luxurious cashmere and velvets are taking centre stage next year, bringing not just sophistication, but unique textures to the table. Linen is, of course, a top choice for wedding suits in the summer months. A particularly prominent trend, however, is the shift towards sustainable fabrics. Whether silk or cotton, an increasing number of grooms are choosing suits that are made from pure and environmentally-friendly materials.
Experimenting with patterns
The modern groom or businessman is no longer afraid to be bald with their formal attire! Suit makers are expected to play around with patterns more, even for wedding outfits. Whether it’s a sophisticated grey with white stripes or a blue jacquard suit, the patterns can introduce a new level of visual interest. In fact, they can look particularly striking in wedding photos!
The comeback of the Tuxedo
The Tuxedo has experienced a revival last year, and it’s safe to say it is here to stay. Of course, not without a modern twist. This evening wear staple variations now feature textured fabrics and intricate details, breathing new life into it. Although slightly different, it still screams elegance and sophistication, maintaining its traditional charm.
Accessories and details
The devil is in the details, and this could not be more true when it comes to formal wear. The usual forms of suits have been slightly modernised, with such elements as statement buttons, wider lapels, innovative pocket designs, or overlapping of layers. Other accessories, like your tie of choice, have also become more experimental, as grooms opt for bolder colours and patterns.
Final thoughts
As we are about to enter the new year, the boundaries between formal and casual wear have never been more blurred. Traditional interpretations certainly allow for more personal expression whilst still respecting the foundations of formal attire.
