There’s nothing more appalling than being a victim of an awful trend. Although most trends quickly come and go, some stay for years. However, just because a certain item or a specific way of styling a piece has proven longevity in fashion, doesn’t mean you should join the masses committing fashion disasters. That being said, I have listed the following menswear trends that leave me VEXED. Although I still see them around, these trends leave me with the urge to poke my eyes out.
Layered Monograms
There is nothing more cringe than incorporating a Burberry Plaid with a Louis Vuitton Monogram topped with a Gucci print further topped with a Dior oblique. I think you get my point. We get it, these individuals can afford pieces from the world’s best fashion houses. However, affording a designer does not mean you know fashion. Layering monograms is an obnoxious way of styling outfits. When I incorporate a monogram into my look, I opt for a neutral outfit in order to make the monogram as the focal point of my look. Simplicity is the key when rocking signature prints. We live in a time where clout chasing and outer wealth determines a person’s merit. Therefore, I see why many fall victim to this fashion faux pas.
Courtesy of @overgrailed.
Courtesy of @overgrailed.
Courtesy of @lofficiel.oc.
Branded Tops
I have never been fond of a branded top. However, brands like Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Adidas have taken over the scene. Whenever I leave home, I expect to see someone dressed in a heather grey shirt emblazoned with CK or the black hoodie with the Adidas Originals trefoil. I understand that the 90’s resurgence has prompted designers to reissue classic pieces, but everyone has become a walking billboard. Personally, I don’t feel the desire to hide behind a logo. Is it a confidence issue if an individual must hide behind obnoxiously branded pieces? I recently purchased a Saint Laurent logo tee, which I find tasteful. The “SL” typed in dark crimson athletic font is the right amount of brand advertising, while remaining discreet.
Courtesy of @jeremyziessen_.
Courtesy of @nemanja_grujic.
My Saint Laurent logo tee. A trendy, yet subtle alternative.
Sweatpant joggers
As much as I am an advocate for athleisure, there is nothing nice about grey sweatpants made out of thick cotton losing shape after sitting down or walking. I see so many people walking around looking like utter slobs in pieces that should be left behind closed doors. With many brands designing pieces that can be worn from the gym to a night out, there is no excuse to sacrifice looking good for comfort. It’s all about finding the right materials and fit. I have thick thighs so I wouldn’t opt for thick cotton that will make me look larger. Instead, I gravitate towards tapered, slim-fitting joggers composed of lighter cotton with touches of nylon and lycra. Still comfortable, without looking sloppy.
Courtesy of @gq.
Courtesy of @the.basti.way.
A sleeker alternative. Courtesy of @lululemonmen.
Chunky Sneakers
My dad and I recently visited Balenciaga Yorkdale and he was disgusted with the sight of the track sneakers. I tend to give trends a chance, but the chunky sneaker needs to go. In terms of longevity and cost per wear, these shoes are not practical and will definitely not stand the test of time. Besides Balenciaga, Gucci’s Rhyton is another design I cannot support. It is okay to admit that designers make mistakes and it is perfectly okay to not support their mistakes. These sneakers are popular because of their athletic appearance. If an athletic appearance is of all the rage, Prada makes some sleek styles that embody an active lifestyle with 75% less chunk. Even Alexander McQueen’s Oversized Leather Sneaker is a chicer alternative that subtly incorporates the trend.
Balenciaga’s Track 2. Courtesy of @gallucks.
Balenciaga’s Triple S Trainers. Courtesy of @warrenla7.
Gucci’s Rhyton. Courtesy of @christopherbark.
Obnoxious Winter Puffers
Brands like Moose Knuckles, Mackage and Rudsak need to take several seats. If you happen to own a down puffer jacket from any of these brands, its okay… winter is almost over. Similar to branded tees, these styles are meant to be noticed. But, I just think they overdo it with colours, the way the fur lines the jacket, belts, leather details, and other extra details that ruins the piece. Because these brands tend to go extremely overboard with their designs, these jackets become harder to style with many outfits. I have seen so many people who’s outfits were outshined by a monstrosity of a winter coat. Since the puffer trend is really huge this winter, stores like Uniqlo, Aritzia and Old Navy have more “muted” and versatile alternatives that last seasons.
Courtesy of Rudsak.
Courtesy of Mackage.
Courtesy of Moose Knuckles.
There you have it: the trends that should stop existing immediately. After writing this post, maybe I’m just a simple person who doesn’t feel the need to engage in such tomfoolery. But, regardless, these trends are not cute and need to be stopped. Let me know if you agree or disagree with the trends on my list! Also, what trends do you wish would stop existing? I would love to know!
Candidly,
Jonah
