In the vibrant world of men's fashion, the year 2019 brought a fascinating blend of classic styles, contemporary twists, and sustainable choices. Turning 40 is no reason to shy away from trends or settle for mundane wardrobe staple. In fact, this decade marks an opportunity to refine your style and make a statement. Let's delve into the most captivating menswear styles that turned heads in 2019, handpicked for the discerning 40-year-old gentleman.
At the heart of 2019 menswear was a celebration of craftsmanship, quality, and timeless design. From tailored suits to casual smart-casual outfits, the focus was on wearable style that stands the test of time. Here, we break down the standout styles and trends that defined menswear in 2019, catering to the modern 40-year-old man who appreciates both sophistication and innovation.
New takes on Classic Styles
The first half of 2019 was all about breathing new life into classic menswear staples. Designers and brands reinterpreted these timeless pieces, giving them a modern, updated feel.
Watt and Shangle´s suits, for instance, showcased the return of the double-breasted suit, this time with a slimmer cut and modern fabric choices. This tailored yet forward-thinking approach was seen across both formal and casual wear, with brands like Gucci and Zegna leading the charge.
Bold Colors and Patterns
In 2019, the suited man embraced his colorful side. Bold hues like rich purples, emerald greens, and deep blues dominated the runway and translated into workwear. But it wasn't just about color - patterns also made a comeback, with checks, plaids, and florals adding visual interest to suited looks.
At Dolce & Gabbana, suits adorned with intricate floral embroidery commanded attention, while Gucci's checkerboard suits added a playful touch to formal wear. Meanwhile, in the realm of smart-casual, RetroSuperFuture's bold floral shirts added another dimension to classic suiting.
Textures and fabrics
The fabrics and textures of 2019 menswear were as diverse as they were indulgent, offering gentlemen an array of exciting choices. Velvet, corduroy, and even quilted fabrics reminiscent of vintage workwear made their way into suiting and casual wear, adding a tactile dimension to outfits.
valence’s velvet suits, for example, provided a luxurious touch, while Ruffini's corduroy suits offered a stylish nod to heritage fashion. Innovative fabric choices, like recycled ocean plastic materials from brands like Finisterre, also made headlines, reflecting the industry's increasingly eco-conscious stance.
The relaxed tailored look
As menswear evolved in 2019, the rigid boundaries between formal and casual dress began to blur. This led to a rise in the 'relaxed tailored' look, which merged the structure of tailoring with the comfort of casual dressing.
High-waisted trousers, wider leg cuts, and softer fabrics ensured that suiting was as comfortable as it was stylish. Meanwhile, designs like the blazer vest or the 'shacket' - a hybrid between a shirt and a jacket - offered new ways to incorporate tailoring into casual outfits.
High-Waisted Trousers
It's official: low rise trousers are a thing of the past. In 2019, high-waisted trousers reinvented the way we wear our suits and casual smart-casual attire. By hiking up the rise, designers lengthened the torso, creating a lean, streamlined silhouette.
Brioni's high-waisted trousers, for instance, paired perfectly with their tailored blazers, while Valentino's cuffed, high-waisted wide-leg trousers added an elegant touch to casual smart-casual outfits.
Broad Shoulders and Wide Legs
For 2019, shoulders got broader, and legs got wider. This was evident in both tailored and casual attire, marking a shift away from the sleek, slim cuts of recent years. The broader shoulder line added structure and gravitas to outfits, while wide-leg trousers offered a relaxed, modern take on traditional silhouettes.
At Prada, broad-shouldered blazers and wide-leg trousers were a staple, while at Hermès, wide-leg chinos and linen trousers offered a comfortable, stylish take on summer dressing. Similarly, Fear of God's wide-leg denim jeans and cargo pants offered a high-fashion take on casual staples.
As we reflect on 2019 menswear trends, it's clear that this was a year of evolution rather than revolution. Classic styles were refashioned with a modern eye, offering a new way to look at old favorites. From bold colors and patterns to innovative fabrics and relaxed tailoring, 2019 menswear was ultimately about comfort, expression, and sustainability - values that resonate with the sophisticated 40-year-old man. So, go ahead, gentleman - embrace your style, celebrate your age, and let your wardrobe tell your story.