It’s true: We may not always devote quite as much attention to men’s style as we do women’s. That’s why we turned to the menswear pros at the prep-perfect sportswear line Gant—whose store opened in Georgetown last fall—to get their take on the must-haves for men this spring. The takeaway? Go for punchy colors and playful patterns. And as always, guys: Fit comes first.
Here’s the scoop from Gant CEO David Arbuthnot:
1) The Patterned Shirt
Why wear a boring solid when you can pick a pattern? Arbuthnot loves the colorful look of madras, but we say pick any pattern that pleases you (clearly alliteration pleases us). Go for checks, stripes, maybe a plaid . . . consider the fashion world your oyster.
2) Pastels
Pastels are having a big moment this season, and not just for women. “It’s all about pastel cable sweaters,” says Arbuthnot. Try these soft shades to springify a thin sweater, or pair a pastel shirt with a dark suit for the perfect dose of contrast.
3) The Lightweight Blazer
Keep up the tailored, pulled-together look by swapping your heavier jackets for easy blazers in lightweight fabrics such as linen and cotton. Wear them to add a polished finish to just about any ensemble.
4) Colored Chinos
Why should shirts have all the fun? Pants mustn’t be limited to neutrals—infuse your wardrobe with a little color, and suddenly everything seems so much more spring-ready. Arbuthnot suggests going for “bright, optimistic, coastal colors.”
5) The Pocket Square
Our favorite men’s accessory! Use these little fabric swatches to add a dash of color or a playful pattern. “It’s a great way for a guy to dress up his wardrobe,” says Arbuthnot. He advises stocking up on a wide variety of hues and patterns, and looking for special detailing and trims.
