The 2010s marked a transformative era for men’s fashion, a period of unprecedented creativity and influence. This decade saw menswear evolve at an accelerated pace, embracing diverse styles and blurring the lines between high and low fashion. From the resurgence of classic tailoring to the rise of streetwear, the 2010s offered a dynamic range of trends. Let’s explore 12 key pieces that defined 2010s men’s fashion:
The Rise of Selvedge Denim
Online forums significantly impacted 2010s men’s style, fostering communities of enthusiasts who dissected details and fueled obsessions. Selvedge denim became a focal point, prized for its construction and unique fading properties. Discussions revolved around Japanese looms, washing techniques, and the pursuit of the perfect fade.
The Merch Mania
Luxury brands sought new avenues for growth, leading to the explosion of branded merchandise. Logos adorned everything from t-shirts to accessories, offering a more accessible entry point to luxury consumers while maintaining high-end appeal. This strategy successfully tapped into the millennial and Gen Z markets.
Minimalist Sneakers Take Center Stage
Minimalist sneakers disrupted the footwear landscape, replacing traditional brogues as the go-to shoe for style-conscious men. Clean lines, simple designs, and versatile styling made sneakers like Common Projects Achilles and Adidas Stan Smiths office-appropriate and everyday essentials.
The Pocket Square Renaissance
A renewed interest in classic menswear fueled by online forums brought the pocket square back into the spotlight. Men embraced the art of “sprezzatura,” showcasing their sartorial knowledge with meticulously folded pocket squares and perfectly tailored ensembles. Pitti Uomo became a stage for peacocking and demonstrating mastery of classic style.
Luxe Joggers: Comfort Meets Style
Luxury joggers redefined casualwear, blurring the boundaries between comfort and sophistication. High-end brands like Brunello Cucinelli crafted joggers from luxurious materials, allowing men to embrace comfort without sacrificing style. This trend paved the way for athleisure and the integration of sportswear into everyday wardrobes.
The Yeezy Phenomenon
The Yeezy 350 revolutionized sneaker culture, creating unprecedented hype and demand. Limited releases, resale markets, and the influence of celebrity endorsements transformed the sneaker game, solidifying the importance of collaborations and limited-edition drops in 2010s men’s fashion.
The Skinny Jeans Debate
Skinny jeans, a holdover from the previous decade, remained a staple in the 2010s, though their popularity waned towards the end of the decade. While embraced by some, they also sparked debate and ultimately paved the way for the return of wider leg styles.
Cross-Body Bags: Function and Fashion
The resurgence of ’90s style brought the cross-body bag back into prominence. Luxury brands like Dior reimagined this functional accessory, elevating it to a must-have item for men. The cross-body bag reflected the increasing need for carrying personal belongings in a stylish and convenient manner.
The Elevated Hoodie
The hoodie underwent a transformation in the 2010s, transitioning from streetwear staple to luxury item. High-fashion brands embraced the hoodie, incorporating it into their collections and blurring the lines between high and low fashion.
Wide-Leg Trousers Make a Comeback
As a counterpoint to skinny jeans, wide-leg trousers reemerged, offering a more relaxed and comfortable silhouette. Pleats returned to favor, and men embraced the freedom of movement and breathability provided by wider leg openings.
The Bomber Jacket’s Reign
The bomber jacket solidified its status as a menswear essential in the 2010s. Versatile and stylish, it became a go-to outerwear choice for various occasions, bridging the gap between casual and smart dressing.
Chunky Trainers: A Statement Piece
Chunky trainers, often referred to as “dad shoes,” dominated the latter half of the decade. Bold designs and oversized silhouettes made a statement, reflecting a shift towards comfort and a more maximalist aesthetic. Brands like Balenciaga and Gucci led the charge, popularizing this trend.
