Syahrul Amri, 31
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Key trends of 2008:
Casual tailoring – tailoring continues to be seen all over next year and even spills on to casual wear. Casual wear now includes cleaner pieces like tailored shorts and shirts and the casual blazer give a great finish to the look. Giorgio Armani had clearly spearheaded this look that can now be seen in the collections of most labels notably Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Viktor & Rolf. Scruffy is definitely taking a backstage. Head to Club Monaco for similar styles.
Prints – have fun with prints! Same as this year, prints continue to dominate the runways for next year – intricate, subtle ones or even bold, ornate pieces. Go for something that you feel most comfortable going out with and again prints can be used on different items – ties, sweaters, bags, scarves and even shoes.
Color – thank god this is not ending for next year. Men should definitely inject more colour into their wardrobes! Dries Van Noten, Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton showed some of the most amazing looks for Spring Summer 2008. This really doesn’t mean that you have to start wearing lime green sweaters. If you prefer a more subtle injection of colour, why not play around with your accessories – scarf, belt, shoes or even socks. Paul Smith offers the best looking multi-coloured socks around.
Accessorizing – men’s runway shows are definitely showing more options for accessorizing. Bags, scarves, belts, ties, watches, badges, sunglasses, shoes – look at how you can jazz up and complete your outfit. My must have next season – Marc by Marc Jacobs colorful belt (think Lego) and great casual bags!
Flamboyant or conservative?
Depending on one's character and personality, I definitely think there will be a time to be both. One can see a spectrum of designs from a single label too that appeases the many different looks from conservative to a much dressier/showier appearance as seen in shows from Versace, Dolce & Gabbana to Louis Vuitton. Dress how you feel and according to where you’re going/what you’re attending.
It item?
Season after season I think guys should continue investing on key items in their wardrobe – an immaculate suit, a good pair of sunglasses, a practical classic bag and a decent pair of shoes. At the end of the day, paying attention to great classic pieces and accessories will ensure you an impeccable and complete wardrobe at the end of the day.
So what if the whole world is after that must-have orange pair of pants this season? Save your money and grab that finely made leather belt instead, you’ll have more use of it.
Go for great, practical bags! It should not just be a tool for you to carry your things, but an extension of your whole look and even personality. Tonnes of great bags for men to choose from major labels like Prada, Bottega Venetta, Marc Jacobs, Yves Saint Laurent and my personal favorite Valextra. For affordable finds, head to Massimo Dutti, Zara and Top Shop – practical and good looking options.
Luxury, mix and match or be an individual?
To me, it has always been of utmost importance to show one's individuality through your appearance. I feel that recent times have allowed men to fully explore their own style as designers have laid out more options for them to explore their personality. Luxury items are definitely one way, but not the be all. The thing to remember is to not follow the pack, and just be you. Have fun!
Male style icon of 2008?
Style icons exist for a very long time - my personal favourites include Steve McQueen, Jude Law, Yves Saint Laurent, Tom Ford, Kanye West and David Beckham. Currently I am adoring the style of Italian Lapo Elkann – hero of casual tailoring. His attitude reflects the true European male appeal/sexiness. I can’t really say who will be the male style icon for 2008 yet, I’m hoping new/fresh style boys will rise to impress and awe. Watch this space.
What would you like to see men doing more of - style wise - next year?
To find their own sense of style that reflects their personal taste and personality. Pay attention to small details in their wardrobe and appearance that say a lot - hair, shoes, jewellery etc. Play with more colours too – even if you’re into dark or muted colours, there are different shades that you can explore to make your overall look more interesting.
A definite no - no:
Sunglasses indoors and at night!!! It's just not working if you're not Kanye or Diddy guys.
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