Menswear Trends S/S 2011

To add a bit of diversity to my blog, I thought I'd take a little bit of time to talk about men's trends for S/S 2011.

BLUE

Issey Miyake, Dries Van Noten, D&G

Trailing through the catwalk reports I noticed a definite pattern of blue emerging. If you are already a religious jean-wearer then this trend is ideal but if you are feeling a little more daring, the bright blue shirt below would be perfect with long shorts or those trusty denims.

Selected at ASOS

DOUBLE-BREASTED

Jean Paul Gaultier, Kenzo, Lanvin. Note: I am definitely NOT feeling the Jesus sandals...

This is such a classic look that the smarter gentleman may already have a double-breasted piece in their wardrobe. Usually just for dressier occasions but the cardigan below makes the trend casual.

ASOS

A CLASSIC JACKET

Burberry, Lanvin, Paul Smith

Trench, blazer, mac, whatever your choice, make sure it's well cut and well made. And if it's double-breasted too, then all the better. Colour wise, aim for muted navy, charcoal and black, fabric wise, mattes and satins work well.

Cheap Monday at ASOS

GREY

Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Dior

A no-brainer. Mix with navy, burgundy, denim, black, tan or even more grey and you're on to a winner. I'd play with textures here - knits, tailoring, jersey - it's all good. Keep it simple with this t-shirt and pair it with some chinos.

ASOS

TURNED HEM SHORTS

Louis Vuitton, D&G, Marni

A little tailored, possibly with a crease down the front. I'd go for a matte navy, camel or even khaki to keep them neutral and versatile and both a shorter or longer style work. Wear with a t-shirt for day and loose untucked shirt for evening.

Polo Ralph Lauren. Note: Beware knobbly knees.

Photos: Style.com and ASOS

Micro Trend - Brights

I am usually an advocate for neutral dressing but I have to say, I've rather taken to the brights trend - in moderation, may I add. I'm not quite ready for neons, nor wearing multiple brightly coloured pieces, but one skilfully placed item manages to boost your outfit and update those winter hues. I love the deep reds, vibrant fuschias and rich blues so took a browse round net-a-porter.com to see what was on offer.

These are just a few of my favourite pieces.


This Vanessa Bruno blazer would smarten up a neutral-hued short and shirt combo and look equally chic with jeans and a white t-shirt. Really versatile and the structured style will still be on trend in seasons to come.


This is really stunning. The silk-Georgette material is so light and flattering on any figure and the grass green will complement any skin tone. It also has an open back which adds a little sexiness. If I had a spare £390, it'd go on this. By Max-Azria


Mulberry's S/S 2011 collection is really strong. Their metallics and brights are spot on. This clutch is smaller than appears but would adequately fit a wallet, phone and any other evening essentials. The quality of it also means it'll last a life time (if taken care of!).


These Marni acetate brooches would look great adorned on a lighter coloured blazer or scarf. Wear them with an occasion outfit or add interest to a casual t-shirt.


These are so much fun. Probably not very practical but the indigo suede looks so luscious. Totally a fantasy buy and I'd simply wear them with blue jeans and a classic shirt. Maybe add a metal cuff too, for good measure. By Marni


I know this fabric would feel buttery in your hands. Such an easy cover-up for the beach or it would look great tucked into shorts. It could even be worn open, over a fitted jersey dress. By Equipment


Diane Von Furstenburg always produces beautifully coloured clothing and these satin tie-up sandals are so elegant. If I had these I probably wouldn't wear them too often, perhaps just to smart occasions, but they would dress up a plain dress for no effort style.


This is just the most gorgeous Lanvin clutch. It would make an LBD and plain courts look more glamourous but because the satin is so delicate, you'd have to be careful not to scuff it.