Since at least 2010, menswear writers have been speculating—and perhaps even hoping—that slim-fit silhouettes would be replaced by something new. It wasn't until 2016, however, that this change began to take shape. In January of that year, Raf Simons unveiled his first menswear collection after leaving his role as director at Dior.
Simons, known for his inspiration from disenchanted youth culture, presented a collection that seemed to have been taken from a rebellious teenager's chaotic bedroom. Models, tall and lean, strutted in oversized garments: distressed, moth-eaten sweaters that extended to their knees, dress shirts with sleeves engulfing their hands, and shiny bubble coats several sizes too large.
When Rihanna was spotted on the street wearing one of these oversized puffer coats, sparking a wave of humorous Photoshopped memes, it was evident that the reign of slim-fit fashion was over.
Six years after that pivotal show, the shift in fashion is hard to miss. Recently, social media has been flooded with images of celebrities in looser fits, attracting endless praise. Colman Domingo in a flowing, mustard-coloured Valentino Garavani suit with a glistening overcoat draped over his shoulders; Jeremy Allen White in a relaxed yet refined alabaster peak-lapel suit; and Lenny Kravitz, receiving his Hollywood Walk of Fame star in a silky dress shirt paired with a chalk-striped suit featuring flared trousers that gracefully fell over his black snakeskin cowboy boots.
Comfort Sky Twill Louche Genderless Shirt
You don’t need to discard your slim-fit wardrobe, but the decline of slim-fit dominance means men now have more style options. If you're interested in trying out looser silhouettes, We offer these five tips to help you do so without feeling like you're in oversized hand-me-downs:
- Begin with Essential Pieces: Ease into the trend with fundamental items such as relaxed-fit trousers or our new genderless oversized shirts. These pieces are perfect for testing out looser fits. Our use of recycled and organic cotton blend ensures that you stay stylish and comfortable, suitable for both casual and formal looks. Starting with basics helps build confidence in wearing looser fits gradually.
- Master the Art of Layering: Use layering to balance proportions and add dimension to your outfits. Pairing an oversized jacket with a fitted shirt, for instance, maintains structure while introducing volume. Our overshirts and merino shirts are ideal for layering, offering versatile pieces that transition seamlessly from day to night. Experiment with textures and lengths to find what works best for you.
- Experiment with Proportions: Don’t hesitate to mix different proportions. An oversized sweater with slim-fit jeans or tailored trousers creates a modern look. Our designs make it easy to combine pieces that complement each other while allowing you to play with silhouette variations. The goal is to create contrast that highlights each garment's unique features, resulting in a balanced, visually appealing outfit.
- Prioritise Quality Fabrics: High-quality fabrics significantly affect how looser fits drape and move. Choosing premium, eco-friendly materials ensures that your clothes look and feel great. Our commitment to sustainable fabrics means you can enjoy luxurious textures and superior Italian craftsmanship. Organic, recycled and regenerative cotton blends offer excellent drape and breathability, perfect for looser silhouettes.
- Wear with Confidence: The key to any successful outfit is confidence. Embrace your new silhouette and own your style choices. Our designs are created to empower you, ensuring you look effortlessly stylish in any setting. Whether for a casual outing or a formal event, wearing your clothes with confidence leaves a lasting impression. Trust in your style and enjoy the freedom of exploring new fashion directions.
Discover the freedom to diversify your wardrobe with Neem London and redefine your style with a relaxed, sophisticated touch. Don't miss our new genderless oversized louche collection, coming this fall 2024.