Would your grandfather recognize the fabric of your shirt? Or your great-grandfather? We don’t always stop to think about it, but menswear is constantly changing. While the design of some garments has remained virtually unchanged for centuries, this is usually not the case when looking at the way it is woven or the material from which it is made. Especially in recent years, you can see that new materials have been implemented in men’s clothing. But what can you expect from this fashion trend for men in the fall and winter of 2022?
On the move with stretch
Walk into any clothing store and you will frequently come across the word ‘stretch’. But what does this mean? Elastane (stretch) is a synthetic fiber that is very strong and elastic. Because of this, it does not lose its shape no matter how many times you stretch it. It is no surprise that this material is mainly used in sportswear. Furthermore, it is ideal for garments that need to stay put, such as boxer shorts and jeans. Because elastane increases your freedom of movement, it is increasingly common in shirts and polo shirts.
Keep trying something new
In addition to improving existing materials, new fabrics are also being developed. For example, you can see that comfort has become more prominent since the pandemic. Brands like Profuomo, Desoto and OLYMP are experimenting with comfortable fabrics that are also functional. This is especially the case with knitted shirts. Thanks to these developments, you won’t get too hot or suffer from sweat stains. Furthermore, innovative fabrics have been developed that seem to come straight out of a science fiction movie. These include textiles made from seaweed, spider silk and even CO².
Stay adventurous
New materials not only provide more comfort but can also offer protection from the elements. For example, some winter jackets from PME Legend and Save the Duck have “tech down” to add extra insulation to your body. This is synthetic down and, unlike natural down, is water repellent. Familiar fabrics like nylon and polyester are being further refined by various manufacturers to produce reliable wind-repellent clothing. Tenson and Casa Moda are premium brands suited for a hefty hike through nature.
Buy responsibly
The fashion industry continues to take steps to reduce its impact on the environment. For example, it is increasingly common for clothing to be made from organic cotton, and traditional cotton is recycled more often. There is also an increased focus on sustainable materials. Wool is a natural and durable material. It is also self-cleansing and thus low maintenance. Bamboo provides a soft and breathable fabric, suitable for underwear and T-shirts. Viscose and lyocell are strong fibers made from wood pulp and eucalyptus. This makes the garments biodegradable.
