While walking near the Fondazione Prada with photographer Jonathan Daniel Pryce prior to the Prada Fall 2026 show, he made an intriguing observation about the convergence of people celebrating fashion amidst the vast universe’s possibilities. This juxtaposition of beauty and uncertainty during fashion week felt especially significant.
Unlike previous seasons where events like the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina or the 2024 Olympic Games influenced the atmosphere, this season in Florence, Milan, and Paris was marked by a noticeable shift towards simplicity and a focus on quality garments rather than extravagant displays.
From the Fall 2026 menswear shows, several key trends emerged that are worth noting for wardrobe updates in the upcoming months.
Grey Suiting Revival
The classic grey flannel suit, reminiscent of mid-century corporate attire seen in shows like Mad Men, made a prominent comeback this season. Designers like Thom Browne and Soshi Otsuki showcased variations of grey wool suits in tailored, relaxed silhouettes with a nod to both vintage and contemporary styles.
Brands like Prada, Paul Smith, and various Parisian labels also embraced grey wool in different forms, from textured suits to peak-lapel jackets, reflecting a resurgence of this timeless menswear staple.
This revival of grey tailoring in uncertain times perhaps signifies a return to the comfort and reliability associated with classic suiting.
Patina Embrace
The concept of patina, characterized by the unique wear and aging of an object, was a prevalent theme in Fall 2026 collections. Brands like Prada, Ralph Lauren, and Zegna experimented with pre-stained fabrics, distressed finishes, and worn-in details to evoke a sense of history and character in their designs.
Innovative techniques like curling lapels, pre-eroded fabrics, and engineered patinas were showcased, highlighting a shift towards appreciating the beauty of well-worn garments in menswear.
1970s Nostalgia
The influence of the 1970s was evident in various collections, featuring elements like big woven leather buttons, shadow stripes, and bold colours reminiscent of that era. Designers like Zegna, Paul Smith, and brands at Paris Fashion Week embraced retro patterns, tailored jackets, and vintage-inspired silhouettes, infusing a nostalgic charm into their pieces.
Notable mentions include Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Kenzo, which all incorporated 70s-style details and motifs, paying homage to the iconic fashion era.
Cuff Detailing
The emphasis on cuffs as a prominent accessory trend was seen across multiple collections, with designers like Prada, Sacai, and Celine showcasing unique cuff styles on jackets and sweaters. From extra-long cuffs to fur-trimmed variations, cuffs played a vital role in adding a distinctive touch to outfits.
This season, brands like Dior, Auralee, and Ralph Lauren creatively incorporated cuffs in unexpected ways, elevating the overall look and adding a personalized flair to the garments.
Pinstripe Resurgence
The classic pinstripe pattern made a strong comeback this season, featured prominently in collections by designers like Hermès, KidSuper, and Juun.J. From tailored suits to casual coats, pinstripes added a timeless elegance to various pieces, showcasing their versatility and enduring appeal in menswear.
With brands like Setchu and Giorgio Armani also incorporating pinstripes in innovative ways, it’s clear that this traditional pattern continues to evolve and make a statement in contemporary fashion.
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