The Fall/Winter 2026 menswear shows have just wrapped up, setting the tone for the fashion forecast of the year ahead. As we entered 2026, we gathered insights from a diverse group of menswear creatives to get their take on the current climate and what changes they foresee on the horizon.
Our panel included a mix of emerging talents and industry veterans, ranging from indie designers like Rolf Ekroth, Saul Nash, and Bianca Saunders to established names like Willy Chavarria and Jonny Johansson of Acne Studios, and Alessandro Sartori, the artistic director of Zegna.
One common theme that emerged from our discussions was a shift towards individualism and experimentation in menswear. Ekroth noted a move away from strict fashion rules, allowing for a more personal and eclectic style. Nash highlighted the mix of influences and the natural evolution of fashion combinations. Saunders pointed towards a focus on archetypal pieces with unique details, emphasizing the importance of individuality within a wardrobe of basics.
Johansson observed a trend towards a more freeform approach to classic menswear, where small details like the way a scarf is tied or a tie is worn can make a significant impact. Sartori noted a similar desire for modernity and self-expression among Zegna’s affluent clientele, who seek a balance between traditional tailoring and contemporary coolness.
Chavarria delved deeper into the sociological implications of this shift, emphasizing the rejection of traditional masculine norms based on dominance and power. He sees a more inclusive and diverse future for fashion, where individuality reigns supreme.
For Nash, the key to evolving menswear lies in meeting functional needs while challenging outdated ideas of masculinity. By using function as a starting point, designers can create garments that tell stories and push boundaries without feeling contrived.
Overall, the consensus among our panel is clear: menswear is entering a new era of self-expression and experimentation. Gone are the days of rigid fashion rules; instead, a more fluid and personal approach to style is taking center stage. As we look ahead to the rest of 2026, it will be exciting to see how these trends continue to evolve and shape the future of menswear.
